
Oklahoma strives to become American hub for critical minerals processing
LAWTON, Oklahoma, June 18 (Reuters) - Nestled beneath Oklahoma's Wichita Mountains sits a two-story warehouse containing the only machine in the United States capable of refining nickel, a crucial energy transition metal now dominated by China.The facility, owned by startup Westwin Elements, aims to help Oklahoma become the epicenter for U.S. critical minerals processing, a sector the country largely abandoned decades ago.

Barrick Mining's gold complex placed under state control in Mali
BAMAKO, June 16 (Reuters) - Canada's Barrick Mining (ABX.TO), had its Loulo-Gounkoto gold complex in Mali placed under state control by a court on Monday in a major escalation of a dispute over taxes and ownership.A former Malian health minister, Soumana Makadji, will take over as provisional administrator for six months, the presiding judge said.Barrick said it will appeal the decision.

US takes first step for potential mineral lease sale near American Samoa
The US Interior Department said on Thursday it was publishing a request for information and interest to explore the potential for seabed mineral leasing offshore American Samoa.The step will launch a 30-day public comment period and initiate formal action toward what could be the first mineral lease sale in federal waters in over 30 years, the department said in a statement.

As global tumult grows, UK Plc’s stability and bargains appeal to dealmakers
More than $10 billion in bids for British companies announced on Monday, this year’s busiest day according to Dealogic data, showed how low valuations and the market’s relative stability were attracting rivals and funds after a volatility-induced pause.Companies may also be using the opportunity to enter the UK market before potential further weakening of the dollar or strengthening of the pound made future transactions more expensive, analysts said.