Rock Stock Channel

First Phosphate (CSE: PHOS) CEO John Passalacqua joins Rock Stock Channel (Howard and Matt) to discuss major G7 critical minerals news, including export credit agency support, a potential C$275 million project guarantee, phosphoric acid plant backing, and new offtake agreements. The conversation covers why battery-grade phosphate is becoming critical to the Western LFP battery supply chain, how First Phosphate is advancing its mine-to-market strategy in Quebec, and why governments are now paying closer attention to phosphate alongside lithium, graphite and rare earths. Topics include LFP batteries, phosphate supply, critical minerals, project financing, offtake agreements, G7 supply chain security, and North American battery materials. ___ Chapters (00:00) Intro (02:21) G7 Minerals Announcement (03:58) Project Financing Support (04:43) Acid Plant Backing (05:50) Offtake Agreements (06:35) G7 Supply Chain Focus (07:35) Phosphate’s Battery Role (08:35) Western Phosphate Shortage (09:24) Next Project Catalysts (10:11) Government Partnerships (12:36) Financing And Investors (16:43) Closing Market Context Links Sign up for the Lithium-Ion Bull newsletter / Matt’s blogs: https://rkequity.com/ Questions: [email protected] Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/rockstockchannel Podcast   Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lithium-ion-rocks/id1457969172 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0KiMIZOPaDg8ENfPJMSINq Follow us on X (Twitter): Howard: https://x.com/LithiumIonBull Matt: https://x.com/matt_fernley Rodney: https://x.com/RodneyHooper13 _________________________________________________ DISCLAIMER NOT INVESTMENT ADVICE. DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH. Howard, Matt, and Rodney are not financial advisors or broker-dealers. This video is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered investment or financial advice. Please conduct your own independent research and read the disclaimer at the end of the video or on RK Equity’s website: https://www.rkequity.com Intro and outro audio credit: Jamie Klein

Bruce Richardson, CEO of Anson Resources (ASX: ASN), joins Rock Stock Channel (Howard & Matt) to discuss the latest Green River lithium engineering study, the definitive POSCO demonstration plant agreement, low-cost US lithium production potential, project financing, government support, and Anson’s role in the emerging Korea-US battery materials supply chain. Topics include Green River’s C1 operating cost, infrastructure advantages, DFS timeline, POSCO due diligence, LG Energy Solution offtake, federal grant applications, and the path toward building a strategic US lithium supply chain. ___ Chapters (00:00) Green River Update (03:35) Low-Cost Drivers (07:16) Capital Cost Advantage (10:58) Path To DFS (14:43) Anson's Own Demo Plant (17:24) POSCO Due Diligence (20:34) Korea-US Supply Chain (22:13) Government Support (26:53) Shareholder Requisition (29:37) Cathode Supply Challenge (37:46) Site Visit Interest Links Sign up for the Lithium-Ion Bull newsletter / Matt’s blogs: https://rkequity.com/ Questions: [email protected] Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/rockstockchannel Podcast   Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lithium-ion-rocks/id1457969172 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0KiMIZOPaDg8ENfPJMSINq Follow us on X (Twitter): Howard: https://x.com/LithiumIonBull Matt: https://x.com/matt_fernley Rodney: https://x.com/RodneyHooper13 _________________________________________________ DISCLAIMER NOT INVESTMENT ADVICE. DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH. Howard, Matt, and Rodney are not financial advisors or broker-dealers. This video is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered investment or financial advice. Please conduct your own independent research and read the disclaimer at the end of the video or on RK Equity’s website: https://www.rkequity.com Intro and outro audio credit: Jamie Klein

In this Rock Stock Recap episode, Howard, Matt and Rodney chat about the latest lithium, battery materials and critical minerals trends following Benchmark’s Giga USA conference in Washington, D.C. Topics include the lithium price rebound, ESS and EV demand, China’s role in battery markets, rare earths, copper and aluminium, US government critical minerals policy, the missing cathode link, and America’s opportunity to become a major lithium producer. Featuring discussion on Lithium Americas (Jonathan Evans), Standard Lithium (David Park), Thacker Pass, DLE, PCAM/CAM, battery energy storage, data centers, rare earth magnets and the future of the North American battery supply chain (Iola Hughes). ___ Chapters (00:00) Intro (05:28) Lithium Price Rebound (07:30) Lithium Market Outlook (10:48) Equity Market Pressure (12:36) Lithium Versus Commodities (13:43) China EV Demand (16:51) Rare Earths Update (19:26) Copper And Aluminum (23:32) El Niño Risks (26:17) Benchmark Conference Takeaways (29:21) Government Battery Policy (32:15) US Lithium Opportunity (33:46) Missing Cathode Link (36:18) Lithium Americas (Jon Evans) (41:29) Standard Lithium (David Park) (49:15) Iola Hughes (Benchmark) Links Sign up for the Lithium-Ion Bull newsletter / Matt’s blogs: https://rkequity.com/ Questions: [email protected] Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/rockstockchannel Podcast   Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lithium-ion-rocks/id1457969172 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0KiMIZOPaDg8ENfPJMSINq Follow us on X (Twitter): Howard: https://x.com/LithiumIonBull Matt: https://x.com/matt_fernley Rodney: https://x.com/RodneyHooper13 _________________________________________________ DISCLAIMER NOT INVESTMENT ADVICE. DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH. Howard, Matt, and Rodney are not financial advisors or broker-dealers. This video is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered investment or financial advice. Please conduct your own independent research and read the disclaimer at the end of the video or on RK Equity’s website: https://www.rkequity.com Intro and outro audio credit: Jamie Klein

Fastmarkets CEO Raju Daswani and Fastmarkets Fast Forward host Andrea Hotter join Howard Klein and Matt Fernley ahead of the Fastmarkets' 2026 Global Lithium, Battery and Critical Minerals Conference in Las Vegas. Topics discussed include the lithium market reset, rising ESS demand, BYD’s global growth, Rio Tinto’s lithium strategy, critical minerals financing, Pentagon supply chain priorities, and why strategic materials are no longer a niche topic. Register for Fastmarkets Conference (Use code 'SPEAKER25' for 25% off): https://globalevents.fastmarkets.com/lithium-supply-and-battery-raw-materials-conference Listen to Fastmarkets' Fast Forward Podcast: https://www.fastmarkets.com/insights/fast-forward-podcast/ Follow Fastmarkets: LinkedIn (Raju Daswani): https://www.linkedin.com/in/rajudaswani/ LinkedIN (Andrea Hotter): https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrea-hotter-ah1/ X/Twitter: https://x.com/FastmarketsMM ___ Chapters (00:00) Conference Preview (03:10) Market Mood (05:52) Strategic Materials Shift (08:28) Speaker Highlights (10:47) Networking And Investors (13:43) Fast Forward Podcast (17:21) BYD’s Global Growth (20:41) Mining Finance Gap (27:34) Pentagon Supply Chains (35:23) Europe’s Minerals Response (37:08) Rio’s Lithium Strategy (42:58) ESS Growth (45:42) Final Details Links Sign up for the Lithium-Ion Bull newsletter / Matt’s blogs: https://rkequity.com/ Questions: [email protected] Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/rockstockchannel Podcast   Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lithium-ion-rocks/id1457969172 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0KiMIZOPaDg8ENfPJMSINq Follow us on X (Twitter): Howard: https://x.com/LithiumIonBull Matt: https://x.com/matt_fernley Rodney: https://x.com/RodneyHooper13 _________________________________________________ DISCLAIMER NOT INVESTMENT ADVICE. DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH. Howard, Matt, and Rodney are not financial advisors or broker-dealers. This video is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered investment or financial advice. Please conduct your own independent research and read the disclaimer at the end of the video or on RK Equity’s website: https://www.rkequity.com Intro and outro audio credit: Jamie Klein

In this Rock Stock Recap, Chris Williams of Adamas Intelligence joins us (Howard, Matt and Rodney) to discuss lithium markets, DLE technology, incentive pricing, project valuations, and the outlook for lithium supply and demand. We examine whether recent project restarts really threaten the market balance, why energy storage systems (ESS) are outperforming expectations, how capital intensity impacts project economics, and what lithium prices are needed to incentivize new supply. We also discuss Vulcan Energy, Q2 Metals, Quebec hard-rock lithium, Thacker Pass, and the future of Western lithium refining. Register for Adamas Intelligence REE Conference: https://www.adamasevent.com/ Register for Benchmark Giga US 2026: https://www.benchmarkminerals.com/events/giga-usa Follow Christopher Williams: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cdw4870/ X/Twitter: https://x.com/zempheth ___ Chapters (00:00:00) Opening Updates (00:03:49) Meet Chris Williams (00:07:27) DLE Site Lessons (00:13:41) Vulcan And Exxon (00:19:53) Q2 Valuation (00:23:01) Quebec Site Visits (00:26:04) Valuation Metrics (00:31:35) Incentive Prices (00:39:37) Supply Incentives (00:46:05) Lithium Price Action (00:48:43) Supply Restarts (00:54:47) DSO Market Signals (00:59:26) Lithium Outlook (01:02:58) Closing Thoughts (01:04:21) Q2 Metals Highlights Links Sign up for the Lithium-Ion Bull newsletter / Matt’s blogs: https://rkequity.com/ Questions: [email protected] Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/rockstockchannel Podcast   Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lithium-ion-rocks/id1457969172 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0KiMIZOPaDg8ENfPJMSINq Follow us on X (Twitter): Howard: https://x.com/LithiumIonBull Matt: https://x.com/matt_fernley Rodney: https://x.com/RodneyHooper13 _________________________________________________ DISCLAIMER NOT INVESTMENT ADVICE. DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH. Howard, Matt, and Rodney are not financial advisors or broker-dealers. This video is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered investment or financial advice. Please conduct your own independent research and read the disclaimer at the end of the video or on RK Equity’s website: https://www.rkequity.com Intro and outro audio credit: Jamie Klein

Hosted by the Cory Fleck of the Korelin Economics Report, Howard Klein and Matt Fernley discuss the recent structural changes in the critical minerals sector, highlighting how the ongoing conflict in the Middle East has restricted the global sulfur supply and directly disrupted downstream nickel and cobalt processing. They also analyze the emerging trends in heavy rare earth element demand, evaluated new visual clay processing techniques, and debated the long-term feasibility of domestic lithium production and government-backed price floors. Follow us on X (Twitter): Howard: https://x.com/LithiumIonBull Matt: https://x.com/matt_fernley ___ Chapters (00:00) US-China Minerals Talks (04:20) Sulfur Supply Shock (06:20) Rare Earth Demand (08:00) Processing Challenges (11:40) New Rare Earth Tech (15:40) US Lithium Potential (18:20) Direct Lithium Extraction (22:40) Canada’s Minerals Push (24:40) Critical Minerals Price Floors (28:00) Government Support Tools (31:20) Investor Takeaways Links Sign up for the Lithium-Ion Bull newsletter / Matt’s blogs: https://rkequity.com/ Questions: [email protected] Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/rockstockchannel Podcast   Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lithium-ion-rocks/id1457969172 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0KiMIZOPaDg8ENfPJMSINq _________________________________________________ DISCLAIMER NOT INVESTMENT ADVICE. DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH. Howard, Matt, and Rodney are not financial advisors or broker-dealers. This video is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered investment or financial advice. Please conduct your own independent research and read the disclaimer at the end of the video or on RK Equity’s website: https://www.rkequity.com

Neil McCallum, VP Exploration at Q2 Metals (TSXV: QTWO), joins Rock Stock Channel (Howard and Matt) to discuss the latest plans for the Cisco Lithium Project in Quebec’s James Bay region. Topics include Q2’s recent C$70 million financing, 2026 exploration plans, infill drilling to support future studies, regional upside, infrastructure advantages, transportation costs, PEA workstreams, and potential synergies with Rio Tinto’s Galaxy project. Cisco hosts one of the largest hard rock lithium resources in the Western Hemisphere, and Q2 Metals is now funded for its largest exploration and development program to date. Follow Q2 Metals: LinkedIn (Neil McCallum): https://www.linkedin.com/in/neil-mccallum-56b16621/ X/Twitter (Q2 Metals): https://x.com/Q2Metals ___ Chapters (00:00) Overview (02:50) Cisco Vs. Corvette (05:15) 2026 Exploration Plans (07:28) Infill Drilling Strategy (09:06) Regional Exploration Potential (10:40) Camp And Road Access (11:21) PEA Workstreams (12:16) Metallurgical Testing (13:18) Transportation Advantages (14:55) Cisco Discovery Upside (16:44) Regional Infrastructure Synergies (19:00) Rio Tinto Speculation (21:38) Government Support (22:35) Closing Remarks Links Sign up for the Lithium-Ion Bull newsletter / Matt’s blogs: https://rkequity.com/ Questions: [email protected] Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/rockstockchannel Podcast   Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lithium-ion-rocks/id1457969172 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0KiMIZOPaDg8ENfPJMSINq Follow us on X (Twitter): Howard: https://x.com/LithiumIonBull Matt: https://x.com/matt_fernley Rodney: https://x.com/RodneyHooper13 _________________________________________________ DISCLAIMER NOT INVESTMENT ADVICE. DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH. Howard, Matt, and Rodney are not financial advisors or broker-dealers. This video is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered investment or financial advice. Please conduct your own independent research and read the disclaimer at the end of the video or on RK Equity’s website: https://www.rkequity.com Intro and outro audio credit: Jamie Klein

Benchmark Mineral Intelligence’s Bryan Bille and Cameron Perks join Rock Stock Channel (Howard and Matt) to discuss the outlook for lithium, critical minerals, battery supply chains, and Benchmark’s Giga USA conference in Washington, D.C. Bryan highlights the growing national security focus on critical minerals, the role of policy and geopolitics, and key Giga USA themes including lithium, DLE, copper, graphite, rare earths, energy storage, defense technologies, and supply chain de-risking. Cameron breaks down Benchmark’s lithium market outlook, including why prices could ease in 2027, the role of new supply from Africa, China and Australia, downstream inventory risks, EV and ESS demand, and the long-term incentive price needed to support future lithium production. Register for Benchmark Giga US 2026: https://www.benchmarkminerals.com/events/giga-usa  Follow Benchmark Mineral Intelligence: LinkedIn (Bryan Bille): https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryanbille/  LinkedIn (Cameron Perks): https://www.linkedin.com/in/cameronperks/  X/Twitter (Benchmark Mineral Intelligence): https://x.com/benchmarkmin  ___ Chapters (00:00) Conference Context (03:35) Giga USA Overview (04:51) Agenda And Speakers (12:01) Sponsors And Networking (14:12) Cameron Perks: Price Outlook (17:40) Supply Black Holes (20:45) African DSO Supply (23:24) Ewoyaa Acquisition (25:23) Manono Ramp-Up (27:42) Zimbabwe Export Rules (30:55) China Lepidolite (34:42) China Spodumene (36:17) Restarting Supply (39:06) EV Demand Outlook (44:05) Inventory Risks (47:37) Price Downside (50:56) Incentive Pricing (52:49) Final Takeaways Links Sign up for the Lithium-Ion Bull newsletter / Matt’s blogs: https://rkequity.com/ Questions: [email protected] Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/rockstockchannel Podcast   Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lithium-ion-rocks/id1457969172 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0KiMIZOPaDg8ENfPJMSINq Follow us on X (Twitter): Howard: https://x.com/LithiumIonBull Matt: https://x.com/matt_fernley Rodney: https://x.com/RodneyHooper13 _________________________________________________ DISCLAIMER NOT INVESTMENT ADVICE. DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH. Howard, Matt, and Rodney are not financial advisors or broker-dealers. This video is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered investment or financial advice. Please conduct your own independent research and read the disclaimer at the end of the video or on RK Equity’s website: https://www.rkequity.com Intro and outro audio credit: Jamie Klein

