Rock Stock Channel

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

In today’s update on The Metals Company (NASDAQ: TMC), Howard and Rodney sit down with CFO Craig Shesky to review the company’s latest regulatory and permitting developments and what they mean for the path to commercial production. Chapters (00:00) Introduction (03:37) New NOAA Rules (06:38) Larger Mining Area (10:29) Metal Prices And Outlook (12:59) CEO House Hearing TMC has filed what it describes as the first consolidated U.S. application with NOAA, combining both exploration and commercial recovery into a single process. Management views this updated framework as a way to streamline permitting, reduce duplication, and potentially shorten timelines — effectively de-risking the project from a regulatory standpoint. At the same time, the company has expanded its initial commercial recovery area from ~25,000 km² to ~65,000 km², increasing the defined and anticipated nodule resource from roughly 360 million tonnes to more than 800 million tonnes across a contiguous zone. We discuss what this larger footprint means in practical terms — not just headline scale, but operational sequencing, environmental data requirements, and how management is thinking about ramp-up. Topics covered include: • NOAA’s updated deep-seabed mining rules and consolidated application pathway • What “de-risking through permitting” actually means • Expansion of the commercial recovery area (25,000 → 65,000 km²) • Resource growth (360Mt → 800+ Mt nodules) • Pre-feasibility study assumptions and economics • Metal price sensitivity (nickel, copper, cobalt, manganese) • The broader U.S. mineral security and supply chain context For viewers new to the story, The Metals Company is a deep-sea minerals developer focused on collecting and processing polymetallic nodules containing nickel, copper, cobalt, and manganese — materials used in electrification and battery supply chains. At the end of the video, we’ve appended recent clips of CEO Gerard Barron’s testimony before the U.S. House, where he outlines the strategic role deep-sea nodules may play in domestic critical mineral supply. 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 _________________________________________________ If you follow critical minerals, battery metals, deep-sea mining, or U.S. permitting policy, this conversation provides a straightforward look at where the project stands today. #TheMetalsCompany #TMC #DeepSeaMining #CriticalMinerals #BatteryMetals #Nickel #Copper #Cobalt #ResourceInvesting #MiningStocks

After processing the World Economic Forum (Davos) and the Future Minerals Forum (Riyadh), we sat down to unpack what we’re seeing in markets as commodities move from cyclical to strategic. In this Rock Stock Recap, Howard, Matt and Rodney discuss how geopolitics—choke points, export controls, reserves, and policy alignment—are increasingly shaping price formation in critical minerals, and why that shift changes how investors should think about valuation, project selection, and long-duration assets in strong jurisdictions. Chapters (00:00) Intro (00:57) Commodities Become Strategic Assets (04:17) Davos And Rising Geopolitical Risk (07:23) Gold Repatriation And China's Role (09:26) Precious Metals And Fiat Skepticism (11:05) Silver Prices Hit Demand Limits (16:27) Capital Flows: Gold, Bitcoin, And Hard Assets (20:20) Platinum And Palladium Outlook (22:08) Lithium Costs And Demand Risk (24:15) Copper, Aluminum, And Nickel Update (29:11) Lithium Producers Performance Review (34:10) Closing Remarks (35:48) Howard Lutnick & Champagne (40:21) Robert Friedland (41:02) Mark Carney (Canada) (43:55) Friedrich Merz (Germany) (45:28) Elon Musk (Tesla)   They also cover early signals from lithium reporting season and what improving spot pricing could mean for producers and developers, alongside broader commodity moves across precious metals and industrial metals. Rodney and Matt dig into the silver rally—why equities haven’t tracked the metal, how solar economics may drive “thrifting,” and what happens if demand transitions from industrial use toward investment-led dynamics. We compare the current setup in gold versus silver, and touch on platinum and palladium in a world where ICE longevity, changing EV regulations, and competing technologies all matter. On the macro side, we talk through Europe’s evolving posture after Davos, potential supply chain redirection, currency and reserve diversification, and how a weaker dollar can pressure global cost curves. We close with a measured look at the broader economy: AI’s productivity upside versus uneven distribution, a more K-shaped consumption landscape, and what a shifting global order could mean for commodities and real assets in 2026. Topics include: geopolitics and critical minerals, Davos takeaways, strategic commodities, lithium earnings season, silver and gold dynamics, solar panel cost pressure, platinum/palladium outlook, copper and industrial metals, nickel and Indonesia regulation, inflation pass-through, and AI’s impact on growth and jobs.   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 episode, I (Howard Klein) connect fast-moving signals across critical minerals, power markets, and U.S. industrial policy coming out of Saudi Arabia’s Future Minerals Forum, Davos/DERVOS, and Washington, DC. Chapters (00:00) Introduction (08:31) Tesla Refinery (10:26) Policy signals from Washington (15:04) DERVOS panel highlights (17:41) Chamath Palahapitiya on Power (19:16) Albemarle (19:28) Sigma Lithium DERVOS 2025 Panel: https://open.spotify.com/episode/4XnNN8QmghJsUZd7tDcccR?si=kM0uILyBR3ymguUFQ6B2GQ   Washington looks increasingly like it’s moved from policy papers to capital allocation: the SECURE Minerals Act, renewed focus on stockpiling and protecting mining returns, and references to deals/platforms involving MP Materials, Lithium Americas, Korea Zinc, Orion Mine Finance, and TechMet. At the same time, power markets are getting political. A joint letter tied to the National Energy Dominance Council and governors to PJM Interconnection pushed for capacity market reform—price certainty for new generation, clearer cost allocation to data centers, and consumer protections—fueling broader debate about grid strain, AI load growth, and investment needs. The connective tissue: batteries and materials are now central to mineral policy, grid design, AI infrastructure, and capital markets. With Tesla’s 50,000 tpa lithium hydroxide refinery now operating and the U.S. likely needing many more plants, I argue lithium price stability is the missing link—and why a Strategic Lithium Reserve (SLR) matters. Clips included from DERVOS (a “Davos for DERs”) featuring Drew Baglino (Heron Power/ ex-Tesla), LG Energy Solution, and Ember Energy on scaling storage and the shift from petrostates to electrostates.   