El interés en corto de Global X Lithium & Battery Tech ETF da a los inversores una idea del grado en que los inversores apuestan por la caída de las acciones de Global X Lithium & Battery Tech ETF. Los datos de interés en corto se actualizan cada dos semanas.

Global X Lithium & Battery Tech ETF (ARCA:LIT), Informe de interés en corto

Global X Lithium & Battery Tech ETF

Basic Materials

Other

Industrials

Technology

Consumer Cyclical

Financial Services

Consumer Defensive

The fund invests at least 80% of its total assets in the securities of the underlying index and in American Depositary Receipts (ADRs) and Global Depositary Receipts (GDRs) based on the securities in the underlying index. The underlying index is designed to measure broad-based equity market performance of global companies involved in the lithium industry. The fund is non-diversified.

Albemarle Corp.

Mineral Resources Ltd

Sociedad Quimica Y Minera De Chile Sa

Tesla, Inc.

Eve Energy Co Ltd-A

Byd Co Ltd-H

Tdk Corp

Naura Tech Gr -a

Ecopro Bm Co Ltd

Arcadium Lithium Plc

Sociedad De Inversiones Oro Blanco Sa

Quimica Y-Sp Adr

Byd Co Ltd H

Ganfeng Lithiu-A

Rare earth minerals

COPP

LYSCF

PICK

Market Vectors Rare Earth/Strategic Metals Etf

REMX

El economista propone invertir 1.000–2.000 millones de dólares en plantas y alianzas para asegurar la cadena de suministro de tierras raras.

Plan de Craig Shapiro reduciría dependencia estadounidense de imanes de tierras raras

As the U.S. faces&nbsp;a critical vulnerability in its supply chain concerning rare earth supply, economist Craig Shapiro asserts that this situation is fixable, and at a surprisingly manageable cost.
What Happened: Rare earth magnets are vital for everything from electric vehicles and AI to missiles and drones.
As highlighted by Shapiro, the macro strategist at the Bear Traps Report, while the U.S. can control its currency, it cannot &#8220;print rare earth magnets,&#8221; the production of which is overwhelmingly dominated by China.
He proposes a multi-pronged strategy estimated at just $1-2 billion, significantly less than the cost of a semiconductor fabrication plant.
The plan includes fast-tracking projects through the Defense Production Act (DPA) and National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), building domestic rare earth separation and magnet manufacturing plants, forming an &#8220;Allied REE Bloc&#8221; with other nations, and strategically stockpiling critical rare earth inputs.
This proactive approach, Shapiro concludes, is not about ideology but about &#8220;material latency – who gets the parts fastest.&#8221;
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"> 
<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">We can still fix this: &#x2705; DPA + NEPA fast-tracks &#x2705; Build REE separation + magnet plants &#x2705; Form Allied REE Bloc &#x2705; Stockpile critical inputs Cost? $1–2B. Cheaper than a semiconductor fab. (11/13)
&mdash; Craig Shapiro (@ces921) <a href="https://twitter.com/ces921/status/1940076534666064050?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 1, 2025</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
For investors, he advises following &#8220;the scarcity,&#8221; pointing to companies like MP Materials Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MP#NYSE">MP</a>) and Lynas Rare Earths Ltd. (OTCPK: LYSCF).
American Rare Earths Ltd., Geomega Resources Inc., and Neo Performance Materials Inc. are a few other rare earth stocks that Shapiro suggests investors consider.
He also suggests a play on urban mining and strategic metals exchange-traded funds.
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"> 
<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">For investors: follow the scarcity. MP Materials, Lynas, Energy Fuels NEO Performance, Geomega, American Rare Earths Urban mining &amp; strategic metals ETFs (12/13)
&mdash; Craig Shapiro (@ces921) <a href="https://twitter.com/ces921/status/1940076537187008867?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 1, 2025</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
<figure class="wp-block-table is-style-stripes"> 
<table class="has-fixed-layout">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>ETFs</td>
<td>YTD Performance</td>
<td>One-Year Performance</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>VanEck Rare Earth And Strategic Metals ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/REMX#NYSE">REMX</a>)</td>
<td>2.39%</td>
<td>-5.77%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>iShares MSCI Global Metals &amp; Mining Producers ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PICK#NYSE">PICK</a>)</td>
<td>9.59%</td>
<td>-7.44</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Global X Lithium &amp; Battery Tech ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LIT#NYSE">LIT</a>)</td>
<td>-4.26%</td>
<td>-1.51%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Sprott Copper Miners ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/COPP#NASDAQ">COPP</a>)</td>
<td>13.08%</td>
<td>-7.41%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/07/46188237/bill-gates-is-betting-two-thirds-of-his-foundations-portfolio-in-these-3-stocks" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bill Gates Is Betting Two-Thirds Of His Foundation's Portfolio In These 3 Stocks</a>
Why It Matters: Shapiro argues that China&#8217;s near-monopoly, controlling over 90% of global rare earth refining, represents &#8220;supply chain deterrence.&#8221;
He explains that this is Beijing&#8217;s quiet leverage over American industry and defense capabilities.
Even the sole U.S. rare earth mine, Mountain Pass, ships its concentrate to China for processing, underscoring America&#8217;s deep-seated reliance.
Shapiro quotes Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent from July 2025: &#8220;We're hoping China <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/06/45854131/trump-says-hes-getting-good-reports-as-scott-bessent-led-delegation-expects-beijing-to-remove-rare-earth-export-curbs">rare earth magnets flow faster</a>,&#8221; a statement Shapiro uses to encapsulate the current U.S. dilemma: &#8220;We hope. They control.&#8221;
Price Action: After hitting fresh records on Friday and Monday, on Tuesday, the SPDR S&amp;P 500 ETF Trust (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SPY#NYSE">SPY</a>) and Invesco QQQ Trust ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QQQ#NASDAQ">QQQ</a>), which track the S&amp;P 500 index and Nasdaq 100 index, respectively, ended lower. The SPY was down 0.032% at $617.65, while the QQQ declined 0.84% to $546.99, according to Benzinga Pro data.
On Wednesday, the futures of the S&amp;P 500, Dow Jones, and Nasdaq 100 indices were trading higher.
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</ul>
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Photo courtesy: Shutterstock

China Showed Its Death Grip On Rare Earths During Trump Tariff War, But Craig Shapiro Says This $2 Billion Plan Will Secure US Supply: Here's How