Li-FT Power's CEO Francis MacDonald joins Rock Stock Channel (Howard Klein & Matt Fernley) to discuss the newly merged Li-FT/Winsome Resources company, the Adina-Galinée lithium project in Quebec, Renard processing optionality, Yellowknife’s lithium carbonate strategy, Alberta infrastructure advantages, and upcoming catalysts for investors. The discussion covers project scale, resource upside, ASX and TSXV valuation gaps, potential Canadian critical minerals support, and why the combined company could become a major North American spodumene and lithium carbonate story. Follow Li-FT Power: LinkedIn (Francis MacDonald): https://www.linkedin.com/in/francis-macdonald-0898b816/ X/Twitter (Li-FT Power): https://x.com/LI_FTPower ___ Chapters (00:00) Merger And Market Setup (08:02) Adina-Galinée Consolidation (09:11) Resource And Pit Upside (10:52) Market Underappreciation (12:06) Renard Processing Options (15:02) Scale And Plant Choices (18:26) Infrastructure And Sulfate (19:44) Yellowknife Overview (21:16) Alberta Carbonate Strategy (22:46) China Technology Partnerships (25:36) Project Priorities (27:00) ASX Listing Opportunity (28:28) Catalysts And Timeline (29:34) Australia Roadshow (30:15) Closing Takeaways Links Sign up for the Lithium-Ion Bull newsletter / Matt’s blogs: https://rkequity.com/ Questions: [email protected] Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/rockstockchannel Podcast   Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lithium-ion-rocks/id1457969172 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0KiMIZOPaDg8ENfPJMSINq Follow us on X (Twitter): Howard: https://x.com/LithiumIonBull Matt: https://x.com/matt_fernley Rodney: https://x.com/RodneyHooper13 _________________________________________________ DISCLAIMER NOT INVESTMENT ADVICE. DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH. Howard, Matt, and Rodney are not financial advisors or broker-dealers. This video is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered investment or financial advice. Please conduct your own independent research and read the disclaimer at the end of the video or on RK Equity’s website: https://www.rkequity.com Intro and outro audio credit: Jamie Klein

Galan Lithium CEO JP Vargas and CFO Ross Dinsdale join Rock Stock Channel for a deep dive into the latest Hombre Muerto West milestone, including completed commissioning, lithium chloride concentrate production, nanofiltration, Authium's role, funding to first production, RIGI benefits, and the company’s path toward becoming a low-cost lithium producer in Argentina. We discuss Galan’s high-grade brine resource, near-term cash flow potential, expansion plans, offtake strategy, and why Argentine lithium brines may be undervalued as the lithium market recovers. Follow Galan Lithium: LinkedIn (JP Vargas): https://www.linkedin.com/in/juan-pablo-vargas-de-la-vega-2770b723/ LinkedIn (Ross Dinsdale): https://www.linkedin.com/in/ross-dinsdale-cfa-19b1885b/ X/Twitter (Galan Lithium): https://x.com/GalanLithium ___ Chapters (00:00:00) Galan Overview (00:06:49) Commissioning Milestone (00:13:23) Lithium Chloride Product (00:15:23) Authium Offtake (00:20:41) Revenue Potential (00:28:55) Chloride Strategy (00:34:02) Funding Pathway (00:39:06) RIGI Benefits (00:43:26) Offtake Counterparties (00:50:02) Government Financing Potential (00:56:49) Scaling Ambitions (01:01:42) Valuation Context Links Sign up for the Lithium-Ion Bull newsletter / Matt’s blogs: https://rkequity.com/ Questions: [email protected] Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/rockstockchannel Podcast   Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lithium-ion-rocks/id1457969172 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0KiMIZOPaDg8ENfPJMSINq Follow us on X (Twitter): Howard: https://x.com/LithiumIonBull Matt: https://x.com/matt_fernley Rodney: https://x.com/RodneyHooper13 _________________________________________________ DISCLAIMER NOT INVESTMENT ADVICE. DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH. Howard, Matt, and Rodney are not financial advisors or broker-dealers. This video is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered investment or financial advice. Please conduct your own independent research and read the disclaimer at the end of the video or on RK Equity’s website: https://www.rkequity.com Intro and outro audio credit: Jamie Klein

Tomasz Nadrowski and Stuart Macliver of Amvest Capital (Terraden Fund) join Howard Klein to talk about critical minerals, rare earths, tungsten, scandium, and the growing importance of ex-China supply chains. The discussion explores why investors are looking beyond lithium, how geopolitics is reshaping mining and industrial policy, and why US capital markets may become increasingly important for critical minerals companies. Buy "Mineral War" (Tomasz Nadrowski's Book): https://www.amazon.com/Mineral-War-Chinas-Weapons-Destruction/dp/B0GHDYRLZK Tyranny Today (Tomasz Nadrowski's Podcast): https://open.spotify.com/show/71qdYWyb23vWYzsuwnnysr Follow: LinkedIn (Tomasz Nadrowski): https://www.linkedin.com/in/nadrowski/ LinkedIn (Stuart Macliver): https://www.linkedin.com/in/stuart-macliver/ X/Twitter (Amvest Capital): https://x.com/AmvestCap ___ More Podcasts w/ Tomasz Nadrowski: Henry Sanderson: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/chinas-rare-earth-weapon-inside-the-mineral-war/id1800778159?i=1000756055156 The Power Current (Chris Berry): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-new-cold-war-will-be-fought-with-minerals/id1666070442?i=1000769858119 Mining Stock Education: https://youtu.be/v5OAivQoEqg?si=iDjqoPB54ygCh0n9 Mining Stock Daily: https://youtu.be/c5ub_X5-CeU?si=dqiF98N6J2jN2EWV Amvest Capital Webinar: https://youtu.be/SCQ1LOKKlrg?si=nqOHjA6kPtNYbg4p ___ Chapters (00:00) The Commodity Complexity Problem (06:39) Amvest Background (11:35) Fund Strategy (14:27) Ex-China Approach (16:09) Value Chain Focus (22:10) Fund Structure (24:11) Portfolio Construction (27:25) US Market Access (35:55) Mining Resurgence (43:55) Tungsten And Scandium (48:32) Lynas And Brazil (51:30) Heavy Rare Earths (54:11) Closing Thoughts Links Sign up for the Lithium-Ion Bull newsletter / Matt’s blogs: https://rkequity.com/ Questions: [email protected] Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/rockstockchannel Podcast   Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lithium-ion-rocks/id1457969172 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0KiMIZOPaDg8ENfPJMSINq Follow us on X (Twitter): Howard: https://x.com/LithiumIonBull Matt: https://x.com/matt_fernley Rodney: https://x.com/RodneyHooper13 _________________________________________________ DISCLAIMER NOT INVESTMENT ADVICE. DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH. Howard, Matt, and Rodney are not financial advisors or broker-dealers. This video is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered investment or financial advice. Please conduct your own independent research and read the disclaimer at the end of the video or on RK Equity’s website: https://www.rkequity.com Intro and outro audio credit: Jamie Klein

Henry Sanderson, author of Volt Rush and writer of Volt Insight, speaks about the future of US-China industrial rivalry, critical minerals, EVs, batteries, AI power demand, and China’s manufacturing advantage. The discussion covers the Trump-Xi summit, rare earth leverage, why the West may be using the wrong critical minerals chart, China’s premium EV push, the limits of LFP batteries, the comeback potential of NMC and solid-state batteries, and whether Chinese companies like CATL could help unlock US EV demand. Chapters (00:00) Intro (04:23) AI Power Race (08:25) China's Built Demand (12:13) Beijing Auto Show (14:26) China’s Economic Model (18:37) Global Power Strategy (23:45) LFP Battery Limits (28:39) NMC And Solid-State (30:36) Chinese FDI Prospects (37:44) US EV Demand (41:17) Closing Thoughts Links Sign up for the Lithium-Ion Bull newsletter / Matt’s blogs: https://rkequity.com/ Questions: [email protected] Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/rockstockchannel Podcast   Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lithium-ion-rocks/id1457969172 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0KiMIZOPaDg8ENfPJMSINq Follow us on X (Twitter): Howard: https://x.com/LithiumIonBull Matt: https://x.com/matt_fernley Rodney: https://x.com/RodneyHooper13 _________________________________________________ DISCLAIMER NOT INVESTMENT ADVICE. DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH. Howard, Matt, and Rodney are not financial advisors or broker-dealers. This video is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered investment or financial advice. Please conduct your own independent research and read the disclaimer at the end of the video or on RK Equity’s website: https://www.rkequity.com Intro and outro audio credit: Jamie Klein

In this Rock Stock Recap, Howard Klein, Matt Fernley, Rodney Hooper, and Keith Phillips discuss the latest shifts in lithium, critical minerals, Quebec spodumene, DLE, government funding, China processing, and the growing link between AI infrastructure, power, batteries, and strategic minerals. Topics include Canada’s support for Nouveau Monde Graphite, Quebec lithium project momentum, U.S. critical minerals policy, Ganfeng and Chinese processing expertise, Australian spodumene restarts, raw material shortages, ESS demand, and the Alivra–Atlantic Lithium deal. Join our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/rockstockchannel/membership Chapters (00:00:00) Macro Market Setup (00:10:37) Keith's SME Conference Takeaways (00:13:58) Quebec Permitting And Logistics (00:19:26) Canada Project Support (00:23:33) Quebec Lithium Supply Choices (00:32:09) Financing Lithium Projects (00:34:29) China Processing Partnerships (00:42:02) Australian Supply Restarts (00:44:29) Spod Regional Pricing And Inventories (00:50:02) Atlantic Deal Context (00:57:31) Elevra Refocus Rationale (01:03:36) Closing Remarks (01:03:58) Highlights: TMC (01:05:00) Highlights: SGML (01:07:01) Highlights: PHOS (01:08:11) Highlights: NILI Links Sign up for the Lithium-Ion Bull newsletter / Matt’s blogs: https://rkequity.com/ Questions: [email protected] Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/rockstockchannel Podcast   Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lithium-ion-rocks/id1457969172 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0KiMIZOPaDg8ENfPJMSINq Follow us on X (Twitter): Howard: https://x.com/LithiumIonBull Matt: https://x.com/matt_fernley Rodney: https://x.com/RodneyHooper13 _________________________________________________ DISCLAIMER NOT INVESTMENT ADVICE. DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH. Howard, Matt, and Rodney are not financial advisors or broker-dealers. This video is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered investment or financial advice. Please conduct your own independent research and read the disclaimer at the end of the video or on RK Equity’s website: https://www.rkequity.com Intro and outro audio credit: Jamie Klein

In this Rock Stock Channel double feature, Howard Klein and Matt Fernley speak with First Phosphate CEO John Passalacqua and Surge Battery Metals CEO Greg Reimer about the emerging “golden age” for lithium iron phosphate materials, North American LFP supply chains, and the growing role of gold miners in critical minerals. First Phosphate discusses high-purity igneous phosphate for LFP batteries, Canada’s critical minerals strategy, and recent market momentum. Surge Battery Metals covers its Nevada North lithium project, major resource upgrade, planned Nasdaq listing, Evolution Mining partnership, and the path toward a PFS. Register for the Lithium-ion Bull Newsletter: https://rkequity.us17.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=9a8c41f471f338217d776887e&id=74eda00629 Chapters (00:00) LFP Materials Boom (04:06) Fox River Ore Body Differences (07:29) Project History (09:16) Critical Minerals Status (10:55) LFP-First Strategy (13:16) Western Supply Gap (14:22) Warrant Exercise Update (16:09) Market Narrative Wrap-Up (17:54) Surge Battery Metals (20:03) Nasdaq Listing (21:08) Resource Upgrade (23:24) Scale And Optionality (24:29) Thacker Pass Comparison (25:50) Upcoming Catalysts (27:20) Evolution Partnership (29:49) Processing Pathway (32:34) Valuation Gap (37:24) Twelve-Month Outlook Links Sign up for the Lithium-Ion Bull newsletter / Matt’s blogs: https://rkequity.com/ Questions: [email protected] Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/rockstockchannel Podcast   Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lithium-ion-rocks/id1457969172 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0KiMIZOPaDg8ENfPJMSINq Follow us on X (Twitter): Howard: https://x.com/LithiumIonBull Matt: https://x.com/matt_fernley Rodney: https://x.com/RodneyHooper13 _________________________________________________ DISCLAIMER NOT INVESTMENT ADVICE. DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH. Howard, Matt, and Rodney are not financial advisors or broker-dealers. This video is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered investment or financial advice. Please conduct your own independent research and read the disclaimer at the end of the video or on RK Equity’s website: https://www.rkequity.com Intro and outro audio credit: Jamie Klein

Craig Shesky, CFO of The Metals Company, joins Howard Klein to discuss TMC’s NOAA permitting path, Allseas production agreement, capital-light strategy, offshore nodule collection, U.S. critical minerals supply chains, and the growing links between nickel, cobalt, manganese, copper, AI infrastructure, defense, batteries, and national security. The conversation also covers TMC’s valuation disconnect, commercial readiness, processing optionality in the U.S., and why polymetallic nodules could become a major strategic resource for American industrial growth. TMC Webcast: https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/kau3m5b7/ Chapters (00:00) Strategic TMC Overview (07:46) NOAA Permit Path (10:59) Allseas Production Agreement (14:55) Royalty Financing Flexibility (17:47) Commercial De-Risking (21:08) National Security Narrative (24:00) Commodity Price Upside (27:16) Processing Strategy (29:38) Stockpiling And Refining (31:44) Valuation Disconnect (37:30) Next Year’s Milestones Links Sign up for the Lithium-Ion Bull newsletter / Matt’s blogs: https://rkequity.com/ Questions: [email protected] Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/rockstockchannel Podcast   Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lithium-ion-rocks/id1457969172 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0KiMIZOPaDg8ENfPJMSINq Follow us on X (Twitter): Howard: https://x.com/LithiumIonBull Matt: https://x.com/matt_fernley Rodney: https://x.com/RodneyHooper13 _________________________________________________ DISCLAIMER NOT INVESTMENT ADVICE. DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH. Howard, Matt, and Rodney are not financial advisors or broker-dealers. This video is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered investment or financial advice. Please conduct your own independent research and read the disclaimer at the end of the video or on RK Equity’s website: https://www.rkequity.com Intro and outro audio credit: Jamie Klein