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 interview, we (Howard and Matt) speak with John Passalacqua, CEO of First Phosphate (CSE: PHOS) about the rapidly evolving lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery supply chain and why phosphate remains one of the least understood — yet most important — inputs in LFP cathodes. Chapters (00:00) Introduction (04:24) LFP Demand Shift (05:59) Offtake Prepayment (06:46) 2026 Feasibility Path (07:45) Why High-Purity Phosphate (10:47) LFP-First Strategy (13:32) China Vs. The West (15:54) Western Buildout Gaps (18:30) Iron Phosphate Bottleneck (22:21) Policy And Supply Chains (24:55) Production Timeline (25:48) Cash And Runway (26:52) Macro And Stockpiling (28:11) Wrap-Up First Phosphate Website: https://firstphosphate.com/   We cover what’s changed since our December conversation, including a payment tied to an offtake arrangement, the company’s Quebec-focused, vertically integrated phosphate strategy, and what investors should watch over the next several quarters. John walks through the company’s 30,000-meter drill program (targeted to complete by April) and how results could support a 10–20% resource upgrade, alongside the stated goal of completing a feasibility study by the end of 2026. We also discuss the broader market context: accelerating energy storage demand, the push to localize LFP supply chains outside China, and the often-overlooked role of purified phosphoric acid and iron phosphate in downstream battery production. John explains why First Phosphate is positioned differently from fertilizer-oriented phosphate producers and outlines key development timelines and capital position referenced in the discussion. Topics include: - LFP batteries and energy storage demand (data centers, robotics) - Phosphate’s role in LFP cathode materials - Offtake prepayment and what it signals for bankability - Drill program progress and upcoming technical milestones - Feasibility study timeline and investor-relevant catalysts - Localization of North American LFP and iron phosphate supply chains   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   #FirstPhosphate #PHOS #LFP #LithiumIronPhosphate #BatteryMetals #CriticalMinerals #EnergyStorage #Phosphate #EVBatteries #MiningStocks #QuebecMining

In this first RK Equity X Spaces of 2026, we (Howard Klein, Matt Fernley, and Rodney Hooper) pull together the key threads shaping the battery materials and critical minerals landscape as the year begins. The discussion focuses on how lithium is moving back toward fundamentals, why energy storage is increasingly driving marginal demand, and what that means for investors across the supply chain. Chapters (00:00:00) Introduction (00:08:19) Macro And Silver (00:10:55) Lithium: Demand And Supply (00:13:26) 5 Lithium Themes For 2026 (00:15:24) Sodium-Ion Substitution (00:19:51) Pricing And Inventories (00:27:51) Buy-Side Outlook (00:37:18) EVs And ESS Growth (00:54:02) Silver: Demand Debate (00:59:45) Rare Earths And Minor Metals (01:11:11) U.S. Policy And Geopolitics (01:22:24) Defense Batteries And Constraints (01:26:35) Wrap-Up We review recent signals from the market and the sell side—including tightening inventories, stronger-than-expected energy storage demand, and shifting bank sentiment—and then pressure-test the outlook with a mix of independent research and buy-side perspectives. A key theme is whether this cycle differs from prior EV-led lithium cycles, and how supply response, capital discipline, and policy decisions may influence price behavior through 2026–2027. Rodney provides macro context around the “debasement trade” and the case for hard assets, using silver as an example of where industrial demand and investment demand can intersect. Matt outlines the core questions for 2026: demand durability, potential substitution risks (including sodium-ion in stationary storage), and how quickly supply can respond to higher prices. We’re joined by guests across the ecosystem, including: - Andy Leyland (SC Insights) on “five things to watch” for lithium in 2026—forecast revisions, ESS demand, feasibility study activity, capex inflation, and evolving product pathways. - Tomasz Nadrowski (Amvest Terraden Critical Materials Fund) with a cautious buy-side lens on cycle positioning, China-driven dynamics, and capital allocation challenges. - Tom Woolrych (Deutsche Rohstoff) on equity sentiment, lithium cycle behavior, and where risk/reward may be most attractive. - Chris Berry (House Mountain Partners) on U.S. policy, supply chain security, defense and data-center demand, and why lesser-known critical minerals may see more institutional attention. Topics covered include lithium inventories and restocking cycles, ESS vs. EV demand, supply elasticity, capex and project economics, sodium-ion substitution risk, silver’s demand drivers and potential substitution in solar, and how geopolitics is influencing critical minerals strategy. 