Chevron U.S.A., a subsidiary of Chevron Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CVX#NYSE">CVX</a>), announced its intention to enter the lithium market last week by acquiring lease rights to approximately 125,000 net acres spanning northeast Texas and southwest Arkansas.
The rights, acquired from TerraVolta Resources and East Texas Natural Resources, give the firm access to the Smackover Formation – a geologic unit rich in <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/lithium" rel="noreferrer noopener">lithium-bearing brine</a>.
"This acquisition represents a strategic investment to support energy manufacturing and expand U.S.-based critical mineral supplies," <a target="_blank" href="https://www.chevron.com/newsroom/2025/q2/chevron-enters-domestic-lithium-sector-to-support-us-energy-security" rel="noreferrer noopener">said</a> Jeff Gustavson, president of Chevron New Energies.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/45948096" rel="noreferrer noopener">Exxon Mobil, Chevron, Occidental Petroleum In Focus As Expert Says ‘US Economy Is Far Less Sensitive To An Oil Shock' Amid Israel-Iran Conflict</a>
"Establishing domestic and resilient lithium supply chains is essential not only to maintaining U.S. energy leadership but also to meeting the growing demand from customers. This opportunity builds on many of Chevron's strengths, including subsurface resource development and value chain integration," he added.
The Smackover Formation is famous for its high lithium content and established infrastructure. The brine, a byproduct of oil and gas production, makes diversification particularly appealing for oil majors looking to expand into other markets without straying too far from their core expertise. The repurposing of these brine reservoirs presents both a low-carbon opportunity and a cost-effective path into the critical minerals sector.
Chevron plans to employ <a target="_blank" href="https://lithium.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Direct-Lithium-Extraction-DLE-An-introduction-ILiA-June-2024-v.1-English-web.pdf" rel="noreferrer noopener">direct lithium extraction</a> (DLE) technologies to process the brine. Unlike conventional methods, which rely on vast evaporation ponds that require months and consume large amounts of land and water, DLE utilizes advanced materials to extract lithium ions from brine selectively.
The technology promises a faster, more efficient extraction process with a smaller environmental footprint. While DLE is still an emerging technique, it's gaining traction among energy giants aiming to modernize domestic lithium production.
Through this effort, Chevron has joined another domestic oil major, ExxonMobil (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XOM#NYSE">XOM</a>), which is advancing its own <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/large-cap/24/02/37182798/exxons-lithium-experiment-could-be-winner-for-oil-company-state-of-arkansas" rel="noreferrer noopener">DLE project in Arkansas</a> through the subsidiary Mobil Lithium.
Exxon acquired 485 square kilometers of Smackover acreage in 2023 and aims to supply enough lithium for one million electric vehicles per year by 2030. The company has already inked a preliminary supply agreement with battery manufacturer SK On.
Despite lithium prices plunging from a high of $80,000 per ton in 2022 to around $8,400 today, the interest from Chevron, ExxonMobil, and others signals a longer-term bet.
These oil majors are acquiring lease rights and investing in capital expenditures during the market downturn, positioning themselves to be key suppliers when the rebound arrives.
Read Next:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/etfs/sector-etfs/25/06/46017496/israel-iran-conflict-lifts-crude-above-77-what-it-means-for-oil-etfs" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Israel-Iran Conflict Lifts Crude Above $77: What It Means For Oil ETFs</a></li>
</ul>
Photo by Juan Roballo via Shutterstock

Equities

Large Cap

News

Commodities

Markets

BATT

CARZ

DRIV

Fidelity Electric Vehicles and Future Transportation ETF

FDRV

LITP

Chevron Joins Lithium Race With 125,000-Acre Texas-Arkansas Deal

Canada could be missing out on CA$12 billion ($8.7 billion) annually in critical minerals production by 2040, unless the government takes urgent action to de-risk investments and <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/mining">accelerate mining development</a>, according to the Canadian Climate Institute&#8217;s latest report.
The<a href="https://climateinstitute.ca/news/canada-risks-missing-out-on-billions-in-critical-mineral-investment/"> report</a>, titled "Critical Path: Securing Canada's place in the global critical minerals race," points out the risk for Canada falling behind in the intensifying global effort to source these commodities.
The report identifies six key minerals – copper, nickel, lithium, graphite, cobalt, and rare earth elements &#8211; as central to clean energy systems, such as electric vehicles and renewables. The report estimates that C$30 billion (around US$21.7 billion) in new investments will be required over the next 15 years to meet domestic demand. To position Canada as a key global supplier, that figure rises to CA$65 billion (US$47 billion) in total investments by 2040.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">&#8216;Unlock Public And Private Investment&#8217;</h3>
"Securing Canada's place in the global critical minerals race requires swift action to unlock public and private investment that can power Canada's energy transition with the building blocks of clean technologies," said Marisa Beck, director of clean growth at the Canadian Climate Institute. "Our Critical Path report offers a clear blueprint for the steps governments can take to seize this opportunity."
The Canadian Climate Institute warns that without stronger investor confidence, driven by more stable policy environments and financial backing, Canada's mining ambitions may stall. To attract the necessary capital, the report stresses that governments must share financial risk with the private sector.
With CA$65 billion in new investments, the industry would be able to align with global demand forecasts. This funding would include equity stakes in mining projects, as well as solutions through financial derivatives, such as contracts for difference (CFDs).
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Risk Of Commodity Volatility</h3>
Since commodity volatility poses a risk, CFDs can provide a safety net by establishing a price floor risk for the producer. The government covers the difference below the defined price, and the producer pays the surplus back when prices rebound.
Lithium exemplifies one such commodity that saw extreme volatility, ranging from a peak of $80,000 per metric ton in 2022 to its current price of $8,415 per metric ton.
Global X Lithium &amp; Battery Tech ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LIT#NYSE">LIT</a>) is down 1% year-to-date.
"By deploying loan guarantees and other financial risk-sharing instruments to de-risk projects, federal and provincial governments in Canada can crowd-in private capital, and keep projects on track despite market uncertainty," said John Stackhouse, senior vice-president at RBC.
The Institute also recommends forming strong partnerships with Indigenous communities and ensuring their self-determination is respected throughout the mining process. Failing to do so, the report cautions, could lead to delays, opposition, and legal challenges.
To further explore the broader context, the Institute commissioned three related papers examining Indigenous participation, emissions from increased mining, and strategies to mitigate environmental impacts.
Read Next:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/commodities/25/06/45900930/gold-surpasses-euro-to-become-second-largest-reserve-asset-still-far-behind-dollar-ecb-says">Gold Surpasses Euro To Become Second-Largest Reserve Asset, Still Far Behind Dollar, ECB Says</a></li>
</ul>
Photo: Shutterstock

