Four of the fastest rising 10 stocks on the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) today are lithium shares.

The best performer is diversified miner Mineral Resources Ltd (ASX: MIN), up 6.1% to $62.97 per share.

Next is lithium and nickel producer IGO Ltd (ASX: IGO), up 5.7% to $9.23 per share.

The Liontown Ltd (ASX: LTR) share price is 5.3% higher on Friday at $2.18.

The market's largest pure-play lithium company, PLS Group Ltd (ASX: PLS), cracked a new record at $6.14 today.

The PLS Group share price is currently $6.01, up 5.3%.

Among the smaller players outside the ASX 200, Elevra Lithium Ltd (ASX: ELV) shares hit a 52-week high of $10.39.

The Elevra Lithium share price is currently $10.31, up 11.9%.

Core Lithium Ltd (ASX: CXO) shares are up 9.4% to 37 cents apiece.

Lake Resources NL (ASX: LKE) shares are 7.6% higher at 9.9 cents.

What's driving ASX lithium shares higher?

Experts say the Iran war and ensuing global oil shock are reminding us of the value of electric vehicles (EV).

The lithium carbonate price has risen 9% this week and is up 43% year to date (YTD), according to Trading Economics data.

Analysts at Trading Economics say lithium prices are rising on a bullish future outlook.

Chinese EV manufacturer BYD announced it expects to sell more EVs this year due to the oil shock.

BYD has raised its 2026 sales forecast to 1.5 million units, up from the January estimate of 1.3 million units.

The analysts said:

The surge in crude oil and product prices since the start of March supported the outlook for larger economies to favor new energy vehicles, which use batteries that take lithium as a major input.

Demand also remained supported by Chinese investment in power infrastructure, recently exemplified by the announcement of higher power storage spending.

This was combined with Beijing stating it would double national EV charging capacity to 180 gigawatts by 2027, supporting lithium-rich energy storage systems.

In the meantime, Zimbabwe suspended exports of lithium concentrates and other raw materials to stimulate refining in the country.

Oil shock a tailwind for lithium prices

Lithium prices were already rebounding from a painful two-year downward spiral before the war in Iran began.

We have seen a rapid turnaround in lithium prices from mid-2025.

Supply/demand rebalanced after a long period of oversupply last year.

We also saw the impact of the green energy transition finally bleed through to markets in 2025.

Other commodity prices joined lithium in an upward surge in 2025 as the world began building new power infrastructure at scale.

The lithium carbonate price lifted to a two-year high of about US$26,200 per tonne in January.

It endured a short, sharp fall to just below US$20,000 in early February as part of a broader metals and minerals rout.

Today, the lithium carbonate price is US$24,850, representing a 43% year-to-date gain.

Lithium spodumene is up from about US$600 per tonne in June 2025 to US$2,415 per tonne today.

The post ASX lithium shares rally as oil shock highlights EV appeal appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

ASX mining shares have been the worst hit by the war in Iran, with the materials sector losing 15.3% of its value since the conflict began.

Some investors took profits this month after a strong run for ASX 200 mining shares, amid fears that higher diesel prices and potential shortages could hurt earnings and production for 2H FY26.

ASX 200 mining shares have also declined alongside metals prices, with gold down 17%, silver down 22%, lithium carbonate down 8%, and copper down 7% over the month. Iron ore has demonstrated resilience, rising 7% over the period to US$106 per tonne on Friday.

With the US and Iran still negotiating a 15-point plan for peace, it is hoped this war and the ensuing global oil shock will be over soon.

This may have motivated some investors to take up new or enhanced positions in ASX 200 mining shares last week, given the bright long-term outlook for the sector and the opportunity to buy the dip.

Reflecting the miners' fightback last week, the S&P/ASX 300 Metal & Mining Index (ASX: XMM) rose 4.4% while the benchmark S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) gained 1% to finish at 8,516.3 points.

Seven of the 11 market sectors finished in the green last week.

Let's recap.

ASX 200 mining shares fight back

The BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP) share price increased 6.1% to close at $50.37 on Friday.

BHP shares reached a record $59.39 on 3 March before the war prompted investors to take profits.

Despite last week's rebound, the ASX 200's largest mining stock remains 13.8% lower over 30 days.

Rio Tinto Ltd (ASX: RIO) shares lifted 4.3% to $153.23 last week, while Fortescue Ltd (ASX: FMG) gained 6.5% to $20.19.

The Mineral Resources Ltd (ASX: MIN) share price soared 9.7% to $56.69.

South32 Ltd (ASX: S32) shares increased 1.3% to $4.03 per share.

ASX 200 copper share Sandfire Resources Ltd (ASX: SFR) lifted 1.8% to $15.88, while Capstone Copper Corp (ASX: CSC) edged 0.6% lower to $10.14.

ASX 200 lithium shares had a ripsnorter of a week, with PLS Group Ltd (ASX: PLS) rocketing 21.8% to close at $5.15 on Friday.

The Liontown Ltd (ASX: LTR) share price soared 20.9% to $1.77, and Core Lithium Ltd (ASX: CXO) gained 11.9% to 24 cents.

Nickel and lithium producer IGO Ltd (ASX: IGO) lifted 16.5% to $7.93 per share.

Lynas Rare Earths Ltd (ASX: LYC) shares closed the week 2.7% higher at $10.08 apiece.

Bauxite and alumina producer Alcoa Corporation CDI (ASX: AAI) lifted 3.5% to $85.95 per share.

What about ASX gold shares?

The market's largest ASX 200 gold share, Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST) rose 0.3% to close at $18.55 on Friday.

The Evolution Mining Ltd (ASX: EVN) share price lifted 0.4% to $12.46, and Newmont Corporation CDI (ASX: NEM) rose 3.1% to $146.85.

Among the mid-caps, Vault Minerals Ltd (ASX: VAU) shares lifted 2.1% to $3.96, and Regis Resources Ltd (ASX: RRL) rose 1.1% to $6.26.

Gold and copper miner, Greatland Resources Ltd (ASX: GGP) fell 3.5% to $9.76.

ASX 200 market sector snapshot

Here's how the 11 market sectors stacked up last week, according to CommSec data.

Over the five trading days:

The post ASX 200 mining shares rebound after March sell-off creates opportunities appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

As such, we head into the weekend with the ASX 200 at 8,516.3 points.

