
Rock Stock Channel
Rock Stock Channel™ is a vibrant and engaging look at the mining and chemical industry supplying the lithium-ion battery-fuelled disruption of the Transportation and Utility industries.
Latest episodes

Jul 6, 2025 • 23min
From Crash to Cash? Why Lithium Stocks Could Triple | Howard Klein
In this episode, I sit down with Georgia Tolley at the Fastmarkets Lithium Supply and Battery Raw Materials Conference in Las Vegas to discuss my perspectives on the lithium market and my journey through volatile cycles in mining investment.
We cover how I first got involved in lithium and natural resources, sharing insights from my experience working closely with industry legends like Robert Friedland. I address some common misconceptions, particularly around lithium's volatility, and why retail investors should approach it differently from traditional commodities.
I also discuss current investor sentiment toward lithium globally, highlighting opportunities and challenges in today's market. Additionally, we explore investment options for retail investors, including ETFs and individual lithium equities, providing context on how to navigate the current downturn and position effectively for future growth.
Finally, we touch on my experience growing the Rock Stock Channel and the Lithium-Ion Bull newsletter, highlighting how sharing market insights can support informed investment decisions.
Thank you for watching, don't forget to subscribe, like and feel free to leave your thoughts in the comments below.
CHAPTERS 📖
(00:00) Introduction
(02:54) Career Beginnings and First Foray Into Mining Finance
(05:08) Embracing Market Volatility and Key Lessons
(09:29) Misconceptions and Market Perceptions of Lithium
(10:48) Media Attention and Future Coverage of Lithium
(12:19) Global Investor Sentiment on Lithium
(14:34) Investment Products: Lithium ETFs
(15:34) Rock Stock Channel, Newsletter & Community Engagement
(19:47) Key Takeaways and Closing Remarks
_________________________________________________
Links 🌍
RK Equity Website: https://rkequity.com/
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/rockstockchannel
Podcast:
Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lithium-ion-rocks/id1457969172
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0KiMIZOPaDg8ENfPJMSINq
X (Twitter):
Howard: https://twitter.com/LithiumIonBull
Rodney: https://twitter.com/RodneyHooper13
_________________________________________________
DISCLAIMER
NOT INVESTMENT ADVICE. DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH
Rodney and Howard are not financial advisors nor broker-dealers, this video is for information purposes only and should not be considered investment or financial advice. Please do your own independent research and read the disclaimer at the end of the video or on RK Equity’s website https://www.rkequity.com
Intro and outro audio credit: Jamie Klein

Jul 2, 2025 • 58min
Lithium Live Lounge - Equity Updates @Fastmarkets Las Vegas
In this episode, Rodney and I share insights from our recent attendance at the Fastmarkets Lithium Conference in Las Vegas. We interviewed several key industry players to provide you with a detailed update on current trends, strategic developments, and the overall market sentiment in the lithium and battery metals sector.
We spoke with Iggy Tan from Lithium Universe, who discussed their competitive advantage in lithium carbonate refining due to Quebec’s access to low-cost hydropower and strategic proximity to North American lithium resources. Rick Anton, Chairman of Savannah Resources and Euro Manganese, emphasized the importance of local engagement and strategic partnerships, outlining significant progress in Portugal and the Czech Republic.
Daniel Abdo from Sigma Lithium highlighted Brazil’s strong position in the lithium industry, emphasizing its low-cost, renewable energy infrastructure and diplomatic neutrality. YJ Lee from Arcane Capital provided a bullish outlook, forecasting substantial growth driven by energy storage and increased adoption of electric trucks.
On the exploration side, Alicia Milne from Q2 Metals updated us on their promising new discoveries in Quebec, while JP Vargas from Galan Lithium and Gabriel Rubacha from NOA Lithium Brines discussed their progress with high-grade brine projects in Argentina, notably attracting strategic investments from Clean Elements.
Overall, despite current market headwinds, the sentiment among these experienced industry leaders remains cautiously optimistic, driven by innovation, strategic positioning, and strong long-term demand fundamentals.
