READING, Pa., Oct. 12, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — EnerSys (NYSE: ENS), the global leader in stored energy solutions for industrial applications, announced today it has joined the CEO Water Mandate, a UN Global Compact initiative in co-secretariat with the Pacific Institute. As part of EnerSys’ ongoing commitment to using water and other natural resources efficiently and reducing the impacts of our resource use, these actions strengthen the company’s commitment to implement innovative, sustainable water strategies across its facilities around the world.

The CEO Water Mandate is a platform for business leaders and learners to advance water stewardship practice. Companies that endorse the CEO Water Mandate commit to action and continuous improvement across six key elements of water conservation, and to report annually on their progress, which includes direct operations, supply chain, and watershed management, collective action, public policy, community engagement, and transparency.

In implementing water stewardship, endorsing companies also identify and reduce critical water risks to their businesses, seize water-related saving opportunities, and contribute to water security and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. The CEO Water Mandate is now endorsed by EnerSys and over 200 companies from various industries around the world.

“The vision of EnerSys is Powering the Future – Everywhere for Everyone. This vision includes supporting the conservation of natural resources through both pioneering resource-efficient products as well as implementing improvements throughout our global business operations. Whether it is through innovations like Thin Plate Pure Lead (TPPL) battery technology that significantly reduces water use from traditional batteries, or the ongoing investment in greater efficiency and water recycling opportunities in our facilities, EnerSys understands the value of water resilience and the importance of partnerships to support our natural resources and the environment,” said EnerSys President and CEO David M. Shaffer.

Caution Concerning Forward-Looking Statements

EnerSys is making this statement in order to satisfy the “Safe Harbor” provision contained in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Any of the statements contained in this press release that are not statements of historical fact may include forward-looking statements that involve a number of risks and uncertainties. A forward-looking statement predicts, projects, or uses future events as expectations or possibilities. Forward-looking statements may be based on expectations concerning future events and are subject to risks and uncertainties relating to operations and the economic environment, all of which are difficult to predict and many of which are beyond our control. For a discussion of such risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those matters expressed in or implied by forward-looking statements, please see our risk factors as disclosed in the “Risk Factors” section of our annual report on Form 10-K for fiscal year ended March 31, 2021. The statements in this press release are made as of the date of this press release, even if subsequently made available by EnerSys on its website or otherwise. EnerSys does not undertake any obligation to update or revise these statements to reflect events or circumstances occurring after the date of this press release.

About EnerSys

EnerSys, the global leader in stored energy solutions for industrial applications, manufactures and distributes energy systems solutions and motive power batteries, specialty batteries, battery chargers, power equipment, battery accessories and outdoor equipment enclosure solutions to customers worldwide. Energy Systems, which combine enclosures, power conversion, power distribution and energy storage, are used in the telecommunication, broadband and utility industries, uninterruptible power supplies, and numerous applications requiring stored energy solutions. Motive power batteries and chargers are utilized in electric forklift trucks and other industrial electric powered vehicles. Specialty batteries are used in aerospace and defense applications, large over-the-road trucks, premium automotive, medical and security systems applications. EnerSys also provides aftermarket and customer support services to its customers in over 100 countries through its sales and manufacturing locations around the world. With the NorthStar acquisition, EnerSys has solidified its position as the market leader for premium Thin Plate Pure Lead batteries which are sold across all three lines of business.

More information regarding EnerSys can be found at www.enersys.com.

About the CEO Water Mandate

The CEO Water Mandate is a United Nations Global Compact initiative that mobilizes business leaders on water, sanitation, and the Sustainable Development Goals for corporate water stewardship. Endorsers of the Mandate commit to continuous progress against six core elements (direct operations, supply chain and watershed management, collective action, public policy, community engagement and transparency) and in so doing understand and manage their own water risks. Established in 2007 and implemented in partnership with the Pacific Institute, the Mandate was created out of the acknowledgment that global water challenges create risk for a wide range of industry sectors, the public sector, local communities and ecosystems alike. For more information, follow @H2O_stewards on Twitter and visit our website at ceowatermandate.org.

About the United Nations Global Compact:

As a special initiative of the UN Secretary-General, the United Nations Global Compact is a call to companies everywhere to align their operations and strategies with Ten Principles in the areas of human rights, labour, environment and anti-corruption. Our ambition is to accelerate and scale the global collective impact of business by upholding the Ten Principles and delivering the Sustainable Development Goals through accountable companies and ecosystems that enable change. With more than 12,000 companies and 3,000 non-business signatories based in over 160 countries, and 69 Local Networks, the UN Global Compact is the world’s largest corporate sustainability initiative — one Global Compact uniting business for a better world. For more information, follow @globalcompact on social media and visit our website at unglobalcompact.org.

For more information, contact Michael J. Schmidtlein, Chief Financial Officer, EnerSys, P.O. Box 14145, Reading, PA 19612-4145, USA. Tel: 610-236-4040 or by emailing investorrelations@enersys.com.

Smaller lithium stocks are attracting greater investor interest as underlying companies make progress.

• Planned investment sum 470 million euros, expected production start in 2024

• Central component of the European battery value chain secures the lithium requirements of around 500,000 electric vehicles per year

• Brandenburg's Economics Minister Steinbach: "With Rock Tech Lithium, we are strengthening our position as the future center of European e-mobility."

GUBEN, Germany, Oct. 10, 2021 /PRNewswire/ – Rock Tech Lithium Inc., a cleantech company with offices in Canada and Germany, is planning to build Europe's first lithium converter – a production plant for battery-grade lithium hydroxide – in Guben, Brandenburg.

The company intends to locate all production steps of lithium refining in one overall plant at the Guben site. The investment decision for all production steps still depends, among other things, on ongoing discussions regarding subsidies already applied for or still to be applied for. With its long industrial tradition and existing infrastructure, the region offers the best conditions for becoming a central component of the battery value chain and thus part of Brandenburg's e-mobility cluster. The planned total investment volume at the Guben site for all factory units is up to 470 million euros. With the entire plant in operation, around 160 technicians, engineers and production staff would be employed on site. Together, they would produce around 24,000 metric tons of lithium hydroxide per year. This would correspond to the volume needed to equip around 500,000 electric cars with lithium-ion batteries.

With the acquisition of the site in the Guben South industrial park, Rock Tech Lithium is now creating the basis for the planned converter construction. The site, which covers a total of around twelve hectares, offers extensive space for the construction of facilities for all individual production steps in lithium refining. The already good traffic connection will be further optimized by a possible rail connection. Rock Tech Lithium will seek a close exchange with authorities, experts and local stakeholders for the planning and approval process. The converter is scheduled to start operations in 2024. Locally sourced renewable energy is to be used for production. In order to acquire the site, Rock Tech will make a cash payment to the property owners totalling 1,130,877€ no later than six (6) months from the date of the agreement. The property owners are at arm's length to Rock Tech.

Dirk Harbecke, Chief Executive Officer of Rock Tech Lithium, explains, "We are becoming the lithium partner of the automotive industry and are building our own, previously non-existent infrastructure for battery-grade lithium hydroxide in Europe. Our goal is to be the first company worldwide to create a closed loop for lithium. Guben seems to us to be the ideal location for this, with subsidies also playing a significant role." By 2030, the cleantech company plans to obtain around 50 percent of the raw materials it uses from recycling spent batteries.

The EU Commission estimates that European lithium demand for e-car batteries alone will increase 18-fold by 2030 and as much as 60-fold by 2050. A sustainable and resilient raw material supply is thus becoming a strategically decisive factor for the automotive industry.

"With Rock Tech Lithium, we are strengthening our position as the future center of European e-mobility. Brandenburg will be home to the entire value chain in the future. From raw material processing to battery and cell production to e-car construction as well as battery recycling. In this way, we are once again clearly demonstrating our own claim that Brandenburg is a state of innovation. I am all the more pleased that Rock Tech Lithium has chosen Guben as an industrial location in the energy region of Lusatia. This is an important sign for the people of the region. The Lusatia structural process has begun and is showing its first positive results. Lusatia is and will remain an important energy region in Germany," explains Jörg Steinbach, Minister for Economic Affairs, Labor and Energy of the State of Brandenburg.

The decision in favor of Guben was preceded by a Europe-wide site search. In the end, the city of Guben came out on top due to its excellent conditions. Guben's mayor Fred Mahro is also pleased about the decision and explains: "The fact that we have found an investor so quickly for the recently decided expansion of our industrial area shows the great potential of our European city. The economic development agencies of the state, the district and the city have cooperated optimally and won a strong partner for Guben and our region with Rock Tech Lithium."

Harald Altekrüger, District Administrator of the Spree-Neiße District, adds: "The fact that Rock Tech Lithium has chosen our district is proof of our good work. In recent years, we have created structures that offer innovative companies good investment opportunities. We will continue to accompany the settlement and further development of Rock Tech Lithium with commitment."

About Rock Tech Lithium Inc.

Rock Tech Lithium is a cleantech company with operations in Canada and Germany that will supply the automotive industry with high quality lithium hydroxide "made in Germany". As early as 2024, the company will commission Europe's first lithium converter with a production capacity of 24,000 tonnes per year. This is equivalent to the volume needed to equip around 500,000 electric cars with lithium-ion batteries.

The cleantech company has set itself the goal of creating the world's first closed loop for lithium, thus closing the raw material gap on the road to clean mobility. Rock Tech owns the Georgia Lake lithium project in Ontario, Canada and, as early as 2030, around 50 percent of the raw materials used are expected to come from the recycling of batteries.

Rock Tech Lithium is listed on the TSX Venture and Frankfurt stock exchanges. The company is led by Dirk Harbecke, Chairman & CEO, Stefan Krause, Chief Financial Officer, and Don Stevens, Chief Technology Officer and Esther Bahne as Chief Strategy & Marketing Officer.

Rock Tech Lithium – The fuel for the battery age

www.rocktechlithium.com

On behalf of the Board of Directors,

Dirk Harbecke
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer

Cautionary Note Concerning Forward-Looking Information

The following cautionary statements are in addition to all other cautionary statements and disclaimers contained elsewhere in, or referenced by, this news release.

Certain information set forth in this news release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. All statements other than statements of historical facts included in this news release, including those regarding Rock Tech's opinions, beliefs and expectations, business strategy, development and exploration opportunities and projects, mineral resource estimates, drilling and modeling plans, and plans and objectives of management for operations and properties constitute forward-looking information. Generally, forward-looking information can be identified by the use of words or phrases such as "estimate", "project", "anticipate", "expect", "intend", "believe", "hope", "may" and similar expressions, as well as "will", "shall" and all other indications of future tense. All forward-looking information set forth in this news release are expressly qualified in their entirety by the cautionary statements referred to in this section.