This disappointing conclusion to the week's trading for Australian investors was preceded by an even more downbeat morning on the American markets.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) gave up an early lead to finish at a significant 1.01% loss.

The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC) was hit even harder, falling by 2.38%.

But let's return to the local markets now and dive a little deeper into how the various ASX sectors fared amid today's tough trading conditions.

The post Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Oil prices have skyrocketed since Israel and the US attacked Iran one month ago.

Over the past 30 days, the Brent crude oil price has jumped 38% while US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) has risen 31%.

UBS analysts see "the potential for another upcycle" in lithium prices, which began rebounding from a two-year rout in mid-2025.

Last year's rebound was driven by greater global demand for batteries, EVs, and power infrastructure due to the green energy transition.

Lithium spodumene prices rose from less than US$600 per tonne in June last year to over US$1,400 per tonne by December.

Today, lithium spodumene is fetching US$2,230 per tonne, according to Shanghai Metals Market.

UBS sees potential for the spodumene price to reach US$4,000 per tonne by the end of the year. 

The lithium carbonate price rose to a two-year high of about US$26,200 per tonne in January, before paring back to US$22,650 today.

Let's take a look at the changes UBS has made to its ratings and 12-month price targets for ASX lithium shares.

ASX lithium shares re-rated

UBS has upgraded IGO Ltd (ASX: IGO) shares from a neutral to buy rating with a slightly improved 12-month price target of $8.55.

On Friday, the IGO share price is $7.94, up 4.1% today, down 7.8% since the war in Iran began, and up 90% over 12 months.

UBS reiterated its buy rating on Liontown Resources Ltd (ASX: LTR) and raised its target by 4.8% to $2.20.

The Liontown share price is $1.72, up 0.7% on Friday, 0.7% higher over the month, and up 161% over the past year.

The broker downgraded the market's largest lithium pure-play miner, PLS Group Ltd (ASX: PLS), from a buy rating to neutral.

UBS put a price target of $4.95 on PLS shares.

On Friday, the PLS Group share price is $5.06, up 1.8% today and down 2.5% since the war began.

PLS shares have ripped 174% over the past year and reached a two-and-a-half-year high of $5.32 last month.

Trading Economics analysts say there are "signs of a momentary pullback in battery demand" as the war in Iran drags on.

On Friday, the analysts said:

Electric vehicle sales by top Chinese manufacturer BYD tanked 40% annually in February, a reversal from the growing trend in the previous months to raise concerns that the Chinese EV market may be slowing.

The data magnifies worries that higher energy costs due to war in the Middle East could hamper large manufacturers from building input goods inventories, driving industrial metals to pull back.

Still, Chinese supply was also expected to remain muted due to Beijing's anti-involution campaign.

Last year, data showed increasing sales of EVs in China, with EVs outselling traditional cars for the first time in October.

Trading Economics reported that EV sales in China grew 20.6% annually to a record of 1.823 million units in November.

The post ASX lithium shares 'compelling' as top broker adjusts ratings appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The ASX materials sector, which is dominated by the mega miners, is 2.3% higher, while the energy sector is down 3.5%.

The S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) is in recovery mode today, up 1%, after a surge in oil prices created a $90 billion rout yesterday.

While the war in Iran is dominating headlines, longer-term trends in our investment markets continue to play out.

One of them is a new commodities 'super cycle' that seems to be taking strong hold of our share market.

So, let's dig into the question posed in our headline today.

Is Australia now in a new mining boom?

Australia's last mining boom, from the early 2000s through to 2013, was primarily driven by China's rapid industrialisation.

This period saw a big increase in iron ore and coal prices, major investment in mining infrastructure, and a substantial lift in exports.

It appears we've now entered a new mining boom, but this one is not going to centre on iron ore, nor demand from just China.

This boom will centre on critical materials with industrial applications tied to electrification, power generation, and energy security.

Demand will come from many nations, underpinned by structural changes in the global economy that will take decades to play out.

Paul Wong and Jacob White from Sprott Asset Management name copper, uranium, lithium, rare earths, and silver as the commodities to watch.

In an article, Wong and White said:

[This is] a new kind of commodity supercycle.

The emerging bull market is not repeating past cycles, and is being driven by deglobalization, fiscal dominance and the global push for energy, infrastructure and strategic, domestic supply chains.

AMP Ltd (ASX: AMP) Head of Investment Strategy and Chief Economist, Shane Oliver, also says we are embarking on "a new super cycle in commodities".

In a recent article, Dr Oliver said:

… the commodity price slump from their 2008-2011 highs looks to be over with commodities embarking on a new super cycle bull market driven by constrained supply after low levels of investment and electrification and rising defence spending driving increased demand for metals.

This will benefit Australia's resource stocks.

Iron ore is likely to feature less this time around partly reflecting slowing urbanisation in China and its property slump.

Commodity prices and ASX mining shares

The price of gold, silver, copper, lithium, and many critical minerals skyrocketed last year amid rising demand and low supply.

This pushed up the prices and returns of scores of ASX mining shares, with materials the top sector of 2025, returning a staggering 36%.

Gold is part of this mining boom, but for different reasons. Gold is benefiting from central bank buying and safe-haven investor demand.

Wong and White added:

After years of shrinking representation in global portfolios, commodities and resource equities have broken out above multi-year trading ranges, an action that, in our view, marks the developing stages of the new commodity bull market.

Impact on ASX mining shares

The new mining boom is already playing out in the Australian share market.

The BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP) share price is up 31% over 12 months and 12.2% in the YTD.

BHP shares recently soared to $59.39 apiece, their highest level in 140 years, and the miner is once again the market's largest company.

Many other ASX mining shares have also hit new records.

These include Rio Tinto Ltd (ASX: RIO) shares at $170.71 per share and Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST) at $31.96 per share.

Take a look at the 12-month change in these ASX mining shares below.

Foolish Takeaway

Wong and White emphasise that this mining boom will not be broad-based, and targeted exposure is important.

They said:

Broad commodity exposure may lack focus on the critical materials currently leading this cycle.

Investors are increasingly focusing on companies tied directly to critical materials and structural demand trends.

As an example, Wong and White point out that copper miners are outperforming diversified miners.

We can see this by comparing the performance of Global X Copper Miners AUD ETF (ASX: WIRE), up 84% over 12 months, to diversified ETF BetaShares Australian Resources Sector ETF (ASX: QRE), up 42%, and VanEck Australian Resources ETF (ASX: MVR), up 48%.