Enjoy the discussion, and don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more detailed insights into the battery metals market.
CHAPTERS 📖
(00:00) Introduction
(02:11) Lithium Universe - Iggy Tan
(11:36) Savannah Resources/Euro Manganese - Rick Anton
(20:25) Sigma Lithium - Daniel Abdo
(24:33) YJ Lee - Arcane Capital
(35:28) Q2 Metals - Alicia Milne
(41:29) Galan Lithium - JP Vargas
(48:02) Noa Lithium Brines - Gabriel Rubacha
_________________________________________________
Links 🌍
RK Equity Website: https://rkequity.com/
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/rockstockchannel
Podcast:
Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lithium-ion-rocks/id1457969172
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0KiMIZOPaDg8ENfPJMSINq
X (Twitter):
Howard: https://twitter.com/LithiumIonBull
Rodney: https://twitter.com/RodneyHooper13
_________________________________________________
DISCLAIMER
NOT INVESTMENT ADVICE. DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH
Rodney and Howard are not financial advisors nor broker-dealers, this video is for information purposes only and should not be considered investment or financial advice. Please do your own independent research and read the disclaimer at the end of the video or on RK Equity’s website https://www.rkequity.com
Intro and outro audio credit: Jamie Klein

Jun 27, 2025 • 44min
America’s $9.2B Lithium Answer: From Surface Discovery to Economic Powerhouse | Surge Battery Metals
Welcome to the Surge Battery Metals Preliminary Economic Assessment (PEA) webinar!
Hosted by Greg Reimer (President and CEO, Surge Battery Metals), this informative session was moderated by Howard Klein and Rodney Hooper from RK Equity. We discussed Surge Battery Metals' PEA, highlighting the economic potential of the Nevada North lithium project.
Key Highlights:
- An after-tax NPV of $9.2 billion.
- Internal Rate of Return (IRR) of 22.8%.
- Quick payback period of 4.7 years.
- High lithium grades (average over 4,000 ppm, peaking at 4,807 ppm), setting a new standard for lithium clay projects.
- Low operational cost (OPEX) of $5,970 per tonne LCE, one of the lowest among peers.
- Life of mine exceeding 40 years, utilizing just 31% of the total resource.
- Sustainable mining and processing strategy, featuring low waste (strip ratio: 1.16:1) and efficient use of water.
- Robust project economics even at conservative lithium price assumptions.
Howard and Rodney also provided essential insights into the lithium market, emphasizing the growing demand for lithium beyond electric vehicles, including energy storage and technology sectors. They highlighted the strategic importance of domestic lithium supply in the U.S. and explored the evolving landscape of strategic partnerships and investment opportunities.
This webinar is essential viewing for investors, analysts, and industry stakeholders interested in the future of lithium production, strategic mineral security, and the rapidly evolving energy storage markets.
Don't forget to like, subscribe, and leave your comments below for more updates!
CHAPTERS 📖
(00:00) Introduction And Webinar Overview
(01:33) Market Supply And Demand Outlook
(04:35) US Lithium Supply And Government Funding
(07:04) PEA Economic Highlights
(08:17) Capital Expenditure And Operating Costs
(09:15) Mine Plan And Resource Overview
(10:51) Operating Cost Breakdown
(11:35) Processing Flow Sheet And Beneficiation
(12:46) Production Profile And Grade Trends
(15:10) Sensitivity Analysis And NPV Range
(15:56) Investor Q&A On Economics And Technical Factors
(28:44) Permitting Status And Regulatory Outlook
(30:35) Financing Strategy And Strategic Partnerships
_________________________________________________
Links 🌍
Surge Battery Metals Website: https://surgebatterymetals.com/
RK Equity Website: https://rkequity.com/
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/rockstockchannel
Podcast:
Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lithium-ion-rocks/id1457969172
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0KiMIZOPaDg8ENfPJMSINq?si=a4ca356c45394648
X (Twitter):
Howard: https://twitter.com/LithiumIonBull
Rodney: https://twitter.com/RodneyHooper13
_________________________________________________
DISCLAIMER
NOT INVESTMENT ADVICE. DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH
Rodney and Howard are not financial advisors nor broker-dealers, this video is for information purposes only and should not be considered investment or financial advice. Please do your own independent research and read the disclaimer at the end of the video or on RK Equity’s website https://www.rkequity.com
Intro and outro audio credit: Jamie Klein

Jun 26, 2025 • 1h 2min
Investing in the Future: Funding the Energy Transition and Balancing Supply and Demand
Join Howard as he moderates an insightful panel discussion exploring "Investing in the Future: Funding the Energy Transition & Balancing Supply and Demand." With over 23 years in the mining and metals sector and a keen focus on electric metals, Howard brings together industry experts to share their perspectives on critical minerals, market dynamics, and strategic investment opportunities.