Sigma Lithium CEO Ana Cabral joins Howard Klein and Matt Fernley following the company’s Q1 2026 earnings release to discuss Sigma’s record profitability, balance sheet deleveraging, production growth plans, and path to doubling output in 2027. Ana explains how Sigma is using strong cash generation to improve financial flexibility, prepare for longer-term growth financing, and scale production through its Phase 2 expansion. The discussion also covers owner-operated mining, low-cost execution, lithium market dynamics, sustainability monetization through dry stack tailings and lithium fines, and why Sigma believes it remains undervalued versus peers. Sigma Lithium Q1 2026 Earnings: 1. Press release: https://s3.amazonaws.com/b2icontent.irpass.cc/2870/rl166032.pdf 2. Presentation: https://ir.sigmalithiumcorp.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Sigma-2605-1Q26-Earnings-Presentation.pdf 3. Call: https://web.quartr.com/link/companies/15178/events/626673 Chapters (00:00) Earnings Overview (02:12) Balance Sheet Strategy (04:44) Expansion Plans (06:34) Mining Operations (09:33) Market Valuation Gap (11:51) Sustainability Monetization (13:42) Cost Advantage (15:13) Investor Re-Rating (16:21) Closing Remarks Links Sign up for the Lithium-Ion Bull newsletter / Matt’s blogs: https://rkequity.com/ Questions: [email protected] Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/rockstockchannel Podcast   Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lithium-ion-rocks/id1457969172 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0KiMIZOPaDg8ENfPJMSINq Follow us on X (Twitter): Howard: https://x.com/LithiumIonBull Matt: https://x.com/matt_fernley Rodney: https://x.com/RodneyHooper13 _________________________________________________ DISCLAIMER NOT INVESTMENT ADVICE. DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH. Howard, Matt, and Rodney are not financial advisors or broker-dealers. This video is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered investment or financial advice. Please conduct your own independent research and read the disclaimer at the end of the video or on RK Equity’s website: https://www.rkequity.com Intro and outro audio credit: Jamie Klein

In this Rock Stock Recap, Howard Klein, Matt Fernley, and Rodney Hooper discuss the latest moves across lithium, rare earths, copper, silver, gold, and critical minerals. Topics include the Elevra capital raise, Atlantic Lithium deal activity, Lithium Argentina’s strong ramp-up, Quebec’s potential as a major lithium province, Greenbushes production concerns, EV demand, China inventories, heavy rare earths, copper supply risks, and macro themes driving commodity markets. Stay tuned for insights from Bruce Richardson of Anson Resources on their definitive agreement with POSCO and what it could mean for Utah brines and the U.S. lithium supply chain. Explore our Patreon Offerings: https://www.patreon.com/cw/rockstockchannel/membership Chapters (00:00) Intro (04:14) Lithium Market Momentum (04:49) Elevra Capital Raise (07:18) Greenbushes Production Concerns (11:07) EV Demand Outlook (13:12) DSO And Inventory (15:42) Energy Market Risks (19:04) Producer Expansion Signals (20:50) Atlantic Lithium Deal (23:50) Quebec Lithium Opportunity (27:39) Lithium Argentina Results (29:08) ASX Listing Rationale (32:21) Copper Market Debate (35:39) Heavy Rare Earths (40:10) Silver And Gold (42:24) Inflation And Fertilizer (44:56) Easy Money Narrative (46:24) Anson Resources Update (46:40) Resource Upgrade (49:21) POSCO Partnership (52:43) Project Advantages (54:37) Upcoming Catalysts (55:57) Closing Remarks Links Sign up for the Lithium-Ion Bull newsletter / Matt’s blogs: https://rkequity.com/ Questions: [email protected] Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/rockstockchannel Podcast   Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lithium-ion-rocks/id1457969172 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0KiMIZOPaDg8ENfPJMSINq Follow us on X (Twitter): Howard: https://x.com/LithiumIonBull Matt: https://x.com/matt_fernley Rodney: https://x.com/RodneyHooper13 _________________________________________________ DISCLAIMER NOT INVESTMENT ADVICE. DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH. Howard, Matt, and Rodney are not financial advisors or broker-dealers. This video is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered investment or financial advice. Please conduct your own independent research and read the disclaimer at the end of the video or on RK Equity’s website: https://www.rkequity.com Intro and outro audio credit: Jamie Klein

Gabriel Rubacha (CEO of NOA Lithium Brines) breaks down the Rio Grande lithium project in Argentina. Covering hybrid DLE vs conventional evaporation, lithium chloride vs carbonate, project optionality, RIGI incentives, valuation upside for Argentine lithium brines, and what’s next for NOA's pre-feasibility study, Arizaro, and Salinas Grandes. Battery Materials Review Issue (Complimentary): https://www.patreon.com/posts/battery-review-155835907 Investor Webinar Recording (Complimentary): https://www.patreon.com/posts/quarterly-156904420 Explore our Patreon Offerings: https://www.patreon.com/cw/rockstockchannel/membership Chapters (00:00) NOA Overview (03:31) Hybrid DLE Option (09:05) Lower Altitude Plant (12:14) Chloride Vs Carbonate (16:30) Resource Growth Potential (18:23) Management Experience (19:34) Argentina RIGI Benefits (24:10) Brine Valuation Gap (26:45) Arizaro And Salinas (31:20) 2026 Project Milestones (32:55) Closing Thoughts Links Sign up for the Lithium-Ion Bull newsletter / Matt’s blogs: https://rkequity.com/ Questions: [email protected] Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/rockstockchannel Podcast   Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lithium-ion-rocks/id1457969172 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0KiMIZOPaDg8ENfPJMSINq Follow us on X (Twitter): Howard: https://x.com/LithiumIonBull Matt: https://x.com/matt_fernley Rodney: https://x.com/RodneyHooper13 _________________________________________________ DISCLAIMER NOT INVESTMENT ADVICE. DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH. Howard, Matt, and Rodney are not financial advisors or broker-dealers. This video is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered investment or financial advice. Please conduct your own independent research and read the disclaimer at the end of the video or on RK Equity’s website: https://www.rkequity.com Intro and outro audio credit: Jamie Klein

In this Rock Stock Recap with Mac Whale, Howard Klein and Matt Fernley they discuss Lithium stocks, Atlantic Lithium, Quebec developers, Sigma Lithium, Lithium Africa, Lithium Ionic, and Thacker Pass. The discussion covers the Atlantic Lithium takeover bid, the Quebec valuation gap, Q2 vs PMET, Brazil and Africa lithium opportunities, and how BESS, EV demand, and lithium processing could shape the next phase of the market. Explore our Patreon Offerings: https://www.patreon.com/cw/rockstockchannel/membership Chapters (00:00:00) Lithium Market Setup (00:06:36) Atlantic Lithium Bid (00:14:29) Counterbid Scenarios (00:24:34) Quebec Valuation Gap (00:39:58) Brazil Producer Outlook (00:45:59) Lithium Africa Potential (00:51:40) Lithium Argentina Growth (00:58:47) Sedimentary Lithium Outlook (01:05:32) DLE Progress Debate (01:10:17) Li-FT/Winsome Merger Links Sign up for the Lithium-Ion Bull newsletter / Matt’s blogs: https://rkequity.com/ Questions: [email protected] Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/rockstockchannel Podcast   Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lithium-ion-rocks/id1457969172 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0KiMIZOPaDg8ENfPJMSINq Follow us on X (Twitter): Howard: https://x.com/LithiumIonBull Matt: https://x.com/matt_fernley Rodney: https://x.com/RodneyHooper13 _________________________________________________ DISCLAIMER NOT INVESTMENT ADVICE. DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH. Howard, Matt, and Rodney are not financial advisors or broker-dealers. This video is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered investment or financial advice. Please conduct your own independent research and read the disclaimer at the end of the video or on RK Equity’s website: https://www.rkequity.com Intro and outro audio credit: Jamie Klein

Rare Earths Americas CEO Don Swartz joins Rock Stock Channel to discuss the company’s oversubscribed IPO, its US and Brazil rare earth projects, and the strategy behind building a Western supply chain for heavy rare earths. The conversation covers the Shiloh project in Georgia, ionic clay assets in Brazil, monazite sands, project economics, and why Rare Earths Americas chose a US listing. Follow Rare Earths Americas (NYSE: REA) LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/rare-earths-americas/ Chapters (00:00) IPO And Company Overview (05:31) Asset Portfolio Overview (08:38) Shiloh Project Potential (10:23) Sands Economics Explained (14:39) Constellation Project Overview (15:50) Alpha Project Plans (17:11) Homer Project Potential (18:48) Team And Board (21:34) Brazil Valuation Context (24:13) Why Go Public Now (26:05) Why List In The US Links Sign up for the Lithium-Ion Bull newsletter / Matt’s blogs: https://rkequity.com/ Questions: [email protected] Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/rockstockchannel Podcast   Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lithium-ion-rocks/id1457969172 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0KiMIZOPaDg8ENfPJMSINq Follow us on X (Twitter): Howard: https://x.com/LithiumIonBull Matt: https://x.com/matt_fernley Rodney: https://x.com/RodneyHooper13 _________________________________________________ DISCLAIMER NOT INVESTMENT ADVICE. DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH. Howard, Matt, and Rodney are not financial advisors or broker-dealers. This video is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered investment or financial advice. Please conduct your own independent research and read the disclaimer at the end of the video or on RK Equity’s website: https://www.rkequity.com Intro and outro audio credit: Jamie Klein

This week’s Rock Stock Recap breaks down the latest moves in lithium, rare earths, antimony, scandium, and other critical minerals, with a close look at lithium price forecasts, brine valuations, rare earths momentum, and emerging opportunities across the sector. Howard Klein, Matt Fernley, and Rodney Hooper discuss key market trends, mining stocks to watch, and why developers and smaller stories may still offer upside. Explore our Patreon Offerings: https://www.patreon.com/cw/rockstockchannel/membership The episode also includes a brief update with John Passalacqua of First Phosphate, one of the few pure-play phosphate stories tied to the growing LFP battery theme, plus Matt Fernley’s conversation with Amy Rotman of Mining.com.au, where they discuss CATL, sodium-ion batteries, and the latest battery market developments. Chapters (00:00:00) Intro (00:03:25) Lithium Scoreboard Highlights (00:04:38) Producer Spod Pricing Differences (00:07:18) Operational Leverage Winners (00:11:02) Q2 Metals Financing Update (00:12:23) Brine Valuation Gap (00:20:54) Minor Metals Momentum (00:23:01) Antimony Market Shift (00:29:59) Overlooked Niche Metals (00:33:47) Rare Earths Rally (00:38:02) Lithium Bull Market Outlook (00:45:46) First Phosphate Update (00:49:26) Drill Results Overview (00:51:52) Why Igneous Matters (00:54:28) Purity And Impurities (00:55:52) Strategic Quebec Advantage (00:57:35) % Phosphate In LFP (00:59:14) Closing Remarks (00:59:59) CATL Battery Overview (01:01:34) LFP Vs. High Nickel (01:03:37) Sodium-Ion Limits (01:05:20) Battery Swapping Potential (01:07:36) Lithium Price Outlook (01:10:13) U.S. Rare Earth Push (01:12:35) Critical Minerals Outlook Links Sign up for the Lithium-Ion Bull newsletter / Matt’s blogs: https://rkequity.com/ Questions: [email protected] Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/rockstockchannel Podcast   Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lithium-ion-rocks/id1457969172 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0KiMIZOPaDg8ENfPJMSINq Follow us on X (Twitter): Howard: https://x.com/LithiumIonBull Matt: https://x.com/matt_fernley Rodney: https://x.com/RodneyHooper13 _________________________________________________ DISCLAIMER NOT INVESTMENT ADVICE. DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH. Howard, Matt, and Rodney are not financial advisors or broker-dealers. This video is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered investment or financial advice. Please conduct your own independent research and read the disclaimer at the end of the video or on RK Equity’s website: https://www.rkequity.com Intro and outro audio credit: Jamie Klein

RK Equity’s April 2026 Quarterly Webinar Update covers lithium, battery materials, rare earths, nickel, copper, aluminium, EV demand, BESS growth, macro risks, and critical minerals equities. Matt Fernley breaks down the latest trends across the battery value chain, supply shortages, valuation gaps, and key opportunities in the energy transition and AI-driven commodities supercycle. Explore our Patreon Offerings: https://www.patreon.com/cw/rockstockchannel/membership Chapters (00:00) Intro (03:13) Agenda (04:57) Renewables Growth Outlook (07:11) BESS Growth & Storage Economics (09:02) EV Demand: China vs Global (11:24) Lithium Prices Rebound (12:08) Spodumene Supply Tightness (13:49) Lithium Chemicals Lag Raw Materials (16:09) EV Battery Pack Size Trends (19:27) Lithium Value Chain Inventories (23:06) Aluminium Supply Squeeze (26:49) Bauxite Supply Gap (28:31) Copper: Bullish Long Term, Risky Near Term (30:45) Nickel Supply Constraints (32:25) High Purity Manganese Outlook (34:36) Graphite & Anodes Setup (36:14) Rare Earths Price Reset (38:34) Silver’s 2026 Surge (40:18) Antimony Supply Shortage (42:33) Macro Overview (45:35) Equities Overview (50:06) Key Takeaways & Market Positioning (52:38) Closing Remarks Links Sign up for the Lithium-Ion Bull newsletter / Matt’s blogs: https://rkequity.com/ Questions: [email protected] Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/rockstockchannel Podcast   Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lithium-ion-rocks/id1457969172 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0KiMIZOPaDg8ENfPJMSINq Follow us on X (Twitter): Howard: https://x.com/LithiumIonBull Matt: https://x.com/matt_fernley Rodney: https://x.com/RodneyHooper13 _________________________________________________ DISCLAIMER NOT INVESTMENT ADVICE. DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH. Howard, Matt, and Rodney are not financial advisors or broker-dealers. This video is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered investment or financial advice. Please conduct your own independent research and read the disclaimer at the end of the video or on RK Equity’s website: https://www.rkequity.com Intro and outro audio credit: Jamie Klein

Lithium Ionic CEO Blake Hylands and Mike Westendorf discuss the company’s latest binding offtake agreements with Yahua and Grand Chen, the rebound in spodumene prices, and the tightening lithium market. The conversation covers Lithium Ionic’s Bandeira project in Brazil’s Lithium Valley, project financing, permitting, China’s accelerating battery supply chain, lithium conversion capacity, and the potential path to production in H2 2027. The discussion also explores exploration upside, fines monetization, and why the market may be underpricing high-quality spodumene developers. Follow Lithium Ionic (TSXV:LTH) X - https://x.com/LithiumIonic LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/lithiumionic Chapters (00:00) Introduction (04:22) Offtake Deal Overview (07:46) Market Urgency Rising (09:14) Meet The Offtakers (10:58) China Demand Outlook (14:13) China’s Processing Edge (15:51) Fines Sales Potential (17:00) Exploration Upside (24:05) Financing And Permits (28:42) Path To Production (30:29) Project Economics Links Sign up for the Lithium-Ion Bull newsletter / Matt’s blogs: https://rkequity.com/ Questions: [email protected] Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/rockstockchannel Podcast   Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lithium-ion-rocks/id1457969172 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0KiMIZOPaDg8ENfPJMSINq Follow us on X (Twitter): Howard: https://x.com/LithiumIonBull Matt: https://x.com/matt_fernley Rodney: https://x.com/RodneyHooper13 _________________________________________________ DISCLAIMER NOT INVESTMENT ADVICE. DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH. Howard, Matt, and Rodney are not financial advisors or broker-dealers. This video is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered investment or financial advice. Please conduct your own independent research and read the disclaimer at the end of the video or on RK Equity’s website: https://www.rkequity.com Intro and outro audio credit: Jamie Klein

