Theo Yameogo: Why Base Metals Remain Essential to the Global Economy

While gold and silver often dominate headlines, base metals continue to play a foundational role in the global economy.

According to Theo Yameogo, Americas Metals and Mining Leader at Ernst & Young, base metals are “the lifeblood of economies,” supporting everything from infrastructure to manufacturing. Metals like copper, zinc, and nickel, along with iron ore, may not always see the same price-driven attention, but their importance remains constant.

These materials are embedded in everyday life—used across construction, transportation, and industrial production—making them difficult to replace. As a result, demand tends to remain steady, even as market cycles shift.

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