'Sky-high demand': 2 ASX 200 mining shares that could head to the moon

Lithium and gold is where it's at, argues this expert.

| More on:

You’re reading a free article with opinions that may differ from The Motley Fool’s Premium Investing Services. Become a Motley Fool member today to get instant access to our top analyst recommendations, in-depth research, investing resources, and more. Learn More

Mining shares have carried the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) over the past 18 months.

But many experts reckon the golden run is far from over for some of those stocks.

Here are two examples that finance expert John-Louis Judges is still keen on:

rocket taking off indicating a share price rise

Image source: Getty Images

'A promising investment opportunity'

Despite hiccups in lithium price growth, the Pilbara Minerals Ltd (ASX: PLS) share price is still more than 10% in the black so far this year.

The fervour for the battery ingredient doesn't look like abating anytime soon.

"The sky-high demand for lithium chemicals facilitates growth in lithium ore extraction," Judges told The Bull.

"Pilbara's production of over 300,000 dry metric tonnes of spodumene concentrate, at an average realised sales price of US$4,993 per dry metric tonne, further reinforces the company's strong market position."

This prolific production, a stunning 647% in revenue growth and a decent dividend all add up to a buy for Judges.

"It [is] a promising investment opportunity for those seeking exposure to the lithium mining industry," he said.

"Pilbara Minerals' decision to declare a dividend of 11 cents a share demonstrates the company's commitment to returning value to its shareholders."

According to CMC Markets, nine out of 16 analysts currently rate the stock as a buy.

The best bet for a 'safe haven' asset

Judges said that, with gold prices rising in recent times, Silver Lake Resources Ltd (ASX: SLR) is his pick to take advantage.

"Gold has historically been viewed as a safe-haven asset during times of economic uncertainty, and with ongoing geopolitical tensions and concerns of inflation, there is potential for an increase in its demand."

The latest results were "strong" for Silver Lake.

"The company's healthy cash and bullion position of $253 million provides a strong financial foundation for future growth and investment."

Judges praised the gold miner's "operational efficiency and excellent market position".

"The potential for a higher value of gold in the near term makes Silver Lake Resources a good investment opportunity for anyone looking to gain exposure to the gold mining industry."

Other professional investors largely agree with Judges. Four out of the five analysts that cover Silver Lake currently rate the stock as a strong buy.

Motley Fool contributor Tony Yoo has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia's parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

More on Resources Shares

Engineer looking at mining trucks at a mine site.
Resources Shares

Is this ASX mining stock still a buy after a recent setback?

Does a recent share price slump represent a buying opportunity?

Read more »

A middle-aged man working from home looks at his mobile phone with a laptop open on the table in front of him.
Resources Shares

This ASX stock just pulled back after a record high. Here's why

Lindian shares ease after record high despite a fresh project update.

Read more »

A group of market analysts sit and stand around their computers in an open-plan office environment.
Resources Shares

Worley flags $30–40m EBITA hit from Middle East conflict in FY26 outlook

Worley flags a $30–40 million EBITA hit for FY26 from Middle East disruptions, but keeps core targets and focuses on…

Read more »

A young woman sits with her hand to her chin staring off to the side thinking about her investments.
Resources Shares

Are BHP shares a strong buy this month?

A strong share price run does not always mean the opportunity is gone. Sometimes the story is still unfolding.

Read more »

Cheerful businessman with a mining hat on the table sitting back with his arms behind his head while looking at his laptop's screen.
Resources Shares

PLS vs Rio Tinto shares: Which is the better buy?

Both companies are benefitting from long-term demand, but their risk profiles are very different.

Read more »

An investor looks happy holding a finger to his computer screen while holding a coffee cup in a home office scenario.
Resources Shares

Alcoa posts Q1 2026 result

Alcoa Q1 2026 results show higher profits and a positive outlook, led by strong aluminium pricing and operational progress.

Read more »

Smiling miner.
Resources Shares

Can BHP shares smash through the $60 record barrier in April?

The miner needs strong commodities, steady growth, and China demand to hit new highs.

Read more »

Miner holding a silver nugget.
Resources Shares

Up 82% in 12 months, ASX All Ords silver share jumping today on big US news

The ASX miner is targeting high-grade silver deposits in California.

Read more »