Why This Rare Earth ETF Excludes the Biggest Rare Earth Market

Core Viewpoint - The Sprott Rare Earths Ex-China ETF (REXC) is set to launch, focusing on rare earth elements while excluding Chinese companies, reflecting a growing demand for non-China sources amid geopolitical tensions and energy transition efforts [1][2]. Group 1: ETF Overview - Sprott Asset Management has filed for the Sprott Rare Earths Ex-China ETF (REXC), which could launch by April and will trade on Nasdaq [1]. - This ETF aims to cater to the increasing demand for rare earth elements while aligning with the U.S. strategy to reduce reliance on China for these critical materials [2]. Group 2: Market Context - The demand for rare earth elements is rising due to global energy usage increases, driven by electrification and the expansion of data centers for AI [3]. - Over 100 countries have committed to net-zero emissions by 2050, shifting energy reliance from fossil fuels to renewable sources, although U.S. policies under President Trump have diverged from this commitment [3]. Group 3: Industry Dynamics - The launch of ex-China funds has surged in recent years, influenced by geopolitical tensions between the U.S. and China, although these funds have been slow to attract significant assets [4]. - Existing rare-earth element ETFs, such as the $2 billion VanEck Rare Earth and Strategic Metals ETF (REMX) and Sprott's $380 million Critical Materials ETF (SETM), have shown strong returns of 109% and 114% over the past year, respectively [5].