Panelists include:
- Jay Chmelauskas, CEO of Camino Corp, who discusses the strategic pivot from gold and lithium to copper, highlighting the significant supply-demand dynamics driving copper’s future growth, particularly from projects in Chile and Peru.
- Farhad Abasov, Chairman & Director of Millennial Potash, shares insights from his extensive experience in lithium and potash, explaining why potash is gaining geopolitical importance and detailing the advantages of their project in Gabon, West Africa.
- Tate Sullivan, Managing Director and Equity Research Analyst at Maxim Group, offers his outlook on critical minerals like niobium, copper, and rare earth elements, emphasizing growing interest from generalist investors in projects aligned with strategic national interests.
- Bela Onken, Director of KfW IPEX-Bank, highlights how institutional lenders are crucially supporting global mining projects essential for the energy transition, emphasizing copper’s critical role and increasing demand driven by electrification and renewable energy.
The panel covers:
- Market opportunities and risks within copper, potash, lithium, and rare earth sectors.
- How geopolitical factors and national strategic interests shape investment trends.
- Perspectives on evolving capital market dynamics, including North American and European approaches.
- Insights into funding mechanisms, from institutional lending to strategic partnerships and government involvement.
Whether you’re an investor, industry professional, or curious about the energy transition’s impact on global resource markets, this discussion provides valuable insights into the future of critical minerals and strategic investing.
Don't forget to like, comment and subscribe to Rock Stock Channel for more in-depth discussions, expert insights, and industry news.
CHAPTERS 📖
(00:00) Overview
(02:24) Introduction to panelists
(03:48) Camino's pivot from gold to copper
(07:14) Millennial Potash's story
(09:47) KfW's focus
(14:28) What are generalist investors looking at and why?
(17:28) Camino's journey to building a producing mine
(21:56) Will American utility companies in America invest upstream in juniors?
(26:57) Perspectives on the Canadian capital markets
(33:35) Impacts of the Canadian election
(37:28) The dynamic between the TSX and the US
(40:04) European critical minerals policies
(44:19) Chinese and US negotiations
(49:10) Strategic partnerships between the US and African countries
(51:09) Trump's executive orders and new capital
(56:09) Why invest in Camino and Millennial
_________________________________________________
Links 🌍
RK Equity Website: https://rkequity.com/
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/rockstockchannel
Podcast:
Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lithium-ion-rocks/id1457969172
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0KiMIZOPaDg8ENfPJMSINq?si=a4ca356c45394648
X (Twitter):
Howard: https://twitter.com/LithiumIonBull
Rodney: https://twitter.com/RodneyHooper13
_________________________________________________
DISCLAIMER
NOT INVESTMENT ADVICE. DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH
Rodney and Howard are not financial advisors nor broker-dealers, this video is for information purposes only and should not be considered investment or financial advice. Please do your own independent research and read the disclaimer at the end of the video or on RK Equity’s website https://www.rkequity.com
Intro and outro audio credit: Jamie Klein

Jun 25, 2025 • 27min
Battery Metals at Benchmark Giga USA 2025 | Patriot Battery Metals, Jindalee & Century Lithium
In this episode, I attend the Benchmark Giga USA 2025 event in Washington, DC, interviewing key lithium industry experts: Iola Hughes (Benchmark Minerals), Ken Brinsden (Patriot Battery Metals: $PMET), Ian Rodger (Jindalee Lithium: $JLL), and Bill Willoughby (Century Lithium: $LCE).
