Mitsui Kinzoku Stock Surges to Record High After Profit Forecast Upgrade and Dividend Increase

Shares of Japanese metal producer Mitsui Kinzoku soared to a record high on Monday after the company significantly raised its fiscal 2025 earnings outlook and increased its dividend payout. The stock climbed nearly 10% to touch 30,000 yen, making it one of the top performers on the Nikkei 225 index, which remained largely flat during the session.

Formerly known as Mitsui Mining and Smelting Co. (TYO:5706), Mitsui Kinzoku specializes in non-ferrous metals and advanced materials. The company now expects operating income of 117.0 billion yen (approximately $760 million) for the fiscal year ending March 31, sharply higher than its previous forecast of 78 billion yen. Annual revenue is projected to reach 750 billion yen, up from an earlier estimate of 715 billion yen. Both revenue and operating profit are on track to hit record levels.

The upgraded outlook is largely driven by strong performance in Mitsui Kinzoku’s copper foil business. Demand for copper foil has surged due to its critical role in artificial intelligence servers and AI data centers, positioning the company to benefit from the rapid expansion of AI infrastructure. Higher global metal prices, particularly copper and precious metals, have also boosted earnings. In addition, the weaker Japanese yen has improved profit margins on overseas sales, while favorable inventory trends have supported broader metal earnings.

For the nine months ended December 31, Mitsui Kinzoku reported a 3.1% year-on-year increase in net sales to 542.2 billion yen. Operating income rose nearly 28% to 71.7 billion yen. Net profit, however, declined 5.9% due to one-off losses related to the sale of its Mitsui Kinzoku ACT unit.

With strong exposure to AI-related metals and supportive market conditions, Mitsui Kinzoku stock remains in focus among investors seeking growth opportunities in Japan’s materials sector.