[8-K] SOUTHERN COPPER CORP/ Reports Material Event
Rhea-AI Filing Summary
Southern Copper Corporation reported a record first-quarter 2026, with net sales of $4,251.4 million, up 36.2% from 1Q25, and net income attributable to SCC rising 66.7% to $1,576.9 million, or $1.92 per share. Adjusted EBITDA increased to $2,712.8 million with a 63.8% margin, helped by sharply higher prices for copper, silver, molybdenum and zinc, plus lower operating cash cost, which moved from $0.77 to -$0.11 per pound of copper net of by-products. The Board authorized a quarterly cash dividend of $1.00 per share and a stock dividend of 0.0100 shares per share, payable May 29, 2026, with cash in lieu of fractions based on a $187.45 share price. The company also announced the death of long-time CEO Oscar Gonzalez Rocha and the appointment of Leonardo Contreras Lerdo de Tejada as the new Chief Executive Officer.
Positive
- Record quarterly profitability: Net income attributable to SCC reached $1,576.9 million for 1Q26, up 66.7% year over year, with adjusted EBITDA of $2,712.8 million and a 63.8% margin.
- Exceptionally low copper cash cost: Operating cash cost net of by-product revenues improved from $0.77 to -$0.11 per pound of copper, reflecting strong by-product revenues and cost efficiencies.
- Higher shareholder distributions: The Board authorized a $1.00 per share cash dividend and a 0.0100-for-1 stock dividend for shareholders of record on May 13, 2026.
Negative
- Loss of long-time CEO: The company announced the death of former Executive President and CEO Oscar Gonzalez Rocha, a key leader over roughly 50 years, creating leadership transition risk.
Insights
Record profitability driven by metal prices, by‑product credits and low costs.
Southern Copper delivered a standout quarter: net sales rose to $4,251.4M and net income to $1,576.9M, up 66.7% year over year. Adjusted EBITDA reached $2,712.8M, with a very high 63.8% margin.
Results were supported by higher volumes of silver and zinc and significantly better prices for copper, silver, molybdenum and zinc. Operating cash cost net of by-product revenues improved from $0.77/lb to -$0.11/lb, reflecting strong by-product credits and cost efficiencies.
Capital investments increased to $441.9M, and the decade-long program exceeds $20.5B, including major Peruvian and Mexican projects. How well these projects stay on schedule and on budget, using the milestones disclosed for 3Q27 Tia Maria start-up and later projects, will be important for long-term growth.
Leadership transition follows the death of a long-serving CEO.
The company reported the passing of former Executive President and CEO Oscar Gonzalez Rocha, who led over several decades. This represents a significant change in long-term leadership at a time of strong operational and financial performance.
The Board appointed Leonardo Contreras Lerdo de Tejada as CEO on April 23, 2026. He brings experience from roles in operations, finance and prior CEO positions within related businesses. Future disclosures on his strategic priorities and execution across large projects in Peru and Mexico will help clarify the governance trajectory.