We discuss the cautious yet optimistic sentiment among industry insiders, highlighting robust demand drivers such as stationary energy storage, hybrid vehicles, and technological advancements in battery systems. Despite current oversupply and policy uncertainties, especially related to tariffs and incentives, there's significant focus on enhancing domestic lithium production and processing capabilities in the U.S.
Retail investors should note the experts’ views on the resilience of the lithium market amid geopolitical and legislative risks and consider which market indicators signal future growth.
Stay tuned as I continue bringing detailed updates and insights directly from industry leaders shaping the lithium market.
CHAPTERS 📖
(00:00) Introduction
(01:20) Benchmark Minerals - Iola Hughes
(08:13) Patriot Battery Metals - Ken Brinsden
(18:17) Jindalee Lithium - Ian Rodger
(22:41) Century Lithium - William Willoughby
_________________________________________________
Links 🌍
RK Equity Website: https://rkequity.com/
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/rockstockchannel
Podcast:
Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lithium-ion-rocks/id1457969172
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0KiMIZOPaDg8ENfPJMSINq?si=a4ca356c45394648
X (Twitter):
Howard: https://twitter.com/LithiumIonBull
Rodney: https://twitter.com/RodneyHooper13
_________________________________________________
DISCLAIMER
NOT INVESTMENT ADVICE. DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH
Rodney and Howard are not financial advisors nor broker-dealers, this video is for information purposes only and should not be considered investment or financial advice. Please do your own independent research and read the disclaimer at the end of the video or on RK Equity’s website https://www.rkequity.com
Intro and outro audio credit: Jamie Klein

Jun 24, 2025 • 26min
Financing Lithium in a Downcycle w/ Howard Klein | Water Tower Research
In this episode, Howard Klein, founder of RK Equity and a seasoned analyst specializing in lithium and battery metals, shares insights into the evolving landscape of critical metals investing. Interviewed by Tim Gerdeman and Dmitry Silversteyn of Water Tower Research, Howard discusses the impact of recent declines in lithium, cobalt, and nickel prices, and how these shifts affect funding and valuations of junior resource developers.
Howard addresses the challenges companies face in raising capital in the current environment, exploring alternatives such as strategic partnerships, private capital, and government-backed initiatives. He emphasizes the importance of understanding policy developments, as government funding and strategic decisions significantly influence the future of the battery metals sector.
Additionally, Howard highlights promising North American lithium and nickel projects, including Thacker Pass, Talon Metals, and The Metals Company, among others, and evaluates their potential in the context of U.S. government initiatives aimed at bolstering domestic critical metals supply chains.
This discussion provides retail investors with a clear, measured perspective on current market dynamics, government policies, and practical considerations when assessing investments in lithium and related battery metals.
CHAPTERS 📖
(00:00) Introduction
(02:05) Howard's Background
(04:33) Impact of Battery Metal Price Declines on Project Financing
(09:02) Funding Strategies for Developers Amid Depressed Commodity Prices
(13:50) Strategies to Stimulate Domestic Critical Metals and Manufacturing Infrastructure
(19:18) Promising North American Critical Metals Projects to Watch
(25:14) Closing Remarks
_________________________________________________
Links 🌍
Water Tower Research Website: https://www.watertowerresearch.com/home
RK Equity Website: https://rkequity.com/
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/rockstockchannel
Podcast:
Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lithium-ion-rocks/id1457969172
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0KiMIZOPaDg8ENfPJMSINq?si=a4ca356c45394648
X (Twitter):
Howard: https://twitter.com/LithiumIonBull
Rodney: https://twitter.com/RodneyHooper13
_________________________________________________
DISCLAIMER
NOT INVESTMENT ADVICE. DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH
Rodney and Howard are not financial advisors nor broker-dealers, this video is for information purposes only and should not be considered investment or financial advice. Please do your own independent research and read the disclaimer at the end of the video or on RK Equity’s website https://www.rkequity.com
Intro and outro audio credit: Jamie Klein

Jun 21, 2025 • 55min
Top Lithium Stocks to Consider in a Bear Market Before The Rebound | Matt Fernley
In this episode, we welcome back Matt Fernley, respected industry analyst and author of the Battery Materials Review (available: https://www.batterymaterialsreview.com/), to explore the state of the lithium market amidst an ongoing bear cycle. Matt shares insightful perspectives on lithium pricing trends, highlighting that while short-term oversupply may keep prices subdued, we might be closer to the bottom than many expect.
