Rock Stock Channel

In this episode, Howard sits down with Ashley Zumwalt-Forbes, former Director of the Manufacturing and Energy Supply Chains Program at the U.S. Department of Energy, to discuss the evolving landscape of critical minerals and energy policy in the United States. They explore the key differences between the Biden and Trump administrations' approaches to EV batteries and critical minerals, the future of lithium and other essential battery materials, and whether America can remain competitive in a rapidly shifting global market. Ashley shares her insights on how geopolitical tensions, policy instability, and market volatility are impacting investment decisions, and why she remains cautiously optimistic about the potential for building a robust domestic supply chain.   CHAPTERS 📖 (00:00) Guest Background (04:40) Trump vs. Biden on Energy and Supply Chains (08:54) Canada-U.S. Dynamics in Critical Minerals (13:11) Does Trump Care About Battery Materials? (18:08) The Fate of the EV Tax Credit (30D) (20:43) Battery Demand and Project Viability (23:18) EVs as a Strategic Industry Debate (27:22) Evaluating U.S. Competitiveness in Battery Tech (29:49) Which Critical Minerals Are Investable? (32:50) U.S. Lithium Resource Potential and Smackover Basin (34:36) Status of Government Grants and Loans (36:05) Early vs. Late Stage Project Funding (40:06) Federal Land Access for Strategic Development (41:32) Where To From Here? _________________________________________________ Links 🌍 Ashley on Fastmakrets:   - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YW4lD9blYmM   - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WqsxvP7__1k Ashley on Benchmark Minerals:   - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eu83u-CR6co   - https://source.benchmarkminerals.com/video/watch/mesc-grants-boosting-the-us-domestic-battery-supply-chain-panel 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

In this episode, I join Ash Bennington on Real Vision to discuss the dramatic shifts happening in the world of critical minerals, lithium pricing, and global energy policy. We explore lithium's recent price collapse, why I'm still bullish long-term, and how geopolitical forces—including tariffs and supply chain realignments—are reshaping commodities markets. I also highlight key investment opportunities across lithium, copper, uranium, and broader mining ETFs. Stay tuned until the end as I briefly spotlight one overlooked opportunity in the electrification space. CHAPTERS 📖 (00:00) Overview of the Interview (01:03) Lithium Price Collapse and Long-Term Outlook (03:59) The Commodity Cycle: Boom, Bust, and Future Demand (04:55) Tariffs, Supply Chains, and Market Volatility (06:55) Fiscal Stimulus, Interest Rates, and Inflation Dynamics (08:58) US-China Trade Tensions and Critical Minerals Policy (09:37) The Age of Electricity: AI, Robotics, and Energy Demand (11:24) The Case for a New Commodity Supercycle (14:07) Inflation Reduction Act vs. Trump's Energy Policy (17:39) Understanding Lithium Pricing and Market Structure (24:38) Chart: Commodities vs. the Dow: Historic Undervaluation (31:07) Chart: Mine Supply Requirements for the Energy Transition (33:35) Implications of "Energy Addition" and Global Demand Growth (34:35) China's Dominance and U.S. Mineral Supply Strategy (36:54) Commodities as Inflation Hedges and Investment Themes (38:25) Capital Discipline, M&A Activity, and Market Rotation (40:00) How Retail Investors Can Play the Commodity Upside (40:52) Recommended ETFs: PICK, COPX, URA (44:46) Lithium Investment Ideas: ALB, LITP, LIT (46:40) Stock Picks: Piedmont, Lithium Argentina, and M&A Potential (48:14) Final Thoughts: Risks, Rewards, and Long-Term Opportunities (50:38) Bonus Highlight _________________________________________________ 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

