Over the last three months, Vale's shares have slightly underperformed the Zacks categorized Mining-Iron industry return. However, the company reported strong fourth-quarter 2016 production results, on the back of increased yield of certain major mines and greater operational efficacy. Also, Vale is boosting its revenues and profitability on higher selling prices pellets and iron ore fines as well as lower costs. Even so, the commencement of new projects is expected to generate benefits in the quarters ahead. Over the last 30 days, Zacks Consensus Estimate for the stock has been revised upwards for 2017. On the flip side, overall weakness in the prices of most metals, intense competition or sudden mining or exploration accidents might limit growth.