Vale S.A. (VALE) reported first-quarter 2024 adjusted earnings per share of 39 cents, which missed the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 42 cents. The bottom line was down 5% from 41 cents reported in the year-ago quarter. While there was an improvement in sales volumes of iron ore and copper courtesy of continued operational improvements, this was negated by reduced sales volumes of nickel, as well as declines in prices for iron ore, copper and nickel. Additionally, elevated costs and expenses contributed to the ...