In this weekly Rock Stock Recap, Howard Klein, Matt Fernley, and Rodney Hooper discuss the latest lithium market outlook, tightening supply, EV demand, ESS growth, and the growing role of critical minerals in energy security, AI, defense, and industrial policy. Register for Webinar: https://live.zoho.com/mbto-khq-mfp The discussion covers Benchmark and Canaccord’s lithium forecasts, China’s push to lock in supply, the impact of underinvestment on future lithium availability, and why capital is returning to the lithium sector. The team also dives into rare earths, US Rare Earth’s Brazil acquisition, heavy rare earth supply, and why Brazil is becoming a key critical minerals jurisdiction. This episode also features company updates from Q2 Metals, with Alicia Milne and Neil McCallum discussing the company’s major Quebec Cisco lithium resource update, and Anson Resources, with Bruce Richardson sharing insights on the company’s lithium/uranium-vanadium development progress. Chapters (00:00:00) Weekly Market Recap (00:02:41) EV And Defense Demand (00:06:53) Key Company Updates (00:08:34) Conflicting Lithium Forecasts (00:13:15) Inventory And Demand Risks (00:16:52) China Locks Supply (00:21:12) Financing Improves (00:23:55) Q2 Resource Breakthrough (00:31:27) USA/Brazil Rare Earths (00:38:39) Rare Earth Valuations (00:39:54) Winsome/Li-FT Merger Update (00:43:23) Anson Resources Update (00:44:09) Green River Porosity (00:45:23) Resource Growth Drivers (00:47:38) Aquifer Consistency (00:48:46) Yellow Cat Drilling (00:50:44) Assay Timing (00:51:29) Upcoming Milestones (00:52:07) Utah Lithium Outlook (00:52:57) Q2 Metals Update (00:53:51) Exploration Target (00:55:52) Regional Exploration Upside (00:58:02) Deposit Thickness (00:59:32) Strip Ratio (01:00:38) PEA Timeline (01:01:35) Metallurgical Testing (01:02:07) Permitting Pathway (01:03:04) Valuation Comparisons Links Sign up for the Lithium-Ion Bull newsletter / Matt’s blogs: https://rkequity.com/ Questions: [email protected] Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/rockstockchannel Podcast   Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lithium-ion-rocks/id1457969172 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0KiMIZOPaDg8ENfPJMSINq Follow us on X (Twitter): Howard: https://x.com/LithiumIonBull Matt: https://x.com/matt_fernley Rodney: https://x.com/RodneyHooper13 _________________________________________________ DISCLAIMER NOT INVESTMENT ADVICE. DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH. Howard, Matt, and Rodney are not financial advisors or broker-dealers. This video is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered investment or financial advice. Please conduct your own independent research and read the disclaimer at the end of the video or on RK Equity’s website: https://www.rkequity.com Intro and outro audio credit: Jamie Klein

Chris Doornbos, CEO of E3 Lithium, discusses the Clearwater Project in Alberta, direct lithium extraction (DLE), government funding, project financing, offtake discussions, and the path to commercial lithium production in North America. Learn how E3 Lithium plans to produce battery-grade lithium carbonate, why Alberta could become a major lithium hub, and what catalysts investors should watch in 2026. Topics covered: lithium stocks, DLE technology, lithium carbonate, Canadian mining, EV battery supply chain, critical minerals, Alberta lithium, project finance, energy transition investing. Follow E3 Lithium: X - https://x.com/e3lithium LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/e3lithium/ Chapters (00:00) Company Overview (04:55) Clearwater Project Basics (07:12) Pre-Feasibility Summary (10:26) Demo Plant Progress (18:11) DLE Technology Strategy (30:13) Government Funding Support (38:54) Offtake And Financing (47:43) Investor Case And Catalysts Links Sign up for the Lithium-Ion Bull newsletter / Matt’s blogs: https://rkequity.com/ Questions: [email protected] Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/rockstockchannel Podcast   Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lithium-ion-rocks/id1457969172 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0KiMIZOPaDg8ENfPJMSINq Follow us on X (Twitter): Howard: https://x.com/LithiumIonBull Matt: https://x.com/matt_fernley Rodney: https://x.com/RodneyHooper13 _________________________________________________ DISCLAIMER NOT INVESTMENT ADVICE. DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH. Howard, Matt, and Rodney are not financial advisors or broker-dealers. This video is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered investment or financial advice. Please conduct your own independent research and read the disclaimer at the end of the video or on RK Equity’s website: https://www.rkequity.com Intro and outro audio credit: Jamie Klein

In this Rock Stock Recap episode, Howard Klein, Matt Fernley, and Rodney Hooper break down the biggest opportunities in lithium, gold, rare earths, and battery metals. They discuss why lithium equities may still be mispriced, how AI data center power demand could drive battery storage, why Brazil looks undervalued for mining, and whether gold could reach $6,000. Topics include DLE, CATL’s mining push, small-cap mining risk, commodity investing, EV demand, oil inflation, and critical minerals strategy. Explore our Patreon offerings: https://www.patreon.com/cw/rockstockchannel/membership Battery Materials Review (Apr 2026): https://www.patreon.com/posts/battery-review-155835907 Chapters (00:00:00) Bullish Market Setup (00:09:35) Portfolio Discipline (00:14:45) Exploration Risk (00:21:15) Lithium Value Gaps (00:25:24) Brazil Investment Case (00:28:41) AI Power Constraints (00:36:35) CATL’s Mining Push (00:40:44) DLE And Supply (00:45:53) Hard Rock Criteria (00:49:25) Commodity Opportunities (00:53:59) Gold And Inflation (00:57:39) AI Capital Risks (01:01:27) Closing Thoughts Links Sign up for the Lithium-Ion Bull newsletter / Matt’s blogs: https://rkequity.com/ Questions: [email protected] Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/rockstockchannel Podcast   Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lithium-ion-rocks/id1457969172 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0KiMIZOPaDg8ENfPJMSINq Follow us on X (Twitter): Howard: https://x.com/LithiumIonBull Matt: https://x.com/matt_fernley Rodney: https://x.com/RodneyHooper13 _________________________________________________ DISCLAIMER NOT INVESTMENT ADVICE. DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH. Howard, Matt, and Rodney are not financial advisors or broker-dealers. This video is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered investment or financial advice. Please conduct your own independent research and read the disclaimer at the end of the video or on RK Equity’s website: https://www.rkequity.com Intro and outro audio credit: Jamie Klein

Ignacio Mehech, CEO of CleanTech Lithium (AIM: CTL), joins Howard Klein and Rodney Hooper to discuss the company’s Laguna Verde project, recent pre-feasibility study (PFS), and Chile’s evolving lithium landscape. We cover key topics including Direct Lithium Extraction (DLE), project economics, long-term lithium prices, strategic partnerships, and CleanTech Lithium’s plans for ASX listing. Ignacio also shares insights from his experience at Albemarle and explains why Chile is becoming a major growth hub for lithium again. Topics covered: - CleanTech Lithium PFS highlights - DLE technology and cost advantages - Chile lithium policy and CEOL contracts - Strategic partner process - Timeline to production (2030–2031) - ASX listing and funding strategy Follow CleanTech Lithium: X - https://x.com/ctlithium LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/cleantechlithium/ Chapters (00:00) Company Overview ($CTL.L) (03:36) Ignacio’s Background (05:15) Chile Contract Timing (06:16) PFS Economics (08:45) Strategic Partner Search (10:13) Chile’s Lithium Shift (11:51) Development Timeline (13:42) DLE And Project Economics (18:31) Chile Policy Context (22:54) Funding And ASX Plans (27:53) Infrastructure Advantage Sponsors USCF Investments Commodity-focused ETFs, including CPER (copper), ZSB (battery metals), USG (gold), and SDCI (diversified commodities) Website: https://www.uscfinvestments.com/ X: https://x.com/USCFInvestments Links Sign up for the Lithium-Ion Bull newsletter / Matt’s blogs: https://rkequity.com/ Questions: [email protected] Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/rockstockchannel Podcast   Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lithium-ion-rocks/id1457969172 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0KiMIZOPaDg8ENfPJMSINq Follow us on X (Twitter): Howard: https://x.com/LithiumIonBull Matt: https://x.com/matt_fernley Rodney: https://x.com/RodneyHooper13 _________________________________________________ DISCLAIMER NOT INVESTMENT ADVICE. DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH. Howard, Matt, and Rodney are not financial advisors or broker-dealers. This video is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered investment or financial advice. Please conduct your own independent research and read the disclaimer at the end of the video or on RK Equity’s website: https://www.rkequity.com Intro and outro audio credit: Jamie Klein

Paul Lusty, Head of Battery Raw Materials Research at Fastmarkets, breaks down what he heard at the Shanghai Battery Raw Materials Conference and what it means for lithium, battery storage, and the broader battery materials market. The discussion covers tightening lithium supply, Zimbabwe export risks, rising spot prices, China demand signals, and why battery materials beyond lithium may also be turning higher. A timely conversation on market sentiment, supply chain risk, and what investors may still be missing. Register for Fastmarkets Conference: https://globalevents.fastmarkets.com/lithium-supply-and-battery-raw-materials-conference Follow Fastmarkets: X - https://x.com/FastmarketsMM LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/fastmarketsmm/ Chapters (00:00) Intro (04:50) Guest Introduction (08:50) Lithium Price Impact (11:31) Battery Utilization Trends (12:58) Energy Storage Growth (16:17) Zimbabwe Supply Risks (21:14) Global Supply Response (23:57) China Supply Concerns (26:53) Restarting Idle Capacity (29:53) Lithium Sulfate Potential (33:37) Graphite Market Outlook (35:52) Manganese Demand Drivers (39:24) Cobalt Supply Tightness (44:59) Nickel Cost Pressures (49:25) Broad Commodity Strength (51:30) Equity Market Disconnect (52:55) Converter Margin (55:18) China Global Strategy (58:41) Closing Thoughts Sponsors Lithium Royalty Corp (TSX: LIRC)   Diversified lithium royalty portfolio   Website: https://www.lithiumroyaltycorp.com/ X: https://x.com/Lithium_Royalty USCF Investments   Commodity-focused ETFs, including CPER (copper), ZSB (battery metals), USG (gold), and SDCI (diversified commodities)   Website: https://www.uscfinvestments.com/ X: https://x.com/USCFInvestments Links Sign up for the Lithium-Ion Bull newsletter / Matt’s blogs:   https://rkequity.com/ Questions:   [email protected] Patreon:   https://www.patreon.com/rockstockchannel Podcast   Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lithium-ion-rocks/id1457969172 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0KiMIZOPaDg8ENfPJMSINq Follow us on X (Twitter): Howard: https://x.com/LithiumIonBull Matt: https://x.com/matt_fernley Rodney: https://x.com/RodneyHooper13 _________________________________________________ DISCLAIMER NOT INVESTMENT ADVICE. DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH. Howard, Matt, and Rodney are not financial advisors or broker-dealers. This video is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered investment or financial advice. Please conduct your own independent research and read the disclaimer at the end of the video or on RK Equity’s website: https://www.rkequity.com Intro and outro audio credit: Jamie Klein

Ana Cabral, CEO of Sigma Lithium (Nasdaq: SGML), breaks down Sigma Lithium’s latest results, cash flow strength, owner-operated mining strategy, production growth, cost advantages, and lithium market outlook. This interview covers Sigma’s expansion plans, reprocessing upside, recovery rates, and why the company sees strong long-term potential in the lithium sector. Follow Sigma Lithium: X - https://x.com/SigmaLithium LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/sigma-lithium-resources/ Chapters (00:00) Introduction (04:19) Q4 Cash Flow Drivers (05:06) Mine Restart And Ramp (06:10) Owner Mining Strategy (07:48) Debt And Interest Savings (09:32) Expansion And Growth (11:40) Reprocessing Opportunity (16:00) Cost Curve Position (18:06) Recovery And Processing (20:45) Market Outlook And Valuation Sponsors Lithium Royalty Corp (TSX: LIRC) Diversified lithium royalty portfolio Website: https://www.lithiumroyaltycorp.com/ X: https://x.com/Lithium_Royalty USCF Investments   Commodity-focused ETFs, including CPER (copper), ZSB (battery metals), USG (gold), and SDCI (diversified commodities)   Website: https://www.uscfinvestments.com/ X: https://x.com/USCFInvestments Links Sign up for the Lithium-Ion Bull newsletter / Matt’s blogs:   https://rkequity.com/ Questions:   [email protected] Patreon:   https://www.patreon.com/rockstockchannel Podcast   Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lithium-ion-rocks/id1457969172 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0KiMIZOPaDg8ENfPJMSINq Follow us on X (Twitter): Howard: https://x.com/LithiumIonBull Matt: https://x.com/matt_fernley Rodney: https://x.com/RodneyHooper13 _________________________________________________ DISCLAIMER NOT INVESTMENT ADVICE. DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH. Howard, Matt, and Rodney are not financial advisors or broker-dealers. This video is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered investment or financial advice. Please conduct your own independent research and read the disclaimer at the end of the video or on RK Equity’s website: https://www.rkequity.com Intro and outro audio credit: Jamie Klein

John Passalacqua, CEO of First Phosphate, discusses the latest drilling results, project progress, and the growing importance of phosphate in the lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery supply chain. With LFP batteries rapidly becoming the dominant chemistry for energy storage and EVs, phosphate is emerging as a critical battery material. The conversation covers the company’s 40,000m drill program, government backing, feasibility plans, and why North America and Europe are racing to secure domestic supply. Key topics include LFP battery demand, critical minerals strategy, phosphate market trends, and the shift from exploration to development. Follow First Phosphate: X - https://x.com/FirstPhosphate LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/first-phosphate/ Chapters (00:00) Introduction (03:29) Resource Expansion Insights (05:47) Next Steps And Feasibility (07:32) New Zones Potential (09:12) Government Grant Context (10:53) Phosphate Strategic Importance (12:26) Grant Significance Explained (15:03) ADR Listing Benefits (15:51) Investor Perspective Shift (17:18) LFP Market Demand (18:43) Sulfur Supply Strategy (19:51) Closing Remarks Sponsors Lithium Royalty Corp (TSX: LIRC)   Diversified lithium royalty portfolio   Website: https://www.lithiumroyaltycorp.com/ X: https://x.com/Lithium_Royalty USCF Investments   Commodity-focused ETFs, including CPER (copper), ZSB (battery metals), USG (gold), and SDCI (diversified commodities)   Website: https://www.uscfinvestments.com/ X: https://x.com/USCFInvestments Links Sign up for the Lithium-Ion Bull newsletter / Matt’s blogs:   https://rkequity.com/ Questions:   [email protected] Patreon:   https://www.patreon.com/rockstockchannel Podcast   Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lithium-ion-rocks/id1457969172 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0KiMIZOPaDg8ENfPJMSINq Follow us on X (Twitter): Howard: https://x.com/LithiumIonBull Matt: https://x.com/matt_fernley Rodney: https://x.com/RodneyHooper13 _________________________________________________ DISCLAIMER NOT INVESTMENT ADVICE. DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH. Howard, Matt, and Rodney are not financial advisors or broker-dealers. This video is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered investment or financial advice. Please conduct your own independent research and read the disclaimer at the end of the video or on RK Equity’s website: https://www.rkequity.com Intro and outro audio credit: Jamie Klein