Wong and White conclude:

We see considerable room for continued outperformance from select commodities and the associated equities. 

The post Australia's next great ASX mining boom: Are we already in it? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

How impressive?

Well, over the past 12 months, the ASX 200 has gained a respectable 6.6%.

Despite the past month's retrace, however, ASX 200 lithium shares have left those gains wanting.

Here's how these leading Aussie miners have performed over the last full year:

• Mineral Resources Ltd (ASX: MIN) shares have gained 72.1%
• Liontown Resources Ltd (ASX: LTR) shares have gained 191.2%
• Pls Group Ltd (ASX: PLS) – formerly Pilbara Minerals – shares have gained 108.0%
• IGO Ltd (ASX: IGO) shares have gained 88.6%

And though it was booted from the ASX 200 after its market cap crashed in 2023 and 2024, we'll give a nod to Core Lithium Ltd (ASX: CXO) shares as well, up 133.3% in 12 months.

The common thread helping all of these miners smash the benchmark returns is the surging global lithium price.

Over the past eight months, spodumene (a lithium bearing ore) prices have rocketed more than 200% amid expectations of strong demand and reduced supply from China. Spodumene was recently trading near US$2,000 per tonne, up from around US$600 per tonne last June.

Which brings us back to our headline question.

Can these rocketing ASX 200 lithium shares keep charging higher?

If you're looking at buying shares in the likes of PLS, Liontown, Mineral Resources, or IGO, then you should expect your future returns to be heavily impacted by the going price of lithium.

So, will these surging ASX 200 lithium shares continue to enjoy a rebound in the price of the battery-critical metal?

Well, that depends on who you ask.

On the bullish side, UBS recently increased its lithium price outlook by 74% after reviewing expected demand from global EV markets and energy storage demand.

The broker forecasts a 14% increase in global lithium demand in 2026 with another 16% increase in 2027. In light of this, UBS expects the spodumene price to reach US$3,131 per tonne. That's up from UBS' prior forecast of US$1,800 per tonne, and more than 50% above current levels.

On the more bearish side of the equation, Vivek Dhar, commodities analyst at Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA), noted that global miners have the potential to add a significant amount of lithium supply to markets amid higher lithium prices.

According to Dhar (quoted by The Australian Financial Review):

Despite these solid demand forecasts, it's hard to believe that lithium prices can keep going, especially like it did in 2022, given the latent supply that can come online due to higher lithium prices.

ECP Asset Management partner Andrew Dale also believes the biggest gains from ASX 200 lithium shares like Liontown, PLS, and Mineral Resources have probably already been delivered.

"There is a lot of appetite among investors to get exposure to hard assets like lithium, iron ore and gold," Dale said.

He added:

The outlook for these resources remains strong; however, for investors who are currently underweight … the ship has probably already sailed, as the price for these resources is on the higher end.

The post Is it too late to buy surging ASX 200 lithium shares like PLS and Liontown? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

At the time of writing, the IGO share price is up around 0.29% to $8.70, with investors digesting the latest disclosure.

IGO remains a major player in Australia's battery metals sector, with exposure to lithium and nickel.

Let's take a closer look at what the management updated the market with.

What was announced?

According to the release, IGO has updated its estimates for the amount of lithium at the Greenbushes mine in Western Australia.

The revised figures are based on new drilling results and updated technical modelling. As a result, some resource and reserve categories have increased, while others have decreased compared with previous estimates.

This type of update is required under Australian mining reporting standards and is a normal part of the annual reporting cycle. Resource and reserve statements are used to support mine planning, production forecasts, and long-term capital decisions.

Greenbushes remains one of the largest and highest-grade hard rock lithium deposits globally and is an important source of lithium supply.

Why Greenbushes is important

IGO holds an effective 24.9% interest in Greenbushes through its 49% stake in the Talison Lithium joint venture. The remaining interest is held by Albemarle.

Greenbushes produces spodumene concentrate, which is processed into lithium chemicals used in electric vehicle batteries and energy storage systems. The mine has been in production for decades and is widely regarded as one of the lowest cost hard rock lithium mines globally.

Greenbushes is central to the company's strategy of focusing on metals linked to clean energy and electrification.

Any changes to resource and reserve estimates are therefore closely watched by investors, including adjustments driven by modelling changes.

Other key assets

Beyond Greenbushes, IGO also owns 100% of the Nova nickel copper cobalt operation in Western Australia. Nova provides exposure to battery-related metals outside of lithium.

The company also holds a 49% stake in the Kwinana lithium hydroxide refinery. That project has faced operational challenges in recent years and remains an area of focus for management.

IGO has experienced share price volatility in recent years as lithium and nickel prices have moved significantly in both directions.

What investors will watch next

The subdued share price reaction suggests the market had largely anticipated the updated numbers.

Looking ahead, investors are likely to focus on production performance at Greenbushes and Nova, as well as lithium and nickel price trends. Further guidance updates from management will also be in focus.

The post IGO shares move higher in Wednesday trade. Here's why appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The analyst team at UBS noted that prices of lithium have been strong, rallying 65% since their last update, but they said there would be continued strong demand from the electric vehicle sector, with EVs close to reaching so-called "triple parity".

This meant that EVs were becoming competitive across cost, range, and charging time when compared with traditional internal combustion engines.

The UBS team said it expects lithium demand to increase 14% in 2026 and 16% in 2027.

They said further:

We continue to be positive long-term and see demand volumes 2x by 2030 to 3.4Mt (vs 1.7Mt in 2025e). We see the market growing at a 13% CAGR through to 2035.

UBS is expecting EV sales to reaccelerate over the medium term, and it expects global EV penetration of 58% by 2035.

With regard to battery energy storage systems (BESS), UBS said new policy moves in China led it to upgrade its 2035 outlook by 30% to 53%.

Supply not meeting demand

On the supply side, UBS said primary supply grew at 18% in 2025, or closer to 23% once recycling was factored in, which was short of demand growth of 29%.

UBS added:

This resulted in a market deficit and inventory drawdown through the year. For 2026, we assess risk-weighted supply as likely to grow by about 14% (excluding recycling). By country, China, Australia, Argentina and Zimbabwe lead the pack for growth in risk weighted supply from 2025 to 2027.