Together, we discuss the impact of rising inventories, the necessity of production cuts for price recovery, and the nuances of China's lithium industry—specifically, how misconceptions about processing costs and environmental practices could influence global market dynamics.
Matt identifies opportunities in low-cost lithium producers, noting attractive valuations in certain North American-listed companies compared to their Australian counterparts. He specifically mentions Sigma Lithium and Lithium Argentina as notable investments due to their operational efficiencies and robust growth outlook.
We also delve into broader battery material trends, discussing how significant advances in energy storage technologies are reshaping market expectations, particularly in renewable energy and grid storage applications.
For investors interested in diversifying beyond lithium, we highlight promising niche battery materials including high-purity manganese and graphite, both of which face potential supply bottlenecks that could create compelling investment scenarios. We also touch upon emerging geopolitical developments, including the implications of recent peace initiatives in the DRC and Zimbabwe's policy changes towards intermediate lithium products.
Join us for a detailed yet accessible discussion on the lithium market, battery materials, and how investors might strategically position themselves in this volatile yet opportunity-rich sector.
Be sure to follow Matt Fernley on LinkedIn and X (Twitter) at @matt_fernley for additional insights.
CHAPTERS 📖
(00:00) Introduction
(03:38) Medium-Term Price Outlook & Cost Base Analysis
(05:39) Oversupply Risks, Production Cuts & Inventory
(12:12) Advances in Energy Storage & LCOE Economics
(17:22) Chinese Lithium Production: Cost, Byproducts & Environment
(26:08) Capital Constraints & Financing Dynamics
(29:19) Key Equity Picks: Lithium Argentina & Sigma Lithium
(35:21) Diversification into Niche Battery Materials & Manganese
(38:54) Policy, Intermediate Processing & Hard Rock Development
(41:09) Are ASX listings overvalued?
(53:34) Closing Remarks
_________________________________________________
Links 🌍
RK Equity Website: https://rkequity.com/
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/rockstockchannel
Podcast:
Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lithium-ion-rocks/id1457969172
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0KiMIZOPaDg8ENfPJMSINq?si=a4ca356c45394648
X (Twitter):
Howard: https://twitter.com/LithiumIonBull
Rodney: https://twitter.com/RodneyHooper13
_________________________________________________
DISCLAIMER
NOT INVESTMENT ADVICE. DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH
Rodney and Howard are not financial advisors nor broker-dealers, this video is for information purposes only and should not be considered investment or financial advice. Please do your own independent research and read the disclaimer at the end of the video or on RK Equity’s website https://www.rkequity.com
Intro and outro audio credit: Jamie Klein

Jun 20, 2025 • 19min
$85 Million Boost for TMC: What Retail Investors Should Know | Craig Shesky
In this episode, we sit down once again with Craig Shesky, CFO of The Metals Company ($TMC), for an informative discussion on the company's recent strategic developments:
The Metals Company has experienced significant changes and milestones over the past year, highlighted by recent strategic equity investments and important partnerships. Craig provides detailed insights into the $85 million strategic investment by Korea Zinc at $4.34 per share, highlighting the confidence and validation this brings to TMC’s business strategy and its critical role in supplying essential battery metals—nickel, manganese, and cobalt—to the U.S. market.
Craig also discusses the revised sponsorship agreement with the Pacific Island nation of Nauru, emphasizing the strategic geopolitical importance of Pacific Island states and TMC’s commitment to fair economic collaboration.