Forward-looking information is based on certain estimates, expectations, analysis and opinions that are believed by management of Rock Tech to be reasonable at the time they were made or in certain cases, on third party expert opinions. It should be noted that, in order to proceed with the planned investment of 470€ million contained herein, Rock Tech will be required to raise additional funding and the availability of financing on satisfactory terms is not guaranteed. This forward-looking information was derived utilizing numerous assumptions regarding, among other things, the supply and demand for, deliveries of, and the level and volatility of prices of, intermediate and final lithium products, expected growth, performance and business operation, prospects and opportunities, general business and economic conditions, results of development and exploration, Rock Tech's ability to procure supplies and other equipment necessary for its business, including development and exploration activities. The foregoing list is not exhaustive of all assumptions which may have been used in developing the forward-looking information. While Rock Tech considers these assumptions to be reasonable based on information currently available, they may prove to be incorrect. Forward-looking information should not be read as a guarantee of future performance or results.

In addition, forward-looking information involves known and unknown risks and uncertainties and other factors, many of which are beyond Rock Tech's control, that may cause Rock Tech's actual events, results, performance and/or achievements to be materially different from that which is expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Risks and uncertainties that may cause actual events, results, performance and/or achievements to vary materially include the risk that Rock Tech will not be able to meet its financial obligations as they fall due, changes in commodity prices, Rock Tech's ability to retain and attract skilled staff and to secure feedstock from third party suppliers, unanticipated events and other difficulties related to construction, development and operation of converters and mines, the cost of compliance with current and future environmental and other laws and regulations, title defects, competition from existing and new competitors, changes in currency exchange rates and market prices of Rock Tech's securities, Rock Tech's history of losses, impacts of climate change and other risks and uncertainties discussed under the heading "Financial Instruments and Other Risks" in Rock Tech's most recently filed Management Discussion and Analysis, a copy of which is filed electronically through SEDAR and is available online at www.sedar.com. Such risks and uncertainties do not represent an exhaustive list of all risk factors that could cause actual events, results, performance and/or achievements to vary materially from the forward-looking information.

We cannot assure you that actual events, results, performance and/or achievements will be consistent with the forward-looking information and management's assumptions may prove to be incorrect. Our forward-looking information reflects Rock Tech management's views as at the date the information is created. Except as may be required by law, Rock Tech undertakes no obligation and expressly disclaims any responsibility, obligation or undertaking to update or to revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, to reflect any change in Rock Tech's expectations or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such information is based.

The forward-looking information contained herein is presented for the purposes of assisting readers in understanding Rock Tech's plans, objectives and goals and is not appropriate for any other purposes.

Given these uncertainties, readers are cautioned not to rely on the forward-looking information set forth in this news release.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/drive-for-e-batteries-europes-first-lithium-hydroxide-converter-to-be-built-in-brandenburg-germany-301396650.html

SOURCE Rock Tech Lithium Inc.

London Metal Exchange (LME) has teamed up with Germany’s Metalshub to establish an online spot trading platform for base metals.

The collaboration will start with low carbon aluminium early next year in an attempt to boost its sustainability drive. 

Over the coming months, the exchange will undertake focused market engagement with its industrial user groups globally in order to develop a suitable product pipeline.

LME, which was established in 1877, is the world’s oldest and largest market for industrial metals. It said on Monday that it is beginning with aluminium because power is a major component in the smelting process, often up to 40%.

However, aluminium is important for the energy transition, including in the automotive industry where it is valued for its lightweighting properties in electric vehicles (EVs), LME said.

Read more: IPO Watch: EDF's charging firm Pod Point plans London Stock Exchange listing

Its primary aluminium contract has the highest volumes of any contract traded on the exchange, however due to the coronavirus pandemic overall volumes have declined.

The LME temporarily closed its floor for open outcry trading for 18-months amid the health crisis, reopening only last month with a new structure. During the pandemic, the bourse shifted to an electronic system to determine daily benchmark prices.

Metalshub currently focuses on the steel industry, providing an array of ferroalloys as well as various base and minor metal products via its marketplace. Its second most traded product is nickel, which is also traded on the LME.

The German bourse expects its turnover to more than triple this year to around €1bn (£850m, $1.16bn) after attracting big clients such as miner Anglo American (AAL.L).

Read more: Anglo American's profit soars 1,000% thanks to China and battery demand

“We are delighted to be working with Metalshub to develop and support the delivery of digital spot trading services to our global industrial user base,” Robin Martin, LME head of market development, said.

“Physical metals trading needs are increasingly being met with digital solutions, which offer benefits such as transparency, efficiency and easily evidenced compliance with procurement requirements.

“As the global centre for industrial metals futures trading, the LME is well-positioned to work with the outstanding Metalshub management team, to help expand the Metalshub product base and develop its direct connectivity with the physical market.”

Watch: Why the LME Backtracked on closing trading floor for good

We’re living now at the start of a great economic transition, from the fossil fuel economy to the ‘green’ economy. We’re seeing political moves to boost clean energy sources over fossil fuels, as well as to promote cleaner tech, especially vehicles. One immediate result is a wide array of companies, new and old, getting into the electric vehicle (EV) business and its auxiliaries, opening up new opportunities for investors.

One particularly strong field for such opportunities: supporting infrastructure. Developing new battery technology, recycling old batteries, expanding the EV charging network, exploring and exploiting lithium deposits – these, and more, are all areas that will need solutions as the number of electric cars on the roads continues to grow. And the companies that can successfully build in one of these niches will bring investors the returns they want.

With this in mind, we’ve used TipRanks' database to look up the latest details on three EV battery stocks. They are producing the raw materials and support structure that EVs require for success. And better yet, Wall Street’s analysts see them as mid- to long-term winners. Let's take a closer look.

Lithium Americas (LAC)

We’ll start with a mining company. Lithium Americas, a Canadian-based resource company, has two major projects for the production of battery-grade lithium carbonate. This is an essential mineral in the current rechargeable battery production, and Lithium Americas’ projects are expected to produce approximately 100,000 metric tons annually over the next four decades. The mines, Cauchari-Olaroz in northern Argentina and Thacker Pass in Nevada, are gearing up for production in the next 6 to 8 months. Thacker Pass contains the most significant recoverable lithium deposits in the US.

Lithium Americas reported, in its 2Q results, that both projects remain on track. The Cauchari-Olaroz project has 1,200 workers on site, and chemical and processing plants for recovered lithium, which are being built at the mine site, are two-thirds or more complete. This Argentinian lithium project is expected to produced 40,000 tons annually of the company’s total, starting in the middle of next year.

The Thacker Pass mine, in Nevada, is also reported to be meeting the company’s development schedule. The mine, when it begins production later this year, will make lithium a major export from Nevada, which is already known as a mining-intensive state. The Thacker Pass mine is projected to reach some 60,000 tons annually at full output.

Lithium Americas’ mines have not yet entered production, so the company has no revenue stream as yet. This makes the stock highly speculative, but with reason to be bullish: the company’s development is running on time, as is the governmental regulatory process. In addition, the company reported having $505 million in cash on hand and $156 million in undrawn credit at the end of 1H21, available for funding operations.

J.P. Morgan's Tyler Langton sees potential for Lithium Americas – in fact, the analyst initiated coverage of this stock with an Overweight (i.e. Buy) rating and a price target of $28. This figure implies ~36% one-year upside potential. (To watch Langton’s track record, click here)

Backing his stance, Langton wrote: “Demand for lithium should roughly double from 2021E through 2025E, and then double again from 2025E through 2030E. The biggest driver of this growth should be from electric vehicles (especially battery electric vehicles) continuing to gain share and larger battery sizes… LAC should see strong and steady production growth through the end of the decade, while its two projects should have attractive positions on the cost curve. LAC also has a solid balance sheet to fund this growth and significant leverage to our lithium price forecasts…”

Overall, there are 5 recent analyst reviews on file for Lithium Americas, and they include 4 Buys against a single Hold to give the stock a Strong Buy consensus rating. Shares are selling for $20.60 and the $24.43 average price target suggests the stock has room for ~19% growth in the year ahead. (See LAC stock analysis on TipRanks)

Albemarle Corporation (ALB)

Next up is Albemarle, a North Carolina-based chemical manufacturer. The company produces lithium and bromine chemical products, as well as catalysts needed in other chemical manufacturing processes. Albemarle has been in business since the 1880s, and has operations across the United States, Chile, and Western Australia, as well as in East Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. The company is the largest global provider of lithium for EV battery backs.

Some recent numbers will show Albemarle’s importance in the global chemical industry. In the last reported quarter, 2Q21, EPS hit $3.62, derived from $424.6 million in net income. This was more than 4x higher than the 80-cent EPS reported in the year ago quarter.

During the second quarter, Albemarle streamlined its operations through the sale of its Fine Chemistry Services division to W.R. Grace & Company. The sale was worth $570 million, of which $300 million was paid in cash and $270 million was issued to Albemarle as preferred equity in a W.R. Grace subsidiary. Albemarle will use the proceeds to execute its long-term growth strategy, which includes a greater focus on lithium operations. The company reported that its lithium performance expanded in the first half of this year.

In September of this year, Albemarle took a major step to increase its lithium production through the acquisition of the Chinese company Guangxi Tianyuan New Energy Materials. Guangxi Tianyuan is a lithium converter company for which Albemarle agreed to pay US$200 million. The deal is expected to close early next year.

Berenberg analyst Sebastian Bray is openly bullish on Albemarle’s prospects, writing of the company: “We expect demand for lithium, the key material used in electric vehicle batteries, to grow strongly during this decade, and pricing to remain firm. We forecast long-term contract prices for Albemarle of USD16,000 per ton, significantly ahead of Albemarle’s 2020 Aaverage contract prices of USD13,000… We expect Albemarle’s earnings to grow strongly on the back of lithium capacity additions. We estimate Albemarle’s production will increase five-fold by 2030E, quickly contracting current valuation multiples."

In line with these comments, Bray rates ALB shares a Buy, with a $280 price target that indicates a 12-month upside of 30%. (To watch Bray’s track record, click here)

Albemarle also gets decent support from Bray's colleagues; Based on 10 Buys, 4 Holds and 2 Sells, the stock has a Moderate Buy consensus rating. At $254.38, the average price target suggests upside of ~18% in the year ahead. (See ALB stock analysis on TipRanks)

ChargePoint Holdings (CHPT)

ChargePoint is one of the largest operators of EV charging station networks in the US and Europe. ChargePoint has more than 5,000 commercial and fleet customers, which include 76% of the Fortune 50 companies. In addition, ChargePoint boasts over 118,000 charging locations in its North American and European networks.

ChargePoint recent reported its Q2 fiscal 2022 results, and showed revenue of $56.1 million, up 61% year-over-year. Of that total revenue, $40.9 million came from networked charging; this was a 91% gain yoy. The company reported more than $618 million in liquid assets.