Government

Regulations

Canada Risks Losing $8.7B Annually Without Critical Minerals Action

As President Donald Trump&#8216;s auto tariffs pulled the markets down on Wednesday, he shrugged off the selloff worries, saying that markets can &#8220;take care of itself&#8221;.
What Happened: During the press briefing on Wednesday, Trump was asked about the market fall after a three-day advance as the newly introduced auto tariffs stoked another round of decline in the equities.
Responding to the question, Trump said that he wants to &#8220;see jobs&#8221; and he wasn&#8217;t concerned about the stock market.
&#8220;That can take care of itself in one day, two days, or one week,&#8221; he added.
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"> 
<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Reporter: The NASDAQ was down 2% at close. S&amp;P 500 down 1%. President Trump: Is that today? Reporter: Yes, sir. President Trump: I didn&#39;t see that&#8230; that can take care of itself. <a href="https://t.co/ws2Ww08Mgx">pic.twitter.com/ws2Ww08Mgx</a>
&mdash; unusual_whales (@unusual_whales) <a href="https://twitter.com/unusual_whales/status/1905018483018170710?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 26, 2025</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
After Wednesday, the Nasdaq 100 slipped into the correction zone again as it fell 10.38% from its 52-week high, while the S&amp;P 500 index was 7.08% lower from the record levels. Dow Jones, on the other hand, was 5.81% down from its 52-week high.
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Why It Matters: New auto tariffs starting April 3 aim to generate $100 billion annually and spur U.S. manufacturing, reducing reliance on global supply chains, the Associated Press <a href="https://apnews.com/article/autos-tariffs-trump-tax-imports-ford-gm-e53823ef7bbb7b3c46d11eca90aaa638?user_email=97d05b29432d778bbb1ffb8f16f2769451bf1d6125981f71ceccbe18ec8d01d8&amp;utm_medium=APNews_Alerts&amp;utm_source=Sailthru_AP&amp;utm_campaign=NewsAlert_Mar26_2025_05:37PM&amp;utm_term=AP%20News%20Alerts#">reported</a>. 
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/03/44506345/trump-imposes-25-tariffs-on-auto-imports-says-this-will-continue-to-spur-growth-canada-eu-slam-the-move">President Trump stated</a>, &#8220;This will continue to spur growth.&#8221; However, American automakers using global components may face higher costs and lower sales. The administration counters that automakers have excess capacity for domestic production and were aware of potential tariffs. Under USMCA, the 25% tariff affects only non-U.S. content in autos and parts from Mexico and Canada. 
Earlier this month, President Donald Trump did not rule out the likelihood of a recession and said the economy was in a "period of transition."
Here is the list of automotive ETFs to keep an eye on.
<figure class="wp-block-table is-style-stripes"> 
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Automobile ETFs</td>
<td>YTD Performance</td>
<td>One Year Performance</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>First Trust S-Network Future Vehicles &amp; Tech ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CARZ#NASDAQ">CARZ</a>)</td>
<td>-0.39%</td>
<td>-2.56%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>abrdn Physical Palladium Shares ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PALL#NYSE">PALL</a>)</td>
<td>5.97%</td>
<td>-2.60%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Global X Autonomous &amp; Electric Vehicles ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DRIV#NASDAQ">DRIV</a>)</td>
<td>-2.43%</td>
<td>-8.84%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Global X Lithium &amp; Battery Tech ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LIT#NYSE">LIT</a>)</td>
<td>0.47%</td>
<td>-11.21%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>KraneShares Electric Vehicles and Future Mobility (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/KARS#NYSE">KARS</a>)</td>
<td>5.82%</td>
<td>-1.68%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>
Price Action: The SPDR S&amp;P 500 ETF Trust (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SPY#NYSE">SPY</a>) and Invesco QQQ Trust ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QQQ#NASDAQ">QQQ</a>), which track the S&amp;P 500 index and Nasdaq 100 index, respectively, were mixed in premarket on Thursday. The SPY advanced 0.039% to $568.81, and the QQQ fell 0.11% to $483.86, according to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard">Benzinga Pro</a> data.
On Wednesday, SPY declined 1.19% to $568.59, and the QQQ dropped 1.84% to $484.38, according to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard">Benzinga Pro</a> data on Wednesday.
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Photo courtesy: Shutterstock

Market Summary

Futures

Economics

ETFs

KARS

PALL

Trump Reacts To Selloff Following Auto Tariffs: 'That Can Take Care Of Itself In One Day, Two Days, Or One Week'

KoBold Metals, a startup backed by billionaires Bill Gates and Jeff Bezos, has approached the Democratic Republic of Congo's (DRC) government with an offer to develop one of the world's largest hard rock <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/lithium" rel="noreferrer noopener">lithium mines</a>.
The mining startup looks to take over the disputed mining license for the Roche Dure deposit, taking advantage of the two governments' discussions about a potential <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/03/44216408/dr-congo-explores-a-minerals-for-security-deal-with-the-us" rel="noreferrer noopener">minerals-for-security partnership</a>.
KoBold's bid could resolve an ongoing dispute between Australia's AVZ Minerals and China's Zijin Mining Group. AVZ, which previously controlled the lithium project, lost its rights in 2023 when the government split the permit, handing part of it to Zijin. Per Bloomberg's <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-03-21/kobold-makes-offer-for-congo-lithium-as-country-courts-us" rel="noreferrer noopener">report</a>, KoBold's proposal involves compensating AVZ and acquiring the remaining stake while allowing Zijin to maintain control over the northern section of the deposit.
Despite an 80% decline in lithium prices since a peak in 2022, Zijin has actively expanded its operations, acting greedy when others are fearful in anticipation of a future demand and price rebound.
Meanwhile, KoBold staked its claim as a unique company in this industry, using a proprietary AI-powered technology that analyzes geological data more accurately than traditional exploration methods.
This tech-driven approach has attracted over $400 million in funding from high-profile investors, including Breakthrough Energy Ventures (founded by Gates) and Bezos' Bezos Expeditions.
Arguably, the company's best success has been in neighboring Zambia, where it found the Mingomba asset – possibly the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/02/36940360/kobold-metals-announces-historic-copper-discovery-in-zambia" rel="noreferrer noopener">best copper asset in the country</a>. Experts believe that once operational in the early 2030s, it could rival Zijin's Kamoa-Kakula mine in DRC, which produced almost 400,000 tons of copper in 2023.
While DRC is the world's largest producer of cobalt, lithium extraction in the country has lagged behind other regions, such as Australia and South America.
Roche Dure could change the balance, placing the country on the map of major battery-grade lithium producers, as KoBold's interest aligns with the effort to bring this region closer under U.S. influence and pacify the unrest that threatens mineral production.
Still, extraction of hard rock lithium requires extensive open-pit excavation. This traditional method generates significantly more waste rock, consumes vast amounts of water, and uses toxic chemicals in processing, posing greater risks to local ecosystems and communities. Yet, in anticipation of lithium demand, companies are increasingly looking for large-scale projects.
KoBold Metals remains a private company, but CEO Josh Goldman told CNBC a year ago that it plans to go public within three to four years.
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Photo via Shutterstock

