CEO Mark Bristow said the company will strike a deal should an appealing one present itself, which he described as a mine that can produce 500,000 ounces of gold annually "for a long time".

Global mined zinc production will grow at the fastest pace since 2012 in 2021.

Company said combination would further consolidate one of the largest new gold districts in Nevada.

Biden permitting decisions give major US mining investment a black eye.

The San Carlos Apache tribe and other Native Americans say the mine would destroy sacred land.

The $31.7 billion measure would also slap new fees on oil and mining companies.

The Metals Co has exploration licenses for parts of the Pacific Ocean seabed, where it hopes to mine for cobalt, nickel, and other battery metals.