DELTA, British Columbia, Feb. 19, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- RecycLiCo Battery Materials Inc. (“RecycLiCo” or the “Company”) (TSX.V: AMY | OTCQB: AMYZF | FSE: ID4), a critical minerals refining and lithium-ion battery upcycling company, is pleased to announce the opening of its Innovation Centre laboratory in Delta, British Columbia. The Company can now provide bench-scale hydrometallurgical processing and technical research and development services for projects across the metals, mining, refining and battery ...

Core Viewpoint - Lithium Americas (LAC) shares surged over 25% following the U.S. government's announcement to acquire a 5% equity stake in the company and its Thacker Pass project, indicating strong government support and potential for long-term growth [1][3]. Group 1: Government Involvement - The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) confirmed plans to take a minority equity stake in Lithium Americas, which is expected to enhance the company's credibility and financial stability [1][3]. - The DOE's equity position, along with loan deferral terms, significantly reduces execution risk for Lithium Americas, extending its financial runway [3]. Group 2: Strategic Importance - Thacker Pass is viewed as a critical asset in the U.S. effort to reduce reliance on China for essential minerals used in electric vehicles and renewable energy [4]. - Federal support for Lithium Americas signals confidence in the company's strategic role in national security and domestic supply chain strengthening [4]. Group 3: Market Performance - Following the announcement, Lithium Americas stock has increased over 200% from its year-to-date low, reflecting strong market enthusiasm [2]. - Despite the positive news, there are concerns that the recent rally may have already priced in much of the near-term upside, suggesting caution for potential investors [5]. Group 4: Financial Metrics - Lithium Americas currently has a price-book (P/B) ratio of 2.08x, which may appear stretched given that the company is still in the pre-production phase and does not yet generate revenue [6].

Core Points - The United States Antimony Corporation (USAC) has secured a contract worth up to $245 million from the US Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) to supply antimony metal ingots for the national defense stockpile over the next five years [1] - This contract is part of the US government's broader strategy to strengthen domestic supply chains for strategic materials and reduce reliance on foreign sources, particularly China [6] Company Operations - USAC operates the only two antimony smelters in North America, which have been processing antimony for decades [2] - The company is increasing its supply of antimony ore from global sources and developing mineral acreage in Alaska and Montana, with recent operations in Alaska revealing high-grade antimony deposits [5] - USAC's smelting facilities are equipped to meet the government's specifications for antimony metal ingots, and the company is expected to deliver initial orders under the contract shortly [4] Strategic Importance - Antimony is identified as a critical component in military applications, such as munitions and batteries, and has been recognized as a strategic vulnerability in the US industrial base [1] - The partnership between USAC and the Department of Defense has significantly strengthened since late 2024, highlighting the strategic role of USAC in enhancing national defense readiness [2][3]