U.S. doesn’t just need rare earths imported, it needs its own supply chain: USA Rare Earth CEO

Company Strategy & Acquisition - USA Rare Earth aims to establish a mine-to-magnet supply chain for critical rare earths [3] - USA Rare Earth acquired Less Common Metals (LCM), a UK-based metal and alloy maker, to secure a domestic supply chain outside of China for heavy rare earth metals, alloys, and permanent magnets [3] - The acquisition of LCM enables a more vertically integrated supply chain, potentially going from mining in Texas to finished magnets [4] Supply Chain & Manufacturing - LCM's metal making, alloy making, and strip casting capabilities are critical for providing feedstock for permanent magnets [5][6] - LCM has 30 years of experience in metal and alloy production, serving the aerospace industry [6] - USA Rare Earth is assembling the first line of its permanent magnet manufacturing facility [5] Market & Economic Factors - There's a global imperative to build a rare earth supply chain outside of China [3] - The goal is to deliver a secure and reliable supply of magnets, rather than undercutting Beijing on price [9] - Permanent magnets are essential for various sectors, including aerospace, defense, automotive, and consumer electronics [9] - The market for permanent magnets is growing due to the increasing demand from physical AI and high-tech components [10]