Barrick Battles Chaos: Elliott’s Stake, CEO Exit & M&A Buzz Explained!

As of November 2025, Barrick Mining Corp. is undergoing a transformation driven by leadership overhaul, activist investor pressure, and heightened speculation about a corporate breakup or acquisition. Mark Hill, the new interim CEO following Mark Bristow’s abrupt departure in September, has launched a sweeping operational review, just as Elliott Investment Management disclosed a significant stake in the underperforming gold producer. Barrick has struggled with inconsistent delivery, safety failures including three fatalities this year, and cost overruns—all while its peers have outpaced it in a rising gold price environment. Despite a 117% stock gain over the past year, Barrick trails the 130% average of competitors. Operational issues at key sites like Nevada Gold Mines (NGM) and the seizure of the Loulo-Gounkoto mine in Mali have only added to investor concerns. Meanwhile, rumors swirl about a potential split into two listed entities or a deal involving its prized Nevada assets. These simultaneous forces are reshaping Barrick at a critical inflection point.