In a point of interest for investors, ChargePoint raised its full-year guidance range by 15% at the midpoint, to the $225 million to $235 million range.

Earlier this month, ChargePoint announced strategic moves in its European operations, including the acquisition of has·to·be. has·to·be is the provider of be.ENERGISED, a cloud-based e-mobility EV charging software platform. The acquisition will allow ChargePoint to further expand its position in the European EV charging ecosystem, and follows the acquisition of ViriCiti in August.

In coverage for D.A. Davidson, Matt Summerville notes two important factors in CHPT’s prospects: “(1) CHPT has a meaningful first-mover advantage in the North American public L2 EV charging market, with a portfolio of well-regarded products, 100% of which are sold with a CHPT Cloud software subscription (and an approximately 60% of which generate subscriptions from its Assure service/maintenance plan) and can be accessed via CHPT’s highly-downloaded/rated mobile app or via an EV’s infotainment system; (2) a growing presence in the rapidly-expanding European EV charging market, underpinned by its recent acquisitions of has·to·be and ViriCiti…”

To this end, Summerville rates the stock a Buy, and his $30 price target suggests it sill grow 63% over the next year. (To watch Summerville’s track record, click here)

Overall, ChargePoint’s 11 recent analyst reviews include 7 Buys, 3 Holds, and 1 Sell, giving the stock its Moderate Buy consensus rating. The average price target of $34 implies a bullish upside of ~85% from the current trading price of $18.40. (See CHPT stock analysis on TipRanks)

To find good ideas for EV stocks trading at attractive valuations, visit TipRanks’ Best Stocks to Buy, a newly launched tool that unites all of TipRanks’ equity insights.

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the featured analysts. The content is intended to be used for informational purposes only. It is very important to do your own analysis before making any investment.

There's no doubt that money can be made by owning shares of unprofitable businesses. For example, although software-as-a-service business Salesforce.com lost money for years while it grew recurring revenue, if you held shares since 2005, you'd have done very well indeed. But while history lauds those rare successes, those that fail are often forgotten; who remembers Pets.com?

So should Vital Metals (ASX:VML) shareholders be worried about its cash burn? For the purposes of this article, cash burn is the annual rate at which an unprofitable company spends cash to fund its growth; its negative free cash flow. First, we'll determine its cash runway by comparing its cash burn with its cash reserves.

See our latest analysis for Vital Metals

How Long Is Vital Metals' Cash Runway?

A company's cash runway is the amount of time it would take to burn through its cash reserves at its current cash burn rate. As at June 2021, Vital Metals had cash of AU$35m and no debt. Looking at the last year, the company burnt through AU$16m. Therefore, from June 2021 it had 2.2 years of cash runway. Arguably, that's a prudent and sensible length of runway to have. The image below shows how its cash balance has been changing over the last few years.

How Is Vital Metals' Cash Burn Changing Over Time?

Vital Metals didn't record any revenue over the last year, indicating that it's an early stage company still developing its business. So while we can't look to sales to understand growth, we can look at how the cash burn is changing to understand how expenditure is trending over time. In fact, it ramped its spending strongly over the last year, increasing cash burn by 134%. It's fair to say that sort of rate of increase cannot be maintained for very long, without putting pressure on the balance sheet. Admittedly, we're a bit cautious of Vital Metals due to its lack of significant operating revenues. We prefer most of the stocks on this list of stocks that analysts expect to grow.

How Easily Can Vital Metals Raise Cash?

Given its cash burn trajectory, Vital Metals shareholders may wish to consider how easily it could raise more cash, despite its solid cash runway. Companies can raise capital through either debt or equity. Many companies end up issuing new shares to fund future growth. We can compare a company's cash burn to its market capitalisation to get a sense for how many new shares a company would have to issue to fund one year's operations.

Since it has a market capitalisation of AU$229m, Vital Metals' AU$16m in cash burn equates to about 7.0% of its market value. That's a low proportion, so we figure the company would be able to raise more cash to fund growth, with a little dilution, or even to simply borrow some money.

Is Vital Metals' Cash Burn A Worry?

On this analysis of Vital Metals' cash burn, we think its cash burn relative to its market cap was reassuring, while its increasing cash burn has us a bit worried. Cash burning companies are always on the riskier side of things, but after considering all of the factors discussed in this short piece, we're not too worried about its rate of cash burn. On another note, we conducted an in-depth investigation of the company, and identified 4 warning signs for Vital Metals (3 are potentially serious!) that you should be aware of before investing here.

Of course, you might find a fantastic investment by looking elsewhere. So take a peek at this free list of companies insiders are buying, and this list of stocks growth stocks (according to analyst forecasts)

This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.

BRISBANE, Australia, Oct. 08, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Orocobre Limited (ASX: ORE, TSX: ORL) (“Orocobre” or “the Company”) will release the September Quarterly Production Report on Friday 22 October 2021. Managing Director and CEO, Mr. Martín Pérez de Solay will conduct a live webcast briefing at 10am AEST (Brisbane), 11am AEDT (Sydney, Melbourne). The webcast briefing will be available via Orocobre’s website www.orocobre.com. Written questions may be submitted via the webcast.

An archive copy of the briefing and Q&A session will subsequently be made available on the Company website.

Rick Anthon
Joint Company Secretary

For more information please contact:

Andrew Barber
Chief Investor Relations Officer
Orocobre Limited
T: +61 7 3871 3985
M: +61 418 783 701
E: abarber@orocobre.com
W: www.orocobre.com

Twitter: https://twitter.com/OrocobreLimited
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Click here to subscribe to the Orocobre e-Newsletter

There's no doubt that money can be made by owning shares of unprofitable businesses. For example, biotech and mining exploration companies often lose money for years before finding success with a new treatment or mineral discovery. But while the successes are well known, investors should not ignore the very many unprofitable companies that simply burn through all their cash and collapse.

Given this risk, we thought we'd take a look at whether Havilah Resources (ASX:HAV) shareholders should be worried about its cash burn. For the purposes of this article, cash burn is the annual rate at which an unprofitable company spends cash to fund its growth; its negative free cash flow. Let's start with an examination of the business' cash, relative to its cash burn.

Check out our latest analysis for Havilah Resources

Does Havilah Resources Have A Long Cash Runway?

You can calculate a company's cash runway by dividing the amount of cash it has by the rate at which it is spending that cash. Havilah Resources has such a small amount of debt that we'll set it aside, and focus on the AU$5.9m in cash it held at January 2021. Importantly, its cash burn was AU$2.9m over the trailing twelve months. That means it had a cash runway of about 2.0 years as of January 2021. That's decent, giving the company a couple years to develop its business. Depicted below, you can see how its cash holdings have changed over time.

How Is Havilah Resources' Cash Burn Changing Over Time?

In our view, Havilah Resources doesn't yet produce significant amounts of operating revenue, since it reported just AU$167k in the last twelve months. As a result, we think it's a bit early to focus on the revenue growth, so we'll limit ourselves to looking at how the cash burn is changing over time. Notably, its cash burn was actually down by 57% in the last year, which is a real positive in terms of resilience, but uninspiring when it comes to investment for growth. Havilah Resources makes us a little nervous due to its lack of substantial operating revenue. We prefer most of the stocks on this list of stocks that analysts expect to grow.

Can Havilah Resources Raise More Cash Easily?

There's no doubt Havilah Resources' rapidly reducing cash burn brings comfort, but even if it's only hypothetical, it's always worth asking how easily it could raise more money to fund further growth. Issuing new shares, or taking on debt, are the most common ways for a listed company to raise more money for its business. Commonly, a business will sell new shares in itself to raise cash and drive growth. By looking at a company's cash burn relative to its market capitalisation, we gain insight on how much shareholders would be diluted if the company needed to raise enough cash to cover another year's cash burn.

Havilah Resources' cash burn of AU$2.9m is about 5.1% of its AU$57m market capitalisation. Given that is a rather small percentage, it would probably be really easy for the company to fund another year's growth by issuing some new shares to investors, or even by taking out a loan.

Is Havilah Resources' Cash Burn A Worry?

It may already be apparent to you that we're relatively comfortable with the way Havilah Resources is burning through its cash. In particular, we think its cash burn relative to its market cap stands out as evidence that the company is well on top of its spending. And even its cash runway was very encouraging. After taking into account the various metrics mentioned in this report, we're pretty comfortable with how the company is spending its cash, as it seems on track to meet its needs over the medium term. Taking a deeper dive, we've spotted 5 warning signs for Havilah Resources you should be aware of, and 2 of them make us uncomfortable.

Of course, you might find a fantastic investment by looking elsewhere. So take a peek at this free list of interesting companies, and this list of stocks growth stocks (according to analyst forecasts)

This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.

All monetary amounts are expressed in Canadian Dollars, unless otherwise indicated.

TORONTO and FUJIAN, China, Oct. 8, 2021 /CNW/ – Zijin Mining Group Co., Ltd. ("Zijin") (SSE: 601899) (SEHK: 2899) and Neo Lithium Corp. ("Neo Lithium" or the "Company") (TSXV: NLC) (OTCQX: NTTHF) (FSE: NE2) are pleased to announce that they have entered into a definitive agreement (the "Arrangement Agreement"), pursuant to which Zijin has agreed to acquire all of the outstanding shares of Neo Lithium (the "Transaction") at a price of C$6.50 per share (the "Offer Price") in cash. The Offer Price represents a premium of approximately 36% over Neo Lithium's 20-day volume-weighted average price ("VWAP") as at October 8, 2021 on the TSX Venture Exchange ("TSXV"). The total cash consideration for all of the outstanding equity of Neo Lithium is approximately C$960 million.

Waldo A. Perez, President and Chief Executive Officer of Neo Lithium, stated:

"After a thorough strategic process, we are very pleased to provide this all-cash premium offer to our shareholders from a leading global mining company. This is the result of the collective work of our premier lithium brine exploration team, starting from initial discovery in late 2015 to defining one of the largest and highest-grade lithium brine deposits in the world, and culminating in this premium offer in just six years. We believe that it is now time for our project to proceed to the construction and production phases with Zijin, a leader with a track record of developing assets in a responsible manner respecting the interests of local employees, communities and authorities."

Chen Jinghe, Chairman of Zijin, stated:

"Neo Lithium's 3Q lithium brine project in Catamarca, Argentina is one of the largest and highest-grade projects of its kind in the world. We would like to express our high respect for the management and professional team who discovered and successfully explored this project. The 3Q project represents an important addition to Zijin's growing global asset mix and it is a good choice for Zijin to enter the field of new energy minerals. Thanks to the professional team's efforts and input in the early stage of the project, we are confident that together with Zijin's strong financial resources and mining know-how, we will develop this excellent asset into one of the world's leading lithium carbonate producing mines. In accordance with Zijin's co-development aspirations, we will continue to work closely with local communities and government authorities so that all relevant stakeholders can benefit from the project's successful development".

