Core Viewpoint - QuantumScape's stock is experiencing significant gains due to new production deals and a favorable macroeconomic environment, with shares rising over 20% recently and maintaining a 16.3% increase as of the morning of the report [1][3]. Group 1: Company Developments - QuantumScape has announced strategic production agreements with Corning and Murata, which are expected to help commercialize its solid-state lithium-metal battery technology [6][7]. - The company's solid-state battery technology utilizes a lithium-metal anode and a solid ceramic electrolyte separator, enhancing energy density for faster charging and longer range [5][6]. Group 2: Market Context - The stock surge is occurring amid geopolitical tensions, particularly between the U.S. and China, which have led to stricter export controls on rare-earth metals and potential tariffs on Chinese imports [4][6]. - The focus on critical minerals in the current geopolitical climate has increased investor interest in QuantumScape, contributing to a stock price increase of over 70% in the past month [7][8]. Group 3: Upcoming Events - QuantumScape is set to release its third-quarter report on October 22, which is anticipated to provide further insights into the company's performance and strategic direction [7][8].