In this episode, we sit down once again with Bill Willoughby, CEO of Century Lithium (TSXV: LCE.V, OTCQX: CYDVF), to discuss the latest developments at their Nevada-based lithium project, Angel Island. We cover the company’s unique chlor-alkali processing method, recent optimization studies, and the impact of the U.S. government’s executive order to accelerate domestic mineral production. Bill shares insights on Century’s permitting progress, strategic partnerships, and the potential for significant CAPEX reductions. CHAPTERS 📖 (00:00) Introduction (01:30) Summary Synopsis (03:11) Overview of the Angel Island Project (03:51) Unique Chlor-Alkali Processing Technology (04:34) Impact of U.S. Executive Order on Mineral Production (05:54) Government Engagement and Permitting Strategy (08:22) Optimization Study and Potential CAPEX Reduction (09:27) Feasibility Study Update Plans and IRR Expectations (10:33) Sodium Hydroxide Pricing and Supply Stability (12:02) Strategic Advantage of Water Rights in Clayton Valley (13:09) Nevada as a Mining-Friendly Jurisdiction (14:16) Pilot Plant Progress and Battery-Grade Lithium Output (15:41) Strategic Partnerships and Offtake Interest (16:53) Feasibility Study Timeline (17:32) Permitting Process and Federal Support Opportunities (19:54) Chlor-Alkali vs. Sulfuric Acid Leach: A Comparison (22:58) Environmental and Logistical Advantages of Century’s Approach (24:06) Market Conditions and Valuation Outlook (25:21) 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

In this episode, we sit down with Alex Wylie, CEO of Volt Lithium (TSXV: VLT, OTCQB: VLTLF), to discuss the company's innovative approach to lithium extraction from oilfield brines. Alex shares insights on Volt's low-CAPEX strategy, proprietary technology, and rapid scale-up from pilot projects to commercial operations. With significant opportunities in the Permian Basin, Texas, and expansion plans in North Dakota's Bakken, Volt Lithium aims to become a leading domestic lithium supplier serving the underserved U.S. industrial market. CHAPTERS 📖 (00:00) Introduction (02:37) CEO Background and Origins of Volt Lithium (05:35) Proprietary Extraction and Processing Technology (07:17) Low-CAPEX Model and Infrastructure Advantage (09:42) Product Capabilities: Chloride, Carbonate, Hydroxide (10:57) Tailored Technology Across U.S. Basins (12:22) CAPEX Efficiency and Competitive Cost Per Ton (13:12) Industry Partnerships and Brine Access (15:08) Revenue-Sharing Models with Oil Producers (16:15) North Dakota Grant and Bakken Expansion Plans (17:30) Commercial Unit Build Timeline and Deployment (19:49) Scalability and Expansion Strategy (20:52) Capital Position, Grants, and Recent Financing (22:26) U.S. Operations and Corporate Transition (24:03) Why the Permian Basin is a Unique Opportunity (25:27) Upcoming Milestones and News Flow (26:31) 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

In this episode, Eric Desaulniers, CEO of Nouveau Monde Graphite provides insights into the company's significant investments and development journey, including their $150 million expenditure on demonstration plants. He discusses the binding offtake agreements with GM and Panasonic, their updated feasibility study, and potential grant funding opportunities. Eric also covers the increasing traction of LFP Cathode technology, its impact on graphite usage, and anticipates a potential supply deficit in the graphite market within three years. CHAPTERS 📖 (00:00) Introduction (01:05) Summary Synopsis (03:17) Recap of Ongoing Graphite Project Development (06:16) Strategic Offtake Agreements with GM and Panasonic (08:15) Details of the Updated Feasibility Study (10:31) Role of Tax Credits in Improving Project Economics (11:44) Government Support and Political Backing in Canada (13:05) Cross-Border Trade and Tariff Considerations (15:49) Status of Project Financing and Next Steps (16:58) Potential New Customers and Market Expansion (17:57) Impact of LFP Battery Growth on Graphite Demand (19:24) Global Graphite Supply Outlook and Pricing Trends (23:28) GM’s Strategic Role and Political Implications (27:14) Canadian Election and Critical Mineral Policy (32:12) 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