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) discuss the key cross-currents shaping battery materials and the broader commodities complex—what’s driving recent price action, what’s changing in investor positioning, and where fundamentals are reasserting themselves. Chapters (00:00) Intro (04:54) Macro: Shift To Hard Assets (06:37) Silver And Gold Outlook (08:42) Dollar And Commodity Currencies (14:01) Lithium: Demand And Pricing (16:52) Analyst Upgrades And Market Sentiment (19:35) High-Purity Alumina Spotlight (24:33) Other Materials To Watch (25:13) Outro (26:12) Q2 Metals (29:52) Surge Battery Metals (34:49) NOA Lithium Brines   We start with policy and market structure: the latest White House fact sheet on critical minerals processing, the increasing focus on allied and domestic refining capacity, and why price volatility—not just permitting or supply chains—is emerging as a central problem. We also touch on signals of potential bipartisan legislation that may address market stability, aligning with the strategic lithium reserve concept that frames lithium more like infrastructure than a typical commodity. Rodney then outlines his macro view on the renewed preference for physical hard assets over paper claims, with implications for precious metals, sovereign reserves, and commodity-linked currencies. We discuss how investor behavior is shifting across gold and silver, and what that could mean for real assets in an environment of heavy refinancing needs and persistent fiscal pressure. From there, Matt digs into lithium: the strength of the recent move, whether current prices are sustainable, and how higher prices may bring parts of the incentive curve back into play—especially projects that were delayed during the downturn and may require updated feasibility work at today’s pricing assumptions. We also reference the tone shift from sell-side research, including recent sector upgrades, and the risks that come with “this time is different” narratives even as market depth and demand mix evolve. We close with a discussion on high-purity alumina (HPA) as an example of a niche, processing-led material with growing relevance in semiconductors and batteries—why identifying the right materials matters as much as identifying the right companies, and why “chokepoint” processing capacity is becoming a recurring theme across critical minerals. Company Updates (Additional Videos): - Alicia Milne, CEO of Q2 Metals Corp - Graham Harris, Chairman of Surge Battery Metals (including the company’s upsized $25M financing update) - Gabriel Rubacha, CEO of NOA Lithium Brines   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 the January 2026 episode of the Recharge Podcast, we (Matt from RK Equity / Battery Materials Review and Cormac O'Laoire, Managing Director at Electrios Energy) review the key battery and EV market signals coming out of 2025 and what they imply for 2026. Chapters (00:00) Intro (01:34) 2025 EV Demand Shift (06:36) China: BYD And New Rivals (10:02) China: Subsidies And Growth (12:26) US Vs Europe EV Trends (18:32) Europe Targets And Supply Chain (22:13) China Export Rebate Changes (24:26) Energy Storage Boom (27:57) Materials And Cell Prices (33:14) Next-Gen Storage Options (42:41) New Demand Drivers (48:01) Outro   We cover how China’s EV market is shifting toward PHEVs and EREVs, including policy-driven changes to minimum electric-only range and the resulting push toward larger battery packs. We also discuss the changing competitive landscape in China—where smaller EVs can still top sales charts even as OEMs compete aggressively in higher-end segments. Outside China, we compare the 2025 outcomes in the US and Europe, including the US slowdown late in the year, Europe’s stronger-than-expected growth, and what Chinese OEM and battery supply chain investment could mean for European market structure. On the supply chain side, we unpack China’s export rebate changes and how they may affect Tier 2 battery makers, near-term energy storage battery availability, and the balance between domestic Chinese demand and export flows. We then turn to raw materials and cell pricing—why lithium, nickel, cobalt and manganese trends matter, how inventories and contracting can delay price pass-through, and where higher-duration energy storage systems may feel cost pressure first. Finally, we look at potential demand drivers that may be underappreciated—including Class 8 electric trucking, marine electrification, higher energy density chemistries, and longer-term battery demand from robotics and automation. Topics covered: - China EV market: PHEVs/EREVs, policy shifts, and competitive dynamics - US vs Europe EV demand trends and market structure implications - China export rebate changes and impacts on battery supply and pricing - Lithium and broader raw material pricing pass-through into cells and ESS - Energy storage duration economics, hybrid chemistries, and long-duration alternatives   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 episode of Rock Stock Channel, we (Howard and Matt) sit down with Advanced Energy Minerals (ASX: AEM) for a detailed follow-up discussion following the company’s recent IPO. We are joined by Executive Chairman Richard Seville and CEO Michael (Mick) Adams to explore how the company is positioning itself in the global high purity alumina (HPA) market. Chapters (00:00) Introduction (06:14) HPA Grades Explained (08:23) Alpha Vs Gamma Products (11:03) Low-Uranium For Semiconductors (13:43) Specs That Matter (14:42) Pipeline, Qualification, Pricing (20:00) Supply Chains And China (24:10) Consistency And Morphology (24:37) How The Process Works (26:59) Fixing The Original Plant (28:29) Quebec Power Advantage (28:53) Phased Expansion Plan (30:53) Funding (32:50) Market Size And Parallels (34:18) Listing Takeaways (36:18) How New Materials Markets Mature (38:01) Closing Remarks We discuss AEM’s transition from private ownership to a publicly listed company, its brownfield restart strategy in Quebec, and the delivery of commercial-scale HPA production. The conversation focuses on the fundamentals of the HPA market, including demand drivers across semiconductors, advanced ceramics, LEDs, batteries, and emerging AI-related applications. A key part of the discussion is devoted to explaining HPA purity grades, including the differences between 3N, 4N, and 5N material, as well