Zijin is committed to retaining the current management and professional team at LIEX S.A., Neo Lithium's local operating subsidiary, as well as making contributions to economic and social developments for Catamarca province, Argentina, as it moves forward to advance the development of the 3Q project.

Benefits to Neo Lithium Shareholders

• Immediate and significant premium of approximately 36% to the 20-day VWAP on the TSXV

• All-cash offer that is not subject to a financing condition

• Strong deal certainty with a highly credible and leading global mining company as purchaser

• Voting support agreements entered into with all directors and senior officers of Neo Lithium who hold shares

• Removes future dilution, commodity, construction, production and execution risk with next phase of 3Q project

Transaction Summary

The Transaction will be completed pursuant to a Plan of Arrangement under the Business Corporations Act (Ontario). The Transaction will be subject to the approval of at least 66-⅔% of the votes cast by shareholders. In addition to shareholder approval, the Transaction is also subject to the receipt of certain government, regulatory, court and stock exchange approvals, including approval by relevant authorities in the People's Republic of China and Investment Canada Act approval, and other closing conditions customary in transactions of this nature.

The Arrangement Agreement includes, among other things, a customary non-solicitation covenant on the part of Neo Lithium (including fiduciary out provisions) and a right for Zijin to match any competing offer that constitutes a superior proposal. Under certain circumstances, Zijin would be entitled to a US$35 million termination fee and Neo Lithium would be entitled to a US$35 million reverse termination fee.

Neo Lithium Board of Directors Recommendations

The Transaction has been unanimously approved by the board of directors of Neo Lithium following the unanimous recommendation of a special committee of independent directors of Neo Lithium (the "Special Committee"). Cormark Securities has provided an opinion to the board of directors of Neo Lithium and to the Special Committee, stating that, based upon and subject to the assumptions, limitations and qualifications set forth therein, the consideration offered to the Neo Lithium shareholders pursuant to the Transaction is fair, from a financial point of view, to the Neo Lithium shareholders. The Cormark Securities fairness opinion was provided on a fixed fee basis and is not contingent on the outcome of the Transaction.

Timing

Full details of the Transaction will be included in Neo Lithium's management information circular, which is expected to be mailed to shareholders in November 2021 with the shareholders meeting expected to take place in December 2021. Shareholders are urged to read the information circular once available as it will contain additional important information concerning the Transaction. The Arrangement Agreement will also be filed on SEDAR. The Transaction is expected to close in the first half of 2022.

Advisors and Counsel

Paradigm Capital is acting as financial advisor to Zijin and Torys LLP is acting as Zijin's legal counsel.

BofA Securities is acting as financial advisor to Neo Lithium. Cormark Securities provided an independent fairness opinion to the Neo Lithium board of directors and the Special Committee. Fasken Martineau DuMoulin LLP is acting as legal counsel to Neo Lithium and the Special Committee.

About Neo Lithium Corp.

Neo Lithium Corp. has quickly become a prominent name in lithium brine development by virtue of its high quality 3Q project and experienced team. Neo Lithium is rapidly advancing its 100% owned 3Q project – a unique high-grade lithium brine lake and salar complex in Latin America's "Lithium Triangle".

The 3Q project is located in Catamarca Province, the largest lithium producing area in Argentina covering approximately 35,000 ha including a salar complex of approximately 16,000 ha.

Additional information regarding Neo Lithium Corp. is available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com under the Company's profile and at its website at www.neolithium.ca, including various pictures of ongoing work at the project.

About Zijin

Formed in 1993 and based in Fujian, China, Zijin is one of the largest mining companies in China as well as a leading global gold and copper producer. It manages an extensive portfolio, primarily consisting of gold, copper, zinc, and other metals through investments in China and twelve overseas countries across Europe, Central Asia, Africa, Oceania and South America. Listed on the Shanghai Stock Exchange and the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, Zijin has a market capitalization of approximately US$40 billion.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release.

Cautionary Statements Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

Forward-Looking Statements — Certain information set forth in this news release may contain forward-looking statements. Such statements include but are not limited to, statements as to the benefits of the Transaction to the Company's shareholders, the anticipated meeting date and mailing of the information circular in respect of the meeting, timing for completion of the Transaction and receiving the required regulatory and court approvals, expectations regarding how Zijin will continue operations and benefit the region, advancing the 3Q project, the economic effect of the 3Q project, and future plans and objectives of the Company and Zijin. Generally, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as "plans", "expects" or "is expected", "scheduled", "estimates" "intends", "anticipates", "believes", or variations of such words and phrases, or statements that certain actions, events or results "can", "may", "could", "would", "should", "might" or "will", occur or be achieved, or the negative connotations thereof. These forward-looking statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, certain of which are beyond the control of the Company, which could cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company and/or Zijin to be materially different from the future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such statements. These risks include, without limitation, risks related to obtaining regulatory and court approvals for the Transaction, political and regulatory risks associated with mining and exploration activities, including environmental regulation, risks and uncertainties relating to the interpretation of drill and sample results, risks related to the uncertainty of cost and time estimation and the potential for unexpected delays, costs and expenses, risks related to metal price fluctuations, the market for lithium products, and other risks and uncertainties related to the Company's prospects, properties and business detailed elsewhere in the Company's disclosure record. Although the Company believes its expectations are based upon reasonable assumptions and has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events or results to differ materially from those described in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause actions, events or results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended and undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements.

SOURCE Neo Lithium Corp.

View original content: http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/archive/October2021/08/c5442.html

BRISBANE, Australia, Oct. 07, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Orocobre Limited (ASX: ORE, TSX: ORL) (Orocobre or the Company), advises that its 2021 Annual General Meeting (AGM) will be held at 11.00am AEST on Tuesday 30 November 2021. In the interests of safety for shareholders, employees and the broader community during the COVID-19 pandemic, the 2021 AGM will be held virtually, rather than at a physical location.

Shareholders will be provided with information on how to participate in the AGM when the Notice of Meeting is released this month. The Notice of Meeting will also be available on the ASX Company Announcements Platform and Orocobre’s website at: https://www.orocobre.com.

The closing time for receipt of director nominations for any candidates other than those recommended by the Board is 5.00pm AEST, Tuesday 19 October 2021.

This announcement has been approved by:

Rick Anthon
Joint Company Secretary

For more information please contact:

Andrew Barber
Chief Investor Relations Officer
Orocobre Limited
T: +61 7 3720 9088
M: +61 418 783 701
E: abarber@orocobre.com
W: www.orocobre.com

Twitter: https://twitter.com/OrocobreLimited
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/orocobre-limited
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OrocobreLimited/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/orocobre/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/OrocobreLimited

Click here to subscribe to the Orocobre e-Newsletter

Freeport-McMoRan (FCX) closed the most recent trading day at $32.20, moving -1.56% from the previous trading session. This change lagged the S&P 500's 1.05% gain on the day.

Prior to today's trading, shares of the mining company had lost 9.49% over the past month. This has lagged the Basic Materials sector's loss of 8.25% and the S&P 500's loss of 5.07% in that time.

FCX will be looking to display strength as it nears its next earnings release. On that day, FCX is projected to report earnings of $0.83 per share, which would represent year-over-year growth of 186.21%. Meanwhile, our latest consensus estimate is calling for revenue of $6.17 billion, up 60.3% from the prior-year quarter.

FCX's full-year Zacks Consensus Estimates are calling for earnings of $2.97 per share and revenue of $23.04 billion. These results would represent year-over-year changes of +450% and +62.27%, respectively.

It is also important to note the recent changes to analyst estimates for FCX. Recent revisions tend to reflect the latest near-term business trends. As such, positive estimate revisions reflect analyst optimism about the company's business and profitability.

Based on our research, we believe these estimate revisions are directly related to near-team stock moves. Investors can capitalize on this by using the Zacks Rank. This model considers these estimate changes and provides a simple, actionable rating system.

The Zacks Rank system, which ranges from #1 (Strong Buy) to #5 (Strong Sell), has an impressive outside-audited track record of outperformance, with #1 stocks generating an average annual return of +25% since 1988. Within the past 30 days, our consensus EPS projection has moved 0.42% higher. FCX is currently sporting a Zacks Rank of #3 (Hold).

Digging into valuation, FCX currently has a Forward P/E ratio of 11.02. This valuation marks a discount compared to its industry's average Forward P/E of 12.39.

It is also worth noting that FCX currently has a PEG ratio of 0.33. This metric is used similarly to the famous P/E ratio, but the PEG ratio also takes into account the stock's expected earnings growth rate. The Mining – Non Ferrous industry currently had an average PEG ratio of 0.55 as of yesterday's close.

The Mining – Non Ferrous industry is part of the Basic Materials sector. This group has a Zacks Industry Rank of 71, putting it in the top 28% of all 250+ industries.

The Zacks Industry Rank includes is listed in order from best to worst in terms of the average Zacks Rank of the individual companies within each of these sectors. Our research shows that the top 50% rated industries outperform the bottom half by a factor of 2 to 1.

To follow FCX in the coming trading sessions, be sure to utilize Zacks.com.

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FreeportMcMoRan Inc. (FCX) : Free Stock Analysis Report
 
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Investors looking for stocks in the Chemical – Diversified sector might want to consider either Univar (UNVR) or Albemarle (ALB). But which of these two companies is the best option for those looking for undervalued stocks? Let's take a closer look.

We have found that the best way to discover great value opportunities is to pair a strong Zacks Rank with a great grade in the Value category of our Style Scores system. The proven Zacks Rank emphasizes companies with positive estimate revision trends, and our Style Scores highlight stocks with specific traits.

Currently, Univar has a Zacks Rank of #2 (Buy), while Albemarle has a Zacks Rank of #3 (Hold). This system places an emphasis on companies that have seen positive earnings estimate revisions, so investors should feel comfortable knowing that UNVR is likely seeing its earnings outlook improve to a greater extent. But this is only part of the picture for value investors.

Value investors also try to analyze a wide range of traditional figures and metrics to help determine whether a company is undervalued at its current share price levels.

The Value category of the Style Scores system identifies undervalued companies by looking at a number of key metrics. These include the long-favored P/E ratio, P/S ratio, earnings yield, cash flow per share, and a variety of other fundamentals that help us determine a company's fair value.

UNVR currently has a forward P/E ratio of 13.73, while ALB has a forward P/E of 60.30. We also note that UNVR has a PEG ratio of 1.06. This figure is similar to the commonly-used P/E ratio, with the PEG ratio also factoring in a company's expected earnings growth rate. ALB currently has a PEG ratio of 2.79.