On the price front, UBS has upgraded its price outlook by 74%.

The broker said:

We are wary of the difficulties of picking a suitable price level when spot prices have historically been more than eight times higher than long-term incentive prices and with converter margins historically poor in providing guard rails around reasonable feedstock pricing. However, from a qualitative perspective, we note that our current price forecasts remain well within historical range and note i) for EVs, automakers have previously been able to adapt with modest impacts on overall demand, and ii) for BESS, that material costs are less significant (vs. module/battery costs).

UBS now has a forecast spodumene price of US$3,131 per tonne, up from its previous price target of US$1,800.

The forecast will be good news for Australian companies such as IGO Ltd (ASX: IGO), Mineral Resources Ltd (ASX: MIN), and Core Lithium Ltd (ASX: CXO), with the latter looking to bring its Finniss operations in the Northern Territory back online if lithium prices are high enough.

The post The lithium price could increase by how much! appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Here are 3 ASX 200 momentum stocks to buy right now.

Nick Scali Ltd (ASX: NCK)

Nick Scali shares closed 0.69% higher on Tuesday at $24.96. For the year-to-date the shares are 5.76% higher and they've significantly outpaced the ASX 200 index over the past 12 months, rising 57.58% over the year.

The household furniture importer and retailer's shares have risen very steadily over this period too, showing incredible resilient momentum. In fact, the ASX stock has climbed pretty consistently since they listed on the ASX back in 2004, with the exception of a covid-19-included blip in early 2020.

The team at Bell Potter recently named the furniture retailer as one of the best stocks to buy. The broker said that the company's expansion into the UK gives the opportunity for the business to drive scale efficiencies and margin expansion. 

IGO Ltd (ASX: IGO)

Nickel, copper, and cobalt miner IGO is another good momentum stock picking up investor interest right now.

Unlike Nick Scali, the miner's share price hasn't had such stable and historically long share price growth. However, the ASX 200 miner's shares have had a strong price rally over the past 12 months.

At the close of the ASX on Tuesday, the shares had climbed 1.07% to $8.52 a piece. For the year-to-date the shares are 3.78% higher and they're now a huge 78.24% higher for the year.

The company recently posted a strong operational performance for the December quarter. Including a 55% increase in its underlying earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) and a positive operating cash flow of $12.8 million. 

Westgold Resources Ltd (ASX: WGX)

Westgold shares also closed in the green on Tuesday afternoon, up 0.14% to $6.96 a piece. For the year-to-date the ASX 200 gold miner's shares are 7.91% higher, and have shown strong momentum since 2023. Over the past year alone, the stock has rallied 207.96% higher.

The gold miner reported record gold production and a doubling of its cash build for the December quarter. The latest gold price upswing has also helped push the share price higher recently. 

Analysts are bullish that the shares will keep building momentum this year too. Data shows that the maximum 12-month target price is $11.70, which implies a potential 68.1% upside for investors at the time of writing. 

The post 3 ASX 200 momentum stocks to buy right now appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Benchmark spodumene prices are breaking levels not seen in years, and Australian lithium stocks are moving fast in response.

ASX lithium shares like Liontown Resources Ltd (ASX: LTR), IGO Ltd (ASX: IGO), and Core Lithium Ltd (ASX: CXO) have all ripped to fresh 52-week highs as the market begins to price in a new demand-driven cycle.

Investors are starting to believe the brutal 2023–24 bear market is finally in the rear-view mirror. But can the lithium rally be sustained?

Liontown Resources

This ASX lithium share is the comeback story. Written off during the downturn, the company has re-emerged as a poster child for the lithium rebound thanks to its Kathleen Valley project.

Shares have surged 173% over the past 12 months as higher spodumene prices combine with shipments under long-term offtake agreements. A strong cash position and strategic deals with battery makers add credibility to the rally.

That said, Liontown's earnings remain highly sensitive to lithium prices, and cost inflation could bite if the cycle turns. If prices hold firm, the ASX stock could keep grinding higher. But this remains a momentum-fuelled story.

Brokers' sentiment is divided. However, Bell Potter remains bullish on this lithium miner, assigning a buy rating and a $2.42 price target. That points to potential 34% upside over the next 12 months.

The broker says the company is well positioned to capitalise on rising lithium prices, pointing to the strength and quality of its Kathleen Valley project.

IGO

This ASX lithium stock offers a steadier way to play the theme. Unlike pure lithium miners, IGO leans on diversified exposure to nickel and copper, helping cushion commodity swings.

Recent results showed a sharp lift in EBITDA, highlighting the strength of its broader operations even as lithium processing challenges linger. Its stake in Greenbushes and downstream refining provides long-term leverage, but also operational complexity.

Investors chasing stability over explosive upside may prefer IGO, especially if base metals remain supportive.

Analysts are cautious and most rate the ASX lithium share neutral with a 12-month average price target of $8.32, identical to the share price at the time of writing.

Core Lithium

Core Lithium is the high-risk, high-reward option. After shelving production at the depths of the downturn, the ASX lithium share is now gearing up for a restart of the Finniss project. It's backed by higher reserves and lower-cost plans.

The market has jumped on the turnaround narrative, sending shares sharply higher – 164% in the past 12 months. Execution risk remains significant, and funding is always a hurdle. If lithium prices stay elevated and the restart delivers, the upside could be dramatic.

In January, Canaccord Genuity reiterated its buy rating on the ASX lithium share and lifted its price target from 27 cents to 40 cents.

This suggests a potential upside of more than 65% over 12 months.

The post Are ASX lithium shares running out of steam? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

It's hard to argue the relevance of this sector for investors. 

However, the challenge has been to time the market based on the changing landscape of supply, demand, and global geopolitics.

A new report from Betashares has outlined the importance of critical minerals in the age of AI and tariffs.

What are critical minerals?

According to the Australian Government, a critical mineral is a metallic or non-metallic element that has two characteristics:

• It is essential for the functioning of our modern technologies, economies, or national security
• There is a risk that its supply chains could be disrupted

Critical minerals are used in the manufacturing of advanced technologies like:

• Mobile phones
• Computers
• Fibre-optic cables
• Semi-conductors
• Banknotes
• Defence, aerospace, and medical applications

Many critical minerals are also used in low-emission technologies such as electric vehicles, wind turbines, solar panels, and rechargeable batteries. 

