Business Insiderยท2025-07-15 14:52Core Insights - Apple has entered a $500 million agreement with MP Materials to purchase US-made rare earth magnets, which are crucial for advanced technology production [2] - This partnership aims to enhance the supply chain of rare earth materials in the United States, as emphasized by Apple CEO Tim Cook [2] - The initiative focuses on reclaiming and recycling neodymium magnets from used consumer electronics and post-industrial scrap, rather than solely relying on newly mined supplies [3] Company Impact - The announcement of the deal resulted in a significant increase in MP Materials' stock price, which surged over 25% [4] - This stock price increase follows a previous multibillion-dollar agreement between MP Materials and the US Department of Defense, which established a price floor for rare earth metals [5] - Apple has committed to spending over $500 billion in the US over the next four years, indicating a broader strategy to invest in domestic manufacturing [11] Industry Implications - Rare earth materials are essential for various electronic functions, including electric motors, generators, and mobile device features [3] - The collaboration with MP Materials includes plans for extensive training at a new factory in Texas to develop a specialized workforce for magnet manufacturing [12] - The deal also reflects a response to political pressure for increased domestic production, particularly from figures like former President Donald Trump [9][10]