HMS Bergbau AG, a leading independent commodities trading and marketing company based in Germany, has published its final figures for the first half of 2026, confirming preliminary results released in August. The company reported revenue of EUR 1.1 billion, a significant increase from EUR 0.64 billion in the same period last year. EBITDA, including one-off items, rose to EUR 22.5 million from EUR 8.4 million, while adjusted operating EBITDA stood at EUR 14.1 million. These results underscore HMS's growing role in global commodity markets and its strategic expansion into mining and liquid fuels.
The strong performance was primarily driven by HMS's traditional bulk commodities business and its liquid fuels and lubricants segment, which was established in 2025. The company benefited from sustained high demand for coal products in emerging and developing economies. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), global coal consumption is now expected to rise by 1.2 percent to nearly 9 billion tonnes in 2026, a reversal from last year's forecast of a slight decline. This upward revision highlights the persistent reliance on coal in many regions, which directly supports HMS's trading volumes and revenue growth.
In addition to coal, HMS has significantly expanded its activities in metal ores. During the first half, the company brought its metallurgical coal mines in Botswana and South Africa into operation, marking a major step into commodity production. This move not only diversifies HMS's revenue streams but also strengthens its access to high-quality reserves. The first-time consolidation of the mining company Hoshoza Resources Vryheid in South Africa contributed EUR 8.4 million in one-off items, reflecting the impact of this acquisition. Adjusted for these effects, the underlying operating performance remains robust, with adjusted EBITDA of EUR 14.1 million.
The company also noted that regional crises in the Middle East and their impact on global energy supply had no negative effect on its business, demonstrating resilience in its supply chain and customer relationships. The full 2026 half-year report is available for download on the company's website, www.hms-ag.com, under the Investor Relations section. For the original release, visit www.newmediawire.com.
The implications of these results extend beyond HMS. The IEA's revised forecast for coal consumption suggests that global demand for raw materials remains strong, particularly in emerging economies where coal is a critical energy source. For the mining industry, HMS's success in bringing new metallurgical coal mines online in Botswana and South Africa signals potential opportunities for similar projects and increased competition for resources. Moreover, HMS's expansion into liquid fuels and metal ores reflects a broader trend among commodity traders to diversify portfolios and integrate upstream activities. As HMS continues to grow, its performance could influence market dynamics, pricing, and investment decisions in the mining and energy sectors. Stakeholders should monitor HMS's progress, as its strategic moves may shape supply chains and trade flows worldwide.
