America's only rare earth producer gets a boost from Apple and Pentagon agreements

Core Insights - MP Materials, the only American rare earths producer, has secured a $500 million agreement with Apple to produce magnets for iPhones and other high-tech products [1] - The U.S. Defense Department has invested $400 million in MP Materials, making it the largest shareholder and ensuring a minimum price for key elements over the next decade [2][8] - The agreements are part of a broader strategy to reduce U.S. dependence on China for rare earth elements, which are critical for various technologies [9][10] Company Developments - The Apple deal will enable MP Materials to expand its Texas factory to produce magnets from recycled materials, with production for Apple expected to start in 2027 [5][6] - The Pentagon's investment guarantees stable revenue for MP Materials, protecting it from price fluctuations caused by Chinese competition [8] - MP Materials plans to begin producing magnets for General Motors' electric vehicles later this year [5] Industry Context - Rare earth elements are essential for a wide range of products, including smartphones, electric vehicles, and military applications [4] - The U.S. is seeking to reshape its rare earth supply chains amid ongoing trade tensions with China, which currently dominates the market [3][11] - Recent agreements between the U.S. and China aim to ease trade tensions, but fundamental differences remain regarding dependency on each other [11]