Dmitry Silversteyn, Senior Research Analyst of Water Tower Research joins in discussion with Howard Klein and Matt Fernley to break down the latest lithium market trends, rare earths outlook, critical minerals investing, and the geopolitical forces shaping commodity stocks. They cover spodumene prices, rare earth supply chains, China dependency, US and Western reshoring, energy security, and why critical minerals equities are lagging underlying commodity prices. Follow Water Tower Research: X - https://x.com/WTR_Research LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/water-tower-research/ This episode is essential viewing for anyone following lithium stocks, rare earth stocks, battery metals, energy transition investing, and global macro trends affecting mining and resource markets. Chapters (00:00) Intro (06:29) PHOS & TMC Update (11:03) Market Volatility Drivers (14:57) Rising Capital Costs (16:56) Producers Vs Developers (21:18) Lithium Buying Opportunity? (22:49) Commodity Price Psychology (24:33) Regional Investment Shifts (26:45) Rare Earth Demand Debate (37:12) US-China REE Geopolitics (40:31) US-Europe Relations Debate (44:13) Brexit And Economic Impact (46:34) Energy Transition Paradox (51:41) Closing Remarks Sponsors Lithium Royalty Corp (TSX: LIRC)   Diversified lithium royalty portfolio   Website: https://www.lithiumroyaltycorp.com/ X: https://x.com/Lithium_Royalty USCF Investments   Commodity-focused ETFs, including CPER (copper), ZSB (battery metals), USG (gold), and SDCI (diversified commodities)   Website: https://www.uscfinvestments.com/ X: https://x.com/USCFInvestments Links Sign up for the Lithium-Ion Bull newsletter / Matt’s blogs:   https://rkequity.com/ Questions:   [email protected] Patreon:   https://www.patreon.com/rockstockchannel Podcast   Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lithium-ion-rocks/id1457969172 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0KiMIZOPaDg8ENfPJMSINq Follow us on X (Twitter): Howard: https://x.com/LithiumIonBull Matt: https://x.com/matt_fernley Rodney: https://x.com/RodneyHooper13 _________________________________________________ DISCLAIMER NOT INVESTMENT ADVICE. DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH. Howard, Matt, and Rodney are not financial advisors or broker-dealers. This video is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered investment or financial advice. Please conduct your own independent research and read the disclaimer at the end of the video or on RK Equity’s website: https://www.rkequity.com Intro and outro audio credit: Jamie Klein

Howard Klein and Matt Fernley interview Bruce Richardson, Executive Chairman and CEO of Anson Resources, for an update on the company’s Green River Lithium Project in Utah. The conversation covers direct lithium extraction (DLE), PFS timing, funding options, and Anson’s position within the developing US critical minerals supply chain. Bruce also discusses recent DLE test work, the significance of low-impurity brine, potential cost advantages at Green River, Utah permitting progress, DOE funding opportunities, and relationships with POSCO and Aquatech. The interview also includes updates on the Paradox Lithium Project and Yellow Cat. Chapters (00:00) Introduction (03:55) Company Overview (05:28) Utah Advantages (07:41) Paradox Lithium Project Overview (10:07) Green River Progress (12:23) Importance Of Low Impurities (16:16) DLE Test Work Results (17:38) Scaling And Pilot Plans (18:19) Financial Position (18:47) Yellow Cat Project (21:26) Australian Projects (22:09) Funding Strategy (24:40) Upcoming Catalysts (26:15) Closing Remarks Sponsors Lithium Royalty Corp (TSX: LIRC)   Diversified lithium royalty portfolio   Website: https://www.lithiumroyaltycorp.com/ X: https://x.com/Lithium_Royalty USCF Investments   Commodity-focused ETFs, including CPER (copper), ZSB (battery metals), USG (gold), and SDCI (diversified commodities)   Website: https://www.uscfinvestments.com/ X: https://x.com/USCFInvestments Links Sign up for the Lithium-Ion Bull newsletter / Matt’s blogs:   https://rkequity.com/ Questions:   [email protected] Patreon:   https://www.patreon.com/rockstockchannel Podcast   Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lithium-ion-rocks/id1457969172 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0KiMIZOPaDg8ENfPJMSINq Follow us on X (Twitter): Howard: https://x.com/LithiumIonBull Matt: https://x.com/matt_fernley Rodney: https://x.com/RodneyHooper13  _________________________________________________ DISCLAIMER NOT INVESTMENT ADVICE. DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH. Howard, Matt, and Rodney are not financial advisors or broker-dealers. This video is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered investment or financial advice. Please conduct your own independent research and read the disclaimer at the end of the video or on RK Equity’s website: https://www.rkequity.com Intro and outro audio credit: Jamie Klein

Iran War shocks commodities—lithium deals surge while supply risks grow. Is stagflation coming? Oil, sulfur, and EV supply chains explained. In this Rock Stock Recap, Howard Klein, Matt Fernley and Rodney Hooper break down how Middle East tensions are impacting global commodities, from sulfur bottlenecks to delayed oil supply recovery. We also dive into major lithium deals, China vs West supply dynamics, and what it all means for EVs, inflation, and future markets. At the end of our discussion, we've attached an update chat with Q2 Metals following their most recent press release including new spodumene hits and an extended MRE delivery date. Chapters (00:00) Intro (06:12) Sulfur Supply Importance (08:19) Supply Restart Delays (10:24) Inflation And Fertilizers (12:04) Stagflation And Gold (14:17) Market Outlook Debate (17:55) Oil Products Inflation (19:46) Energy Transition Challenges (24:10) Lithium Offtake Strategies (25:27) China Supply Dominance (28:54) Lithium Cost Curve Evolution (31:53) Conversion Capacity Issues (33:44) Global EV Supply Chain (35:42) Market Maturity And Financing (39:27) Cost Of Capital (42:51) Exploration And New Projects (46:03) Future Lithium Supply Gap (47:34) Q2 Metals Update Sponsors - Lithium Royalty Corp (TSX: LIRC) - diversified lithium royalty portfolio. (Website: https://www.lithiumroyaltycorp.com/ | X: https://x.com/Lithium_Royalty) - USCF Investments - commodity-focused ETFs (e.g., CPER copper, ZSB battery metals, USG gold, SDCI diversified commodities). (Website: https://www.uscfinvestments.com/ | X: https://x.com/USCFInvestments) Links - Strategic Lithium Reserve (SLR) White Paper: https://blog.rkequity.com/2025/12/08/strategic-lithium-reserve/ - Read Matt's research blog: https://blog.rkequity.com/ - Sign up for the Lithium-Ion Bull newsletter/Matt's Blogs: https://rkequity.com/ Have a question? Drop us an email: [email protected] Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/rockstockchannel Podcast:   Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lithium-ion-rocks/id1457969172   Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0KiMIZOPaDg8ENfPJMSINq X (Twitter):   Howard: https://x.com/LithiumIonBull   Matt: https://x.com/matt_fernley   Rodney: https://x.com/RodneyHooper13 _________________________________________________ DISCLAIMER   NOT INVESTMENT ADVICE. DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH Howard, Matt and Rodney are not financial advisors nor broker-dealers, this video is for information purposes only and should not be considered investment or financial advice. Please do your own independent research and read the disclaimer at the end of the video or on RK Equity's website https://www.rkequity.com Intro and outro audio credit: Jamie Klein

Jonathan Evans, CEO of Lithium Americas, discusses the development of Thacker Pass — one of the most significant lithium projects under construction in North America. Howard Klein and Jonathan walk through the economics, financing, and execution strategy behind Thacker Pass, including the role of strategic partners such as General Motors and the U.S. Department of Energy loan facility supporting the project. Jonathan explains how Lithium Americas plans to scale production of battery-grade lithium carbonate, why the company chose carbonate rather than hydroxide as its initial product, and how the project’s process technology has been validated over multiple engineering and pilot stages. We also discuss the broader context shaping the lithium market today — including EV demand, grid-scale batteries, supply chain security, and the growing role of batteries in supporting power demand from data centers and AI infrastructure. Topics covered include: - The construction timeline and ramp-up plan for Thacker Pass - How the GM partnership and offtake agreement is structured - Details around the DOE loan and project financing - The economics of clay-based lithium versus hard-rock and brine deposits - Lithium pricing dynamics and how producers think about long-term contracts - Why battery demand is expanding beyond electric vehicles into grid storage - The geopolitical implications of the battery supply chain For investors and industry observers, Thacker Pass represents a case study in building large-scale critical mineral supply in the United States — from permitting and engineering to financing and construction. Chapters (00:00:00) Thacker Pass Overview (00:09:59) Evan's Career Path To CEO (00:13:06) Valuation, Capex, And Key Catalysts (00:23:31) Why Clay Should Work (00:30:36) Deposit Quality And Processing Advantages (00:39:27) De-Risking Construction And Execution (00:47:49) Batteries, AI, And Grid Stability (00:57:09) Lithium vs Rare Earth Leverage (00:59:51) Policy, Pricing, And Reserves (01:04:25) Expansion To Phase Two And Beyond Sponsors - Lithium Royalty Corp (TSX: LIRC) - diversified lithium royalty portfolio. (Website: https://www.lithiumroyaltycorp.com/ | X: https://x.com/Lithium_Royalty) - USCF Investments - commodity-focused ETFs (e.g., CPER copper, ZSB battery metals, USG gold, SDCI diversified commodities). (Website: https://www.uscfinvestments.com/ | X: https://x.com/USCFInvestments) Links - Strategic Lithium Reserve (SLR) White Paper: https://blog.rkequity.com/2025/12/08/strategic-lithium-reserve/ - Read Matt's research blog: https://blog.rkequity.com/ - Sign up for the Lithium-Ion Bull newsletter/Matt's Blogs: https://rkequity.com/ Have a question? Drop us an email: [email protected] Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/rockstockchannel Podcast:   Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lithium-ion-rocks/id1457969172   Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0KiMIZOPaDg8ENfPJMSINq X (Twitter):   Howard: https://x.com/LithiumIonBull   Matt: https://x.com/matt_fernley   Rodney: https://x.com/RodneyHooper13 _________________________________________________ DISCLAIMER   NOT INVESTMENT ADVICE. DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH Howard, Matt and Rodney are not financial advisors nor broker-dealers, this video is for information purposes only and should not be considered investment or financial advice. Please do your own independent research and read the disclaimer at the end of the video or on RK Equity's website https://www.rkequity.com Intro and outro audio credit: Jamie Klein

In March 2026's Recharge podcast, co-presenters Matt Fernley (RK Equity/Battery Materials Review) and Cormac O'Laoire (Electrios Energy) discuss key developments along the battery supply chain, including: • Sodium-ion scaling and hybrid pack strategies emerging from Battery Show Asia • Graphite AAM dynamics, including synthetic cost pressure and natural graphite upside • China EV demand weakness driven by subsidy changes and macro conditions • Indonesian nickel supply risks from HPAL exposure, quotas, and environmental constraints • Rising battery costs linked to oil, sulphur shortages, and broader supply chain inflation • VRFB competitiveness versus lithium-ion in long-duration storage, with LCOS and duration economics in focus Chapters (00:00) Intro (05:15) Sodium Market Potential (07:27) Lithium Metal Breakthroughs (09:04) Silicon-carbon Batteries (10:21) China EV Sales Weakness (13:18) Oil Prices And EV Demand (18:56) Supply Chain Cost Pressures (22:15) Graphite Market Shifts (26:38) Battery Price Impact (30:58) China BESS Market Dynamics (33:22) Indonesian Nickel Challenges (37:00) Nickel Supply Outlook (40:40) Long Duration Storage Debate (46:30) Closing Remarks Links - Read Matt's research blog: https://blog.rkequity.com/ Have a question? Drop us an email: [email protected] Podcast:   Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lithium-ion-rocks/id1457969172   Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0KiMIZOPaDg8ENfPJMSINq X (Twitter):   Matt: https://x.com/matt_fernley _________________________________________________ DISCLAIMER   NOT INVESTMENT ADVICE. DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH Matt and Cormac are not financial advisors nor broker-dealers, this video is for information purposes only and should not be considered investment or financial advice. Please do your own independent research and read the disclaimer at the end of the video or on RK Equity's website https://www.rkequity.com

Iola Hughes, Head of Research at Benchmark Minerals Intelligence, discusses the 2026 EV and battery energy storage system (BESS) outlook. Register for Benchmark GigaUSA 2026: https://www.benchmarkminerals.com/events/giga-usa From our perspective, this was a timely conversation. Iola recently published Benchmark’s latest outlook, forecasting overall battery demand growth of roughly 16.5% in 2026 to more than 2 terawatt-hours, following strong growth in the prior year. We wanted to dig into what is driving that forecast, where the differences are between EV and BESS demand, and how current market conditions are shaping the battery materials landscape. Matt Fernley focuses on Benchmark’s methodology, including the distinction between battery installations and shipments, the impact of inventory build in the BESS market, and how lithium prices affect storage economics across China, the US and Europe. Rodney Hooper examines China EV demand, export pressure on western automakers, the outlook for plug-in hybrids and range extenders, and the competitive position of European OEMs. Howard Klein frames the broader discussion around geopolitics, power prices, energy security and how crises can accelerate solar and storage adoption. We also cover: - 2026 battery demand forecast - EV market slowdown vs BESS growth - Battery storage inventories and pricing - US battery policy and domestic sourcing - Lithium prices and energy storage economics - Sodium-ion batteries vs LFP - China EV exports and global competition - LFP supply chain challenges outside China - Tesla energy storage and Megapack sourcing - Humanoid robots, autonomy and future battery demand This interview should be useful for investors, battery materials developers, EV supply chain participants and anyone following lithium, LFP, battery storage, critical minerals and the future of electrification. Chapters (00:00) Intro (03:26) Forecast Methodology (08:40) BESS Inventories And Pricing (11:50) Regional Storage Economics (15:05) US Battery Policy (17:21) Winter Grid Performance (20:55) Sodium-Ion Outlook (24:22) Bigger Storage Systems (27:01) Plug-In Hybrid Growth (30:30) China EV Slowdown (34:34) China Exports And Europe (38:32) Robotaxis And Autonomy (40:02) LFP Supply Chain (44:53) Humanoid Robot Demand (47:13) Energy Crises And Storage (49:12) Tesla And US Sourcing (51:50) EV Recovery Outlook Sponsors - Lithium Royalty Corp (TSX: LIRC) - diversified lithium royalty portfolio. (Website: https://www.lithiumroyaltycorp.com/ | X: https://x.com/Lithium_Royalty) - USCF Investments - commodity-focused ETFs (e.g., CPER copper, ZSB battery metals, USG gold, SDCI diversified commodities). (Website: https://www.uscfinvestments.com/ | X: https://x.com/USCFInvestments) Links - Sign up for the Lithium-Ion Bull newsletter/Matt's Blogs: https://rkequity.com/ Have a question? Drop us an email: [email protected] Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/rockstockchannel Podcast:   Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lithium-ion-rocks/id1457969172   Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0KiMIZOPaDg8ENfPJMSINq X (Twitter):   Howard: https://x.com/LithiumIonBull   Matt: https://x.com/matt_fernley   Rodney: https://x.com/RodneyHooper13 _________________________________________________ DISCLAIMER   NOT INVESTMENT ADVICE. DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH Howard, Matt and Rodney are not financial advisors nor broker-dealers, this video is for information purposes only and should not be considered investment or financial advice. Please do your own independent research and read the disclaimer at the end of the video or on RK Equity's website https://www.rkequity.com Intro and outro audio credit: Jamie Klein

