The year 2025 will be remembered as the breakthrough year for precious metals, as both silver and gold reached significant new all-time highs. While gold and silver juniors from Benzinga’s watchlist marked incredible gains, even other lithium and steel stocks outperformed their respective benchmarks. Overall, the 2025 watchlist delivered a 281% return.1. Volt Lithium (LibertyStream Infrastructure Partners)For Volt Lithium, 2025 was a year of change. The firm was renamed to LibertyStream Infrastructure Partn ...

Market Overview - The lithium market is experiencing a recovery, currently trading around $13,500 per metric ton, which is a nearly 50% increase from intra-year lows and over 25% year-over-year, although still significantly below the $80,000 peak in 2022 [1] Demand Drivers - Electric vehicles (EVs) continue to be the primary source of lithium demand, but energy storage systems are emerging as the next major growth driver, with large-scale battery installations rapidly expanding [2] - Analysts predict that energy storage will outpace EV growth in 2026, particularly as EV markets in China mature and U.S. growth faces policy uncertainties [3] Energy Storage Systems - Energy storage systems vary from large utility-scale batteries to smaller grids that support homes and buildings, capable of operating independently during outages [4] - Integrated energy storage allows for the saving of excess supply to be utilized during peak demand times [5] Industry Outlook - Chinese lithium producers are optimistic about the emerging demand, with expectations for the global lithium market to reach balance by 2026 and 2027 due to rapid growth in energy storage installations [6] - Bernstein analysts note a bottoming market for lithium, anticipating tightening conditions through 2026 and 2027 [6] Technological Advancements - Direct lithium extraction (DLE) is moving towards commercial production, with Albemarle Corporation achieving recovery rates above 94% and water reuse of up to 85% in its Chilean DLE pilot plant [7] - Albemarle's stock has shown volatility, reflecting market uncertainty and optimism regarding technological advancements in lithium extraction [8] Investment Performance - The Global X Lithium & Battery Tech ETF is up 53.76% year-to-date, indicating strong investor interest in the sector as energy storage demand accelerates [8]

Summary of Standard Lithium and Lithium Royalty Corp Conference Call Company and Industry Overview - **Companies Involved**: Standard Lithium (NYSEAM:SLI) and Lithium Royalty Corp - **Industry Focus**: Lithium and battery materials, particularly for electric vehicles (EVs) and energy storage systems (ESS) Key Points from the Conference Call Standard Lithium Overview - Standard Lithium is a near-commercial lithium company focused on sustainable development of high-grade lithium-ion properties in the U.S. [2] - The company is advancing its Southwest Arkansas project, a $1.5 billion initiative aiming for 22,500 tons of lithium carbonate production, with a target completion date of 2028 [6][7]. Lithium Royalty Corp Overview - Lithium Royalty Corp was established in 2018 and has a portfolio of 37 royalties globally, with a focus on lithium projects [3][4]. - The company raised $150 million during its IPO in March 2023, marking it as the only IPO on the TSX that year [3]. Demand and Market Trends - Lithium demand is projected to grow by 25% in 2026, with potential for 30% growth driven by EVs and ESS [9][11]. - Key indicators for demand health include rising electrolyte prices and seasonal trends in EV sales [9][10]. - Energy storage is expected to account for approximately 27% of the lithium market by the end of the year, with growth rates of 50%-70% anticipated [10]. U.S. Market Dynamics - The U.S. government acknowledges its lag behind China in the battery supply chain and is working to address this issue [15][16]. - Permitting processes are a significant challenge for hard rock mining, but Standard Lithium's projects are on private lands, easing regulatory hurdles [17][18]. Industry Consolidation and Investment - Major energy companies like Equinor are actively involved in lithium projects, indicating a trend of consolidation in the industry [24][26]. - There is a recognition that large public companies are managing cyclical commodity businesses, leading to cost-cutting measures during downturns [28]. Project Milestones and Future Plans - Standard Lithium is finalizing its definitive feasibility study and is in discussions for debt financing and offtake agreements [30][31]. - The company aims to expand production to approximately 150,000 tons per year by 2035, with projects in both Arkansas and East Texas [32][33]. Pricing Trends and Long-term Outlook - Pricing for lithium is expected to be robust in 2026, with potential peak prices ranging from $2,000 to $6,000 per ton [42]. - Long-term pricing needs to be above $18,000 to $20,000 per ton to support new lithium projects [45]. - Standard Lithium maintains a competitive cost structure, with production costs under $6,000 per ton, allowing for resilience in volatile markets [47]. Conclusion - The conference highlighted the growing demand for lithium driven by EVs and energy storage, the strategic partnerships being formed in the industry, and the proactive steps being taken by companies like Standard Lithium to secure their position in the market. The focus on sustainable practices and government support for domestic supply chains is expected to play a crucial role in the future of the lithium industry.