Asset Sales

Global

FEAM

Hycroft Mining Holding Corporation - Class A Common Stock

HYMC

IDRV

LITM

LTHM

Gates And Bezos-Backed Startup Makes Move For DR Congo's Lithium

The United States is considering a potential partnership with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to secure access to <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/commodities" rel="noreferrer noopener">critical minerals</a>, following discussions initiated by a senior Congolese official.
According <a target="_blank" href="https://www.ft.com/content/3f638e29-4790-4a10-b5b7-a79f9ef55491" rel="noreferrer noopener">to</a> the Financial Times, the DRC proposed a minerals-for-security deal, offering valuable resources for military support to address ongoing conflict in the region, particularly with the M23 rebel group who seized control of eastern parts of the North Kivu province.
President Felix Tshisekedi recently hinted at the deal in an interview for the New York Times, while a State Department spokesperson confirmed the situation.
"The DRC is endowed with a significant share of the world's critical minerals required for advanced technologies. The United States is open to discussing partnerships in this sector that align with the Trump administration's America First agenda," they said.
The DRC has significant mineral resources, including cobalt, lithium, copper, and tantalum. It is a global leader in cobalt production, supplying over 70% of the metal's production. Cobalt is essential for electric vehicle batteries and renewable energy technologies.
Still, its status has been problematic, as declining prices forced foreign operators like the Chinese miner MMG to <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/25/03/44168899/mmg-pauses-cobalt-production-in-congo-as-price-hits-historic-lows" rel="noreferrer noopener">pause production</a>. Meanwhile, the government implemented a four-month export ban to stabilize the oversupplied market.
On top of illegal mining and smuggling, escalating armed conflicts are likely the main catalyst for ongoing talks with Washington. The M23 rebel group, allegedly backed by neighboring Rwanda, has seized significant territory in the eastern part of the country, threatening mineral-rich territory.
Since the conflict has also drawn in neighboring Burundi and Uganda, the situation risks escalating into a full-scale regional conflict.
While a deal with the U.S. would stabilize the region, in exchange, the U.S. would gain access to critical minerals and reduce reliance on Chinese-dominated supply chains.
China controls most of the DRC's mining sector through the state-owned MMG. Washington could seize this opportunity to reduce Beijing's influence while securing resources for its industrial needs.
Yet, a deal between Washington and Kinhasa is a tall order. The political climate in Kinshasa is volatile, and past foreign mining agreements in the DRC have faced criticism over transparency issues.
Read Next:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/03/44188315/germany-could-meet-its-lithium-needs-from-domestic-sources-study-says" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Germany Could Meet Its Lithium Needs From Domestic Sources, Study Says</a></li>
</ul>
Photo via Shutterstock

Politics

DR Congo Explores Minerals-For-Security Deal With The US

A new study said Germany could have enough lithium to meet its long-term domestic needs. Sourcing domestic <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/commodities" rel="noreferrer noopener">commodities</a> would help its weakened automotive industry reduce reliance on imports – a welcome development in a deglobalized environment.
The study by the Federal Institute for Geosciences and Natural Resources and the Fraunhofer IEG Institute notes the potential of lithium extraction from deep underground waters.
Germany's reliance on lithium imports is notable. In 2023, the country imported €23.7 billion ($25.72 billion) worth of batteries, of which lithium-ion batteries accounted for 86%, according to the trade group ZVEI. Meanwhile, the German Raw Materials Agency estimates that, by 2030, the domestic demand will reach 170,000 metric tons of lithium annually.
According to Reuters, the study estimates that Germany holds up to 26.51 million metric tons of lithium, particularly in the North German Basin and the Central Thuringian Basin.
Much of this lithium could be extracted as a byproduct of geothermal energy production, offering a dual benefit of sustainable energy and critical mineral supply. Major corporations, including ExxonMobil (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XOM#NYSE">XOM</a>), have shown interest, with Exxon's subsidiary Esso Deutschland securing four exploration licenses in Lower Saxony.
Katharina Alms, the research leader at Fraunhofer IEG, told Reuters the development shows that surprisingly high lithium resources might be dormant underground.
Still, she acknowledged that variations in concentration levels and technical difficulties associated with extraction with low-permeability rock formations pose difficulties.
However, lithium dissolved in brine allows for direct lithium extraction (DLE). This method is more environmentally friendly than traditional evaporation ponds in places like Chile and Argentina, which require vast water and land.
Those necessities put one of the largest global greenfield lithium projects on hold, as Serbia's Jadar project contains lithium in mineral form. Rio Tinto's plans for pursuing traditional extraction methods faced protests over <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/24/10/41289306/serbian-parliament-doesnt-pass-lithium-ban-keeps-rio-tintos-major-project-alive" rel="noreferrer noopener">fears of ecological damage</a> despite assurances of compliance with environmental regulations.
Yet, the DLE process reduces waste and speeds up lithium extraction, making it a more viable long-term solution that is more likely to pass Germany's regulatory hurdles, which, according to the OECD's analysis, rank among<a target="_blank" href="https://www.oecd.org/content/dam/oecd/en/topics/policy-sub-issues/economic-policies-to-foster-green-growth/how-stringent-are-environmental-policies.pdf" rel="noreferrer noopener"> the most stringent</a> in the developed world.
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</ul>
Photo via Shutterstock