Common critical minerals include: 

• Lithium: batteries for electric vehicles and energy storage
• Rare earths elements (e.g. neodymium, praseodymium, dysprosium): EV motors, wind turbines, defence systems
• Nickel: high-energy-density batteries and stainless steel
• Cobalt: battery cathodes and aerospace alloys
• Graphite: battery anodes and industrial applications
• Copper: electrification, renewable energy, and grid infrastructure

Where do investors fit into this equation?

Investors may choose to target critical minerals because demand is structurally rising from emerging themes like electric vehicles, renewable energy, defence, and advanced manufacturing.

Demand gives these commodities strategic value, policy support, and the potential for outsized returns when supply tightens.

According to Betashares, the convergence of AI expansion and the green transition may produce a historic 'supercycle' in critical minerals, reshaping industries worldwide and testing supply chains already stressed by renewable energy and electric vehicle (EV) growth.

Vinnay Cchoda, Manager – Responsible Investments at Betashares, Ex Ellerston Capital and Venture Insights said: 

For investors, the structural demand story remains compelling. But the means of capturing that value has shifted. The path to monetising this megatrend now runs through policy, geopolitics, supply chain diversification and industrial strategy as much as through geology.

What's perhaps even more prudent for investors is grasping the current Australian repositioning from a raw-materials exporter to a strategic partner.

By using public finance, policy support, and alliances – particularly with the US – Australia is positioning to build processing, refining, and downstream manufacturing capability in critical minerals. 

How to gain exposure

Like many thematic classes, investors have plenty of individual companies that will provide exposure to critical minerals. 

Some of the most recognisable ASX-listed companies include: 

• PLS Ltd (ASX: PLS) – lithium and battery minerals producer
• IGO Ltd (ASX: IGO) – diversified battery metals miner with lithium and nickel exposure
• Liontown Resources Ltd (ASX: LTR) — lithium exploration and development company

Another option is to invest in a basket of these companies using an ASX ETF.

Two options to consider for ASX ETFs featuring critical minerals companies are: 

• Betashares Energy Transition Metals ETF (ASX: XMET) – provides exposure to global producers of copper, lithium, nickel, cobalt, graphite, manganese, silver, and rare earths elements.
• Global X Green Metal Miners ETF (ASX: GMTL) – provides exposure to global companies that produce critical metals for clean energy infrastructure and technologies, including lithium, copper, nickel, and cobalt.

The post The growing case for critical minerals – Expert appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

What did IGO report?

• Group sales revenue of $82.4 million, down 22% on the previous quarter
• Group underlying EBITDA up 55% to $29.9 million
• Positive operating cash flow of $12.8 million and underlying free cash flow of $13.4 million
• Greenbushes spodumene production increased to 352kt (up 10%), with sales of 328kt
• Nova nickel production rose to 3,790 tonnes, up 11%; copper to 1,776 tonnes (+29%)
• Net cash increased to $298.9 million at quarter end

What else do investors need to know?

IGO continued to deliver on safety, with its Total Recordable Injury Frequency Rate (TRIFR) improving from 8.0 to 5.8. The company recorded no serious potential incidents for the quarter, reflecting a stronger safety culture and refreshed risk controls.

At Greenbushes, first ore from CGP3 was processed in December, marking a major milestone. Spodumene production and EBITDA margin (64%) both improved, supported by higher ore grades and a stronger lithium price. However, Kwinana lithium hydroxide production declined to 2,120 tonnes due to planned maintenance, limiting output to 35% of nameplate capacity for the quarter.

Board renewal is underway, with Dr Vanessa Guthrie AO appointed Chair from 1 January 2026, and a new CFO, Johan van Vuuren, to join in April. IGO is also progressing a transaction to transfer certain Forrestania nickel assets to Medallion Metals, while retaining rights over nickel and lithium.

What's next for IGO?

IGO's outlook for the rest of FY26 remains steady. Greenbushes spodumene output is expected to come in just below the lower end of guidance, but capex is running below forecast thanks to disciplined capital management. Attention will stay on ramping up the new CGP3 plant.

At Kwinana, production should remain within prior guidance. The Nova operation continues to perform ahead of plan, with stable nickel volumes and costs. Investors can expect more portfolio optimisation, ongoing exploration, and board renewal activity through the year.

IGO share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, IGO hares have risen 73%, strongly outperforming the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has risen 6% over the same period.

View Original Announcement

The post IGO posts improved earnings on higher lithium price, Nova strength appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

ASX mining shares dominate the list of companies hitting these new price milestones today.

Arguably, the most significant price peak today is for BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP) shares.

BHP reclaimed its place as the All Ords' largest share by market capitalisation from Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA) today.

CBA took the title from BHP in July 2024 during an unprecedented run that took it to a record $192 per share in June 2025.

The CBA share price is $150.35 on Tuesday, up 0.85%, while BHP shares are $49.66, up 2.54%, at the time of writing.

The BHP share price hit a two-year high of $50.08 this morning.

But today isn't all about BHP shares.

Plenty of other ASX All Ords shares have smashed new multi-year highs as well.

Here's a sample.

ASX All Ords shares reaching new price highs

As stated earlier, mining shares dominate the list of company highs today, so let's focus on them first.

Besides BHP, two other large-cap ASX diversified miners hit new 52-week share price highs.

The Mineral Resources Ltd (ASX: MIN) share price rose 2.8% to a 52-week high of $64.05.

South32 Ltd (ASX: S32) shares hit a 52-week high of $4.54 per share, up 3.4%.

Among the ASX All Ords gold shares, Newmont Corporation CDI (ASX: NEM) lifted 1.9% to a record high of $181.91.

The Resolute Mining Ltd (ASX: RSG) share price soared 10.3% to a 52-week peak of $1.50.

Ramelius Resources Ltd (ASX: RMS) shares surged 3.5% to a record $5.09.

Regis Resources Ltd (ASX: RRL) shares increased 2.8% to a multi-year high of $8.58.

Copper and gold miner Firefly Metals Ltd (ASX: FFM) lifted 5.8% to a 52-week high of $2.20 per share.

Among ASX silver shares, Silver Mines Ltd (ASX: SVL) rose 12.5% to a 52-week high of 27 cents.

Canaccord Genuity sees more growth ahead for Sun Silver Ltd (ASX: SS1) shares, which rose 6.5% to a record $2.47 apiece today.