Another notable valuation metric for UNVR is its P/B ratio of 1.99. The P/B is a method of comparing a stock's market value to its book value, which is defined as total assets minus total liabilities. By comparison, ALB has a P/B of 3.95.

These are just a few of the metrics contributing to UNVR's Value grade of B and ALB's Value grade of D.

UNVR sticks out from ALB in both our Zacks Rank and Style Scores models, so value investors will likely feel that UNVR is the better option right now.

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VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Oct. 05, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — American Lithium Corp. (“American Lithium” or the “Company”) (TSX-V:LI | OTCQB:LIACF | Frankfurt:5LA1) is pleased to provide an update on developments and plans across all of its projects and at the corporate level.

Highlights:

• Tonopah Lithium Claims (“TLC”):

  • Big Smoky / Crescent Dunes acquisition closed – TLC now at approximately 12,975 contiguous acres;

  • Received BLM approval to drill up to 15 new holes (approx. 2,000 metres (“m”)) to test high grade target areas (up to 2,361 parts per million (“ppm”) lithium (“Li”) at surface) on recently acquired land in Nevada;

  • Reverse Circulation (“RC”) drills to be mobilized in 2-3 weeks;

  • Plans to twin several holes to test for repeated sections of lithium claystone, drill to basement and determine depth to the water table;

  • Optimization of process engineering and pre-concentration work being fast-tracked to enable completion of a Preliminary Economic Assessment (“PEA”) during Q1 2022; and

  • Approval of Plan of Operations (“PO”) for next phase of development anticipated in late 2021.

• Falchani Lithium Project:

  • Plans to mobilize two Company drills for up to 40 drill holes (approx. 8,000 m) of diamond drilling in and around Falchani; also testing the newly discovered lithium-rich anomalies west of Falchani;

  • Infill and extension drilling on the Falchani deposit, mainly focused around Tres Hermanas;

  • Targeting reclassification of the large, inferred category of the current Falchani mineral resource to measured and indicated and expansion of existing resources;

  • Exploration drilling to commence on 2 key target areas 5-6 kilometres (“km”) west of Falchani identified in recent field work, including grab samples¹ of up to 3,272 ppm Li; and

  • Process to update existing PEA on Falchani for cesium and potassium by-products will commence shortly and will also reflect any resource reclassification and resource expansion.

• Macusani Uranium Project:

  • Plan to launch extension and exploration drilling at Macusani later this year utilizing remaining two Company diamond drills;

  • Plan 12,000 m (70 holes) of diamond drilling on high grade, near surface exploration targets, following recent field work where 90 grab samples¹ averaged 18,270 ppm (2.15% U₃O₈);

  • Targeting expansion of current deposits / resources and test newly discovered radiometric anomalies;

  • Process to update existing PEA on Macusani to commence shortly;

  • Updated PEA to focus on economic benefits of gravity pre-concentration, which has successfully doubled grades to 570-623 ppm uranium (“U”); and

  • Potential to significantly increase throughput / life of mine; through the inclusion of additional resources not previously included in existing PEA (2016).

• Corporate:

  • Executive team continues to focus on strong community relations with all required consents and authorizations in place for next phase of development at Falchani and Macusani;

  • All roads and infrastructure are in place and relevant communities are fully engaged;

  • Recent meeting of management with President Castillo of Peru has provided additional impetus for mobilization to occur in Peru later this month;

  • Ongoing engagement with all relevant stakeholders including positioning TLC as large-scale lithium development project with minimal environmental and cultural impacts; and

  • An application for a listing on the NYSE American Exchange has been filed.

Simon Clarke, CEO of American Lithium states, “The Company continues to move its projects through the development cycle as expeditiously as possible and, in the months ahead, expects to achieve numerous milestones in both Nevada and Peru. I would like to thank all our people for their continued hard work and engagement. Integrating companies’ post-merger takes time; however, the process is unfolding well. The positive impact that our new colleagues have brought and their technical expertise in developing unique styles of lithium and uranium mineralization is a great asset going forward. In addition, we are excited at the potential to up list onto the NYSE American, which we believe will provide greater exposure as American Lithium continues to evolve into a leading lithium developer focused on the Americas.”

TLC

With the acquisition of Big Smoky, north and contiguous to TLC, and additional staking to the east and south, the project has grown to a total of approximately 12,975 acres. As numerous other parties continue to stake and acquire land in the immediate vicinity, the Company’s strategy is to protect and build a buffer around its most prospective acreage while adding highly prospective, contiguous acreage where it can.

An RC drill program of up to 15 exploration drill holes (~2,000 m) on the newly acquired ground, where surface sampling¹ yielded results of up to 2,361 ppm Li, is expected to commence in two to three weeks. Up to 10 drill holes are planned on the northern ground and up to 5 holes on the new eastern ground. In addition, the Company plans to twin previously drilled mineralized holes (which form part of the existing resource), taking them deeper to establish the depth to the water table, test for deeper lithium mineralization potential and to provide material for the next phase of metallurgical processing test work.

As reported on August 19, 2021, the PO submitted to, and accepted as complete by, the Bureau of Land Management (“BLM”) to drill up to an additional 110 holes (~15,000 m) and up to five test pits on the original TLC claims area is expected to receive final approval in late 2021.

Metallurgical optimization test work has accelerated and continues to focus on upgrading, using gravity separation techniques, as well as three viable options to process TLC claystones for lithium extraction: warm sulphuric acid leaching; hydrochloric acid leaching and salt roast-water leaching. Work being completed by TECMMINE in Peru as well as Hazen Research and McClelland Laboratories in the US, continues to generate high levels of lithium extraction. Final phases of test work will also include impurity removal and lithium compound precipitation at ANSTO in Sydney, Australia, where similar work was successful in the final optimization of Falchani mineralization.

Finally, the Company has engaged Minviro Ltd, sustainability consultants, to complete a Life Cycle Assessment on the production of battery-grade lithium products at TLC, integrating environmental impact data into the decision-making process as the Company looks to finalize and optimize its flow-sheet design.

All technical and sustainability information will be integrated into a PEA expected to be completed in Q1 2022.

FALCHANI

At Falchani, the Company is planning an in-fill / resource expansion drill program as well as exploration drilling. The in-fill drill program will focus on the immediate Falchani resource area to upgrade the classification of mineral resources to Measured and Indicated categories. Resource expansion is focused on drill testing north and west of the existing Falchani resource area, where the deposit remains open, and immediately southwest of the deposit where the outcropping Tres Hermanas target is a top priority. Tres Hermanas is a series of outcrops of dipping lithium-rich tuff 75-90 m thick and 750 m long with extensive surface trench samples averaging 3,500 ppm Li from 84 samples¹.

The exploration drill program will focus on targets near the community of Quelcaya, 5 to 6 km west of Falchani and will follow up high-grade lithium surface grab sample results¹ of up to 3,272 ppm Li.

Two of the Company’s diamond drill rigs are expected to mobilize later this month, following receipt of final exploration permits, to complete the 40-hole (8,000 m) program. Access agreements and approvals have been received from all relevant communities for the programs, as these communities will be actively involved in the ongoing drilling campaigns.

Plans are being implemented to update the current Falchani PEA to include potential by-products, SOP (sulphate of potash) and Cesium, following initial successful extraction in test work. The updating of the PEA is expected to commence shortly and will also include the planned resource expansion/reclassification drill results.

MACUSANI

The Company is also planning an exploration and resource expansion drill program at the Macusani Uranium project. The resource expansion program will focus on areas between existing uranium deposits of the Kihitian Complex as radiometric prospecting and sampling work suggests that several of the deposits may be linked. Extension drilling to the northeast and southwest of the Colibri II-Tupurumani deposits will be completed, based also on sampling and prospecting results. As announced September 28, 2021, recent mapping and surface sampling generated over 90 grab samples¹ collected immediately at surface with uranium mineralization averaging 18,270 ppm U (2.15% U₃O₈). This program also identified 3 new exploration targets.

Two additional Company owned diamond drill rigs are expected to mobilize later in the year to start the 70 hole (12,000 m) Macusani project drill program, on receipt of final permits. As at Falchani, access agreements and approvals for this program have already been received from the relevant communities and these communities will be actively involved.

The Company plans to begin updating the Macusani Uranium PEA to include the recent successes in pre-concentrating uranium mineralization into the fine fraction. Test work from three different uranium deposits has shown that 73-82% of the uranium is retained in 31-35% of the original mass, effectively increasing the grade 2.3 times using simple scrubbing and screening in a short, 20-minute cycle. In summary, original mineralization head grades of 245-273 ppm U were upgraded to 570-623 ppm U.

The original Macusani PEA considered only 56% of the total mineral resources in the study². Gravimetric upgrading highlights the opportunity to include additional uranium resources, not previously considered, into the updated PEA offering the potential to vastly increase the potential life of mine production. Higher feed grades also have implications for potential capital and operating cost savings due to smaller throughput requiring a much smaller back-end plant footprint and less energy and reagent use per feed tonne. The updated PEA will also consider using tank leach processing versus the original heap leach option to increase uranium recoveries and add scalability to any potential operation.

Notes
¹ Grab samples are selective, and the selected nature of such sampling does not necessarily reflect potential uranium contents expected from future drill testing, but they do indicate the presence of uranium mineralization and mineralizing systems in the surface rocks collected.

²"Macusani Project, Macusani, Peru, NI 43-101 Report – Preliminary Economic Assessment” prepared by Mr. Michael Short and Dr. Thomas Apelt, of GBM Minerals Engineering Consultants Limited; Mr. David Young, of The Mineral Corporation; and Mr. Mark Mounde, of Wardell Armstrong International Limited dated January 12, 2016.

Qualified Person
Mr. Ted O’Connor, P.Geo., a Director of American Lithium, and a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects, has reviewed and approved the scientific and technical information contained in this news release.

NYSE American Listing
Readers are cautioned that while the Company is pursuing a listing on NYSE American at this time, there can be no guarantee that a listing will be completed. Completion of any listing remains subject to applicable regulatory approvals and the satisfaction of listing requirements. In the event a listing is completed, it is anticipated that the common shares of the Company would continue to trade on the TSX Venture Exchange.

About American Lithium
American Lithium, a member of the TSX Venture 50, is actively engaged in the acquisition, exploration and development of lithium projects within mining-friendly jurisdictions throughout the Americas. The Company is currently focused on enabling the shift to the new energy paradigm through the continued exploration and development of its strategically located TLC lithium claystone project in the richly mineralized Esmeralda lithium district in Nevada as well as continuing to advance its Falchani lithium and Macusani uranium development projects in southeastern Peru. Both Falchani and Macusani have been through preliminary economic assessments, exhibit strong additional exploration potential and are situated near significant infrastructure.

The TSX Venture 50 is a ranking of the top performers in each of 5 industry sectors in the TSX Venture Exchange over the last year.

