BHP's attempt to swallow up Anglo American is the latest threat to one of the London market’s most-prized sectors.

It's especially interested in nickel, cobalt, zinc and other metals, provided the government guarantees a stable business environment.

Job losses are hot-button issues in the lead-up to the May 29 election.

Naidoo has been acting CFO since October 2023.

Antofagasta, which operates copper mines in Chile, last tapped global debt markets in 2022 when it sold $500 million in 10-year bonds.

Despite bullish long term forecasts, the metal has been languishing near two-year lows as demand fails to keep pace.

The company’s reputation is in tatters after a series of missteps sent its value plunging by half. And now industry heavyweight BHP is moving in.

The deal worth about $39 billion would involve Anglo exiting its platinum and iron ore assets in the country.