ASX All Ords lithium shares also hit new price peaks.

Shares in lithium and nickel producer IGO Ltd (ASX: IGO) increased 2% to a two-year high of $9.50.

The Winsome Resources Ltd (ASX: WR1) share price lifted 11.7% to an 18-month high of 67 cents.

Hot Chili Ltd (ASX: HCH) shares soared 9.2% to a 52-week high of $1.89.

Among ASX All Ords copper shares, Capstone Copper Corp CDI (ASX: CSC) soared 8.8% to a record $16.27 per share.

The Develop Global Ltd (ASX: DVP) share price rose 5.8% to a four-year high of $5.67.

What about ASX All Ords shares from other sectors?

ASX All Ords retail stock Nick Scali Limited (ASX: NCK) ascended 1.9% to a record $26.08 per share.

Engineering services company Monadelphous Group Ltd (ASX: MND) lifted 3.6% to a record $30.98.

Testing and inspection services provider ALS Ltd (ASX: ALQ) rose 1.4% to a record $24.41.

The post ASX All Ords shares smashing 52-week highs today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The S&P/ASX 200 Materials Index (ASX: XMJ) rose by 31.71% and produced total returns, including dividends, of 36.21%.

This was mainly due to strongly rising commodity prices, which fuelled the growth of ASX 200 mining shares.

The question now is whether those ASX 200 mining shares have any room for growth left this year.

Morgan Stanley says the following 3 stocks do not. Here's why.

Fortescue Ltd (ASX: FMG)

The Fortescue share price is down 0.4% to $22.30 on Tuesday.

Over the past six months, this ASX 200 iron ore mining share has leapt almost 30%.

It reached a 52-week high of $23.38 on 11 December.

Valuation is one reason why Morgan Stanley just downgraded Fortescue shares to an underweight rating.

An underweight rating means a stock is expected to underperform its peers. It implies that investors should reduce exposure so they hold a lower proportion of the stock to its weighting in the market.

The broker's 12-month share price target for Fortescue is $19.75.

Morgan Stanley said it expects Fortescue to report strong realised iron ore prices for 2Q FY26.

However, it's concerned that costs may rise and production from Iron Bridge may weaken.

This implies an 11% potential downside from here for Fortescue shares.

Sandfire Resources Ltd (ASX: SFR)

The Sandfire Resources share price is down 0.7% to $18.98 today.

The ASX 200's largest pure-play copper share has risen 72% over six months and 93% over 12 months.

The stock reached a record $19.61 per share last week.

A rising copper price has been powering this share price growth.

Copper is in high demand as the green energy transition continues worldwide. Copper is an essential input in electrification.

Yesterday, Morgan Stanley reiterated its sell rating on Sandfire Resources shares.

The broker raised its price target on the ASX 200 mining share from $11.45 to $16.15.

This implies a potential downside of 15% from here.

IGO Ltd (ASX: IGO)

The IGO share price is 0.8% lower at $8.84 at the time of writing.

This ASX 200 lithium mining share has ripped 112% in FY26 so far.

This lines up with the period of time in which lithium commodity prices have rebounded.

Lithium began a long-awaited recovery in July after three years of dramatic declines followed by stagnation.

Today, the lithium carbonate price is at a two-year high.

Improving global demand for batteries, EVs, and new infrastructure associated with the green energy transition is fuelling the rebound.

Yesterday, Morgan Stanley reiterated its sell rating on IGO shares.

The broker increased its 12-month price target from $4.50 to $8.40.

This implies a potential downside of 5% from here.

The post ASX 200 materials was the best sector of 2025 but it's time to sell these 3 shares: broker appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Some commodities have risen by more than 25% and even up to 70% in just a month, and many miners hit multi-year highs last week.

They included the ASX 200's largest mining share, BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP), as well as fellow diversified miners, Mineral Resources Ltd (ASX: MIN) and South32 Ltd (ASX: S32).

Others that hit multi-year highs included ASX 200 lithium major PLS Group Ltd (ASX: PLS), gold large-cap Newmont Corporation CDI (ASX: NEM), copper pure-play Sandfire Resources Ltd (ASX: SFR), and aluminium stock Alcoa Corporation CDI (ASX: AAI).

The broader market also had a strong week. The benchmark S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) rose 2.13% to finish at 8,903.9 points.

Nine of the sectors finished the week in the green.

Let's review.

ASX 200 mining shares' unstoppable trajectory

The BHP share price reached a two-year high of $49.75 per share on Thursday.

BHP shares closed 2.66% higher for the week at $48.99 on Friday.

The Fortescue Ltd (ASX: FMG) share price rose 0.48% to $22.82 while Rio Tinto Ltd (ASX: RIO) lifted 3.63% to $148.25.

The Mineral Resources share price lifted 4.71% to $59.78 while South32 gained 8.05% to $4.16.

Among the ASX 200 pure-play copper stocks, Sandfire Resources shares ascended 2.68% to close at $19.15.

Capstone Copper Corp CDI (ASX: CSC) shares finished 7.72% higher at $15.63.

ASX 200 lithium shares also had a good week, with PLS Group shares lifting 0.65% to $4.68.

PLS Group shares hit a two-and-a-half-year high of $5.04 on Thursday, and profit-taking was apparent on Friday.

The Liontown Ltd (ASX: LTR) share price rose 4.88% to $2.15, while IGO Ltd (ASX: IGO) increased 2.66% to $8.88.

ASX 200 gold shares benefited from another resetting of the gold price record at US$4,642.58 on Wednesday.

The ASX 200's largest gold share, Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST), rose 8.54% to close at $26.83 on Friday.

The Evolution Mining Ltd (ASX: EVN) share price rose 2.34% to $13.12, and Newmont lifted 7.53% to $169.25.

Among ASX 200 ASX rare earths shares, Lynas Rare Earths Ltd (ASX: LYC) increased 9.79% to $15.48.

Arafura Rare Earths Ltd (ASX: ARU) shares fell 5% to 28 cents per share.

Bauxite and alumina producer Alcoa rose 4.45% to $95.28 per share on Friday.

Soaring ASX 200 mining shares prompted many brokers to issue revised 12-month share price targets last week.

ASX 200 market sector snapshot

Here's how the 11 market sectors stacked up last week, according to CommSec data.

