Why TMC The Metals Company Rocketed Higher Today

Core Viewpoint - The rally in critical materials stocks, particularly TMC The Metals Company, is driven by the heightened focus on rare earths amid U.S.-China trade tensions and potential de-escalation of the trade war [1][2][5]. Group 1: Market Reactions - TMC shares surged by 20.3% following a significant drop the previous Friday, reflecting a recovery linked to President Trump's comments suggesting a de-escalation of trade tensions [1][5]. - The overall market saw a "risk-on" rally, particularly benefiting speculative and high-beta stocks like TMC, as investors reacted positively to the easing of trade war threats [5][6]. Group 2: Industry Context - China controls approximately 70% of the global supply of rare earths, which are essential for various industrial and military applications, highlighting the strategic importance of these materials [3]. - Despite TMC not mining rare earths, the company is positioned to benefit from the increasing demand for other critical minerals necessary for industrial uses [6]. Group 3: Company Profile - TMC is characterized as a high-risk investment, having experienced an extraordinary 855% gain in 2025, but it currently has no revenue and requires significant capital investment [7]. - The potential for deep-sea mining is substantial, with a 2024 analysis estimating the global addressable market for undersea metals could reach as high as $20 trillion [8].