The Surface Transportation Board proposed rules to improve freight rail access for smaller carriers, aiming to boost competition and lower costs.

The Surface Transportation Board proposed new rules to improve access to freight rail shipping for smaller and non-traditional carriers, aiming to boost competition, lower costs, and strengthen supply chains. The draft regulations seek to streamline track access and reduce market barriers, with public comments invited before final decisions. Meanwhile, base metals rose on Friday, led by copper’s 2.2% gain on the LME, driven by profit-taking and renewed demand optimism. In mining, BHP is expected to challenge Rio Tinto’s potential Glencore acquisition with a higher bid, aiming to create the world’s largest copper miner amid growing industry consolidation.