In the past few months, ASX Lithium shares have gone through the roof as optimism for electric vehicles and energy storage demand reignites after a long slump.
Two names investors love to debate are PLS Group Ltd (ASX: PLS) and Liontown Resources Ltd (ASX: LTR). They both posted stellar gains in the past 6 months that dwarf the broader market, surging 158% and 113% respectively
The question now is: which of these two ASX lithium shares should you be eyeing as a buy?
PLS Group Ltd (ASX: PLS)
This $14 billion ASX lithium share is the big-league player. The lithium miner formerly known as Pilbara Minerals, first attracted serious global investor attention when lithium prices were peaking.
Its flagship Pilgangoora operation in Western Australia is among the largest spodumene producers in the world. The ASX lithium share has been aggressively pushing downstream through partnerships and processing ventures that give it a broader slice of the lithium value chain.
That scale is a key strength. When lithium prices and demand are strong, the miner converts that into hefty cash flow and hefty profits. The company's balance sheet, export contracts and strategic partnerships also lend it a degree of resilience.
But there's a flip side. PLS Group's size makes it more sensitive to the global spodumene price cycle, and in weaker markets its earnings have taken hits. Recent history shows periods where revenue plunged alongside commodity prices.
Now some analysts argue the leading ASX lithium stock trades on a premium that leaves limited room for near-term upside. Despite a stronger than expected second-quarter update, Morgans sees the share as a hold.
The broker has set a 12-month price target of $4.62, an upside of nearly 5%.
Liontown Resources Ltd (ASX: LTR)
Liontown feels like the scrappier, growth-oriented sibling. Smaller than PLS but no less ambitious, Liontown's Kathleen Valley project has moved from open pit into deeper underground operations, and the company is now securing offtake deals that lock in future revenue flows.
The price of the ASX lithium share has exploded as these milestones have been hit and investors price in future production. The entirely owned asset base gives Liontown a clearer line of sight on its economics. Some brokers also see better value as the stock hasn't yet commanded the same premium multiples as PLS.
The company's execution risk is higher. The transitioning from development into sustained production is tough, cash burn can be heavy, and the balance sheet must be managed carefully. However, the potential returns on success are correspondingly greater.
Market tweaks like amendments to supply deals with big automakers show Liontown is fighting smart to capture market share. The investor caution is that lithium market cycles still govern all outcomes. If prices languish or new supply outpaces demand, Liontown could languish.
Bell Potter has retained its buy rating on this ASX lithium stock with a trimmed price target of $2.42. This points to a 32% upside, compared to the current share price of $1.83.
Foolish Takeaway
If you want scale and an established production profile, PLS Group is the clear blue-chip. If you're chasing higher upside and can tolerate execution risk, Liontown offers greater growth optionality.
In a choppy lithium cycle, PLS Group brings stability; Liontown brings torque. For investors with a long-term horizon and appetite for volatility, Liontown could look more compelling.