Eurozone

Germany Could Meet Its Lithium Needs From Domestic Sources, Study Says

A high-stakes deal that could have reshaped global supply chains has crumbled. The negotiations between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy were meant to secure a partnership granting the US priority access to Ukraine's vast reserves of critical minerals &#8211; resources vital for military technology, electric vehicles (EVs) and advanced electronics. 
However, the talks unraveled over security concerns and shifting priorities, leaving both nations scrambling for alternatives. Now, the fallout is poised to send ripples through markets, affecting stocks and <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/etfs">ETFs linked to these key industries</a>. Investors should closely monitor the funds and equities most exposed to this disruption.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/03/44064817/zelenskyy-says-not-sure-he-did-something-bad-after-public-spat-with-trump-jd-vance-we-have-to-be-very-honest-and-direct">Zelenskyy Says &#8216;Not Sure&#8217; He Did Something Bad After Public Spat With Trump, JD Vance: &#8216;We Have To Be Very Honest And Direct&#8217;</a>
ETFs In The Spotlight
With the deal off the table, ETFs tracking rare earth minerals, defense and EV industries could see increased volatility:
VanEck Rare Earth/Strategic Metals ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/REMX#NYSE">REMX</a>): Holds stocks involved in rare earth mining and processing, sectors now facing renewed uncertainty. Pilbara Minerals Ltd (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AU#NYSE">AU</a>) and Arcadium Lithium Plc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ALTM#NYSE">ALTM</a>) are among its top holdings.
Global X Lithium &amp; Battery Tech ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LIT#NYSE">LIT</a>): Focuses on lithium and battery-related companies, which depend on stable mineral supplies. The fund has allocated its assets to companies like Mineral Resources, Tesla (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>) and Albemarle (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ALB#NYSE">ALB</a>).
iShares US Aerospace &amp; Defense ETF (BATS:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ITA#BATS">ITA</a>): Tracks major defense contractors like Raytheon Co (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RTX#NYSE">RTX</a>), Lockheed Martin Corp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LMT#NYSE">LMT</a>) and Northrop Grumman Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NOC#NYSE">NOC</a>), that may face cost pressures due to supply chain disruptions. 
What Was At Stake?
The abandoned agreement would have given the US <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/02/43968607/trump-negotiates-a-very-big-deal-for-ukraines-mineral-wealth">priority access to Ukraine's reserves of critical minerals</a> essential for military technology, EVs and advanced electronics. In return, Ukraine expected a financial boost, with 50% of state-owned mineral revenues going into an investment fund for economic recovery. However, without US security guarantees, Ukraine hesitated to finalize the deal, ultimately leading to its collapse.
With no agreement in place, both the US and Ukraine face economic and strategic setbacks. The US remains reliant on China for rare earth processing, while Ukraine may now seek alternative partnerships—potentially with China or European nations.
Also Read: <a href="https://in.benzinga.com/news/25/02/43974696/mark-cuban-surprisingly-loves-the-trump-administrations-push-for-ukrainian-rare-minerals-heres-why-he-thinks-its-good-for-both-sides">Mark Cuban Surprisingly &#8216;Loves&#8217; The Trump Administration&#8217;s Push For Ukrainian Rare Minerals—Here&#8217;s Why He Thinks It&#8217;s Good For Both Sides</a>
US Defense And Tech Stocks
The US defense and tech industries are major consumers of rare earth minerals. Companies like Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman and Raytheon Technologies rely on these materials for advanced weaponry and aerospace systems. The lack of a stable mineral supply chain outside China could make sourcing components more expensive, potentially affecting these stocks.
Semiconductor giants like NVIDIA (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>), Advanced Micro Devices (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMD#NASDAQ">AMD</a>), and Intel (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/INTC#NASDAQ">INTC</a>) could also see cost pressures, as rare earth elements are crucial for chip production. If US companies must continue depending on China for processing, it could impact supply chain stability and pricing.
Lithium and rare earth mining companies like MP Materials (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MP#NYSE">MP</a>), which processes rare earths domestically, might see increased interest as the US looks to expand its refining capabilities.
What's Next?
With the US unable to secure a direct supply of Ukrainian minerals for now, Washington may have to fast-track domestic refining projects or seek alternative deals. Meanwhile, Ukraine might turn to European nations or even China to fill the gap. For now, investors should brace for potential market fluctuations in defense, tech and EV sectors.
Read Next: 
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/03/44113716/top-5-etfs-that-defied-februarys-market-turmoil">Top 5 ETFs That Defied February&#8217;s Market Turmoil</a></li>
</ul>
Photo: Shutterstock

Sector ETFs

Broad U.S. Equity ETFs

ALTM

INTC

iShares Dow Jones US Aerospace & Defense Index Fund

NVDA

TSLA

Broken Deal, Big Consequences: How ETFs And Stocks Will React

Saudi Arabia has unveiled a joint venture between the state oil company Aramco and the state mining company Ma'aden. The collaboration focuses on extracting <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/lithium" rel="noreferrer noopener">lithium</a>, a vital component in batteries for electric vehicles (EVs), renewable energy storage, and electronics. Commercial production is expected by 2027.
"We expect that this partnership will leverage the world's leading upstream enterprise to apply significant low-cost advantages, industry experience, technological innovation, and an integrated supply chain ecosystem," <a target="_blank" href="https://www.aramco.com/en/news-media/news/2025/aramco-plans-transition-minerals-jv-with-maaden" rel="noreferrer noopener">said</a> Nasir K. Al-Naimi, Aramco's upstream president.
The venture aligns with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, an ambitious economic transformation plan designed to reduce dependency on oil by developing sectors like mining, technology, and renewable energy.
Vision 2030 targets unlocking $2.5 trillion of mineral resources, including lithium, copper, and gold, while increasing mining's GDP contribution from $17 billion to $64 billion.
Demand for lithium has surged due to the global shift toward green energy. According to Aramco, domestic lithium needs could increase twenty-fold by 2030, supporting the production of 500,000 EV batteries and 110 gigawatts of renewable energy capacity.
The new joint venture aims to explore direct lithium extraction (DLE) technologies and tap into high-concentration deposits within the region. In contrast to traditional evaporation methods, DLE bypasses the need for lithium ponds, allowing faster extraction rates, minimized environmental impact, and reduced water consumption, which are crucial factors in arid climates.
The project also builds on Saudi Arabia's first successful lithium extraction from oilfield brine last December, which was conducted in collaboration with a local startup, Lihytec. Ma'aden is making strides in other commodities, unveiling promising gold and copper deposits at Wadi Al Jaww and Jabal Shayban.
Ma'aden CEO Bob Wilt <a target="_blank" href="https://www.maaden.com.sa/en/news/details/602" rel="noreferrer noopener">noted</a> that these findings are part of one of the world's largest single-jurisdiction exploration programs. "We are committed to establishing mining as the third pillar of the Saudi economy, in line with Vision 2030," he stated.
Strengthening domestic copper production is a priority since the country imports most of its copper—365,000 tons annually. While this demand could double by 2035, the country might secure some of this increasingly important metal from Pakistan as it <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/m-a/24/04/38336936/saudi-arabia-near-deal-for-stake-in-gold-copper-mine-project-in-pakistans-troubled-province" rel="noreferrer noopener">evaluates a stake</a> in Barrick Gold's Reko Diq project.
Price Watch: Global X Lithium &amp; Battery Tech ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LIT#NYSE">LIT</a>) is up 0.79% year-to-date.
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Photo by Piotr Swat on Shutterstock

Legal

Saudi Arabia Advances Lithium Plans, Looks Beyond Oil For Commodity Diversification