For more information, please contact the Company at info@americanlithiumcorp.com or visit our website at www.americanlithiumcorp.com for project update videos and related background information.

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.

On behalf of the Board of Directors of American Lithium Corp.

“Simon Clarke”

CEO & Director

Tel: 604 428 6128

For further information, please contact:

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward Looking Information
This news release contains certain forward-looking information and forward-looking statements (collectively “forward-looking statements”) within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements in this news release include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the plans, objectives and advancement of the TLC, Falchani and Macusani (the “Projects”), exploration drilling plans, in-fill and expansion drilling plans, results of exploration and development plans, expansion of resources and testing of new deposits, environmental and social community permitting, completion of an updated PEA, including the timing thereof, and any other statements regarding the business plans, expectations and objectives of American Lithium. Forward-looking statements are frequently identified by such words as "may", "will", "plan", "expect", "anticipate", "estimate", "intend", “indicate”, “scheduled”, “target”, “goal”, “potential”, “subject”, “efforts”, “option” and similar words, or the negative connotations thereof, referring to future events and results. Forward-looking statements are based on the current opinions and expectations of management are not, and cannot be, a guarantee of future results or events. Although American Lithium believes that the current opinions and expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable based on information available at the time, undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements since American Lithium can provide no assurance that such opinions and expectations will prove to be correct. All forward-looking statements are inherently uncertain and subject to a variety of assumptions, risks and uncertainties, including risks, uncertainties and assumptions related to: American Lithium’s ability to achieve its stated goals, including the anticipated benefits of the acquisition of Plateau Energy Metals Inc. (“Plateau”); the estimated costs associated with the advancement of the Projects; risks and uncertainties relating to the COVID-19 pandemic and the extent and manner to which measures taken by governments and their agencies, American Lithium or others to attempt to reduce the spread of COVID-19 could affect American Lithium, which could have a material adverse impact on many aspects of American Lithium’s businesses including but not limited to: the ability to access mineral properties for indeterminate amounts of time, the health of the employees or consultants resulting in delays or diminished capacity, social or political instability in Peru which in turn could impact American Lithium’s ability to maintain the continuity of its business operating requirements, may result in the reduced availability or failures of various local administration and critical infrastructure, reduced demand for American Lithium’s potential products, availability of materials, global travel restrictions, and the availability of insurance and the associated costs; risks related to the certainty of title to the properties of American Lithium, including the status of the “Precautionary Measures” filed by American Lithium’s subsidiary Macusani Yellowcake S.A.C. (“Macusani”), the outcome of the administrative process, the judicial process, and any and all future remedies pursued by American Lithium and its subsidiary Macusani to resolve the title for 32 of its concessions; risks regarding the ongoing Ontario Securities Commission regulatory proceedings; the ongoing ability to work cooperatively with stakeholders, including but not limited to local communities and all levels of government; the potential for delays in exploration or development activities due to the COVID-19 pandemic; the interpretation of drill results, the geology, grade and continuity of mineral deposits; the possibility that any future exploration, development or mining results will not be consistent with our expectations; risks that permits will not be obtained as planned or delays in obtaining permits; mining and development risks, including risks related to accidents, equipment breakdowns, labour disputes (including work stoppages, strikes and loss of personnel) or other unanticipated difficulties with or interruptions in exploration and development; risks related to commodity price and foreign exchange rate fluctuations; risks related to foreign operations; the cyclical nature of the industry in which American Lithium operates; risks related to failure to obtain adequate financing on a timely basis and on acceptable terms or delays in obtaining governmental approvals; risks related to environmental regulation and liability; political and regulatory risks associated with mining and exploration; risks related to the uncertain global economic environment and the effects upon the global market generally, and due to the COVID-19 pandemic measures taken to reduce the spread of COVID-19, any of which could continue to negatively affect global financial markets, including the trading price of American Lithium’s shares and could negatively affect American Lithium’s ability to raise capital and may also result in additional and unknown risks or liabilities to American Lithium. Other risks and uncertainties related to prospects, properties and business strategy of American Lithium are identified in the “Risk Factors” section of American Lithium’s Management’s Discussion and Analysis filed on June 25, 2021, and in recent securities filings available at www.sedar.com. Actual events or results may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. American Lithium undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements except as required by applicable securities laws. Investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.

Cautionary Note Regarding Macusani Concessions
Thirty-two of the 151 concessions held by American Lithium’s subsidiary Macusani, are currently subject to Administrative and Judicial processes (together, the “Processes”) in Peru to overturn resolutions issued by INGEMMET and the Mining Council of MINEM in February 2019 and July 2019, respectively, which declared Macusani’s title to the 32 of the concessions invalid due to late receipt of the annual validity payment. Macusani successfully applied for injunctive relief on 32 concessions in a Court in Lima, Peru, and the grant of the Precautionary Measures (Medida Cautelar) has restored the title, rights and validity of those 32 concessions to Macusani until a final decision is obtained in at the last stage of the judicial process. If American Lithium’s subsidiary Macusani does not obtain a successful resolution of Processes, Macusani’s title to the concessions could be revoked.

TORONTO, Oct. 5, 2021 /CNW/ – First Cobalt Corp. (TSXV: FCC) (OTCQX: FTSSF) (the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has awarded a contract to industry expert Metso Outotec for the design and manufacturing of solvent extraction cells as well as technical support for the layout of a new solvent extraction plant and its process control. Metso Outotec is recognized as a world leader in sustainable solutions for mineral processing and metal refining.

HIGHLIGHTS

• The solvent extraction contract is the largest and most important equipment package now under contract

• Metso Outotec is an industry leader, having provided similar equipment to other operational cobalt sulfate refineries, thereby lowering the execution risk for the Company's strategy of producing battery-grade cobalt sulfate

• Commissioning of Phase 1 of First Cobalt's low-carbon hydrometallurgical refining strategy is scheduled for Q4'2022, targeting annual production of 25,000 tonnes of cobalt sulfate annually

• Once operational, First Cobalt's refinery will be the only producer of battery-grade cobalt for the North American electric vehicle market, capable of supplying over 1 million vehicles per annum, responding to strong demand in the accelerating EV revolution

• First Cobalt maintains a strong cash position, following completion of its project financing in September

The Company received several tenders from global vendors and Metso Outotec was selected based on competitive pricing and its technically superior bid. The contracted solution involves the latest advancements in solvent extraction in terms of modular design, process control and ease of installation and start up. The installation time of the modular mixer-settlers is evidenced to be 30% less than the conventional solvent extraction mixer-settlers used at other projects. In addition to the reduction in site install time, the footprint needed for the selected plant equipment is less than conventional solvent extraction equipment.

Image 1 – 3D rendering of First Cobalt's new solvent extraction plant

"We are happy to be moving forward with Metso Outotec, an industry-leading business partner. Their expertise and ability to deliver quality projects significantly de-risks our own. We move one step closer to becoming North America's only provider of cobalt sulfate and we do not intend to stop there", explains Trent Mell, President & CEO. "Plans for our Canadian Battery Materials Park also include battery recycling, nickel sulfate production and a partnership with a battery precursor manufacturer."

Phase 1 deployment of First Cobalt's 3-phase approach to market entry, slated for Q4'2022, will focus on processing cobalt hydroxide to produce a high-quality, sustainable and traceable battery-grade cobalt sulfate. In January 2021, the Company secured long-term cobalt hydroxide feed arrangements with Glencore AG and IXM SA, a subsidiary of CMOC, to provide a total of 4,500 tonnes of contained cobalt per year to the First Cobalt Refinery commencing in Q4'2022. In March 2021, the Company further de-risked the project by signing a flexible, long-term, offtake agreement with Stratton Metal Resources Limited for the sale of future cobalt sulfate production, with quantities determined by First Cobalt (subject to a minimum). Negotiations with automakers and battery suppliers are ongoing, with a growing interest in sourcing battery material from North America. Once operational, First Cobalt's Refinery will be North America's only producer of cobalt sulfate for the electric vehicle market.

Image 2 – Rendering of Phase 1 of First Cobalt's refinery in Canada at time of
commissioning in Q4'2022

About Metso Outotec

Metso Outotec was created through the combination of Metso Minerals and Outotec on June 30, 2020. We are a frontrunner in sustainable technologies, end-to-end solutions and services for the aggregates, minerals processing and metals refining industries globally. We ranked 8th on the 2021 Global 100 list of the world's most sustainable companies.

About First Cobalt

First Cobalt's mission is to be the most sustainable producer of battery materials. The Company owns a permitted North American hydrometallurgical refinery, a critical asset in the development and manufacturing of batteries for electric vehicles. First Cobalt owns the Iron Creek cobalt-copper project in Idaho, USA as well as several significant cobalt and silver properties in the Canadian Cobalt Camp.

On behalf of First Cobalt Corp.

Trent Mell
President & Chief Executive Officer

For more information visit www.firstcobalt.com

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This news release may contain forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (together, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable securities laws and the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements, other than statements of historical facts, are forward-looking statements. Generally, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of terminology such as "plans", "expects', "estimates", "intends", "anticipates", "believes" or variations of such words, or statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might", "occur" or "be achieved". Forward-looking statements involve risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results, performance, and opportunities to differ materially from those implied by such forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from these forward-looking statements are set forth in the management discussion and analysis and other disclosures of risk factors for First Cobalt, filed on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. Although First Cobalt believes that the information and assumptions used in preparing the forward-looking statements are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on these statements, which only apply as of the date of this news release, and no assurance can be given that such events will occur in the disclosed times frames or at all. Except where required by applicable law, First Cobalt disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

SOURCE First Cobalt Corp.

View original content to download multimedia: http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/archive/October2021/05/c2849.html

Albemarle Corporation ALB recently announced that it has signed a definitive deal to acquire all of the outstanding equity of Guangxi Tianyuan New Energy Materials Co., Ltd. The latter is a lithium converter located in Guangxi, China.

Per the agreement, Albemarle will acquire all outstanding equity from Tianyuan's stockholders for roughly $200 million, subject to certain adjustments. Albemarle projects the deal to close in early 2022, subject to customary closing conditions.

Tianyuan's operations include a recently-constructed lithium processing plant strategically located near the Port of Qinzhou in Guangxi. The plant has designed annual conversion capacity of up to 25,000 metric tons LCE. It is capable of producing battery-grade lithium carbonate and lithium hydroxide. It is currently in the commissioning stage and expected to begin commercial production in the first half of the next year.

Albemarle stated that the acquisition of Tianyuan, which owns and operates a newly- constructed lithium processing plant, is in sync with its strategy to pursue profitable growth, in line with customer demand. This will be an important component of its next wave of projects that will boost its conversion capacity in a capital-efficient manner in the coming years.