Over the five trading days:

The post ASX 200 materials sector outperforms as mining shares continue their ascent appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

In early afternoon trade on Thursday, the ASX 200 is up 0.2%, with the Aussie lithium miners broadly outpacing those gains.

At the time of writing:

• Mineral Resources Ltd (ASX: MIN) shares are up 1.7% at $62.41
• Liontown Resources Ltd (ASX: LTR) shares are up 0.7% at $2.19
• Pls Group Ltd (ASX: PLS) – formerly Pilbara Minerals – shares are up 1.1% at $4.93
• IGO Ltd (ASX: IGO) shares are up 2.4% at $9.34

The miners aren't just beating the benchmark returns today. In fact, all four of these ASX 200 lithium stocks have smashed the 8% returns delivered by the ASX 200 over the past year.

Here's what I mean:

• Mineral Resources shares are up 69% in a year
• Liontown shares are up 279% in a year
• PLS shares are up 115% in a year
• IGO shares are up 83% in a year

What's sending ASX 200 lithium stocks like Liontown shares soaring?

The common thread helping lift the Aussie lithium miners has been the rebounding lithium price.

Following the collapse in lithium prices in 2023, many global miners and ASX 200 lithium stocks reduced or entirely paused their lithium production. But with strong demand from energy storage systems (ESS) and electric vehicles (EVs), amid reduced global supplies, lithium prices just hit the highest levels in more than two years.

A lot of that growing demand is being driven by China.

According to Trading Economics, China intends to double its EV charging capacity by 2027. And with an eye on fast-growing EV sales, lithium producer Ganfeng expects lithium demand to increase by 30% in 2026.

"Fundamentals of the lithium market are strong," Reg Spencer, a mining analyst at Canaccord Genuity, said in late December.

"The reality is that spodumene prices have doubled, chemical prices in China have almost doubled, and I still haven't seen any new Western greenfield projects sanctioned," he added.

And it takes a long time to build a new greenfield mine.

These tightening supply and demand dynamics appear favourable for ASX 200 lithium stocks, including IGO and Mineral Resources shares in the months ahead.

Indeed, Barrenjoey forecasts spodumene prices will rise to US$3,250 per tonne in 2026, forecasting a 40% year on year increase in ESS battery shipments.

(Spodumene, if you're not familiar, is a lithium bearing ore mined in Australia.)

According to the broker (quoted by The Australian Financial Review), the factors pushing lithium prices higher are "set to sustain into 2026 and the medium term, particularly in regions with higher renewable energy penetration demanding increased ESS capacity for grid stability and reliability".

Stay tuned!

The post Why ASX 200 lithium stocks like Liontown and Mineral Resources are making waves today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The S&P/ASX 200 Materials Index (ASX: XMJ) rose 2.3% to hit an eight-year high of 22,523.1 points this morning.

The materials sector is a long way out in front of the other 10 market sectors. The second best performer is real estate, up 0.9%.

A slew of ASX mining shares have also reset their 52-week highs today as commodity values continue to spike.

Meanwhile, the benchmark S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) is up 0.92% after a strong night on Wall Street.

The S&P 500 Index (SP: INX) hit a new record of 6,986.33 points last night, and finished 0.16% higher for the session.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI), which tracks 30 selected S&P 500 stocks, also hit a record 49,633.35 points.

Surging commodity values continue to push ASX mining shares higher.

Let's take a look.

Commodity prices just keep going…

The hottest commodity on the global market right now, silver, is up 0.37% to US$84.24 per ounce at the time of writing.

The silver price has risen an astounding 30% in just one month and is up 181% year over year.

The lithium carbonate price leapt 8.6% in overnight trading to US$21,797.74 per tonne.

The commodity has surged 60% over the past month and has doubled year over year.

The aluminium price rose 1.3% overnight to US$3,189.8 per tonne. That's an 11% monthly gain and a 24% increase over 12 months.

The iron ore price rose 0.2% to US$108.25 per tonne. Iron ore is up 2% over the past month and almost 10% over 12 months.

The gold price is down 0.25% at US$4,586 per ounce, but up 6.5% over the month and 72% year over year.

The copper price is 1% lower at US$5.93 per pound. Copper futures are up 11% over the month and 38% year over year.

The red metal hit a record above US$6 per pound last week.

Let's check out the impact on ASX mining shares today.

ASX mining shares smashing 52-week highs today

ASX 200 iron ore and lithium miner Mineral Resources Ltd (ASX: MIN) rose 2.8% to a 52-week high of $60.20.

The market's largest pure-play copper share, Sandfire Resources Ltd (ASX: SFR), reached a 52-week peak of $19.58, up 4.4%.

The biggest pure-play lithium share, PLS Group Ltd (ASX: PLS), also hit a 52-week high of $4.92, up 3.1%.

Liontown Ltd (ASX: LTR) shares rose 4.2% to $2.24, and IGO Ltd (ASX: IGO) lifted 1.2% to $9.02 — both new 52-week highs.

The Elevra Lithium Ltd (ASX: ELV) share price ripped 11.6% to a 52-week high of $10.19.

ASX 200 diversified miner South32 Ltd (ASX: S32) hit a 52-week high of $4.04 per share, up 3.6%.

Unico Silver Ltd (ASX: USL) shares ripped 6.6% to a 52-week high of $1.13.

ASX 200 gold share Newmont Corporation CDI (ASX: NEM) lifted 0.8% to a record high of $167.99.

The Resolute Mining Ltd (ASX: RSG) share price rose 3.8% to a 52-week peak of $1.35.

Ramelius Resources Ltd (ASX: RMS) shares surged 3% to a record $4.52.

Gold and copper miner, Greatland Resources Ltd (ASX: GGP) lifted 5.1% to a 52-week high of $12.58 per share.

Aluminium stock Alcoa Corporation CDI (ASX: AAI) hit a 52-week high of $98.32 per share, up 3.8%.

The post ASX mining shares on fire! New 52-week highs today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Reflecting the miners' dominance, the S&P/ASX 300 Metal & Mining Index (ASX: XMM) rose 3.64% last week and the S&P/ASX All Ords Gold Index (ASX: XGD) lifted 1.41%, while the benchmark S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) weakened 0.11% to finish at 8,717.8 points.

Only four of the 11 market sectors finished the week in the green.

Let's recap.