KoBold Metals, the AI-driven mining startup backed by Bill Gates and Jeff Bezos, has secured $537 million in its Series C funding round. The latest funding round gives the Berkeley-based company a valuation of $2.96 billion and fresh capital to pursue ambitious goals in the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/commodities" rel="noreferrer noopener">critical minerals sector</a>.
Durable Capital Partners LP and T. Rowe Price funds led the round, alongside contributions from existing investors such as Andreessen Horowitz Growth, Breakthrough Energy Ventures, and Mitsubishi Corporation, as well as new players like StepStone Group and WCM Investment Management.
This latest injection brings KoBold's total fundraising to $1 billion. The funds will accelerate exploration, develop high-potential projects, and enhance its R&amp;D capabilities.
KoBold's innovative approach relies on artificial intelligence to locate deposits of vital minerals such as copper, cobalt, lithium, and nickel. The company's proprietary technology aggregates data from sources like satellite imagery and historical drilling reports to create a detailed "Google Maps" of the Earth's crust, pinpointing untapped resources that traditional methods might miss.
Using this technology, KoBold discovered a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/02/36940360/kobold-metals-announces-historic-copper-discovery-in-zambia" rel="noreferrer noopener">substantial copper deposit</a> in Zambia's Copperbelt. The Dumbwa target, part of the Solwezi project, exhibited promising results, including drilling highlights of 16 meters at 1.24% copper. KoBold's $2 billion Mingomba site is set to produce at least 300,000 tons annually by 2030, making it Zambia's largest copper operation.
"About 40% of the new capital will go toward advancing existing projects into production, with Zambia receiving the lion's share," KoBold's CEO and co-founder Kurt House <a target="_blank" href="https://www.koboldmetals.com/news/mining-startup-kobold-metals-valued-at-2-96-bn-after-closing-537m-series-c/?aid=01" rel="noreferrer noopener">said</a> to the Financial Times.
With 60 active projects across continents, including partnerships with mining giants like BHP and Rio Tinto, the firm is ready to reshuffle the industry. House noted they plan to aggressively expand the team, particularly seeking data scientists, while expanding into new jurisdictions such as Finland and Botswana. The company also aims to go public within three to five years.
Despite changes in U.S. political leadership, House expressed confidence in bipartisan support for critical mineral initiatives. "There is very broad bipartisan support for diversifying [the] supply of critical minerals because this is a national security priority," he said.
U.S. foreign policy is aiding companies like KoBold. President Joe Biden's <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/emerging-markets/24/10/41416913/bidens-farewell-to-africa-strategic-motives-behind-first-and-only-presidential-visit" rel="noreferrer noopener">last official trip</a> to Angola discussed revitalizing the Lobito railway line to facilitate mineral transport across Angola, Zambia, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Thus, firms like KoBold would benefit from better infrastructure while bolstering Western access to strategic resources and reducing reliance on China-dominated supply chains.
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/commodities/25/01/42759408/gold-prices-to-climb-7-in-2025-amid-trumps-return-to-white-house-and-geopolitical-tensions-momentum-is-taking-back-over" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Gold Prices To Climb 7% In 2025 Amid Trump's Return To White House And Geopolitical Tensions: ‘Momentum Is Taking Back Over'</a></li>
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Photo via via Shutterstock

Financing

Tech

Media

AMZN

ARTY

BOTZ

COPX

CPER

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MSFT

ROBT

Direxion Daily Robotics, Artificial Intelligence & Automation Index Bull 3X Shares

UBOT

WisdomTree Trust WisdomTree Artificial Intelligence and Innovation Fund

WTAI

Bill Gates And Jeff Bezos Backed Mining Startup Raises $537 Million, Targets Going Public In Few Years

Mexico's President Claudia Sheinbaum has announced a review of a controversial bill to ban <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/mining" rel="noreferrer noopener">open-pit mining</a>. Congress approved the bill in July after debating balancing environmental protection with economic priorities.
"Open-pit mining warrants a thorough review, as activities such as sand extraction for cement production and lithium mining—critical for national development—are conducted using this method. It is vital to assess the specifics of the constitutional reform's provisions," Sheinbaum <a target="_blank" href="https://www.gob.mx/presidencia/articulos/version-estenografica-conferencia-de-prensa-de-la-presidenta-claudia-sheinbaum-pardo-del-6-de-diciembre-de-2024?idiom=es" rel="noreferrer noopener">said</a>.
Mexico's mining industry is a pillar of its economy, accounting for around 8% of its industrial GDP. In 2022, mining exports totaled $17.6 billion, generating a trade surplus of $12.8 billion. It directly employs over 370,000 workers and supports millions more in related industries such as logistics and equipment manufacturing.
Large operating open-pit mines include Newmont's (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NEM#NYSE">NEM</a>) Peñasquito and Southern Copper's (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SCCO#NYSE">SCCO</a>) Buenavista. The ban would likely stop the San Nicolás copper-zinc project, a 50-50 partnership between Teck Resources (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TECK#NYSE">TECK</a>) and Agnico Eagle (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AEM#NYSE">AEM</a>).
CAMIMEX, Mexico's primary mining chamber, warned that an outright ban could reduce GDP by 1% and threaten nearly 200,000 jobs. Open-pit mining accounts for 60% of the country's mining production value and is critical for extracting key resources like gold, silver, copper and strategic minerals like lithium.
Under former President Andrés Manuel López Obrador (AMLO), Mexico's mining sector faced heavy restrictions. In 2023, AMLO nationalized lithium, declaring it a strategic resource for Mexico's energy independence and banning new concessions for private companies.
He also established a state-run lithium company and canceled multiple existing concessions, triggering international arbitration disputes.
While the bill passed Congress during his administration, Sheinbaum took over in October, becoming the first female president.
Unlike AMLO, she faces economic difficulties at the beginning of her six-year term. Without foreign capital, it will be hard to provide quality jobs, education, and healthcare.
Meanwhile, El Salvador's President Nayib Bukele is pushing to go in the opposite direction. In 2017, his predecessor implemented a total mining ban to protect the country's water resources.
Still, Bukele, a famous Bitcoin advocate, claims that the untapped mineral reserves could transform the economy.
"We potentially have the largest gold deposits per square kilometer in the world," he <a target="_blank" href="https://x.com/nayibbukele/status/1865129919870578791" rel="noreferrer noopener">stated</a>, arguing that responsible mining could generate $131 billion—equal to 380% of the country's GDP—from just 4% of identified reserves. Earlier this year, Bukele secured the second term, winning 84.65% of popular votes. With control over Congress, lifting the ban seems inevitable.
However, in contrast to Mexico, El Salvador is a small country, largely dependent on the Lempa River as a primary water source. Any large-scale operations, particularly in the gold-rich north of the country, could pollute this water flow and cause more problems for what it is worth.
Read Next:
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FLMX