Rock Stock Recap breaks down the biggest market-moving trends in critical minerals, battery materials, and global supply chains. In this episode, Howard Klein, Matt Fernley, and Rodney Hooper discuss how the Iran war and Strait of Hormuz disruptions could impact sulfur, sulfuric acid, aluminum, bauxite, graphite, rare earths, EVs, and lithium markets. The conversation covers why sulfur may be the most overlooked supply chain risk, how aluminum smelters could face major disruption, and why bauxite could become a more interesting investment theme. The team also explores China’s latest five-year plan, the outlook for rare earth demand driven by robotics, drones, and defense, and what slowing Chinese EV sales could mean for global battery materials demand. The episode closes with a lithium market update, including spodumene pricing, upstream shortages, and recent strategic offtake activity. If you follow lithium stocks, rare earth stocks, aluminum markets, EV supply chains, battery metals, or China industrial policy, this episode is packed with timely insights. Topics covered: - Iran war supply chain disruptions - Sulfur and sulfuric acid market risks - Aluminum price outlook - Bauxite market and Guinea exports - Graphite demand and oil price links - Rare earth supply chain challenges - China five-year plan analysis - Chinese EV sales and exports - Lithium market update - Battery materials investing trends Chapters (00:00) Intro (04:24) Sulfur Supply Risk (11:21) Aluminum Squeeze Risk (15:59) Bauxite Market Outlook (21:27) Graphite And Rare Earths (26:43) Rare Earth Supply Limits (30:43) China’s Five-Year Plan (38:55) China EV Sales (42:40) Lithium Market Update (45:11) Closing Remarks Sponsors - Lithium Royalty Corp (TSX: LIRC) - diversified lithium royalty portfolio. (Website: https://www.lithiumroyaltycorp.com/ | X: https://x.com/Lithium_Royalty) - USCF Investments - commodity-focused ETFs (e.g., CPER copper, ZSB battery metals, USG gold, SDCI diversified commodities). (Website: https://www.uscfinvestments.com/ | X: https://x.com/USCFInvestments) Links - Strategic Lithium Reserve (SLR) White Paper: https://blog.rkequity.com/2025/12/08/strategic-lithium-reserve/ - Read Matt's research blog: https://blog.rkequity.com/ - Sign up for the Lithium-Ion Bull newsletter/Matt's Blogs: https://rkequity.com/ Have a question? Drop us an email: [email protected] Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/rockstockchannel Podcast:   Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lithium-ion-rocks/id1457969172   Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0KiMIZOPaDg8ENfPJMSINq X (Twitter):   Howard: https://x.com/LithiumIonBull   Matt: https://x.com/matt_fernley   Rodney: https://x.com/RodneyHooper13 _________________________________________________ DISCLAIMER   NOT INVESTMENT ADVICE. DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH Howard, Matt and Rodney are not financial advisors nor broker-dealers, this video is for information purposes only and should not be considered investment or financial advice. Please do your own independent research and read the disclaimer at the end of the video or on RK Equity's website https://www.rkequity.com Intro and outro audio credit: Jamie Klein

Alex Grant (Big Lithium) discusses direct lithium extraction (DLE), US lithium project financing, and the growing strategic importance of magnesium in Western supply chains. Alex Interview on HyperChange: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_2Aa1BD7a9s Alex was an early advocate of DLE through his work with Lilac Solutions, Vulcan Energy and other advanced lithium projects. Howard Klein and Matt Fernley ask him where DLE stands today as projects in Arkansas, Argentina and Europe move closer to final investment decisions, and whether the next few years will prove the commercial case for unconventional brine resources. We also examine the key issues shaping lithium markets and critical minerals policy: How lithium price volatility affects project finance, why large companies still struggle to move projects forward, the role of China in setting global pricing, and whether Western governments will need to provide stronger industrial policy support for domestic lithium supply. A major part of the conversation focuses on the shift in critical minerals narratives from decarbonization toward national security, defense manufacturing and AI infrastructure. Alex explains why he believes many large-scale lithium and processing projects are effectively becoming state-backed strategic assets rather than purely market-driven developments. In the second half, we discuss Alex’s current venture, Magrathea, and why magnesium may be one of the most underappreciated critical materials in the Western industrial base. He outlines the company’s technology, funding history, Pentagon support, Arkansas joint venture plans, and the broader case for rebuilding domestic magnesium production in the US. Topics covered include: - DLE and lithium brine projects - Arkansas Smackover lithium and bromine region - Standard Lithium, Vulcan Energy and Rio Tinto - Lithium pricing, CapEx and project finance - Critical minerals policy under Trump - China’s influence on lithium and magnesium markets - US industrial policy and strategic materials - Magnesium supply chain risks - Magrathea’s commercialization strategy This conversation is intended for investors, operators and policymakers following lithium, battery materials, critical minerals, energy security and US industrial strategy. Chapters (00:00) Alex Grant And DLE (03:44) DLE's Make-Or-Break Phase (09:15) Rising DLE Costs (11:50) Financing Lithium Projects (15:09) China's Pricing Power (24:13) State-Backed Critical Minerals (30:09) Defense And AI Narrative Shift (39:54) Why Magnesium (43:56) Magnesium And National Security (48:53) Magrathea's Scale-Up Plan (59:53) Saudi Arabia And Arkansas Support Sponsors - Lithium Royalty Corp (TSX: LIRC) - diversified lithium royalty portfolio. (Website: https://www.lithiumroyaltycorp.com/ | X: https://x.com/Lithium_Royalty) - USCF Investments - commodity-focused ETFs (e.g., CPER copper, ZSB battery metals, USG gold, SDCI diversified commodities). (Website: https://www.uscfinvestments.com/ | X: https://x.com/USCFInvestments) Links - Strategic Lithium Reserve (SLR) White Paper: https://blog.rkequity.com/2025/12/08/strategic-lithium-reserve/ - Read Matt's research blog: https://blog.rkequity.com/ - Sign up for the Lithium-Ion Bull newsletter/Matt's Blogs: https://rkequity.com/ Have a question? Drop us an email: [email protected] Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/rockstockchannel Podcast:   Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lithium-ion-rocks/id1457969172   Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0KiMIZOPaDg8ENfPJMSINq X (Twitter):   Howard: https://x.com/LithiumIonBull   Matt: https://x.com/matt_fernley   Rodney: https://x.com/RodneyHooper13 _________________________________________________ DISCLAIMER   NOT INVESTMENT ADVICE. DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH Howard, Matt and Rodney are not financial advisors nor broker-dealers, this video is for information purposes only and should not be considered investment or financial advice. Please do your own independent research and read the disclaimer at the end of the video or on RK Equity's website https://www.rkequity.com Intro and outro audio credit: Jamie Klein

In this Rock Stock Recap, Howard Klein and Matt Fernley share their key takeaways from PDAC 2026 in Toronto, the world’s largest mining conference and one of the most important annual gatherings for the global mining, lithium, and critical minerals industry. After several days meeting with mining companies, investors, policymakers, and analysts, we discuss the major themes emerging from the conference - including the growing geopolitical importance of critical minerals, government policy support for new projects, and the evolving outlook for the lithium market and battery supply chain. We examine recent announcements from the Canadian government aimed at accelerating investment in critical minerals development, as well as the role Canada could play in strengthening Western supply chains for lithium, phosphate, graphite, and other battery metals. We also discuss the disconnect between strong long-term demand expectations and recent volatility in lithium equities, including market reactions to EV demand data and broader geopolitical developments. From a market perspective, we cover several key issues currently shaping the sector: - The outlook for lithium demand and supply over the coming decades - Funding challenges and talent shortages in mining project development - Differences emerging between lithium carbonate and spodumene markets - The need for midstream processing and conversion capacity outside China - The often overlooked role of phosphate in the LFP battery supply chain - New lithium product pathways such as lithium chloride and lithium sulfate - Valuation opportunities in Argentine lithium brine assets We also discuss how governments - particularly in North America - are increasingly viewing battery supply chains as strategic infrastructure, with implications for defense, energy security, and the global technology race. Following our discussion, the video includes a series of short interviews recorded at PDAC with several companies active in the critical minerals and battery metals sector, including: - Q2 Metals - PMET Resources / Elevra Lithium - The Metals Company - Galan Lithium - NOA Lithium Brines - Lithium Africa - E3 Lithium - First Phosphate - Surge Battery Metals - Libra Energy Materials These interviews provide additional insights directly from companies developing projects across the lithium, battery metals, and critical minerals ecosystem. Chapters (00:00:00) Intro (00:02:13) PDAC 2026 Takeaways (00:03:20) Recent Lithium Market Volatility (00:04:58) Funding And Talent Challenges (00:06:38) Lithium Demand Outlook (00:07:42) Strategic Interest In Lithium (00:08:45) Canada Policy Support (00:11:38) Lithium Raw Material Deficit (00:13:43) Battery Supply Chain Strategy (00:15:34) Midstream Processing Gap (00:16:12) Phosphate In LFP Batteries (00:17:21) Lithium Cost Curve Debate (00:19:34) Lithium Chloride Market (00:24:11) Argentina Lithium Opportunity (00:26:38) EV Demand Concerns (00:28:31) Closing And PDAC Interviews (00:29:10) The Metals Company (00:38:46) First Phosphate (00:43:21) E3 Lithium (00:46:23) Surge Battery Metals (00:48:18) NOA Lithium Brines (00:50:57) Galan Lithium (00:52:49) Lithium Africa (00:58:24) Q2 Metals (00:59:58) Libra Energy Materials (01:04:02) PMET & Elevra Sponsors - Lithium Royalty Corp (TSX: LIRC) - diversified lithium royalty portfolio. (Website: https://www.lithiumroyaltycorp.com/ | X: https://x.com/Lithium_Royalty) - USCF Investments - commodity-focused ETFs (e.g., CPER copper, ZSB battery metals, USG gold, SDCI diversified commodities). (Website: https://www.uscfinvestments.com/ | X: https://x.com/USCFInvestments) Links - Strategic Lithium Reserve (SLR) White Paper: https://blog.rkequity.com/2025/12/08/strategic-lithium-reserve/ - Read Matt's research blog: https://blog.rkequity.com/ - Sign up for the Lithium-Ion Bull newsletter/Matt's Blogs: https://rkequity.com/ Have a question? Drop us an email: [email protected] Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/rockstockchannel Podcast:   Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lithium-ion-rocks/id1457969172   Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0KiMIZOPaDg8ENfPJMSINq X (Twitter):   Howard: https://x.com/LithiumIonBull   Matt: https://x.com/matt_fernley   Rodney: https://x.com/RodneyHooper13 _________________________________________________ DISCLAIMER   NOT INVESTMENT ADVICE. DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH Howard, Matt and Rodney are not financial advisors nor broker-dealers, this video is for information purposes only and should not be considered investment or financial advice. Please do your own independent research and read the disclaimer at the end of the video or on RK Equity's website https://www.rkequity.com Intro and outro audio credit: Jamie Klein

High Purity Alumina (HPA) Explained: Uses, Market Growth, Supply, and Investment Opportunities High Purity Alumina (HPA) is one of the most critical materials powering modern technology—from LEDs and semiconductors to lithium-ion batteries and AI infrastructure. Yet, it remains widely misunderstood by investors. In this episode of Rock Stock University, commodity strategist Matt Fernley and investor Ben Hammond explain what HPA is, why purity matters, how it's made, and why demand could surge in the coming decade. Learn how China dominates supply, why Western markets may face shortages, and what this means for future prices and investment opportunities. Whether you're an investor, student, or interested in critical minerals, battery materials, or semiconductor supply chains, this video provides a clear and practical introduction to High Purity Alumina.   CHAPTERS (00:00) New Initiative: Rock Stock University (01:48) Introduction (02:43) HPA vs Regular Alumina (04:29) End Markets (06:34) Global Demand Growth (09:04) Supply Structure (10:13) Supply/Demand Balance (11:55) Modified Bayer Process (12:22) Aluminium Isopropoxide Hydrolysis (13:27) Hydrothermal Crystallization (13:46) Aluminum Solvent Extraction (14:22) Chlorine Leach (CLCP) (15:07) Summary   WHAT YOU’LL LEARN IN THIS VIDEO • What High Purity Alumina (HPA) is • Why 4N and 5N purity levels matter • How HPA is used in semiconductors, LEDs, and batteries • Global HPA supply and demand trends • Why China dominates production • How HPA is manufactured • Why HPA demand could grow significantly • What investors should know about the HPA market   FEATURED HOSTS Matt Fernley Commodity Strategist | Partner, RK Equity LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-fernley-8a755a3/ Twitter/X: https://x.com/matt_fernley Ben Hammond Investor | Rock Stock University LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-hammond-o/ Twitter/X: https://x.com/benjihammond   LEARN MORE RK Equity: https://rkequity.com/

Commodities are entering a new era — and most investors aren’t prepared. In this episode, Kevin Baum of USCF Investments explains why smart investors are increasingly allocating to commodities as electrification, geopolitics, and resource security reshape global markets. USCF website: https://linkly.link/2bXNd Chapters (00:00) Intro (01:36) What Drives Commodities in 2026 (04:07) Why Commodities Diversify Portfolios (06:17) How SDCI Works (11:00) Who Buys SDCI and Why (12:54) Copper Outlook for 2026 (17:04) Copper Futures vs Miners (19:57) Battery Metals Basket Explained (24:04) Gold's Role Today (29:12) Key Takeaway: Resource Security (30:46) Wrap-Up This conversation breaks down the structural forces driving demand for copper, lithium, gold, and other critical minerals — and why commodities are becoming essential portfolio diversifiers in today’s concentrated equity environment. We also explore how commodity ETFs work, how futures-based exposure differs from mining stocks, and how investors can gain direct exposure to commodity prices through USCF’s ETF platform. Whether you’re interested in copper, battery metals, gold, or broad commodity exposure, this discussion provides a clear framework for understanding the next major investment cycle. Topics covered include: • Why commodities are no longer just an inflation hedge • How electrification and AI are driving long-term commodity demand • Copper outlook and supply constraints heading into 2026 • Lithium, battery metals, and critical minerals exposure • Gold, central bank buying, and geopolitical drivers • Why governments and investors are focusing on resource security • How commodity ETFs provide direct exposure to commodity prices • Portfolio diversification using commodities About USCF Investments USCF is one of the most established commodity ETF providers, offering futures-based funds that provide direct exposure to commodities including oil, copper, gold, and battery metals. Why commodities matter now With global electrification accelerating, central banks diversifying into hard assets, and supply constraints emerging across critical minerals, commodities are becoming increasingly important for investors seeking diversification, inflation protection, and exposure to structural megatrends. _________________________________________________ Have a question? Drop us an email: [email protected] Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/rockstockchannel Podcast:   Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lithium-ion-rocks/id1457969172   Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0KiMIZOPaDg8ENfPJMSINq X (Twitter):   Howard: https://x.com/LithiumIonBull   Rodney: https://x.com/RodneyHooper13   Matt: https://x.com/matt_fernley _________________________________________________ DISCLAIMER   NOT INVESTMENT ADVICE. DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH Howard, Matt and Rodney are not financial advisors nor broker-dealers, this video is for information purposes only and should not be considered investment or financial advice. Please do your own independent research and read the disclaimer at the end of the video or on RK Equity's website https://www.rkequity.com Intro and outro audio credit: Jamie Klein