Additionally, the conversation touches upon the recent appointment of two influential directors, Alex Spiro and Michael Hess, strengthening TMC’s expertise in regulatory, legal, and investment arenas. Craig underscores the significance of partnerships, particularly with Allseas, who have continued investing significantly, reflecting their confidence in the future of deep-sea mining.
Howard and Rodney also explore the evolving market landscape for battery technologies, notably the lithium-manganese-rich (LMR) batteries being championed by companies like General Motors, signaling strong future demand for manganese sourced sustainably through deep-sea nodules.
For retail investors seeking detailed and timely insights into the strategic trajectory of TMC and its role within the evolving global battery materials supply chain, this episode offers measured, in-depth, and valuable analysis.
For further details, visit https://metals.co/ and follow The Metals Company on X @themetalsco
CHAPTERS 📖
(00:00) Introduction
(02:23) Wolfe Nomura Conference Highlights & Government Support
(04:25) Revised Nauru Sponsorship & Korea Zinc Equity Agreements
(09:17) Board Appointments & Governance Enhancements
(11:38) Allseas Partnership & Operational Readiness
(15:01) OEM Engagement & Lithium-Manganese-Rich Battery Outlook
(17:34) Closing Remarks
_________________________________________________
Links 🌍
Previous TMC Interviews:
TMC is the Solution to Critical Raw Material Supply for the US | Craig Shesky:
https://youtu.be/1v0Wugwvcrk
US Permitting Path for The Metals Company w/ Craig Shesky:
https://youtu.be/uYRdCcWDwKo
Noa Lithium Brines, The Metals Company and Solis Minerals at PDAC 2025:
https://youtu.be/UDUDPgIQP1M
Vancouver Resource Investment Conference 2025 Critical Mineral Snippets:
https://youtu.be/9-7NO4sBv1M
Deep Sea Treasure: The Metals Company - w/ Craig Shesky:
https://youtu.be/uXHeo2yXfUY
Getting To Know You: The Metals Company. w/ Craig Shesky:
https://youtu.be/6K-kpl7aN5Q
RK Equity Website: https://rkequity.com/
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/rockstockchannel
Podcast:
Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lithium-ion-rocks/id1457969172
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0KiMIZOPaDg8ENfPJMSINq?si=a4ca356c45394648
X (Twitter):
Howard: https://twitter.com/LithiumIonBull
Rodney: https://twitter.com/RodneyHooper13
_________________________________________________
DISCLAIMER
NOT INVESTMENT ADVICE. DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH
Rodney and Howard are not financial advisors nor broker-dealers, this video is for information purposes only and should not be considered investment or financial advice. Please do your own independent research and read the disclaimer at the end of the video or on RK Equity’s website https://www.rkequity.com
Intro and outro audio credit: Jamie Klein

Jun 5, 2025 • 58min
Lithium Rebound Coming? Ken Hoffman from McKinsey Breaks Down What’s Next
In this episode, we sit down with Ken Hoffman, a seasoned expert in the lithium and battery materials space, formerly at McKinsey & Company. Ken brings deep insight into the current state and future trajectory of the lithium market, drawing from his recent engagements across the Middle East, Chile, and China.
We cover a wide range of timely and critical topics for investors, including:
- The divergence in sentiment between global markets and why the Middle East is emerging as a strategic hub for battery supply chain investment
- Lithium price cycles and how the current downturn compares to previous ones
- Demand growth driven not only by EVs but increasingly by stationary storage and data centers
- The role of China in shaping global lithium pricing and inventory cycles
- Technological advancements in battery chemistry, pack design, and refining methods
- Why sodium-ion batteries may not be the threat some believe—and why lithium demand is likely being underestimated
- The outlook for key producing regions, including Chile and its evolving government strategy
- How the West’s slower project financing contrasts with China’s strategic investment model
- Where pricing could go over the next 1–3 years based on historical patterns and macro trends
This conversation is particularly relevant for retail investors looking to better understand the structural dynamics behind lithium's volatility, the role of government policy, and the long-term case for battery metals amid the global electrification shift.