as alpha versus gamma alumina. Mick provides insight into why impurity profiles, particle morphology, and consistency matter as much as headline purity levels, particularly for semiconductor and thermal management applications. We also examine Advanced Energy Minerals’ customer qualification process, pricing dynamics, and growing commercial pipeline, including progress with ultra-low uranium products. The discussion covers global supply chains, China’s role in the HPA market, and why reliable, non-Chinese supply is increasingly important for high-end applications. Finally, we walk through AEM’s processing route, lessons learned from the asset’s original development, the advantages of low-cost hydroelectric power in Quebec, and the company’s phased growth strategy. We conclude with a broader discussion on how emerging materials markets evolve, drawing on lessons from earlier stages of other critical materials markets. This video is intended for investors seeking a clearer understanding of high purity alumina, its applications, and how Advanced Energy Minerals is approaching execution, scale-up, and customer engagement. 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 Rock Stock Recap, we (Howard and Matt) sit down with YJ Lee (Arcane Capital) in Singapore to assess what’s changed in the lithium market—and why this rally looks different from the false starts investors have seen before. Chapters (00:00:00) Intro (00:05:42) Shorting Lithium? Quick View (00:06:00) Why Lithium Spiked In China (00:06:48) CATL Closure And Seasonality (00:10:28) ESS Demand: Shipments vs Installs (00:12:06) ESS Economics And Price Sensitivity (00:17:30) Storage Needs In The Big Picture (00:20:28) EV Demand Outlook By Region (00:24:57) Why Broker Forecasts Miss (00:28:09) Why ESS Demand Could Stay Strong (00:30:56) Next Demand Drivers Beyond EVs (00:36:26) Supply Outlook By Region (00:41:17) Deficit Scenarios And Sodium Risk (01:02:50) Macro Risk And Recession Talk (01:07:26) Silver: Solar-Driven Deficit (01:13:15) Closing Thoughts We cover the key drivers behind the sharp move in China lithium prices, including tightening inventories and the growing influence of battery energy storage systems (ESS). A major theme is the “shipments vs installations” debate in grid storage: strong ESS cell output has pushed through normal EV seasonality, helping draw down lithium inventories across the system. We also discuss whether higher lithium and cell prices could eventually pressure ESS economics, and how project duration (4-hour vs 6–8-hour systems) affects overall demand. On the demand side, YJ outlines a more aggressive view of lithium consumption growth—driven by ESS, electrified trucking, and a widening set of electrification use cases—while Matt frames the near-term through a fundamentals lens and highlights where market expectations can get ahead of reality. We then turn to supply: what “latent supply” really means, the pace of growth in Chile (including SQM), Argentina, China, Africa, and Australia, and why conversion capacity is unlikely to be the primary bottleneck versus mined supply over time. We close with a focused discussion on silver: the structural deficit driven by solar demand, the tension between physical and paper markets, and why this may be a useful analog for how deficit commodities can behave over longer periods. Topics covered include: lithium price, lithium inventories, lithium carbonate, lithium hydroxide, China lithium market, battery energy storage (BESS/ESS), grid storage, EV battery demand, electric trucks, critical minerals, supply/demand balance, conversion capacity, SQM, Argentina lithium, Africa lithium, and silver market deficits. 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 panel discussion, I (Howard Klein) moderate a conversation on how Nevada is positioning itself as a leading U.S. hub for domestic lithium supply—linking mining, refining, battery production, and recycling into a more integrated “closed-loop” ecosystem. Chapters (00:00) Introduction (01:20) Nevada's Closed-Loop Supply Chain (04:07) Panelist Introductions (06:57) Lithium Market Cycles (13:27) Rhyolite Ridge Advantage (18:29) Recycling And Mining Strategy (23:09) Nevada Support And Permitting (25:58) Federal Policy And Critical Minerals (32:01) China And EV Outlook (36:05) Why Few New EV Makers (38:57) Defense Support And Stockpiles (42:57) Wrap-Up Joining me are: - Melanie Sheldon (Nevada Governor’s Office of Economic Development) on why Nevada is uniquely active across the full lithium value chain, and how the state supports projects through workforce development, incentives, and a mature permitting environment. - John Evans (Lithium Americas) on Thacker Pass—construction status, the GM joint venture, financing realities, and what it takes to build large-scale lithium projects through commodity cycles. - James Calaway (Ioneer) on Rhyolite Ridge—project readiness, the role of DOE financing, and how co-producing boric acid can materially improve the project’s cost position. - Ryan Melsert (American Battery Technology Company) on pairing battery recycling with primary lithium production—why both are needed, how recycling can support earlier cash flow, and the pathway from demonstration to commercial scale. We also cover the broader market and policy context: lithium’s boom-bust dynamics, the scale of North American battery buildout versus available domestic supply, and how U.S. industrial policy is evolving across administrations—especially around permitting, DOE programs, and the competitive landscape with China. Topics include: Nevada lithium, Thacker Pass, Rhyolite Ridge, lithium carbonate, lithium hydroxide, battery recycling, critical minerals policy, DOE Loan Programs Office, EV supply chain, U.S. battery manufacturing, and China competition. #Lithium #Nevada #CriticalMinerals #BatteryRecycling #EVSupplyChain #ThackerPass #RhyoliteRidge #LithiumAmericas #Ioneer #ABTC 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 episode, we (Howard and Matt) step outside Washington to examine how China approaches batteries, critical minerals, and supply chain strategy from the inside. Our guest is Henry Sanderson—former China-based journalist (including at the Financial Times) and author of Volt Rush—who brings on-the-ground perspective on how Chinese industrial policy, corporate competition, and capital allocation actually work in practice. Chapters (00:00:00) Intro (00:03:35) Henry's China Background (00:04:23) China Strategy Myths (00:07:09) Competition And Price Wars (00:12:38) Can The U.S. Catch Up? (00:20:53) Tech: Copy Or Reinvent? (00:28:59) Price Manipulation Debate (00:32:22) Overcapacity Crackdown (00:34:44) Jobs And Consumption (00:39:33) Securing Lithium Supply (00:42:33) China Cost Edge (00:46:44) U.S.