Core Insights - China's control over rare earths has led to increased interest in the nickel sector, particularly in Australia, as nickel prices have plummeted by 50% from $30,000 per ton in 2022 to $15,000 per ton [1][8] Group 1: Nickel Market Dynamics - The primary cause of the nickel price collapse is over-production in Indonesia, where mines and smelters are largely controlled by Chinese business interests, driving rival producers out of the market [3] - Nickel West, a division of BHP, is significantly affected and is seeking buyers who can compete with Indonesia's low-cost production [4] - Interest in nickel has surged due to its critical role in rechargeable batteries for electric vehicles, expanding its market beyond traditional stainless steel applications [7][8] Group 2: Investment Activities - Japanese companies Sumitomo Metal Mining and Mitsubishi Corporation have invested in the Goongarrie nickel and cobalt project in Australia, taking a 50% stake [5] - The Goongarrie project is expected to produce 30,000 tons of nickel and 2,000 tons of cobalt annually for 40 years, with a definitive feasibility study (DFS) underway, funded by a $64 million investment from the Japanese firms [6] - U.S.-based investment firms, including Denham Capital, Appian Capital, and Resource Capital Funds, have shown interest in acquiring Nickel West, which was trading at a loss when it was mothballed last year [9]