In this episode, we speak with Tavi Costa, partner at Crescat Capital, about global macroeconomic shifts, rising gold prices, and the potential rotation from large-cap tech into commodities. Tavi explains why he sees significant opportunities in gold, silver, and emerging markets amid a weakening dollar and ongoing de-globalization. We dive into how policy decisions, geopolitical trends, and market valuations are shaping investment strategies, including what this means for metals like copper, silver, and lithium. CHAPTERS 📖 (00:00:00) Introduction (00:03:06) Why Tavi Doesn’t Own Physical Gold (00:07:31) What's Driving Gold’s Rally (00:11:28) Potential for Gold-Backed Alternatives (00:15:31) De-Globalization and Onshoring Trends (00:19:51) The Future of Lithium and Humanoid Robots (00:23:03) Copper and Silver Defying Recession Concerns (00:26:16) Are Trump's Tariffs here to stay? (00:28:35) The Dollar’s Role and Manufacturing Comeback (00:33:40) AI Arms Race: U.S. vs China and the Chip Narrative (00:36:18) Will Liquidity Return and Fuel Hard Assets? (00:38:38) Emerging Markets: Value or Value Trap? (00:46:39) Gold Equities vs Base Metals: Valuation Perspectives (00:54:24) U.S. Gold Reserves and National Policy Implications (00:58:15) Could the U.S. Subsidize Domestic Gold Mining? (01:02:21) Risks, Speculation, and What Comes Next _________________________________________________ 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

In this episode, we sit down again with Keith Coghlan, Executive Chairman of European Metals Holdings, to discuss the latest strategic developments surrounding the Cinovec lithium project in the Czech Republic. Recently designated as a strategic project by both the Czech government and the European Commission, Cinovec is gaining significant momentum. Keith shares insights into what these classifications mean, including streamlined permitting, substantial financial backing, and increased investor confidence. We also dive into the critical role of EMH’s partner ČEZ, the company's path toward securing funding from the EU’s €2 billion critical minerals fund, and how shifting geopolitical dynamics are shaping the future of lithium supply in Europe. CHAPTERS 📖 (00:00) Introduction (01:59) Overview of the Cinovec Lithium Project and Ownership (05:02) Key Benefits of EU CRMA Designation (10:55) Importance of ČEZ as a Committed Partner (11:40) Project Timeline and DFS Update (11:55) Offtake Discussions and Market Timing (13:26) Impact of Tariffs and Geopolitics on EU Supply Chains (15:05) CRMA’s Role in Strengthening Local Trade Protections (16:27) Growing Institutional Alignment and Funding Momentum (17:54) Lithium’s Strategic Importance in EU Raw Materials Goals (20:57) ČEZ’s Green Energy Transition and Support Role (23:55) EU’s Critical Minerals Push and U.S. Policy Influence (25:42) Lithium Market Outlook and Long-Term Demand (28:10) Carbonate vs. Hydroxide in Offtake Preferences (29:38) 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