-China Rivalry (00:50:46) China Investment In U.S.? (00:54:38) China Consumption Problem (01:00:13) 5-10 Year Outlook (01:06:22) U.S.-Europe Dynamics (01:08:13) Closing Remarks We discuss why many Western observers overestimate how “centrally coordinated” China is, and why intense competition and price wars—especially in LFP cathodes and parts of the midstream—have created a mixed picture: CATL generating strong profits while much of the broader ecosystem (midstream processing, lithium producers, and many EV makers) operates under margin pressure. Henry explains how local government incentives, credit availability, and overcapacity can drive rapid buildouts, and why Beijing is now signaling a more serious push to address “excessive competition.” From the U.S. perspective, we explore what is realistically achievable in critical minerals processing, cathodes, anodes, batteries, graphite, and rare earth magnets over the next few years, and where timelines are likely to extend toward the end of the decade. We also look at why the demand narrative is shifting from “EV-only” toward grid reliability, energy storage (ESS), data centers, and AI infrastructure, and what that means for lithium and battery supply chain resilience. Key themes covered: - China’s industrial strategy: coordination vs. competition - Overcapacity and consolidation: what changes, and why now - LFP cathodes: profitability, technology cycles, and global expansion - U.S. supply chain rebuilding: feasibility, bottlenecks, and timelines - Minerals vs. midstream: where China’s advantages are hardest to replicate - Cost structure realities: industrial clusters, policy tools, and VAT rebates - Geopolitics and trade-offs: de-risking, investment, and the “G2” question - The long view: energy, electricity costs, and the next phase of competition 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 episode of Rock Stock Channel, we (Howard and Rodney) sit down with Chris Evans (CEO, Winsome Resources) and Francis MacDonald (CEO, Li-FT Power) to walk through the recently announced scheme of arrangement to merge Winsome and Li-FT. Chapters (00:00) Introduction (05:41) Why Merge (07:17) Winsome Constraints (09:31) Agnico/Avenir Support (10:57) $40M Financing (13:58) Pro Forma Cash (17:12) Rework Economics (20:20) Renard Optionality (24:34) Leadership Shift (26:50) Permitting Edge (28:42) Near-Term Milestones (30:41) Yellowknife Asset (34:24) Alberta Downstream (39:07) Cycle And Valuation (43:05) Closing Remarks   Rather than rehashing the press release, we focus on what shareholders and lithium investors are debating most: the strategic logic for full consolidation, what changes when Adina and the adjoining ground are brought together, and why capital certainty, permitting execution, and governance matter at this point in the lithium cycle—especially for high-quality Quebec spodumene development projects.   Key topics we cover: - Why a merger (vs. JV): Francis explains the technical rationale for consolidating the land package and removing boundary constraints to potentially unlock greater pit scale and development flexibility. - What Winsome gains: Chris outlines the core constraints Winsome faced as a standalone developer—funding the next study phase, permitting de-risking, TSX connectivity, and optionality around the Renard infrastructure—and how the combination addresses them. - Avenir / Agnico Eagle backdrop: We discuss how Li-FT’s strategic relationship with Avenir (a subsidiary of Agnico Eagle) could influence permitting, stakeholder engagement, and project development credibility in Quebec. - Financing structure: Francis breaks down the $40M bought deal (subscription receipts plus sidecar financing), including the mix of hard dollars and flow-through, and how that capital is intended to fund drilling and studies across the portfolio. - Balance sheet and optionality: We review expected cash and equity positions at close (including the referenced equity holdings) and how a stronger balance sheet can change development sequencing and negotiation posture. - Work plan and milestones: We outline what we’ll be watching over the coming months—trade-off studies, resource integration planning, drilling cadence, and how management intends to integrate teams “with continuity and without duplication.” - What Li-FT shareholders bring to the table: Francis summarizes Li-FT’s Yellowknife Lithium Project (infrastructure advantages and planned drilling) and discusses the early look at a potential downstream refining concept in Alberta. 