From gold to rare earths, mining stocks are booming and these 5 record-breaking ASX ETFs prove it

The ASX is broken down into 11 sectors based on the Global Industry Classification Standard (GICS).

These include financials, healthcare, information technology, and the mining-heavy materials sector.

And in the past six months, the materials sector has been the standout performer on the ASX with a 28% jump.

For context, the broader market has also rallied handsomely with the All Ordinaries Index (ASX: XAO) rising by about 16% during the same period.

So, it appears that mining stocks have played a significant role in pushing the All Ords higher.

But there's more.

Diving into five ASX exchange traded funds (ETFs) presents a picture of just how powerful and wide-ranging the mining rally has been.

In essence, mining stocks have been skyrocketing and each of these mining-related ETFs has been breaking records.

VanEck Australian Resources ETF (ASX: MVR)

This ETF provides exposure to a diverse portfolio of ASX mining stocks operating across a wide array of commodities.

For example, its three largest holdings are diversified mining giant BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP), leading gold producer Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST), and iron ore powerhouse Fortescue Ltd (ASX: FMG).

So, the fund offers a broad insight into leading mining stocks listed in Australia.

And last week, shares in this ASX ETF reached their highest level since the fund's inception in 2013.

They have now risen by about 34% in the past six months to $41.41 per share at Friday's close.

VanEck Gold Miners AUD ETF (ASX: GDX)

Precious metals have been surging throughout 2025.

For instance, the gold price has lifted by about 62% since the start of the year to more than US$4,200 per ounce, setting several records along the way.

And this VanEck gold miners ETF has been riding the wave.

Founded in 2015, it offers exposure to the world's largest gold miners – mostly outside of Australia.

However, it holds positions in some ASX stalwarts such as Evolution Mining Ltd (ASX: EVN).

Last week, shares in this ETF rocketed to all-time highs.

They are now up by 58% in the past six months, ending Friday at $131.44 per share.

Betashares Energy Transition Metals ETF (ASX: XMET)

In recent years, one of the most important narratives in mining has been the global energy transition.

Here, the world's push to reduce carbon emissions has seen the mining industry tasked with producing the critical metals needed for a cleaner world.

Metals such as lithium, rare earths, silver, and copper have come to the fore due to their role in new-age technologies like electric vehicles, solar panels, and wind turbines.

And this ETF provides exposure to a portfolio of global companies producing energy transition metals.

Last week, shares in this ASX ETF reached their highest level since the fund's inception in 2022.

They are now up by 86% in just six months, closing out Friday at $13.17 apiece.

Global X Copper Miners AUD ETF (ASX: WIRE)

Copper's widespread industrial applications make it a cornerstone of the global economy.

In addition, the metal's significance has been growing further due to its use in electric vehicles and associated infrastructure.

And this ASX ETF has been providing access to a basket of the world's leading copper miners since its founding in late 2022.

Shares in this fund also reached a record high during last week's trading.

They have now soared by 65% in the past six months to end of last week at $19.14 per share.

Betashares Global Uranium ETF (ASX: URNM)

Shares in this ASX ETF also broke records last week.

The fund provides exposure to the world's leading uranium mining, processing, and holding companies.

In essence, uranium is playing a critical role in the world's energy transition.

It is the fuel that powers nuclear power plants.

And nuclear energy is one of the cleanest sources of electricity due to its minimal carbon footprint.

Shares in this ASX ETF ended last week at $11.73 apiece, up by 96% in only six months.

As a sidenote, it warrants mentioning that uranium stocks on the ASX are technically classified in the energy sector, as opposed to materials.

The bottom line

There's little doubt that mining stocks have staged an impressive rally in recent months.

From gold and copper to rare earths, silver, uranium, and lithium; miners across the commodity spectrum have been surging higher.

But, it remains to be seen if this momentum can be sustained throughout the rest of the year and into 2026.