With the rapid global transition to cleaner energy, this added lithium capacity will enable it to help the customers achieve their growth and sustainability ambitions, the company noted.

Shares of Albemarle have surged 131% in the past year compared with a 18.2% rise of the industry.

Image Source: Zacks Investment Research

Albemarle, in its last earnings call, stated that it expects its performance for full-year 2021 to improve modestly on a year-over-year basis on a sustained recovery in global economic activities.

The company expects net sales for 2021 to be between $3.2 billion and $3.3 billion. It sees higher Lithium sales and improving trends in Catalysts. However, expectations for the Bromine business are reduced due to an increase in raw material costs and supply chain disruptions.

Moreover, Albemarle now expects adjusted earnings per share for 2021 in the band of $3.35-$3.70, up from its prior view of $3.25-$3.65.

Albemarle Corporation Price and Consensus

Albemarle Corporation price-consensus-chart | Albemarle Corporation Quote

Zacks Rank & Key Picks

Albemarle currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold).

Some better-ranked stocks in the basic materials space are Nucor Corporation NUE, The Chemours Company CC and Methanex Corporation MEOH.

Nucor has a projected earnings growth rate of around 534.4% for the current year. The company’s shares have surged 106.5% in a year. It currently flaunts a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.

Chemours has an expected earnings growth rate of around 86.4% for the current year. The company’s shares have gained 34.3% in the past year. It currently carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy).

Methanex has an expected earnings growth rate of around 409.3% for the current fiscal. The company’s shares have surged 93.3% in the past year. It currently flaunts a Zacks Rank #1.

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To read this article on Zacks.com click here.

Vancouver, British Columbia–(Newsfile Corp. – October 4, 2021) – The board of International Lithium Corp. (TSXV: ILC) (the "Company" or "ILC") is pleased to announce an update on progress at the end of the quarter.

Sale of Mariana
This sale of ILC's remaining 8.58% stake in Litio Minera Argentina and the remaining rights in the Mariana project to ILC's partner Ganfeng Lithium for CAD$ 16.8 million was announced on September 21, 2021. The Mariana transaction counts as a "Reviewable Disposition" under TSXV policies and is subject to TSXV approval and shareholder approval by a majority of the shares entitled to vote on the transaction. The Company is pleased to announce that it has now obtained TSXV approval to close the transaction following it obtaining the overwhelming support of the largest shareholders who provided the required shareholder approval. The Company expects to close the transaction in mid-October following the Chinese National Day and Golden Week holidays.

Convertible Debentures
All the remaining convertible debentures which were due to mature on September 30, 2021 were converted prior to maturity, resulting in the issue of an additional 10,600,000 shares and the elimination of C$ 530,000 of convertible debt.

Shares in issue
Following the exercise of warrants for CAD$ 600,000 mentioned in the September 21, 2021 news release, and the conversion of CAD$ 530,000 of convertible debentures mentioned above, the Company now has 233,880,443 common shares in issue. A new Fact Sheet reflecting this is available on the company's website.

Raleigh Lake progress
The Company commenced the autumn program at its 100% owned Raleigh Lake lithium and rubidium project in Canada last week. The Raleigh Lake project now consists of over 17,000 hectares (170 square kilometres) of mineral claims in Ontario, and is regarded by ILC management as ILC's most significant project in Canada. The exploration conducted to date covers only 5% of ILC's current claim area that has already shown significant quantities of rubidium and caesium in the lithium bearing pegmatite. Raleigh Lake is 100% owned by ILC, is not subject to any encumbrances, and is royalty free. It has perfect infrastructure being close to the town of Ignace and the city of Dryden, Ontario and is transected by the Trans-Canada Highway, high power electrical lines, gas pipelines and the Canadian Pacific Railway.

The recently mobilized field crews will continue exploration in Zones 1 and 2 of Raleigh Lake. Drilling in this area has delineated laterally extensive dykes of lithium-bearing pegmatites that dip gently for several hundred metres and remain open in several directions. A bio-geochemical orientation survey is being conducted to ascertain if the technique can be applied to the remainder of the project area where there is less outcrop and surface exposure of underlying geology is poor. The Company is widening the lithogeochemical sampling coverage by extending beyond the original 3000 Ha of claims, which will capture Zone 5, where the potential for pegmatite mineralization similar to the Tanco deposit at Bernic Lake, Manitoba, still exists. Due to the expansion of ILC's claims from 3,000 to 17,000 hectares this summer, there will also be some preliminary prospecting carried out over the newly staked areas for evidence of both lithium and nickel sulphide mineralization.

There is more work to do to get to a useful resource estimate at Raleigh Lake given also the large amount of additional claims acquired, and the Company will be doing this in a commercially sensible order, with a maiden resource estimate within Zone 1 now expected in 2022.

Avalonia progress
ILC's joint venture in Ireland with Ganfeng Lithium has seen continued drilling during the summer, and has made good progress in obtaining a clearer picture of the structure of the pegmatites there. The Company hopes to be able to publish results from the Avalonia project in the next couple of months.

Summary
This has been a very significant quarter for the Company, and the coming quarter is also expected to be an active one. Additional exploration at Raleigh Lake will form the bulk of the Company's operational expenditure in the next quarter. At the same time the Company will also look for additional exploration opportunities.

Qualified person
Patrick McLaughlin, P.Geo, a "Qualified Person" as defined by National Instrument 43-101 – Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects has reviewed and approved the technical information in this press release.

About International Lithium Corp.

International Lithium Corp. believes that the '20s will be the decade of battery metals, at a time that the world faces a significant turning point in the energy market's dependence on oil and gas and in the governmental and public view of climate change. Our key mission in the new decade is to make money for our shareholders from lithium and battery metals while at the same time helping to create a greener, cleaner planet. This includes optimizing the value of our existing projects in Canada and Ireland as well as finding, exploring and developing projects that have the potential to become world class lithium and rare metal deposits. In addition, we have seen the clear and growing wish by the USA and Canada to safeguard their supplies of critical battery metals, and our Canadian Raleigh Lake property is strategic in that respect.

A key goal has been to become a well funded company to turn our aspirations into reality, and following the disposal of the Mariana project in Argentina in 2021, which is the subject of this announcement, we believe we are well placed in that respect.

International Lithium Corp. has a significant portfolio of projects, strong management, and strong partners. Partners include Ganfeng Lithium Co. Ltd., ("Ganfeng Lithium") a leading China-based lithium product manufacturer quoted on the Shenzhen and Hong Kong stock exchanges (A share code: 002460, H share code: 1772) and Essential Metals Limited, quoted on the Australian Stock Exchange.

The Company's primary strategic focus is now on the Raleigh Lake lithium and rubidium project in Canada and on identifying additional properties.

The Raleigh Lake project now consists of over 17,000 hectares (170 square kilometres) of adjoining mineral claims in Ontario, and is regarded by ILC management as ILC's most significant project in Canada. The exploration there so far, which is on only about 5% of ILC's current claims, has shown significant quantities of rubidium and caesium in the pegmatite as well as lithium. Raleigh Lake is 100% owned by ILC, is not subject to any encumbrances, and is royalty free.

Complementing the Company's rare metal pegmatite property at Raleigh Lake, are interests in two other rare metal pegmatite properties in Ontario, Canada known as the Mavis Lake and Forgan Lake projects, and the Avalonia project in Ireland, which encompasses an extensive 50-km-long pegmatite belt.

The ownership of the Mavis Lake project is now 51% Essential Metals Limited ("ESS") and 49% ILC. In addition, ILC owns a 1.5% NSR on Mavis Lake. ESS has an option to earn an additional 29% by sole-funding a further CAD $8.5 million expenditures of exploration activities, at which time the ownership will be 80% ESS and 20% ILC.

The Forgan Lake project will, upon Ultra Resources Inc. meeting its contractual requirements pursuant to its agreement with ILC, become 100% owned by Ultra Resources, and ILC will retain a 1.5% NSR on Forgan Lake.

The ownership of the Avalonia project is currently 55% Ganfeng Lithium and 45% ILC. Ganfeng Lithium has an option to earn an additional 24% by either incurring CAD $ 10 million expenditures on exploration activities by September 2024 or delivering a positive feasibility study on the project, at which time the ownership will be 79% Ganfeng Lithium and 21% ILC.

With the increasing demand for high tech rechargeable batteries used in electric vehicles and electrical storage as well as portable electronics, lithium has been designated "the new oil", and is a key part of a "green tech" sustainable economy. By positioning itself with projects with significant resource potential and with solid strategic partners, ILC aims to be one of the lithium and rare metals resource developers of choice for investors and to continue to build value for its shareholders in the '20s, the decade of battery metals.

On behalf of the Company,

John Wisbey
Chairman and CEO

www.internationallithium.com

For further information concerning this news release, please contact +1 604-449-6520.

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information

Except for statements of historical fact, this news release or other releases contain certain "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities law. Forward-looking information or forward-looking statements in this or other news releases may include: the effect of results of the feasibility study of the Mariana Joint Venture Project, timing of publication of the technical reports, completion of the sale of the Company's interest in the Project, anticipated production rates, the timing and/or anticipated results of drilling on the Raleigh Lake or Mavis Lake projects, the expectation of resource estimates, preliminary economic assessments, feasibility studies, lithium or rubidium or caesium recoveries, modeling of capital and operating costs, results of studies utilizing various technologies at the company's projects, budgeted expenditures and planned exploration work on the Avalonia Joint Venture, satisfactory completion of the sale of mineral rights at Forgan Lake, increased value of shareholder investments, and continued agreement between the Company and Ganfeng Lithium Co. Ltd. regarding the Company's percentage interest in the Mariana project and assumptions about ethical behaviour by our joint venture partners where we have them. Such forward-looking information is based on a number of assumptions and subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties, including but not limited to those discussed in the sections entitled "Risks" and "Forward-Looking Statements" in the interim and annual Management's Discussion and Analysis which are available at www.sedar.com. While management believes that the assumptions made are reasonable, there can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate. Should one or more of the risks, uncertainties or other factors materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described in forward-looking information. Forward-looking information herein, and all subsequent written and oral forward-looking information are based on expectations, estimates and opinions of management on the dates they are made that, while considered reasonable by the Company as of the time of such statements, are subject to significant business, economic, legislative, and competitive uncertainties and contingencies. These estimates and assumptions may prove to be incorrect and are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement. Except as required by law, the Company assumes no obligation to update forward-looking information should circumstances or management's estimates or opinions change.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/98413

If we want to find a potential multi-bagger, often there are underlying trends that can provide clues. Typically, we'll want to notice a trend of growing return on capital employed (ROCE) and alongside that, an expanding base of capital employed. Ultimately, this demonstrates that it's a business that is reinvesting profits at increasing rates of return. However, after investigating Sociedad Química y Minera de Chile (NYSE:SQM), we don't think it's current trends fit the mold of a multi-bagger.

