Core Insights - POSCO Holdings, Inc. is investing KRW 1.1 trillion to secure premium lithium resources in Australia and Argentina, enhancing its supply chain for the secondary battery materials sector [1][8] - The company aims to rapidly secure high-grade global lithium assets to improve cost efficiency and ensure a reliable supply chain for future production [1] Investment Details - On November 11, POSCO approved a plan to acquire a 30% stake in a newly formed intermediate holding company under Mineral Resources, valued at approximately $765 million (around KRW 1 trillion) [2] - This investment will provide stable annual access to 270,000 tons of lithium concentrate from Mineral Resources' Wodgina and Mt. Marion mines, convertible to roughly 37,000 tons of lithium hydroxide, sufficient for batteries for about 860,000 electric vehicles [3] Strategic Expansion - The equity investment secures long-term supply and allows POSCO involvement in mine operations and future dividend income [4] - POSCO is also expanding its brine-based lithium portfolio, committing $65 million (approximately KRW 95 billion) to acquire all shares of Lithium South's Argentine subsidiary, enhancing its mining rights in the Hombre Muerto salt lake [5] Competitive Positioning - The company emphasizes the importance of strong raw-material competitiveness to achieve its goal of becoming a global leader in lithium, with plans to broaden and diversify its international lithium supply chain [6] - The partnership with Mineral Resources has evolved from the Onslow iron ore project into the lithium sector, indicating a successful collaboration [6] Market Performance - Shares of POSCO Holdings (PKX) have increased by 24% year to date, compared to a 33.3% rise in the industry [7]