In this episode, we welcome back YJ Lee from Arcane Capital Advisors. We discuss the current state of the lithium market, reviewing major trends, demand forecasts, and supply expectations. YJ provides an optimistic, bullish outlook on lithium amidst differing market opinions, attributing the expected rise in demand to various sectors including electric vehicles (EVs), battery energy storage (BESS), and newer applications such as electric ships, eVTOLs, and more. The episode delves into the possible impact of geopolitical factors and fiscal policies on lithium production and the renewable energy market. Additionally, insights are shared on investment strategies and stock selection in the lithium sector. CHAPTERS 📖 (00:00:00) Introduction (00:01:58) Supply vs. Demand: The Deficit Debate (00:04:40) Arcane Capital’s Track Record and Strategy (00:07:27) Impact of Clean Energy Trends on Lithium (00:09:17) Green Energy Investment Cycles and Trump’s Policies (00:13:50) Silver Demand Driven by Solar Expansion (00:17:05) Limits of Thrifting in Silver and Lithium (00:18:37) Technological Shifts: Solid-State Batteries (00:19:35) Sodium-Ion Batteries: Challenges and Use Cases (00:21:10) New Growth Areas: EV Ships and eVTOLs (00:23:50) Understanding Battery Energy Storage Growth (00:25:39) How Storage Translates to Lithium Demand (00:26:27) Battery Storage Case Studies (Saudi, California, Australia) (00:30:34) China’s Rapid Energy Storage Expansion (00:31:18) AI, Data Centers, and Grid Storage in the U.S. (00:33:49) Energy Cost Comparison: China vs. U.S. (00:35:36) China’s Energy Dominance and Cost Curve (00:38:08) Modeling Lithium Supply and Forecast Reductions (00:41:05) Underestimating Demand Elasticity and EV Adoption (00:43:23) U.S. and Europe: Policy vs. Price (00:47:28) Commercial Fleets and EV Transition (00:48:36) Addressing Supply Side Lag and CATL’s Moves (00:53:46) Revisions in EV and Energy Storage Forecasts (00:56:09) Massive Growth in E-Buses and Electric Trucks (00:58:20) Emerging Demand: Electric Ships and Air Taxis (01:00:16) Humanoid Robots and Defense Applications (01:04:31) YJ’s 2025–2030 Lithium Demand Forecast (01:05:25) The Scale of Demand Growth and Price Implications (01:07:17) When Could the Lithium Price Turn Around? (01:10:05) How Arcane Capital Is Positioning Its Portfolio (01:10:38) High-Quality Lithium Assets and Diligence Approach (01:14:17) Producers vs. Pre-Producers: Strategic Focus (01:16:14) The Arcadium Deal and Rio Tinto’s Strategy (01:17:24) 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

In this episode, we provide an update on Lithium Universe following our initial interview with Chairman Iggy Tan last November. Significant progress has been made with plans to construct a lithium refinery in Bécancour, Quebec, with the company's stock trading on the Australian Stock Exchange under the ticker LU7. Key developments include the completion of a definitive feasibility study (DFS) and securing strategic partnerships. We delve into the potential benefits of the project, its competitive edge due to low power costs in Quebec, and the current economic and political influences on the supply chain. Rodney and Howard discuss the next steps towards funding, partnerships, and off-take agreements, while Iggy elaborates on the company's strategy and market outlook amidst ever-changing lithium prices. CHAPTERS 📖 (00:00) Introduction (02:58) The Need for North American Conversion Facilities (04:35) Completion of Definitive Feasibility Study (DFS) (07:18) Potential Government Grants and Incentives (08:13) Environmental and Permitting Considerations (09:43) Project Timeline and Construction Plan (10:34) Securing Strategic Partners and Offtake Agreements (11:14) China’s Ban on Lithium Processing Technology (13:03) Fixed-Price Equipment Contracts and Inflation Protection (14:20) Lithium Market Trends and Recovery Projections (15:31) Spodumene Price Effect on Margin Split (17:22) Byproducts and Secondary Revenue Streams (19:17) Future Demand Drivers and Market Outlook (22:42) US-Canada Trade Policies and Tariffs Impact (26:47) Lithium Market Cycles and Investor Sentiment (28:46) Strategic Partnerships and OEM Engagements (31:29) 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

In this episode from PDAC 2025, Howard provides corporate updates and market insights from players in the lithium, copper and deep-sea mining industries. CEO Gabriel Rubacha discusses Noa Lithium Brines' progress and funding status for 2025 plans, including a $13.5 million raise and confidence in fully funding their projects. Craig Shesky, CFO of the Metals Company, details their milestones in deep-sea nodules for nickel, manganese, and cobalt, underpinned by supportive US administration policies and strategic partnerships. Mitch Thomas, CEO of of Solis Minerals, outlines their transition back to copper exploration in Peru and their recent $4.5 million fundraising. CHAPTERS 📖 (00:00) Noa Lithium Brines (08:36) The Metals Company (17:29) Solis Minerals _________________________________________________ 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