December 18, 2025 - In a record-breaking year for mining, global coal demand is set to reach a new record high in 2025, according to the International Energy Agency. Here in the US, coal use is set to jump 8% in 2025, reversing declines over the last 15-years.

Precious metals futures are also surging, with both gold and silver setting new highs. Analysts expect these trends to continue in 2026.

And over on the Hill, we’ve been talking about it all week and the SPEED Act is shaping up to get a vote later today. While there has been a great deal of back and forth on the legislation, it’s a chance for members of Congress to show if they’re serious about permitting reform or not.