CHAPTERS 📖
(00:00) Introduction
(02:42) Lithium Price Cycles and Market Outlook
(07:03) Growing Demand and China vs Western Production Dynamics
(11:51) EV Market Trends and Advanced Battery Pack Technology
(16:51) Long-Term Lithium Demand Forecasts and Beyond
(26:00) Lithium Chemistry: LFP, High-Nickel, and Sodium-Ion Competition
(33:41) Innovative Lithium Processing: Novalith's Carbonic Acid Method
(35:39) Middle East Energy Storage Projects and Regional Strategies
(45:34) Chilean Lithium Industry: SQM, Codelco, and Political Context
(51:41) Lithium Pricing Mechanics, Quality Premiums, and Recovery Outlook
_________________________________________________
Links 🌍
RK Equity Website: https://rkequity.com/
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/rockstockchannel
Podcast:
Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lithium-ion-rocks/id1457969172
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0KiMIZOPaDg8ENfPJMSINq?si=a4ca356c45394648
X (Twitter):
Howard: https://twitter.com/LithiumIonBull
Rodney: https://twitter.com/RodneyHooper13
_________________________________________________
DISCLAIMER
NOT INVESTMENT ADVICE. DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH
Rodney and Howard are not financial advisors nor broker-dealers, this video is for information purposes only and should not be considered investment or financial advice. Please do your own independent research and read the disclaimer at the end of the video or on RK Equity’s website https://www.rkequity.com
Intro and outro audio credit: Jamie Klein

May 21, 2025 • 44min
TMC is the Solution to Critical Raw Material Supply for the US | Craig Shesky
In this episode, we're back for the sixth time with Craig Shesky, CFO of The Metals Company (NASDAQ: TMC), diving deep into recent groundbreaking developments. With significant momentum following President Trump's executive order on critical minerals, TMC has submitted the world's first commercial seabed mineral recovery application under the U.S. Seabed Mining Code. Craig sheds light on the status and timeline of these critical applications, strategic investment updates, and recent congressional testimony that highlights the growing U.S. support for seabed mining.
Howard and Rodney discuss the implications of TMC's $37 million strategic investment, involving prominent investors like Michael Hess and lithium pioneer Brian Paes-Braga. They also cover exciting battery technology advancements from GM and LG Energy, aligning closely with TMC’s rich manganese-nickel resource.
Tune in to understand how TMC is paving the way for a secure, sustainable, and strategic U.S. supply chain for critical minerals—key to America's industrial and energy future.
CHAPTERS 📖
(00:00) Introduction
(05:12) Commercial Recovery Permit Timeline
(08:13) U.S. Government Policy Support for Critical Minerals
(10:22) Funding and Financing Strategy
(12:45) Congressional Testimony & Environmental Regulation
(18:59) Partnerships & Processing Facility Opportunities
(26:02) Pre-Feasibility Study & Resource Valuation
(30:56) Recent Capital Raise & Closing Remarks
_________________________________________________
Links 🌍
TMC Q1 2025 Conference Call Transcript: https://investors.metals.co/static-files/244215c5-96da-4a0d-9346-e7795ba163b5
TMC Investor Presentation: https://investors.metals.co/static-files/27a024a1-2774-4b5d-b4ee-16ee3123ceb8
RK Equity Website: https://rkequity.com/
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/rockstockchannel
Podcast:
Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lithium-ion-rocks/id1457969172
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0KiMIZOPaDg8ENfPJMSINq?si=a4ca356c45394648
X (Twitter):
Howard: https://twitter.com/LithiumIonBull
Rodney: https://twitter.com/RodneyHooper13
_________________________________________________
DISCLAIMER
NOT INVESTMENT ADVICE. DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH
Rodney and Howard are not financial advisors nor broker-dealers, this video is for information purposes only and should not be considered investment or financial advice. Please do your own independent research and read the disclaimer at the end of the video or on RK Equity’s website https://www.rkequity.com
Intro and outro audio credit: Jamie Klein