Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company achieved record high revenues of approximately $4.8 million for the quarter ending December, along with an additional $300,000 in interest income, totaling $5.1 million in revenue and interest income for the quarter [5][14] - Operating costs increased to about $4.9 million for cash expenses, with total costs including non-cash items reaching approximately $6.4 million, indicating a close alignment between revenue generation and operational costs [6][8] - The company reported a cash balance of $48.7 million at the end of the quarter, marking one of the highest cash positions in years and eliminating all debt, resulting in a strong balance sheet [7][8] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company operates two main business units: lithium-ion battery recycling and lithium hydroxide production from claystone [2][3] - The first recycling facility has scaled operations significantly, receiving increased material from both the automotive sector and stationary grid battery energy storage systems [8][9] - The second battery recycling facility is under design and construction in the Southeast US, while the Tonopah Flats Lithium Project is progressing through permitting and feasibility studies [10][12] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company has received substantial material from the Moss Landing project in Northern California, contributing significantly to feedstock for the recycling facility [16] - The company has established strong relationships with the EPA, receiving a rare CERCLA certification to manage materials from various stationary facilities [9] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on implementing a closed-loop infrastructure for battery recycling and critical mineral extraction, aiming to close the supply chain for lithium [3][4] - The strategic direction includes ramping up operations at existing facilities while also advancing the construction of new facilities to meet growing demand [7][10] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about passing the break-even point for the recycling plant and continuing to grow margins as operational efficiencies are implemented [7] - The company is actively engaging with federal agencies to expedite the permitting process for the Tonopah Flats Lithium Project, which is expected to be a competitive facility in the market [12][13] Other Important Information - The company has published a pre-feasibility study indicating attractive returns for the lithium hydroxide facility, with a production cost of just over $4,300 per ton [13][14] - The company is working on a definitive feasibility study to finalize the design and secure investment for the lithium refinery [14] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you discuss progress related to the ramp-up of the $30 million EPA cleanup agreement? - Management confirmed that the Moss Landing project has been receiving material since the end of summer, contributing significantly to the factory's feedstock, and they are on pace to receive more material from this and other sources [16]