MEXX

SCCO

TECK

Mexico And El Salvador Ponder Different Mining Stances

The global lithium market is set to remain oversupplied, keeping the prices depressed, but this challenging situation for commodity producers could help battery makers ease the transition to <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/electric-vehicles" rel="noreferrer noopener">electric vehicles(EVs)</a>.
Lithium prices have plummeted after soaring to $80,000 per ton in 2022, now trading below $10,000 per ton. The surplus stems from weaker-than-expected EV sales, aggressive production expansions, and strategic commitments by Chinese operators to maintain dominance in the global battery supply chain.
"There are some assets in production that shouldn't really be, but for their own reasons, they're ploughing on," said Martin Jackson, head of battery raw materials at CRU. Reuters <a target="_blank" href="https://www.reuters.com/markets/commodities/lithium-supply-surplus-set-stay-with-battery-makers-help-2024-12-10/" rel="noreferrer noopener">reported</a> his estimate that about 10% of global lithium production is currently unprofitable.
According to the Reuters report, UBS forecasts a 25% increase in global lithium supply this year, with the surplus expected to persist until 2027. Meanwhile, S&amp;P Global projects prices to stabilize between $9,900 and $11,600 per ton until 2026.
Driven by Beijing's ambition to dominate the market, Chinese companies remain a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/commodities/24/06/39477524/exclusive-china-linked-lithium-volatility-a-headache-for-producers-but-a-win-for-retail-inves" rel="noreferrer noopener">key factor in lithium production</a>. Production persists in Australia, Africa, and South America even at high operational costs, as China has to ensure a steady supply to support its rising EV industry.
In the U.S., lithium producers are also adapting to market pressures. ExxonMobil (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XOM#NYSE">XOM</a>) <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/contracts/24/11/42087743/exxon-mobils-lithium-leap-100000-metric-tons-to-fuel-lg-chems-us-plant" rel="noreferrer noopener">has partnered with</a> LG Chem to secure lithium for a cathode production facility in Tennessee, aiming to become the largest of its kind in the country. Yet, despite the tailwind from the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), Donald Trump's second mandate could bring potential rollbacks. On top of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/07/39870803/us-mine-development-delays-among-worlds-longest-second-only-to-zambia" rel="noreferrer noopener">permitting delays</a>, his policy shift could slow domestic progress.
Major producers like SQM (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SQM#NYSE">SQM</a>) have <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/insights/earnings/24/11/42036495/a-peek-at-sociedad-quimica-y-mineras-future-earnings" rel="noreferrer noopener">suffered significantly</a>, with the company reporting a 73% decline in quarterly profits despite record sales volumes. Yet, the industry remains optimistic about long-term prospects. If the EV adoption accelerates, analysts see prices recovering above $14,500 per ton.
Still, some lithium operators are set to prosper even at current prices. Volt Lithium, a Canadian firm focusing on direct lithium extraction (DLE), has agreed with Wellspring Hydro to deploy a field unit in North Dakota.
With a worst-case-scenario extraction price of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/commodities/24/06/39480795/exclusive-volt-lithium-ceo-touts-6b-cash-flow-opportunity" rel="noreferrer noopener">$2,900 per ton of lithium</a>, Volt will test its technology at the <a target="_blank" href="https://voltlithium.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/12-10-2024-North-Dakota-Field-Study-Agreement-Final-.pdf" rel="noreferrer noopener">second-largest domestic brine production</a>. The firm already has DLE operations in the Permian basin in Texas and the Keg River formation in its native Alberta.
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Emerging Markets

Lithium Producers Brace For Prolonged Oversupply, Stalled Prices

Sony Group Corp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SONY#NYSE">SONY</a>) and Honda Motor Co Ltd.&#8216;s (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HMC#NYSE">HMC</a>) joint electric vehicle venture faces significant headwinds as it prepares to enter the U.S. market in 2026, amid expected policy changes under President-elect Donald Trump that could reshape the EV landscape.
What Happened: The partnership, Sony Honda Mobility, will unveil its production-ready Afeela sedan prototype at CES 2025 in Las Vegas next month. While the vehicle&#8217;s hardware is largely complete, developers are fine-tuning the software-centric features that distinguish it from competitors, according to SHM President Izumi Kawanishi, Nikkei <a href="https://asia.nikkei.com/Business/Technology/Tech-Asia/Sony-and-Honda-prepare-for-tough-U.S.-EV-debut-under-Trump">reported</a> on Wednesday.
The timing of Afeela&#8217;s launch coincides with potentially major shifts in U.S. auto policy. Trump&#8217;s anticipated elimination of the current $7,500 EV tax credit could reduce electric vehicle sales by nearly 30%, according to the National Bureau of Economic Research. 
This policy shift has already influenced market dynamics, with Tesla Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>) shares rallying following Trump&#8217;s election victory.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42306850/bitcoin-ethereum-dogecoin-power-down-amid-south-korea-political-turmoil-top-analyst-shares-strategy-for-altcoin-holdersavoid-chasing-fomo-take-profits">Bitcoin, Ethereum, Dogecoin Power Down Amid South Korea Political Turmoil: Analyst Shares Strategy For Altcoin Holders — Avoid Chasing FOMO, Take Profits</a>
What Happened: The changing landscape has divided industry analysts. Roth MKM analyst Craig Irwin recently raised Tesla&#8217;s price target by 347% to $380, suggesting established players <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42285783/tesla-bear-craig-irwin-turns-bullish-increases-price-target-from-85-to-380">might benefit from reduced subsidies</a>. However, newcomers like SHM could face additional challenges beyond the subsidy cuts, including potential tariff increases.
Despite these hurdles, SHM is betting on its unique value proposition. The Afeela features 45 cameras and sensors, an entertainment-focused cabin design, and software that can be updated like a smartphone. The company aims to differentiate itself through Sony&#8217;s entertainment and sensor expertise combined with Honda&#8217;s automotive manufacturing capabilities.
&#8220;All businesses have ups and downs,&#8221; Kawanishi noted, emphasizing the venture&#8217;s long-term vision. Industry experts suggest annual sales of 30,000 to 40,000 units would be considered successful for the new entrant in a market dominated by Tesla, which controls approximately half of U.S. EV sales.
EV-focused exchange-traded funds, including Invesco Electric Vehicle Metals Commodity Strategy No K-1 ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EVMT#NASDAQ">EVMT</a>), Amplify Lithium &amp; Battery Technology ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BATT#NYSE">BATT</a>), KraneShares Electric Vehicles and Future Mobility Index ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/KARS#NYSE">KARS</a>), and Global X Lithium &amp; Battery Tech ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LIT#NYSE">LIT</a>), have all been trading in the red since Trump&#8217;s election victory on Nov. 6.
Read Next: 
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/24/12/42306717/south-korean-markets-plunge-amid-political-turmoil-as-president-yoons-martial-law-u-turn-sparks-uncertainty-samsung-sk-hynix-and-hyundai-stocks-tumble">South Korean Markets Plunge Amid Political Turmoil As President Yoon&#8217;s Martial Law U-Turn Sparks Uncertainty: Samsung, SK Hynix, And Hyundai Stocks Tumble</a></li>
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Image Via Unsplash
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

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Sony-Honda EV Dream Collides With Trump-Backed Policy Shift Reality Ahead Of 2026 US Launch