Zimbabwe Halts Lithium Exports | 6–7% Global Supply Shock? | Q2 Metals High-Grade Hits & Maiden MRE Coming In this episode of Rock Stock Recap, we (Howard Klein, Matt Fernley, and Rodney Hooper) break down what could be one of the most important lithium policy developments of the year: Zimbabwe’s sudden suspension of lithium concentrate exports — including cargo already in transit. Zimbabwe represents ~6–7% of expected global lithium supply in 2026, and the language from the Ministry of Mines was unambiguous. Is this a short-term negotiating tactic tied to transfer pricing and royalties, or the start of a structural shift toward in-country beneficiation like Indonesia’s nickel strategy? Chapters (00:00) Intro (05:12) Zimbabwe Suspends Lithium Exports (07:12) Transfer Pricing Dispute (10:18) Duration of Export Halt (13:37) Rise of Lithium Sulfate? (17:07) Indonesia Nickel Comparison (23:31) Supply and Price Impact (25:20) Sodium-Ion Competition (26:49) China Lepidolite Context (29:49) Lithium Stocks Rally (30:54) Rare Earths and Minor Metals (32:36) PDAC and Policy Outlook (34:17) Q2 Metals: Drill Highlights (35:36) Open Pit Potential (36:58) Maiden Resource Update (38:05) Exploration Upside (39:11) Drilling And PEA Plans (40:09) Metallurgy And Consistency (41:04) Expansion Potential (42:25) Infrastructure Advantages (42:57) Upcoming Catalysts We discuss: - Lithium market impact — Is this a true supply shock? - What it means for spodumene prices, spot markets, and lithium stocks - Zimbabwe vs 🇮🇩 Indonesia — can midstream capacity be built first? - U.S. policy shift: DOE’s $27B loan package, battery storage & grid reliability - Record U.S. energy storage installations (57.6 GWh) — batteries as infrastructure - Rare earths, copper inventories & the broader hard-asset rotation - What to watch at PDAC and evolving Canada–U.S.–China critical minerals policy We also interview Neil McCallum of Q2 Metals, who discusses: - Long, high-grade lithium intercepts in Quebec - A potentially “open pittable” central zone - Four drill rigs currently turning - Maiden MRE targeted for end of quarter - PEA expected later this year - Exploration upside across a 20km greenstone belt If you’re following lithium prices, spodumene concentrate, energy storage demand, battery metals investing, rare earths, critical minerals policy, or junior mining exploration, this episode connects the macro supply story to real company-level catalysts. Sponsors - Lithium Royalty Corp (TSX: LIRC) - diversified lithium royalty portfolio. (Website: https://www.lithiumroyaltycorp.com/ | X: https://x.com/Lithium_Royalty) - USCF Investments - commodity-focused ETFs (e.g., CPER copper, ZSB battery metals, USG gold, SDCI diversified commodities). (Website: https://www.uscfinvestments.com/ | X: https://x.com/USCFInvestments) Links - Strategic Lithium Reserve (SLR) White Paper: https://blog.rkequity.com/2025/12/08/strategic-lithium-reserve/ - Read Matt's research blog: https://blog.rkequity.com/ - Sign up for the Lithium-Ion Bull newsletter/Matt's Blogs: https://rkequity.com/ Have a question? Drop us an email: [email protected] Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/rockstockchannel Podcast:   Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lithium-ion-rocks/id1457969172   Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0KiMIZOPaDg8ENfPJMSINq X (Twitter):   Howard: https://x.com/LithiumIonBull   Matt: https://x.com/matt_fernley   Rodney: https://x.com/RodneyHooper13 _________________________________________________ DISCLAIMER   NOT INVESTMENT ADVICE. DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH Howard, Matt and Rodney are not financial advisors nor broker-dealers, this video is for information purposes only and should not be considered investment or financial advice. Please do your own independent research and read the disclaimer at the end of the video or on RK Equity's website https://www.rkequity.com Intro and outro audio credit: Jamie Klein

In this Rock Stock Recap, we (Howard Klein and Matt Fernley) are joined by Keith Phillips—former CEO of Piedmont Lithium and now Executive Chairman of Q2 Metals—to discuss the latest developments across lithium and select rare earth themes. Including an interview with Lithium Ionic (TSXV: LTH) COO Mike Westendorf on the Bandeira project. Chapters (00:00:00) Intro (00:03:13) Keith's New Role At Q2 (00:05:10) BMO And PDAC Preview (00:07:12) Rare Earths Americas Update (00:08:39) Pilbara Restart And Supply (00:12:45) Quebec Infrastructure Edge (00:17:10) Albemarle Kemerton Shutdown (00:19:14) Conversion Location Debate (00:21:19) Consolidation And Priorities (00:29:36) Mangrove And Processing Plans (00:34:44) Manono Supply And Logistics (00:38:43) US-Canada Outlook (00:43:18) Lithium Ionic (00:44:39) Bandeira Project Location (00:46:04) Underground Mining Strategy (00:47:00) Feasibility Study And CapEx Reduction (00:49:32) Production Targets And Mine Life (00:50:09) Operating Costs And Advantages (00:53:31) Processing And Revenue Upside (00:55:56) Permitting Status And Progress (00:59:34) Construction Timeline (01:00:06) Financing And Funding Interest (01:01:28) Key Catalysts Ahead (01:02:08) Cash Position (01:02:40) Closing Remarks We start with our recent work on critical minerals policy, including a framework for prioritizing USGS-designated critical minerals, current Washington signals (including Project Vault and related announcements), and the upcoming House hearings for the Secure Minerals Act (Feb 24). From there, we turn to market-moving supply and project updates across the global lithium chain. Key discussion points include: • Q2 Metals and the Cisco spodumene discovery in James Bay, Quebec—resource timing, scale, grade, and infrastructure advantages • Mining conference season preview (BMO and PDAC) and what investor and strategic conversations tend to focus on • Rare Earths Americas—early-stage assets in the US and Brazil and the broader “Americas critical minerals” backdrop • Pilbara’s restart activity and what it signals about near-term latent capacity, plus broader supply visibility questions (including Africa) • Albemarle’s Kemerton decision and what it implies about conversion economics, capex risk, and where conversion can be competitive • Why infrastructure, logistics, and transport costs matter most when spodumene pricing is low—and how that shapes project selection and consolidation In the second half, we provide an update interview with Lithium Ionic (TSXV: LTH) COO Mike Westendorf on the Bandeira project in Brazil’s “Lithium Valley,” adjacent to operating peers. We cover: • Updated feasibility study highlights, including capex reduction and design changes to improve robustness through price cycles • Operating cost drivers (processing route, power, local supply chain, and logistics) and the role of ore sorting / DMS • Permitting status, recent regulatory developments, and the expected pathway to FID and production timelines • Current financing environment, potential funding structures, and near-term catalysts through 2026 Sponsors - Lithium Royalty Corp (TSX: LIRC) - diversified lithium royalty portfolio. (Website: https://www.lithiumroyaltycorp.com/ | X: https://x.com/Lithium_Royalty) - USCF Investments - commodity-focused ETFs (e.g., CPER copper, ZSB battery metals, USG gold, SDCI diversified commodities). (Website: https://www.uscfinvestments.com/ | X: https://x.com/USCFInvestments) Links - Strategic Lithium Reserve (SLR) White Paper: https://blog.rkequity.com/2025/12/08/strategic-lithium-reserve/ - Read Matt's research blog: https://blog.rkequity.com/ - Sign up for the Lithium-Ion Bull newsletter/Matt's Blogs: https://rkequity.com/ Have a question? Drop us an email: [email protected] Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/rockstockchannel Podcast:   Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lithium-ion-rocks/id1457969172   Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0KiMIZOPaDg8ENfPJMSINq X (Twitter):   Howard: https://x.com/LithiumIonBull   Rodney: https://x.com/RodneyHooper13   Matt: https://x.com/matt_fernley _________________________________________________ DISCLAIMER   NOT INVESTMENT ADVICE. DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH Howard, Matt and Rodney are not financial advisors nor broker-dealers, this video is for information purposes only and should not be considered investment or financial advice. Please do your own independent research and read the disclaimer at the end of the video or on RK Equity's website https://www.rkequity.com Intro and outro audio credit: Jamie Klein

Howard Klein of RK Equity discusses the Trump administration's Project Vault initiative and explains how a strategic lithium reserve could help boost the country's efforts to create secure supply chains.  “The goal of a strategic lithium reserve is to stabilize prices and allow the industry to develop,” he explained. “If prices fall too low, the reserve would step in as a buyer. If prices spike too high, it could sell into the market.” This interview was filmed on February 13, 2026. Chapters (00:00) Intro (00:30) What is Project Vault? (09:02) Ranking critical minerals (21:43) China's lithium influence (25:40) What about midstream? (30:35) Western skills shortage  (36:13) Strategic Lithium Reserve (44:06) Energy storage outlook (50:57) Phosphate's key role (57:49) Outro Sponsors - Lithium Royalty Corp (TSX: LIRC) - diversified lithium royalty portfolio. (Website: https://www.lithiumroyaltycorp.com/ | X: https://x.com/Lithium_Royalty) - USCF Investments - commodity-focused ETFs (e.g., CPER copper, ZSB battery metals, USG gold, SDCI diversified commodities). (Website: https://www.uscfinvestments.com/ | X: https://x.com/USCFInvestments) Links - Strategic Lithium Reserve (SLR) White Paper: https://blog.rkequity.com/2025/12/08/strategic-lithium-reserve/ - Read Matt's research blog: https://blog.rkequity.com/ - Sign up for the Lithium-Ion Bull newsletter/Matt's Blogs: https://rkequity.com/ Have a question? Drop us an email: [email protected] Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/rockstockchannel Podcast:   Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lithium-ion-rocks/id1457969172   Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0KiMIZOPaDg8ENfPJMSINq X (Twitter):   Howard: https://x.com/LithiumIonBull   Rodney: https://x.com/RodneyHooper13   Matt: https://x.com/matt_fernley _________________________________________________ DISCLAIMER   NOT INVESTMENT ADVICE. DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH Howard, Matt and Rodney are not financial advisors nor broker-dealers, this video is for information purposes only and should not be considered investment or financial advice. Please do your own independent research and read the disclaimer at the end of the video or on RK Equity's website https://www.rkequity.com Intro and outro audio credit: Jamie Klein

Alex Wylie, CEO of LibertyStream Infrastructure Partners (TSXV: LIB | OTCQB: VLTLF), discusses the company’s evolving strategy to produce lithium carbonate from existing oil and gas infrastructure in the United States. Chapters (00:00) Introduction (03:34) Rebranding And Permian Basin Strategy (04:55) Production Progress And Key Milestones (07:33) Funding And Select Water Partnership (08:42) North Dakota Expansion And Military Supply (11:18) Offtake Progress And Grant Support (13:18) Select Water Partnership Benefits (15:12) Modular Growth And Scaling Strategy (17:32) Upcoming Milestones And Offtake Plans (18:46) Investor Support And Leadership Hire (20:46) U.S. Listing And Redomicile Plans (21:49) Government Support And U.S. Strategy (25:25) Production Roadmap And Expansion Timeline (27:49) Technical Vs Battery Grade Strategy (30:32) Long-Term Scaling Strategy (31:41) Closing And Future Outlook Liberty Stream, formerly Volt Lithium, is focused on extracting lithium from oilfield brines in major basins such as the Permian Basin and North Dakota, converting what has traditionally been considered a waste stream into a source of critical minerals. We cover Liberty Stream’s transition from pilot-scale operations to commercial readiness, including its in-field refining unit, progress toward its first 1,000-ton-per-year lithium carbonate production target, and its differentiated strategy of serving industrial and technical-grade lithium markets initially. This approach may enable faster commercialization compared to conventional lithium development projects, while leveraging existing infrastructure to reduce capital intensity and accelerate time to market. Alex explains the rationale behind the company’s rebranding and relocation to Texas, its partnership with Select Water Solutions for pretreatment infrastructure, and ongoing offtake discussions with prospective customers. We also discuss Liberty Stream’s capital raises totaling approximately $25 million, grant support from North Dakota, and its roadmap to scale production through modular expansion across multiple basins. From our perspective, Liberty Stream’s strategy represents an alternative approach to lithium supply development in North America, particularly as demand for domestically sourced critical minerals continues to grow. We examine key milestones achieved over the past year, the company’s commercial production timeline, and what investors and industry participants should watch for in 2026, including potential offtake agreements, expansion plans, and a possible future U.S. listing. Topics covered in this interview include: • Liberty Stream Infrastructure Partners overview and strategy • Direct lithium extraction (DLE) from oilfield brines • Permian Basin lithium production and infrastructure partnerships • Industrial vs battery-grade lithium carbonate markets • Commercial production targets and modular scaling strategy • Capital raises, grant funding, and investor support • U.S. critical minerals supply chain and domestic lithium production • Potential U.S. listing and corporate redomicile to Texas • Lithium market outlook and key milestones ahead Sponsors - Lithium Royalty Corp (TSX: LIRC) - diversified lithium royalty portfolio. (Website: https://www.lithiumroyaltycorp.com/ | X: https://x.com/Lithium_Royalty) - USCF Investments - commodity-focused ETFs (e.g., CPER copper, ZSB battery metals, USG gold, SDCI diversified commodities). (Website: https://www.uscfinvestments.com/ | X: https://x.com/USCFInvestments ) Links - Strategic Lithium Reserve (SLR) White Paper: https://blog.rkequity.com/2025/12/08/strategic-lithium-reserve/ - Read Matt's research blog: https://blog.rkequity.com/ - Sign up for the Lithium-Ion Bull newsletter/Matt's Blogs: https://rkequity.com/ Have a question? Drop us an email: [email protected] Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/rockstockchannel Podcast:   Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lithium-ion-rocks/id1457969172   Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0KiMIZOPaDg8ENfPJMSINq X (Twitter):   Howard: https://x.com/LithiumIonBull   Rodney: https://x.com/RodneyHooper13   Matt: https://x.com/matt_fernley _________________________________________________ DISCLAIMER   NOT INVESTMENT ADVICE. DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH Howard, Matt and Rodney are not financial advisors nor broker-dealers, this video is for information purposes only and should not be considered investment or financial advice. Please do your own independent research and read the disclaimer at the end of the video or on RK Equity's website https://www.rkequity.com Intro and outro audio credit: Jamie Klein

