Are Mineral Resources shares now a buy amid CEO Chris Ellison's pending exit?

The company hosts its annual general meeting (AGM) on Thursday.

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There's no way around it, 2024 has been a rough year for Mineral Resources Ltd (ASX: MIN) shares.

And a volatile one to boot!

After closing up 5.8% yesterday, shares in the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) lithium miner and diversified resources producer are back in the red today, down 0.9% at $35.16 each.

As you can see in the chart below, this puts the stock down a painful 50% year to date.

Some of that pressure has come amid ongoing weakness in lithium and iron ore prices. And some has come as ASX 200 investors digest various news of historic tax dodge allegations enveloping Mineral Resources founder and CEO Chris Ellison.

Investors also pressured the miner after management suspended the final FY 2024 dividend payout to preserve cash.

But that's all financial water under the bridge.

Looking ahead, are Mineral Resources shares now good value?

Time to buy Mineral Resources shares?

For some greater insight into that question, we defer to MPC Markets' Jonathan Tacadena (courtesy of The Bull).

"Despite chief executive Chris Ellison stepping down within the next 18 months, Mineral Resources remains an attractive investment," he said.

Tacadena continued:

The company's diverse portfolio, which includes mining services, iron ore and lithium operations, provides a balanced revenue stream. The successful delivery of the Onslow Iron project, which achieved first ore shipment ahead of schedule, demonstrates the company's operational capabilities and potential for future growth.

MPC Markets also believes Mineral Resources shares stand to benefit longer-term from its lithium exposure.

"MIN's strong position in the lithium market, coupled with its ability to adapt to market conditions, offers exposure to the growing electric vehicle and renewable energy sectors," Tacadena said.

And the ASX 200 miner has been working hard to keep costs down during the current commodity downturn.

"The company's focus on cost reductions and cash preservation during challenging market conditions showcases prudent financial management," Tacadena noted.

Despite this rather bullish assessment, Tacadena currently has a hold recommendation on Mineral Resources shares.

What's the latest from the ASX 200 mining stock?

Amid the legal ructions embroiling Ellison, Mineral Resources announced today that Jenna Mazza resigned from the position of joint company secretary.

Commencing today, she will transition to a specialist legal counsel role and report to the board's Ethics and Governance Committee.

Mark Wilson will continue in his role as chief financial officer and company secretary.

Mineral Resource shares will be in focus on Thursday when the company hosts its annual general meeting (AGM).

Motley Fool contributor Bernd Struben 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.

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