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 Rock Stock Recap episode, Howard, Matt, and Rodney sit down with Ernie Ortiz (CEO, Lithium Royalty Corp) and Ofer Amir (Clean Elements family office) to discuss why sentiment and pricing changed so sharply in 2025, and why the next leg of the lithium cycle may be driven less by EV headlines and more by battery energy storage systems (BESS). Chapters (00:00) Intro (04:26) Why Argentine Brines (08:18) Galan Brine Case (16:06) DLE vs Traditional Projects (18:01) Winsome & Power Metals Updates (23:26) Quebec Outlook & M&A (28:09) Lithium Pricing Setup (30:24) US Minerals Policy (33:02) Middle East Storage (36:23) 2026 Watchlist (40:26) Risks, Upside & Wrap We cover: - Why energy storage demand is becoming a primary driver for lithium (and why carbonate/LFP matters) - How major banks and industry players are framing the 2026 lithium outlook - Why Argentine brines are viewed as strategic — including valuation comparisons and past takeout benchmarks - What to watch in Argentina’s policy and investment environment, and why it may matter for project development - Brines vs hard rock vs DLE: how institutional investors and royalty companies think about risk, cost, and timelines - Key royalty and deal updates (including Winsome/Li-FT and Power Metals/Albemarle) - The Quebec lithium pipeline and what consolidation could look like in North America - Macro watchpoints: US critical minerals policy, supply chain buildout, and the pace of ex-China conversion capacity 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 December 2025 episode of the Recharge Podcast, we (Matt Fernley, editor of Battery Materials Review, and Cormac O’Laoire, MD of Electrios Energy) break down the key developments shaping the battery supply chain as we head into 2026. Chapters (00:00) Introduction (01:21) Overstated Lithium Demand Forecasts (02:44) EV Battery Size Trends (06:25) Lithium Market Risks (08:40) CATL and China Supply (13:01) NIO Semi-Solid Battery (15:13) Solid-State Reality Check (17:06) Battery Costs Turning Point (19:25) China Pricing Reset (22:16) Gigafactory Challenges (25:24) BESS Growth vs Inventories (34:29) BESS Becomes Strategic (38:51) Lithium Prices and Alternatives (41:48) Closing We start with why we think parts of the market may be overstating future lithium demand—particularly assumptions around lithium intensity per kWh and average EV pack size. We discuss how consumer preferences for SUVs and crossovers intersect with affordability, and why that matters for long-term demand modelling across Europe and China. We also look at near-term supply dynamics in China, including the situation around CATL’s lithium asset and what low-grade resources mean for cost and production decisions. On technology, we use NIO’s 150 kWh semi-solid pack as a real-world case study for the current economics of semi-solid and solid-state batteries, and where those technologies may find early adoption (including aviation and low-altitude electric flight). Finally, we review the latest signals on battery costs—including pack prices around $108/kWh and recent indications of cell price increases tied to lithium carbonate and cobalt. We then shift to BESS (battery energy storage systems): strong shipment momentum, project delays, inventory build concerns, and why we see energy storage becoming increasingly strategic infrastructure—especially as utilities, grids, and data center demand accelerate. We close with what we’re watching for 2026: lithium price sensitivity, the economics of longer-duration storage, and when alternatives like sodium-ion and flow batteries could become more competitive. Topics covered: Lithium demand forecasts • EV battery size trends • China lithium supply • CATL • Semi-solid & solid-state batteries • Battery pack pricing • LFP • Gigafactory competitiveness • BESS installations vs shipments • Grid storage economics • Long-duration storage • Sodium-ion • Flow batteries 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 - Read Matt's research blog: https://blog.rkequity.com/ - Sign up for the Lithium-Ion Bull newsletter: 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 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 Intro and outro audio credit: Jamie Klein

In this episode, Howard and Matt speak with Richard Seville, Executive Chairman of Advanced Energy Minerals (AEM), ahead of the company’s planned ASX listing (ticker: AEM). Chapters (00:00) Introduction (05:31) Richard's Path to AEM (08:18) What HPA Is & Main Uses (10:42) HPA Market Size & Growth (13:07) AEM Expansion Plans (14:48) Customer Qualification Process (18:11) Manufacturing Process Overview (21:54) Cost Curve Positioning (23:21) Low-Carbon Advantage (25:22) IPO, Capital Structure & Funding (30:27) Comparing AEM to Alpha HPA (35:40) Closing Remarks AEM IPO Prospectus: Drop us an email at [email protected] and we'll send it over. Strategic Lithium Reserve (SLR) White Paper: https://blog.rkequity.com/2025/12/08/strategic-lithium-reserve/ Richard is best known in the lithium industry for founding and leading Orocobre, taking it from a sub–$25m market cap IPO through project build-out, major corporate combinations, and ultimately to a transaction involving a global major. In this interview, we focus on AEM’s strategy in high purity alumina (HPA)—a niche but important industrial material used in sapphire/LED substrates, semiconductors, and emerging battery applications. We cover: - What HPA (4N / 5N purity) is and where it is used in the modern economy - Market size and growth expectations, including supply dynamics and China’s role - AEM’s Québec-based brownfield turnaround of an HPA plant acquired out of insolvency - The company’s current operating status and capacity expansion roadmap (Stage 1 and Stage 2) - How customer qualification works in HPA markets (including typical timelines) - AEM’s process overview (hydrometallurgy + calcining steps) and key cost inputs - The company’s positioning on the global cost curve, including access to low-cost hydro power - The role of low-carbon intensity in customer decision-making and procurement - IPO timing, funding history, balance sheet position, and views on future dilution risk - How AEM compares with other ASX-listed HPA peers, including differences in project stage and financing approach 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 - 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 episode, we’re joined by Keith Phillips for a wide-ranging, data-driven discussion on lithium markets, battery economics, and critical minerals strategy as 2026 approaches. Chapters (00:00:00) Intro (00:05:24) CATL Restart And Lithium Prices (00:07:45) Solid-State Battery Reality Check (00:12:02) Battery Costs: What's Next (00:15:02) Lithium Demand Forecast Pitfalls (00:17:56) EV Battery Size And Mass