Arnab Datta (Employ America) and Alex Turnbull (investor and long-time critical minerals practitioner) sit down with Howard Klein to unpack the policy shift now underway in Washington on critical minerals, rare earths, and battery materials. Chapters (00:00) The Market Stabilization Gap (03:08) Prioritizing Key Minerals (05:14) Guests and Their Focus (10:31) Why Volatility Blocks Investment (15:44) Project Vault and Forge Overview (21:04) Processing Limits and Stockpiling (26:46) SECURE Minerals Act Explained (30:09) Why a New Corporation Model (35:39) Path to Passing the Bill (39:36) What to Include and Why Lithium (44:02) How the Reserve Would Intervene (47:56) China-U.S. Supply Chain Strategy (54:30) Demand Challenges and Oversupply (58:24) Wrap-Up Over the past several weeks, the U.S. conversation has moved from whether government should intervene to how—with new tools emerging across trade, finance, permitting reform, allied supply chains, and stockpiling. We discuss the rollout of Project Vault and the broader Forge effort, alongside recent congressional momentum on supply-side legislation. The focus of this interview is the “missing layer” in the U.S. toolkit: market stabilization. Long-cycle mineral supply chains don’t fail only because of permitting delays—they fail because extreme price volatility can crush investment in downturns and create affordability and security risks in upswings. Arnab and Alex explain why China’s influence isn’t just about overcapacity, but also about control of pricing benchmarks and market infrastructure. We then dive into the SECURE Minerals Act and its proposal for a Strategic Resiliency Reserve—a standing institution designed to stabilize critical minerals markets across cycles, rather than reacting after disruptions occur. We explore how a resiliency reserve could complement (not compete with) initiatives like Project Vault, and why lithium may be the most practical first test case. If you’re tracking U.S. industrial policy, supply chain security, battery metals, and the evolving U.S.–China dynamic in critical minerals, this discussion is a useful framework for understanding what’s changing—and what still needs to be built. Topics covered • Project Vault, FORGE, and the expanding U.S. critical minerals toolkit • Why price volatility is a core bottleneck for investment and supply growth • China’s role in supply, processing, and benchmark pricing infrastructure • SECURE Minerals Act and the Strategic Resiliency Reserve concept • Why lithium and magnet materials are central to electrification and defense • The demand question: EV incentives, AI energy demand, and commercial scale Sponsors - Lithium Royalty Corp (TSX: LIRC) - diversified lithium royalty portfolio. (Website: https://www.lithiumroyaltycorp.com/ | X: https://x.com/Lithium_Royalty) - USCF Investments - commodity-focused ETFs (e.g., CPER copper, ZSB battery metals, USG gold, SDCI diversified commodities). (Website: https://www.uscfinvestments.com/ | X: https://x.com/USCFInvestments) Links - Strategic Lithium Reserve (SLR) White Paper: https://blog.rkequity.com/2025/12/08/strategic-lithium-reserve/ - Read Matt's research blog: https://blog.rkequity.com/ - Sign up for the Lithium-Ion Bull newsletter/Matt's Blogs: https://rkequity.com/ Have a question? Drop us an email: [email protected] Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/rockstockchannel Podcast:   Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lithium-ion-rocks/id1457969172   Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0KiMIZOPaDg8ENfPJMSINq X (Twitter):   Howard: https://x.com/LithiumIonBull   Rodney: https://x.com/RodneyHooper13   Matt: https://x.com/matt_fernley _________________________________________________ DISCLAIMER   NOT INVESTMENT ADVICE. DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH Howard, Matt and Rodney are not financial advisors nor broker-dealers, this video is for information purposes only and should not be considered investment or financial advice. Please do your own independent research and read the disclaimer at the end of the video or on RK Equity's website https://www.rkequity.com Intro and outro audio credit: Jamie Klein

In February 2026’s Recharge podcast, co-presenters Matt Fernley (Battery Materials Review) and Cormac O’Laoire (Electrios Energy) discuss key developments across battery materials and EV markets, including:   • China EV pricing dynamics around Chinese New Year, destocking, and continued price competition • Shifts in EV and PHEV mix, subsidy effects, and market-share gains by smaller Chinese automakers • Sodium-ion positioning versus lithium-ion, with focus on energy density, cold-weather use cases, and supply-chain constraints • Europe and US demand divergence, including affordable model availability in Europe and weak US momentum post tax-credit removal • Lithium price volatility driven by speculative positioning, GFX dynamics, inventory context, and implications for project feasibility and ESS costs   Chapters (00:00) Intro (02:00) China: EV Price War (06:17) Sodium-Ion Reality Check (09:52) China EV Mix Shifts (19:16) Europe: EV Growth (24:56) US: EV Slowdown (27:08) Lithium Price Swing (35:13) ESS Demand Outlook (38:01) ESS Logistics And Tariffs (46:04) Wrap-Up   Links - Read Matt's research blog: https://blog.rkequity.com/   Podcast:   Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lithium-ion-rocks/id1457969172   Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0KiMIZOPaDg8ENfPJMSINq X (Twitter):   Matt: https://x.com/matt_fernley   Have a question? Drop us an email: [email protected] _________________________________________________ DISCLAIMER   NOT INVESTMENT ADVICE. DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH Matt and Cormac are not financial advisors nor broker-dealers, this video is for information purposes only and should not be considered investment or financial advice. Please do your own independent research and read the disclaimer at the end of the video or on RK Equity's website https://www.rkequity.com

Lithium Universe CEO Iggy Tan provides a timely update on the company’s lithium refinery strategy, project financing path, and new technology initiatives as lithium markets recover. Chapters (00:00) Introduction (03:23) Norah Offtake Agreement (07:26) Financing And Lithium Price Recovery (10:10) Brownsville U.S. Refinery Plan (13:52) Quebec Project Priority (15:31) Solar Recycling And Silver Tech (18:30) Demo Plant Strategy (20:28) Silver Demand And Government Support (23:14) Near-Term Catalysts (24:36) Nigeria Feedstock Supply (28:34) CapEx And Funding Path (30:59) Outlook And Closing   We (Howard and Rodney) discuss Lithium Universe’s binding 10-year (plus 5-year evergreen) feedstock agreement with Norah Mining Limited, securing 80,000 tonnes per annum of spodumene concentrate with a partner discount that could materially strengthen refinery margins and improve financing discussions. For merchant lithium converters, feedstock security is often the critical hurdle — this agreement directly addresses that risk. We also review the company’s plan to replicate its Quebec refinery model in Brownsville, Texas, positioning the project within the U.S. critical minerals supply chain with port access, established infrastructure, and permitting advantages. Beyond lithium conversion, we examine Lithium Universe’s photovoltaic (solar panel) recycling and silver extraction technology, which uses microwave separation and electrochemical recovery to produce high-purity silver while reducing reagent consumption. With silver now recognized as a critical metal, this adds a potential second value stream to the business. Finally, we talk through the lithium price rebound, how current carbonate prices compare to the company’s DFS assumptions, and what that means for project economics, partnerships, and next milestones. Topics covered: • Lithium refinery development in Quebec and Texas • Long-term spodumene supply agreements • Lithium price recovery and project economics • Battery metals and critical minerals strategy • Solar panel recycling and silver recovery technology • Financing, JV partners, and near-term catalysts As always, our aim is to provide a clear, balanced discussion of the strategy, risks, and opportunities shaping Lithium Universe’s next phase.   Sponsors - Lithium Royalty Corp (TSX: LIRC) - diversified lithium royalty portfolio. (Website: https://www.lithiumroyaltycorp.com/ | X: https://x.com/Lithium_Royalty) - USCF Investments - commodity-focused ETFs (e.g., CPER copper, ZSB battery metals, USG gold, SDCI diversified commodities). (Website: https://www.uscfinvestments.com/ | X: https://x.com/USCFInvestments)   Links - Strategic Lithium Reserve (SLR) White Paper: https://blog.rkequity.com/2025/12/08/strategic-lithium-reserve/ - Read Matt's research blog: https://blog.rkequity.com/ - Sign up for the Lithium-Ion Bull newsletter/Matt's Blogs: https://rkequity.com/ Have a question? Drop us an email: [email protected] Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/rockstockchannel Podcast:   Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lithium-ion-rocks/id1457969172   Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0KiMIZOPaDg8ENfPJMSINq X (Twitter):   Howard: https://x.com/LithiumIonBull   Rodney: https://x.com/RodneyHooper13   Matt: https://x.com/matt_fernley _________________________________________________ DISCLAIMER   NOT INVESTMENT ADVICE. DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH Howard, Matt and Rodney are not financial advisors nor broker-dealers, this video is for information purposes only and should not be considered investment or financial advice. Please do your own independent research and read the disclaimer at the end of the video or on RK Equity's website https://www.rkequity.com Intro and outro audio credit: Jamie Klein

In this week’s Rock Stock recap, we (Howard, Matt, and Rodney) review one of the most consequential weeks for global critical minerals, lithium, EV demand, and commodity markets, and discuss what it means for investors, operators, and supply chains across mining, batteries, and electrification. Chapters (00:00) Intro (02:27) Project Vault And Policy Tools (04:27) Lithium, Batteries, Strategic Reserve (08:02) EV Market Review And 2026 Outlook (12:34) U.S. EV Demand And Auto Pullbacks (15:14) GM Supply Chain And Phosphate Gap (17:55) Commodity Selloff And Deleveraging (27:24) AI Buildout And Mining Opportunity (30:41) Lithium Earnings And Deal Updates (34:57) Wrap-Up (36:59) JD Vance (41:16) Marco Rubio (42:05) David Copley (42:23) Trump (42:40) Howard Lutnick (42:56) John Jovanovic (43:40) Doug Burgum (44:10) Robert Friedland   Podcast ft. Robert Friedland & Jeff Currie: https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-kff6t-1a30bfa   We begin with the latest developments in U.S. and allied critical minerals policy, including Project Vault, permitting reform, and new trade frameworks aimed at stabilizing long-cycle investment in mining, processing, and downstream manufacturing. While policy momentum is increasing, we focus equally on the practical questions: where demand growth comes from and how markets actually clear. Matt then walks through a detailed electric vehicle (EV) market outlook by region. Europe and the rest of the world remain strong, while the U.S. market is slowing following tax credit changes, and China shows a clear second-half deceleration as subsidies fade. We discuss 2026 growth expectations and what these trends imply for lithium and battery materials demand. We also examine several important supply chain risks, including GM’s procurement strategy and the underappreciated phosphate/LFP bottleneck, which could become the next constraint after lithium and graphite. On the markets side, we break down the recent selloff in gold, copper, lithium, uranium, and Bitcoin, attributing much of the volatility to leveraged positioning and broad deleveraging, rather than a change in long-term fundamentals. Rodney adds perspective on macro conditions, the new Fed chair, debt markets, and the continued institutional preference for hard assets over paper assets. Finally, we cover copper fundamentals, inventories vs. price signals, lithium pricing levels, earnings season (including Albemarle), M&A headlines, and select developments across the battery metals and mining equities space. Our goal is to provide clear, grounded analysis of lithium, EVs, copper, mining stocks, and commodity markets without hype—focusing on what the data and market structure are actually telling us. Topics covered: • Critical minerals policy & supply chains • Lithium and battery materials outlook • EV sales trends: U.S., China, Europe • Phosphate/LFP risks • Commodity selloff & deleveraging • Copper inventories and fundamentals • Fed policy & macro backdrop • Lithium earnings and sector news If you follow lithium stocks, mining equities, battery metals, EV demand, or commodity investing, this weekly review will keep you up to date with the key drivers shaping the market.   Sponsors - Lithium Royalty Corp (TSX: LIRC) - diversified lithium royalty portfolio. (Website: https://www.lithiumroyaltycorp.com/ | X: https://x.com/Lithium_Royalty) - USCF Investments - commodity-focused ETFs (e.g., CPER copper, ZSB battery metals, USG gold, SDCI diversified commodities). (Website: https://www.uscfinvestments.com/ | X: https://x.com/USCFInvestments)   Links - Strategic Lithium Reserve (SLR) White Paper: https://blog.rkequity.com/2025/12/08/strategic-lithium-reserve/ - Read Matt's research blog: https://blog.rkequity.com/ - Sign up for the Lithium-Ion Bull newsletter/Matt's Blogs: https://rkequity.com/ Have a question? Drop us an email: [email protected] Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/rockstockchannel Podcast:   Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lithium-ion-rocks/id1457969172   Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0KiMIZOPaDg8ENfPJMSINq X (Twitter):   Howard: https://x.com/LithiumIonBull   Rodney: https://x.com/RodneyHooper13   Matt: https://x.com/matt_fernley _________________________________________________ DISCLAIMER   NOT INVESTMENT ADVICE. DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH Howard, Matt and Rodney are not financial advisors nor broker-dealers, this video is for information purposes only and should not be considered investment or financial advice. Please do your own independent research and read the disclaimer at the end of the video or on RK Equity's website https://www.rkequity.com Intro and outro audio credit: Jamie Klein

Ana Cabral, CEO of Sigma Lithium (NASDAQ/TSXV: SGML) discusses the company’s restart of mining operations at its flagship hard-rock lithium project in Minas Gerais, Brazil, and what that means for production, costs, cash flow, and growth. Chapters (00:00) Introduction (02:14) Restart Timeline (03:05) Cash Flow And Costs (05:45) Fines Sales Strategy (10:18) Plant Recovery Performance (11:35) Move To Owner Mining (13:51) Expansion Plans (16:45) Funding And Loans (19:23) Team And Operations (27:22) Prepay And Offtakes (31:56) Closing Remarks   Sigma has remobilized to site and expects to reach steady-state production within approximately three months, with updated production guidance to follow shortly thereafter. We review the company’s operating profile, including all-in sustaining costs near $600 per tonne, historical production levels of 220–270kt per year, and management’s view that the operation remains profitable across a wide range of lithium price scenarios. We also examine several key developments: • Transition from contract mining to owner-operated mining and the potential impact on safety, productivity, and margins • Plant performance and recoveries (~70% DMS) • Monetization of high-purity fines inventory as an incremental revenue stream • Status of Phase 2 expansion, with most civil works completed and remaining equipment capex outlined • Funding strategy, including cash flow, development bank financing, and customer prepayments/offtakes • The depth of Sigma’s technical and operational team as it scales production Our goal in this discussion is to clarify what has changed operationally, what risks remain, and how management is approaching capital discipline and growth in the current lithium market. If you follow lithium stocks, battery metals, EV supply chains, or hard-rock spodumene producers, this interview provides a detailed operational update directly from management.   Sponsors - Lithium Royalty Corp (TSX: LIRC) - diversified lithium royalty portfolio. (Website: https://www.lithiumroyaltycorp.com/ | X: https://x.com/Lithium_Royalty) - USCF Investments - commodity-focused ETFs (e.g., CPER copper, ZSB battery metals, USG gold, SDCI diversified commodities). (Website: https://www.uscfinvestments.com/ | X: https://x.com/USCFInvestments)   Links - Strategic Lithium Reserve (SLR) White Paper: https://blog.rkequity.com/2025/12/08/strategic-lithium-reserve/ - Read Matt's research blog: https://blog.rkequity.com/ - Sign up for the Lithium-Ion Bull newsletter/Matt's Blogs: https://rkequity.com/ Have a question? Drop us an email: [email protected] Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/rockstockchannel Podcast:   Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lithium-ion-rocks/id1457969172   Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0KiMIZOPaDg8ENfPJMSINq X (Twitter):   Howard: https://x.com/LithiumIonBull   Rodney: https://x.com/RodneyHooper13   Matt: https://x.com/matt_fernley _________________________________________________ DISCLAIMER   NOT INVESTMENT ADVICE. DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH Howard, Matt and Rodney are not financial advisors nor broker-dealers, this video is for information purposes only and should not be considered investment or financial advice. Please do your own independent research and read the disclaimer at the end of the video or on RK Equity's website https://www.rkequity.com Intro and outro audio credit: Jamie Klein