YieldMax ETFs launched the YieldMax Strategic Metals & Mining Portfolio Option Income ETF (NYSE: MINY) on February 27, 2026. The fund seeks to generate current income through options-based strategies on strategic metals and mining companies, with Tidal Investments LLC as the investment adviser. The fund's first distribution is expected to be announced on March 10, 2026.

The killing of CJNG cartel leader El Mencho on February 22 has triggered widespread violence across Mexico, threatening silver mining operations in key producing regions. Mexico is the world's largest silver producer, with major mines in Jalisco, Michoacán, Zacatecas, and Durango—territories historically controlled by the CJNG. The resulting cartel fragmentation poses risks to global silver supply, mining company valuations, and logistics chains, with potential for market manipulation through coordinated financial and operational attacks on vulnerable junior miners.

Ten large-cap stocks were top performers last week, with First Majestic Silver leading gains at 25.23% following better-than-expected Q4 results. Other notable gainers include Moderna (19.68%) on FDA seasonal flu vaccine review news, Global Payments (19.52%) with strong Q4 earnings and a $2.6B buyback authorization, and Coinbase (11.32%). Companies like Omnicom, Garmin, Figma, and Pan American Silver also reported strong quarterly results and positive guidance.

The global precious metals market is projected to grow from USD 640.20 billion in 2026 to USD 1,147.61 billion by 2035, with a CAGR of 6.70%. Asia Pacific dominates with 39.01% volume share, while gold remains the largest segment. Growth is driven by demand in automotive catalysts, electronics, renewable energy, and hydrogen fuel cell technology. Key developments include strategic deals and corporate restructuring among major producers.

Economist Peter Schiff criticizes the disconnect between silver's 35% December surge and silver mining stocks' modest 11% gain, arguing mining stocks should have doubled given their typical leveraged exposure to the metal. Despite silver's historic rally and 154.57% year-to-date gains, major mining stocks and ETFs have significantly underperformed, presenting what Schiff views as an attractive buying opportunity.

Xali Gold Corp. has completed its acquisition of the Pico Machay Gold Project in Peru from Pan American Silver Corp. and Aquiline Resources Inc. for an initial payment of US$500,000 with up to US$17M in deferred payments over five years. The company plans to update the historical resource estimate and advance the project toward near-term production, leveraging the current favorable gold price environment.

Xali Gold Corp. has completed the acquisition of the Pico Machay Gold Project in Peru from Pan American Silver Corp. and Aquiline Resources Inc. for an initial payment of US$500,000 with up to US$17 million in deferred payments over five years. The company plans to update the historical resource estimate and advance the project toward near-term production, leveraging current higher gold prices compared to the historical US$700/oz assumption.

Xali Gold Corp. closed the first tranche of a non-brokered private placement for C$1.5 million on December 23, 2025, with a second tranche of up to C$0.5 million planned for early January 2026. The proceeds will fund a US$500,000 payment to Pan American Silver Corp. for the acquisition of the Pico Machay Gold Property in Peru, an advanced exploration stage project with near-term production goals. The company issued 15 million units at C$0.10 per unit, each consisting of one common share and half a warrant exercisable at C$0.20 for 18 months.

Several large-cap stocks showed significant gains last week, with EchoStar, Rocket Lab, and Pan American Silver experiencing notable price increases due to various factors including analyst upgrades, strategic developments, and market optimism.

Stock markets remained relatively stable on Tuesday, awaiting the Federal Reserve's interest rate decision. Notable movements included gains for Warby Parker on AI prospects and Pan American Silver due to rising silver prices, while Dyne Therapeutics and SLM experienced stock price declines.

Galleon Gold secured a $46 million debt facility from Pan American Silver and announced $25 million in equity financings to advance its West Cache Gold Project infrastructure and development.

Several large-cap stocks showed significant gains last week, with companies like On Holding, Albemarle, and Tower Semiconductor reporting strong earnings and receiving positive analyst attention.