Market (00:22:52) Autonomy And Battery Demand (00:24:17) Power Metals Deal Update (00:25:29) Q2 Metals And Cisco Overview (00:27:59) Rio Tinto Quebec Strategy (00:30:09) Faster Permitting In Canada (00:31:18) Picking Winners In Lithium Projects (00:35:29) Offtakes Vs. Traders (00:38:53) US Critical Minerals Funding (00:45:09) What's Truly "Critical" (00:47:35) Where To List A Lithium Company (00:55:02) Surge-Evolution JV And 2026 Plans (01:03:43) SLR Breakdown Strategic Lithium Reserve (SLR) White Paper: https://blog.rkequity.com/2025/12/08/strategic-lithium-reserve/ We begin with a deep dive into the Strategic Lithium Reserve (SLR), explaining why price volatility—not geology—is the biggest constraint on Western lithium investment, and how China’s pricing power via CATL, BYD, and the G-FEX exchange has reshaped the global market. We discuss price floors, market stabilization, and why lithium sits at the center of energy security, industrial policy, and the emerging “electrostate” economy. From there, we analyze near-term lithium price drivers, including delays to Chinese supply restarts, seasonal demand patterns, and the growing role of energy storage systems (ESS). We examine battery technology trends, including semi-solid and solid-state batteries, falling battery costs, and what consumer price sensitivity means for EV adoption, battery size, and lithium intensity. The conversation also tackles a critical forecasting issue: whether lithium demand is being overstated due to unrealistic assumptions around battery chemistry and average EV battery size. We compare LFP, mid-nickel, and high-nickel batteries, and discuss how China’s mass-market EV model differs from Western assumptions. Keith shares insights from his experience as a former lithium CEO, including how to evaluate lithium projects, the importance of location and permitting timelines, the realities of offtake agreements versus spot sales, and how government funding and capital markets shape project outcomes. We also discuss Quebec’s growing role in hard-rock lithium, Q2 Metals’ Cisco project, Rio Tinto’s conversion strategy, and the outlook for permitting reform in Canada. We close with a market update on recent deals, including Power Metals and Surge Battery Materials, and discuss where institutional interest in lithium may return as prices stabilize and policy priorities shift. This episode is designed for investors, industry professionals, and policymakers looking for a clear, grounded view of lithium markets, battery economics, and the strategic decisions shaping the next phase of the energy transition. 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 - 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

We've released a major new RK Equity policy white paper:   The USA Strategic Lithium Reserve A Modern SPR for the Lithium Age   Read the full white paper here: https://blog.rkequity.com/2025/12/08/strategic-lithium-reserve/    Lithium prices have swung 10–15× in the past two cycles, driven largely by China’s dominance of chemical conversion. This volatility makes it extremely difficult for Western projects—no matter the geology or management—to reach Final Investment Decision.   After the House critical minerals hearings this fall, one important idea was missing from the policy conversation:   A Strategic Lithium Reserve — an SPR-style buffer for lithium.   The SLR is simple and market-driven: • Buy carbonate when prices fall below sustainable incentive levels • Release during spikes, disruptions, or export threats • Stabilize the chemical margin without price floors or technology favoritism • Enable private capital to finance new Western supply   And critically:   This can begin within months at today’s low prices.   The white paper outlines the cost model ($3–7B) and how a three-phase implementation could stabilize the market and diversify supply chains across the Western Hemisphere.   If you find the analysis valuable, please share it with colleagues in policy, industry, or the investment community. Your support helps bring this idea into the national conversation.   Thanks for reading, Howard Klein RK Equity

The discussion opens with a detailed assessment of Rio Tinto's Lithium Strategy Day—its updated demand outlook, cost assumptions, expansion plans in Argentina and Canada, and the organizational shift aligning lithium with the aluminum division. Howard and Matt examine implications for hard-rock supply, brine dominance, and potential M&A in Quebec. Chapters (00:00:00) Intro (00:01:46) Rio Tinto Strategy Overview (00:15:19) Q2 Metals Drill Results (00:18:03) NOA Lithium and Brine Scarcity (00:20:12) Europe: EMH and Vulcan News (00:27:02) Rare Earth Supply Risks (00:31:00) Solar Growth and Silver Demand (00:32:40) Physical Silver Squeeze (00:35:47) Closing Remarks (00:37:14) 121: NOA Lithium Brines (00:40:42) Q2 Metals in Quebec (00:42:39) Geopolitics & Critical Minerals (00:43:49) Permitting Challenges (00:45:08) Argentina's Mining Climate (00:47:17) U.S. Battery Strategy (00:49:18) Canada's Role (00:50:51) Importance of Copper (00:53:51) Hawke's Point Investment Approach (00:55:24) NOA PEA Highlights (00:57:52) Q2 Resource Growth (00:59:06) Hawke's Commodity Picks (01:03:34) Lithium Market Outlook (01:05:38) M&A Environment (01:10:39) Market Sentiment The conversation then turns to Q2 Metals and its standout drill results at the Cisco Project, which we see as one of the strongest hard-rock intercepts in recent years. Matt explains why the geology, scale, metallurgy, and infrastructure advantages could differentiate Cisco from other Canadian projects. We also discuss lithium brine dynamics—especially in Argentina—highlighting growing interest from major producers and why standalone brine assets may be increasingly scarce and undervalued. We also analyze Europe's shifting approach to critical minerals, including recent EU-backed financing for lithium projects and the continent's push to secure its own battery materials supply chain despite limited upstream resources. We close with a broader view across critical minerals: tightening physical silver markets, the strategic significance of heavy rare earths, and copper's central role in electrification, AI infrastructure, and energy transition technologies. At the end of the video, viewers will also find a separate 121 panel discussion featuring NOA Lithium Brines, Q2 Metals, and Hawke's Point Capital, where the panel explores lithium brine development in Argentina, early-stage discovery value in Quebec, permitting pathways, jurisdictional dynamics, and investor perspectives on project economics and global critical minerals supply chains. 