Core Viewpoint - Standard Lithium Ltd is recognized as a promising investment opportunity despite reporting a wider net loss in Q3, with analysts maintaining a positive outlook based on operational advancements and project developments [1][2]. Financial Performance - The company reported a net loss of $6.1 million in Q3, compared to a loss of $4.8 million in the same quarter last year [1]. - Standard Lithium closed the quarter with cash and working capital of $32.1 million and $29.1 million, respectively [3]. Project Developments - A Definitive Feasibility Study for the South West Arkansas (SWA) Project was completed, confirming its cost-effectiveness and potential for commercial-scale development [2]. - Record lithium-in-brine grades were announced for the Franklin Project in East Texas, enhancing its growth prospects [2]. Capital Raising and Future Plans - The company successfully closed a $130 million underwritten public follow-on equity offering to fund capital expenditures for its projects [3]. - The CEO indicated plans to reach Final Investment Decision (FID) at SWA and progress other projects in East Texas, with construction expected to begin in 2026 [4].

Core Viewpoint - LithiumBank Resources Corp. is advancing its Boardwalk Lithium Brine Project by acquiring a second well to facilitate near-term lithium production and unlock CAD $3.9 million in funding through the Emissions Reduction Act [1][4]. Group 1: Project Development - The company has initiated a comprehensive work program to unlock funding from the Province of Alberta, focusing on modular Direct Lithium Extraction (DLE) plants to reduce upfront capital and utilize existing infrastructure [1][4]. - The acquisition of a second suspended well is expected to support near-term lithium-brine production, leveraging abundant historical production data and existing infrastructure [2][3]. - The company aims to complete a Feasibility Study by the end of 2026, which will assess a low capital expenditure, modular approach to lithium production [4][7]. Group 2: Funding and Milestones - To qualify for reimbursement from the ERA, the company must complete three milestones, with the acquisition of the new well initiating the first milestone [4]. - The ERA Program will refund 50% of eligible expenditures for each milestone, up to a total of CAD $3.9 million [4]. Group 3: Resource Position - LithiumBank is the largest known holder of lithium brine resources in North America, with the highest-grade resource estimates in Alberta [5]. - The company has consolidated strategic Brine Hosted Mineral Licenses covering the Leduc formation, facilitating a clearer path toward permitting for lithium production [5]. Group 4: Future Plans - Future plans include completing an additional exploration drill hole, conducting long cycle DLE testing, and optimizing plant parameters [7].

Cauchari-Olaroz Operations - Cauchari-Olaroz's Q3 2025 production volume reached approximately 8,300 tonnes, operating at over 80% capacity[30] - The company maintains its 2025 production guidance of 30,000-35,000 tonnes of LCE[30] - Stage 1 capital costs for Cauchari-Olaroz were $979 million[59] PPG Scoping Study Results - The scoping study indicates a resource of 151 million tonnes of LCE (Measured & Indicated) and 67 million tonnes of LCE (Inferred)[48] - The project's after-tax NPV, using an 8% discount rate, is $81 billion, with an IRR of 327% at a price of $18,000 per tonne[48] - Stage 1 of PPG is projected to have a capacity of 50,000 tonnes per annum (tpa) of LCE, with the full project targeting 150,000 tpa[48] - Stage 1 capital expenditure (CAPEX) is estimated at $11 billion, while the total CAPEX for the full project is $33 billion[48] - The operating expenditure (OPEX) for Stage 1 is projected at $5,344 per tonne, decreasing to $5,027 per tonne for the full project[48] Strategic Initiatives - The company plans to submit RIGI applications in H1 2026[85] - A new joint venture with Ganfeng will consolidate the Pastos Grandes Project, Sal de la Puna Project, and Pozuelos-Pastos Grandes Project[6]

Core Viewpoint - Lithium Argentina AG and Ganfeng Lithium Group have announced the results of the Scoping Study for the Pozuelos-Pastos Grandes lithium brine project, highlighting a significant partnership aimed at advancing lithium production in Argentina [1][4]. Project Overview - The PPG Project integrates three projects owned by Ganfeng and Lithium Argentina, with Ganfeng holding a 67% stake and Lithium Argentina holding 33% [1][14]. - The project is located in Salta Province, Argentina, and is designed to produce primarily lithium carbonate, with flexibility for lithium hydroxide and lithium chloride [12][9]. Environmental Approval - The Environmental Impact Statement (DIA) for Stage 1 of the PPG Project was issued by the Secretariat of Mining and Energy of Salta Province after a 14-month review [2][5]. Scoping Study Results - The Scoping Study indicates an annual production capacity of 150,000 tonnes per annum (tpa) of lithium carbonate equivalent (LCE) over a 30-year project life, with Stage 1 targeting 50,000 tpa [6][7]. - The project has a measured and indicated resource of 15.1 million tonnes (Mt) of LCE, making it one of the largest undeveloped lithium brine resources globally [7]. Economic Metrics - The estimated initial capital cost for Stage 1 is $1.1 billion, with a total capital cost of $3.3 billion over the project's life [8][22]. - At a lithium carbonate price of $18,000 per tonne, the after-tax NPV at an 8% discount rate is projected to be $8.1 billion, with an internal rate of return (IRR) of 33% [8][27]. Operating Costs - The operating cash cost is estimated at $5,027 per tonne, with an all-in sustaining cost (AISC) of $5,351 per tonne over the project's life [7][38]. - For Stage 1, the projected operating cash cost is $5,344 per tonne [20][38]. Financing and Development - The company is exploring financing options, including debt, offtake agreements, and minority equity investments to support Stage 1 development [35][36]. - The project aims to leverage Argentina's Régimen de Incentivo para Grandes Inversiones (RIGI) framework to enhance long-term competitiveness and improve after-tax cash flow [21]. Next Steps - The RIGI application is expected to be submitted in the first half of 2026, following the receipt of the environmental permit [35][21]. - A technical report compliant with NI 43-101 standards will be filed within 45 days of the announcement [5][40].

