"In response to the surge in energy prices, Nyrstar will curtail production further at its three European smelters, reducing production by up to 50% from today," the company, whose operating business is majority owned by commodities trader Trafigura, said.

Spot zinc gained almost 5% and zinc for three-month delivery rose 4.24% to US$3,401.50 per tonne on the London Metal Exchange.

Gold returned towards $1,800 an ounce - at $1,791/oz on the spot market - as the precious metals space was "a clear beneficiary" of lower real rates and a weaker US dollar, Pepperstone head of research Chris Weston said.

In Toronto, Argentina-focused explorer Minsud Resources (TSXV: MSD) was a standout on the TSX Venture Exchange, up almost 70% on no news.

Exploration at its Chita Valley project is being funded by South32 under a 2019 earn-in and Minsud had earlier this month exercised an option to acquire the remaining 50% of one of Chita Valley's key properties.

Similarly, Spanish Mountain Gold (TSXV: SPA) shot up 37%, with no news since announcing board appointments at the British Columbia-focused explorer earlier this month.

Gold producers also gained, with Agnico Eagle Mines rising 3.44% and Newmont up 2.9% in New York.