Vietnam plans to restart its biggest rare-earths mine next year with a Western-backed project that could rival the world's largest.

"It becomes increasingly clear that demand has hit the ceiling amid weaker-than-expected steel sales for September and October," one analyst says.

China recorded its second-worst coal mine accident this year, after a fire at a conveyor belt killed 16.

As inflation-adjusted rates soared this year to the highest since the financial crisis, bullion has barely blinked.

The plant, set to start production in 2026, aims to produce 50,000 metric tonnes LFP cathode materials annually.

China’s key role in the processing of raw minerals means it will remain a key partner, says Jose Fernandez, the US under secretary for economic growth and the environment.

Moody's on Thursday revised its outlook on four Chinese real estate firms to "Negative" from "Stable".