BHP's Escondida saw production fall 15.2% year-on-year.

Payback from the start of commercial operation would take 2.4 years with the initial capital expenditure estimated at C$367 million.

The European Union drug regulator said on Tuesday existing covid-19 vaccines would provide protection against omicron, calming markets.

The Senate approved by 18 votes in favor, versus 16 against, to continue making modifications to the bill.

"While the severity of the new variant remains a big uncertainty, it casts a shadow over demand growth in the near future and further complicates the supply chain," said ING.