Core Insights - Argentina Lithium & Energy Corp is transitioning from exploration to development at its Rincon West lithium project, having announced its maiden resource estimate, which is a significant milestone for the company [1][4] - The company is focused on selecting a direct lithium extraction (DLE) partner and will commence pilot testing soon [1][5] - Financing discussions are ongoing to support the project through to the feasibility stage, with confidence in the chosen DLE technology due to its economic and environmental advantages [2][6][7] Project Development - Environmental baseline studies and preliminary engineering work are currently in progress [2][6] - The company is engaging with regulators to ensure a predictable permitting process [4][5] - The partnership with Stellantis is crucial for financing and validates the quality of the projects, with an offtake deal in place for lithium supply [3][9][10] Future Milestones - The company aims to select a DLE provider and secure funding before targeting a preliminary economic assessment in early 2026 [12] - The DLE technology is expected to allow for more economical and sustainable lithium extraction, with minimal environmental impact [8][7]

Core Viewpoint - Smackover Lithium, a joint venture between Standard Lithium and Equinor, has filed its Maiden Inferred Resource report for the Franklin Project in Texas, highlighting significant lithium and other mineral resources [1][3]. Resource Summary - The Franklin Project contains 2,159,000 metric tonnes of lithium carbonate equivalent with an average lithium concentration of 668 mg/L, along with 15,414,000 tonnes of potash and 2,638,000 tonnes of bromide [3]. - The project area spans approximately 80,000 acres, with over 46,000 acres leased to support the inferred resource, showcasing the highest reported lithium-in-brine grades in North America [4]. Production Goals - The ultimate goal is to achieve production of over 100,000 tonnes of lithium chemicals per year in Texas, supported by two additional projects that are expected to triple the size of the joint venture's portfolio in the state [5]. Next Steps - Recommendations include further refining the characteristics of the Upper and Middle Smackover Formation aquifers and conducting additional drilling to define a Preliminary Feasibility Study [6]. - Direct lithium extraction testing will be conducted using insights from Standard Lithium's Demonstration Plant in Arkansas [7]. Company Background - Smackover Lithium is a joint venture formed in May 2024, with Standard Lithium holding a 55% interest and Equinor 45%, focusing on developing multiple direct lithium extraction projects in Southwest Arkansas and East Texas [10]. - Standard Lithium is a leading lithium development company focused on sustainable production from high-grade lithium-brine properties in the U.S., particularly in the Smackover Formation [11].

Core Insights - Smackover Lithium, a joint venture between Standard Lithium and Equinor, has filed its Maiden Inferred Resource report for the Franklin Project in Texas, highlighting significant lithium and other mineral resources [1][3][4] Project Overview - The Franklin Project contains 2,159,000 metric tonnes of lithium carbonate equivalent with an average lithium concentration of 668 mg/L, along with 15,414,000 tonnes of potash and 2,638,000 tonnes of bromide, all contained within 0.61 km³ of brine volume [3][4] - The project area spans approximately 80,000 acres, with over 46,000 acres leased to support the inferred resource, showcasing the highest reported lithium-in-brine grades in North America [4] Future Development Plans - The ultimate goal is to achieve production of over 100,000 tonnes of lithium chemicals per year in Texas, supported by two additional projects that are expected to triple the size of the joint venture's portfolio in the state [5] - Next steps include refining the characteristics of the Upper and Middle Smackover Formation aquifers and conducting direct lithium extraction testing, leveraging insights from Standard Lithium's Demonstration Plant [6][7] Company Background - Standard Lithium is focused on sustainable development of high-grade lithium-brine properties in the U.S., with a commitment to achieving commercial-scale lithium production through a fully integrated direct lithium extraction process [11][12] - Equinor, as a partner, aims to create long-term value in a low-carbon future, enhancing its portfolio with lithium projects alongside its existing oil, gas, and renewable energy initiatives [13]