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 - 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 episode, we sit down with John Passalacqua, CEO of First Phosphate (CSE: PHOS), to discuss one of the most overlooked segments of the energy transition: the phosphate supply chain for LFP batteries. As investors increasingly focus on lithium, nickel, and cobalt, phosphate has quietly emerged as a potential bottleneck for lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery production outside of China. Chapters (00:00) Intro (05:39) John's Background (06:56) LFP Supply Chain Steps (09:34) Igneous vs. Sedimentary Phosphate (12:59) Project Infrastructure (15:08) Studies and Development Timeline (16:39) Offtake Strategy (19:33) Competitive Landscape (20:37) Permitting Process (23:07) Government Support (24:37) Strategic Partnerships (27:00) Project Economics (29:45) 2026 Milestones (30:35) Closing Remarks First Phosphate's Investor Presentation: https://firstphosphate.com/FirstPhosphateDeck_english.pdf Drawing on our research and recent work in the battery materials sector, we explore why igneous phosphate resources—such as First Phosphate's Bégin-Lamarche project in Quebec—may play a critical role in supplying purified phosphoric acid (PPA), a key precursor for LFP cathode materials. John walks us through the six-step integrated mine-to-cathode value chain, the distinctions between igneous and sedimentary phosphate, and why high-purity phosphate is essential for battery-grade chemistry. We also examine the company's business model, drilling progress, feasibility timeline, offtake strategy, infrastructure advantages, and how First Phosphate is positioning itself to support North America's growing demand for LFP-based battery energy storage systems (BESS). The conversation includes a detailed look at the company's PEA economics, permitting pathway, government engagement, and strategic partnerships across the supply chain. For investors tracking the electrification trend, critical minerals, and the rapid shift toward LFP chemistry in stationary storage and EVs, this discussion provides context on a market segment that has received limited attention but may prove strategically important over the coming years. Topics Covered - Why phosphate may become a bottleneck in the LFP supply chain - Differences between igneous and sedimentary phosphate and why purity matters - North America's opportunity to onshore the LFP value chain - First Phosphate's development timeline and project economics - Offtake agreements, partnerships, and financing considerations - Policy and permitting environment in Quebec - How LFP growth ties into broader electrification and grid storage trends About First Phosphate (CSE: PHOS) First Phosphate is advancing a vertically integrated LFP materials supply chain in North America, focused exclusively on high-purity igneous phosphate for battery-grade applications. The company has raised approximately C$44M to date and continues to advance its flagship project toward feasibility. 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 - 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 episode, Howard and Rodney sit down with Keith Coughlan, Managing Director of European Metals Holdings (EMH), for a detailed discussion following a major development in Europe's lithium sector. The Czech Republic has approved up to €360M in grant funding for the Cinovec lithium project, Europe's largest hard-rock lithium resource. This funding follows the earlier $36M Just Transition Fund grant and reinforces Cinovec's designation as a strategic project under both the Czech government and the EU's Critical Raw Materials Act (CRMA). Chapters (00:00) Intro (03:11) EMH Market Context (08:39) Cinovec Overview (11:19) Permitting & EIA Timeline (12:44) DFS & Project Funding (13:29) €360M Grant Breakdown (15:16) Determining Final Grant Amount (16:30) Project Comparisons (18:24) Offtake & OEM Interest (21:32) Funding Options (23:27) Valuation & Ownership (26:56) Potential Partners (29:44) Market Perspective (31:16) Project Execution & Staffing (35:21) Utilities & Energy Storage Demand (36:24) Closing Remarks With geopolitical urgency surrounding critical minerals supply, the EU is preparing to unveil its new Resource EU plan, aimed at strengthening regional access to lithium and other essential raw materials. Europe's reliance on Asian supply chains, China's recent export controls, and accelerating U.S.–EU competition for strategic projects all form the backdrop for this conversation. Keith provides updates on: - The scope and significance of the €360M grant - Progress toward the Definitive Feasibility Study (DFS) - Recent advances in permitting, including preliminary mining permits across the full ore reserve - The timing and process for the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) - Project funding pathways involving the EIB, EU critical minerals financing, export credit agencies, and potential offtake partners - Comparisons to peer projects such as Thacker Pass, Vulcan, Standard Lithium, and others - The role of EMH's 51% partner ČEZ, one of Europe's largest utilities We also explore market sentiment around EMH, valuation gaps across the lithium sector, and the broader implications of utility involvement, energy storage demand, and Europe's evolving industrial policy. 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 - 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