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) recently discovered a significant lithium reserve beneath southwestern Arkansas. Through water testing and artificial intelligence, the agency found as much as 19 million tons of lithium — enough to supply the nation's <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/clean-energy">green tech transition</a>.
"Our research was able to estimate total lithium present in the southwestern portion of the Smackover in Arkansas for the first time.&nbsp; We estimate there is enough dissolved lithium present in that region to replace U.S. imports of lithium and more," <a href="https://www.usgs.gov/news/national-news-release/unlocking-arkansas-hidden-treasure-usgs-uses-machine-learning-show-large">said</a> Katherine Knierim, a hydrologist and the study's principal researcher.
The Smackover Formation is a leftover of an ancient sea that formed a porous and permeable limestone geologic unit that extends across the Southern U.S. states. Rich in oil and bromine, it has recently attracted attention for brine water — high-salinity waters that are a common byproduct of oil exploration.
Given the synergies, large oil producers such as Exxon Mobil (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XOM#NYSE">XOM</a>) are <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/large-cap/24/02/37182798/exxons-lithium-experiment-could-be-winner-for-oil-company-state-of-arkansas">already active in Arkansas</a>. The company plans to begin extraction by 2027 and produce enough lithium for one million electric vehicles annually by 2030 through Direct Lithium Extraction (DLE) technology, which offers a quicker, more environmentally friendly method than traditional mining.
DLE also has high profitability potential, as demonstrated by Canadian pioneer Volt Lithium, which recently produced the first <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/08/40287108/volt-lithium-ceo-talks-up-new-mining-extraction-method-promises-major-production-advancements">battery-grade lithium</a> from brine in the Permian basin. The company estimates production costs at $2,900 per ton, even from low-concentration brine, while current prices hover around $10,500 per ton.
Despite significant lithium resources in the form of brine and clay deposits such as Thacker Pass in Nevada, domestic production has yet to catch up to domestic consumption. The U.S. imports 25% of its lithium, mainly from Australia and South America. This reliance on foreign sources and China's dominance in lithium processing have raised concerns about supply chain vulnerabilities.
The reasons include environmental concerns and opposition from the Indigenous population, as prospective deposits often crisscross disputed sites. With inert bureaucracy and high capex costs, the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/07/39870803/us-mine-development-delays-among-worlds-longest-second-only-to-zambia">average mine development</a> in the U.S. is 29 years.
Still, with heavyweights such as Exxon committed to tapping into Arkansas' and both local and federal decision-makers keeping a friendly stance toward battery metals — this Southern state might reach its goal of becoming an epicenter of U.S. lithium production.
Lithium stocks rallied on the news, with Piedmont Lithium (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PLL#NASDAQ">PLL</a>) climbing 17% yesterday before giving back most of those gains today.
Major lithium ETFs Global X Lithium &amp; Battery Tech ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LIT#NYSE">LIT</a>) and Amplify Lithium &amp; Battery Technology ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BATT#NYSE">BATT</a>) had modest gains between 2% and 3% Wednesday morning before running out of steam.
Read Next: • <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/large-cap/24/10/41425070/vale-sets-samarco-dam-bill-estimate-at-30b-bhp-faces-uks-high-court">Vale Sets Samarco Dam Bill Estimate At $30B, BHP Faces UK&#8217;s High Court</a>
Photo: Shutterstock

Lithium Reserve Found In Arkansas With Help From AI: Why It Impacts Exxon Mobil

In a recent study, researchers have suggested that Arkansas could potentially hold a significant amount of lithium, a crucial component for electric car batteries and other high-tech products.
What Happened: The researchers, in a study published in the journal Science Advances, have estimated that there could be between 5.1 to 19 million tons of lithium in the Smackover Formation brines in southern Arkansas, <a href="https://thehill.com/policy/energy-environment/4945872-arkansas-19-million-tons-lithium-battery-power/">reported</a> The Hill. This amount could potentially make up 35 to 136% of the current U.S. lithium resource estimate.
The researchers used a machine-learning model trained on published and newly collected brine lithium concentration data to create a map of predicted lithium concentrations in Smackover Formation brines across southern Arkansas.
Lithium ETFs offer a way to diversify your investments across multiple companies poised to benefit from the growing demand for lithium. 
Some of the top lithium ETFs to consider include the Global X Lithium &amp; Battery Tech ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LIT#NYSE">LIT</a>), Amplify Lithium and Battery Technology ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BATT#NYSE">BATT</a>), First Trust NASDAQ Clean Edge Green Energy Index Fund (NASDAQGM:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QCLN#NASDAQGM">QCLN</a>), iShares Global Clean Energy ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ICLN#NASDAQ">ICLN</a>), and the VanEck Vectors Rare Earth/Strategic Metals ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/REMX#NYSE">REMX</a>).
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/10/41422633/investors-lost-over-95-of-their-wealth-in-this-nvidia-linked-etf-while-jensen-huang-led-chip-gia?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Investors Lost Over 95% Of Their Wealth In This Nvidia-Linked ETF While Jensen Huang-Led Chip Giant Gained 220% In The Past Year: Here&#8217;s More</a>
Why It Matters: Automakers and tech companies are scrambling to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/10/41360023/lithium-americas-shares-surge-as-gm-commits-625m-to-thacker-pass-project">secure their lithium supplies</a>, with some even investing in mining projects, such as General Motors&#8216; joint venture with Lithium Americas (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LAC#NYSE">LAC</a>) for the Thacker Pass lithium project in Nevada.
Meanwhile, in Europe, the Serbian parliament&#8217;s decision <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/24/10/41289306/serbian-parliament-doesnt-pass-lithium-ban-keeps-rio-tintos-major-project-alive">not to ban lithium exploration and exploitation</a> has kept Rio Tinto&#8216;s (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RIO#NYSE">RIO</a>) major Jadar project alive. 
In January, Microsoft Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>) revealed its <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/top-stories/24/02/37188987/interesting-elon-musk-captivated-by-microsofts-70-lithium-reduced-battery-innovation">collaboration with a U.S. national laboratory</a> to create an innovative battery material that decreases lithium consumption by 70%, attracting interest from Tesla Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>) CEO Elon Musk.
Moreover, in July 2022 Musk tweeted that &#8220;lithium batteries are the new oil,&#8221; responding to Craft Ventures co-founder David Sacks&#8216; comments about the importance of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/movers/22/07/28056987/elon-musk-says-this-battery-metal-is-the-new-oil-but-should-the-vehicle-connoisseur-take-his">energy independence amid oil challenges</a> from Russia&#8217;s invasion of Ukraine. 
Read Next: 
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Image Via Shutterstock 
This story was generated using <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro">Benzinga Neuro</a> and edited by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/Kaustubh-Bagalkote" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kaustubh Bagalkote</a>

iShares S&P Global Clean Energy Index Fund

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First Trust NASDAQ Clean Edge Green Energy Index Fund

QCLN

Arkansas May Be Sitting On 19M Tons Of Lithium Amid Rising Demand For EV Batteries: How To Invest In What Elon Musk Calls 'The New Oil'

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Lithium shares are trading lower. The commodity has been weighed down this year by an oversupply.

AMLI

LITH

Shares of lithium companies are trading higher. The US Department of Energy selected Standard Lithium and Equinor for an award negotiation of up to $225 million for the South West Arkansas project.

General

SGML

CORRECTION: Lithium Stocks Are Higher

Shares of lithium companies are trading lower amid a drop in the price of the metal.

Shares of lithium companies are trading lower amid a drop in the price of lithium. Concerns over a growing Africa supply of the mineral may weigh negatively on the cost.

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