Scores of ASX 200 mining shares reach 52-week highs

Ongoing strength in commodity prices boosted ASX 200 mining shares last week.

At the time of writing, the iron ore price is up 0.45% for the week at US$107.65 per tonne.

This helped send several ASX 200 iron ore shares to 52-week highs.

BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP) shares reached $48.49, Rio Tinto Ltd (ASX: RIO) $154.75, and Mineral Resources Ltd (ASX: MIN) $58.64.

The Fortescue Ltd (ASX: FMG) share price didn't reach an annual high but increased 2.57% over the week to close at $22.71 on Friday.

Copper futures surged above US$6 per pound, a new record, which also supported BHP given it is now the world's largest producer.

Several ASX 200 copper shares also reached 52-week peaks, including the market's largest pure-play Sandfire Resources Ltd (ASX: SFR).

The Sandfire Resources share price hit an all-time record of $19.43, as did Capstone Copper Corp (ASX: CSC) shares at $15.89.

Lithium prices also surged, with the carbonate price streaking 16% higher for the week and 49% over the past month.

Unsurprisingly, ASX 200 lithium shares ripped, with many also setting new 52-week price milestones last week.

PLS Group Ltd (ASX: PLS) shares rose to $4.89 apiece, Liontown Ltd (ASX: LTR) hit $2.10, and IGO Ltd (ASX: IGO) reached $8.95.

ASX 200 rare earths shares increased on news that China will limit exports of rare earths to Japan.

Lynas Rare Earths Ltd (ASX: LYC) shares shot the lights out, ripping 15.38% to close the week at $14.10.

The Arafura Rare Earths Ltd (ASX: ARU) share price flew 9.26% to close at 30 cents per share.

What about gold?

The gold price rose 3% last week to above US$4,467 per ounce in late trading on Friday Australian time.

The market's largest ASX 200 gold share, Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST) rose 1.19% to close at $24.72 on Friday.

The Evolution Mining Ltd (ASX: EVN) share price rose 1.1% to close at $12.82.

Newmont Corporation CDI (ASX: NEM) shares hit a record high of $162.45 apiece last week.

Vault Minerals Ltd (ASX: VAU) shares hit a 52-week high of $5.80, as did Regis Resources Ltd (ASX: RRL) shares at $7.84.

Gold and copper miner, Greatland Resources Ltd (ASX: GGP) lifted 9.09% over the week to close at $11.52.

The Greatland Resources share price reached a record high of $11.66 on Friday.

Silver continues its amazing run, up 5% over the week and 152% over the past 12 months.

This helped ASX 200 diversified miner South32 Ltd (ASX: S32) hit a 52-week high of $3.87 per share.

South32 is exposed to silver via its Cannington mine, which is one of the world's largest producers of silver and lead.

The rising aluminium price also supported South32 shares.

Aluminium gained 2.2% last week and is up 22% over the past year.

This also helped bauxite and alumina producer Alcoa Corporation CDI (ASX: AAI) hit a 52-week high of $94.31 last week.

ASX 200 market sector snapshot

Here's how the 11 market sectors stacked up last week, according to CommSec data.

Over the five trading days:

Final word on the week

Here at the Fool, we continued to dissect all the results of 2025 for your review last week.

We revealed the 5 best ASX 200 mining shares of 2025 for capital growth.

We also considered what $10,000 invested in the BetaShares Australian Resources Sector ETF (ASX: QRE) returned over the past year.

You might also be interested in the 5 top ASX 200 gold shares, the 12 best performing commodities, and the best sectors for dividends.

The post ASX 200 materials sector dominates as scores of mining shares hit new highs appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Shares in the market's largest pure-play lithium producer, PLS Group Ltd (ASX: PLS) lifted 1.2% to a new 52-week high of $4.89 today.

The IGO Ltd (ASX: IGO) share price rose 2.1% to a 52-week high of $8.95.

Liontown Resources Ltd (ASX: LTR) shares lifted 3.5% to a 52-week high of $2.10.

The Core Lithium Ltd (ASX: CXO) share price rocketed 24% to a two-year high of 36 cents.

Lake Resources NL (ASX: LKE) shares rose 14.3% to a 52-week high of 16 cents.

Elevra Lithium Ltd (ASX: ELV) shares increased 1.9% to a 52-week high of $9.

Galan Lithium Ltd (ASX: GLN) shares rose 5.5% to a 52-week high of 38 cents.

The Delta Lithium Ltd (ASX: DLI) share price lifted 8.5% to a 52-week high of 25.5 cents.

Wildcat Resources Ltd (ASX: WC8) shares rose 10.3% to a 52-week high of 43 cents.

Pmet Resources CDI (ASX: PMT) shares rose 11.3% to a 52-week high of 69 cents.

The Winsome Resources Ltd (ASX: WR1) share price lifted 9.8% to a 52-week high of 56 cents.

Midas Minerals Ltd (ASX: MM1) shares rose 10% to a 52-week high of 66 cents.

Lithium prices have been steadily lifting since mid-2025 and leapt higher overnight.

Let's find out why.

Why are lithium prices rising again?

Trading Economics analysts say lithium prices are on the mend due to higher demand and lower supply worldwide.

The lithium carbonate price rose 3.75% overnight to a 19-month high of US$19,793 per tonne.

The Spodumene Concentrate Index (CIF China) Price lifted 1.69% to US$1,800 per tonne.

The Battery-Grade Lithium Hydroxide price rose 3.6% to US$16,213.76 per tonne.

There is greater demand globally for batteries and power infrastructure amid the green energy transition.

Additionally, sales of electric vehicles (EVs) in China are rising, with EVs outselling traditional cars for the first time last October.

Trading Economics reports that 'new energy vehicles' in China rose 20.6% annually to a record of 1.823 million units in November.

China has pledged to double EV charging capacity to 180 gigawatts by 2027.

Amid higher demand for lithium, China is also seeking to stabilise lithium prices by implementing measures to avoid over-capacity.

Analysts at Trading Economics said:

The Bureau of Natural Resources of Yichun, which includes the lithium mining hub in the Chinese Jiangxi province, stated it would cancel 27 mining permits early next year.

The move was consistent with the earlier suspension of activity in CATL's Jianxiawo lithium mine as the Chinese government aims to reduce capacity in many goods industries to prevent the ongoing race-to-the-bottom that has stirred deflationary pressures.

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