Return On Capital Employed (ROCE): What is it?

For those who don't know, ROCE is a measure of a company's yearly pre-tax profit (its return), relative to the capital employed in the business. The formula for this calculation on Sociedad Química y Minera de Chile is:

Return on Capital Employed = Earnings Before Interest and Tax (EBIT) ÷ (Total Assets – Current Liabilities)

0.084 = US$456m ÷ (US$6.0b – US$581m) (Based on the trailing twelve months to June 2021).

Therefore, Sociedad Química y Minera de Chile has an ROCE of 8.4%. In absolute terms, that's a low return but it's around the Chemicals industry average of 9.8%.

View our latest analysis for Sociedad Química y Minera de Chile

Above you can see how the current ROCE for Sociedad Química y Minera de Chile compares to its prior returns on capital, but there's only so much you can tell from the past. If you'd like to see what analysts are forecasting going forward, you should check out our free report for Sociedad Química y Minera de Chile.

What Does the ROCE Trend For Sociedad Química y Minera de Chile Tell Us?

In terms of Sociedad Química y Minera de Chile's historical ROCE movements, the trend isn't fantastic. To be more specific, ROCE has fallen from 11% over the last five years. However, given capital employed and revenue have both increased it appears that the business is currently pursuing growth, at the consequence of short term returns. And if the increased capital generates additional returns, the business, and thus shareholders, will benefit in the long run.

The Bottom Line On Sociedad Química y Minera de Chile's ROCE

In summary, despite lower returns in the short term, we're encouraged to see that Sociedad Química y Minera de Chile is reinvesting for growth and has higher sales as a result. And the stock has done incredibly well with a 127% return over the last five years, so long term investors are no doubt ecstatic with that result. So should these growth trends continue, we'd be optimistic on the stock going forward.

If you want to know some of the risks facing Sociedad Química y Minera de Chile we've found 2 warning signs (1 can't be ignored!) that you should be aware of before investing here.

If you want to search for solid companies with great earnings, check out this free list of companies with good balance sheets and impressive returns on equity.

This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.

TORONTO, Oct. 01, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Red Pine Exploration Inc. (TSX-V: RPX) (“Red Pine” or the “Company”) announces that its Board of Directors has granted an aggregate 100,000 stock options to Rachel Goldman, a recently appointed director of the Company. Each stock option is exercisable into one common share of the Company at a price of $0.61 CAD per common share, with vesting over 36 months, and exercisable for a period of five years from the date of grant. The options are granted pursuant to the Company’s Stock Option Plan and will be subject to applicable regulatory hold periods.

About Red Pine Exploration Inc.

Red Pine Exploration Inc. is a gold exploration company headquartered in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. The Company's common shares trade on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol "RPX".

The Wawa Gold Project is in the Michipicoten greenstone belt of Ontario, a region that has seen major investment by several producers in the last five years. Its land package hosts numerous historic gold mines and is over 6,800 hectares in size. The Company’s Chairman of the Board is Paul Martin, the former CEO of Detour Gold. The Board has extensive and diverse experience at such entities as Alamos, Barrick, Generation Mining, Detour Gold, in addition to recently appointed Rachel Goldman who holds capital markets expertise and is currently the Chief Executive Officer at Paramount Gold Nevada Corp. Led by Quentin Yarie, CEO, who has over 25 years of experience in mineral exploration, Red Pine is strengthening its position as a major mineral exploration and development player in the Michipicoten region.

For more information about the Company, visit www.redpineexp.com

Or contact:

Quentin Yarie, President and CEO, (416) 364-7024, qyarie@redpineexp.com

Or

Tara Asfour, Investor Relations Manager, (514) 833-1957 tasfour@redpineexp.com

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

This News Release contains forward-looking statements. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by terminology such as "may", "should", "expects", "plans", "anticipates", "believes", "estimates", "predicts", "potential" or "continue" or the negative of these terms or other comparable terminology. These statements are only predictions and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause our or our industry's actual results, levels of activity, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, levels of activity, performance or achievements expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements.

Although the Company believes that the assumptions and factors used in preparing the forward-looking information in this news release are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on such information, which only applies as of the date of this news release. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, other than as required by law.

After charging to $80 per barrel on Tuesday, oil prices fell back on news of inventory builds and extra supply, and now markets are nervously waiting for the OPEC+ meeting

Oil Prices Today, Friday, October 1st, 2021

As OPEC+ meets once again next Monday, speculation has been rife regarding the oil group’s intentions to bring more crude into the market. Whilst prices are still close to the $80 per barrel mark, with Brent trading around $78 per barrel and WTI trending around $74.5 per barrel, the first US inventory stock build since late July and news of OPEC+ laggards (Russia and Kazakhstan) ramping up supply has provided some downside for prices. At the same time, exorbitantly high gas prices driving gas-to-oil switching in Asia and the US dollar weakening are largely offsetting those factors.

Spot LNG Price Surge Continues.

Increasing purchasing activity in East Asia amid China’s power demand crunch and continuing supply tightness have pushed spot LNG prices to $34.5 per mmBtu in Asia, the highest on record.

Germany Merges Gas Trading Hubs.

Germany launched a nationwide gas trading hub called THE (Trading Hub Europe), having merged two of its hubs – Gaspool and NetConnect – to be able to compete with the Dutch TTF and British NBP.

Embattled and indebted, PEMEX Raises Oilmen Salaries.

Following a series of negotiations with its oil workers union (to which most PEMEX employees belong), the Mexican national oil company indicated it agreed to increase oil workers’ wages by 3.4% and their benefits by 1.76%, despite its debt spiraling out of control.

Albemarle Buys into China’s Processing.

US-based lithium producer Albemarle (NYSE:ALB) agreed to buy China’s Guangxi Tianyuan New Energy Materials for $200 million, a lithium converter that is on the verge of launching its 25,000 tons per annum processing plant, in a bid to increase its foothold in the world’s largest demand center.

Russia’s LUKOIL Wants More Azerbaijan.

Longtime interested in expanding within Azerbaijan, Russia’s largest private oil producer LUKOIL (MCX:LKOH) agreed to buy a 25% stake in the Shallow Water Absheron Peninsula (SWAP) project from BP, only several weeks after the UK-based firm spudded its first exploration well at North Khali.

Wind Blows Again in the North Sea.

Despite European gas prices hitting several consecutive all-time highs and nearing €100 per MWh, coal-fired generation has decreased w-o-w in Germany as wind generation moved back into its normal range, averaging 11 GWh so far this week, a 10% increase year-on-year.

CNOOC to Boost Ownership of Buzios Field.

Brazil’s national oil companyPetrobras (NYSE:PBR) is in talks with China’s CNOOC (HK:0883) for a deal that would see the Chinese firm buy another 5% stake in the Latin American country’s second-largest Buzios field for $2.08 billion.

Guyana Court Sets Exxon Hearing Date.

Guyana’s High court has scheduled a June 2022 hearing dealing with the environmental impact of ExxonMobil’s (NYSE:XOM) production offshore Guyana, with local NGOs claiming the oil industry threatens the rights of locals to a clean environment.

Saudi Aramco Gets Footing in India’s Largest Private Refiner.

Reliance Industries (NSE:RELIANCE), operator of the world’s largest refinery in Jamnagar, India, stated the candidature of Yasir Al-Rumayyan, chairman of Saudi Aramco, meets all regulatory criteria to become independent director, in a move that is seen as a harbinger of Aramco’s buying-in into the Indian firm’s oil-to-chemicals business.

Malaysian LNG Disrupted Again by Fire.

Malaysia’s LNG terminal in Bintulu, wielding 30 million tons of LNG per annum capacity, caught fire this week however the operator Petronas claimed operations were unaffected.

China Asks for More Russian Electricity.

Attesting to China’s ongoing issues with nationwide power cuts, Russian state-owned power company Inter RAO (MCX:IRAO) claimed it had received a request from Chinese authorities to ramp up electricity exports. The current transmission lines could be delivering up to 7 billion KWh.

Rio Tinto Still Not Progressing with Resolution Copper.

The controversial Resolution Project, a prospective copper mine in Arizona to be operated by Rio Tinto (NYSE:RIO) that could meet 25% of the United States’ total demand for the red metal, has still seen no progress after the company’s CEO failed to meet the head of the San Carlos Apache tribe that opposes it.

Related: The Energy Crisis Is Sending Oil, Gas, And Coal Prices Soaring

BP and ENI Seek $2 Billion for Angola JV.

UK major BP (NYSE:BP) and Italian firm ENI (ETS:ENI) are seeking to raise $2 billion for their oil and gas joint venture in Angola, as both companies seek to spin off carbon-emitting subsidiaries into separate entities.

China Wants More Term LNG Deals with Qatar.

CNOOC (HKG:0883) signed a new supply deal with Qatar’s QP for a period of 15 years starting from January 2022, adding 3.5mtpa LNG to the country’s aggregate contracted volumes

Jamaica Alumina Refinery Out For At Least One Year.

The Jamalco alumina refinery, operated by Noble Group with a production capacity of 1.4 million tons per annum, will not be back until September 2022 on the back of a fire last month, putting additional pressure on aluminum prices.

By Michael Kern for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com:

• Rapid Demand Recovery Hints At Even Higher Oil Prices
  

• The World’s Fastest-Growing Shale Play Keeps On Breaking Records
  

• OPEC+ Will Be Unwilling And Unable To Stop The Oil Price Rally

Read this article on OilPrice.com

Like a puppy chasing its tail, some new investors often chase 'the next big thing', even if that means buying 'story stocks' without revenue, let alone profit. But as Warren Buffett has mused, 'If you've been playing poker for half an hour and you still don't know who the patsy is, you're the patsy.' When they buy such story stocks, investors are all too often the patsy.

If, on the other hand, you like companies that have revenue, and even earn profits, then you may well be interested in Anglo American (LON:AAL). Even if the shares are fully valued today, most capitalists would recognize its profits as the demonstration of steady value generation. In comparison, loss making companies act like a sponge for capital – but unlike such a sponge they do not always produce something when squeezed.

View our latest analysis for Anglo American

How Quickly Is Anglo American Increasing Earnings Per Share?

If a company can keep growing earnings per share (EPS) long enough, its share price will eventually follow. Therefore, there are plenty of investors who like to buy shares in companies that are growing EPS. It certainly is nice to see that Anglo American has managed to grow EPS by 32% per year over three years. As a general rule, we'd say that if a company can keep up that sort of growth, shareholders will be smiling.

I like to take a look at earnings before interest and (EBIT) tax margins, as well as revenue growth, to get another take on the quality of the company's growth. Anglo American shareholders can take confidence from the fact that EBIT margins are up from 18% to 36%, and revenue is growing. That's great to see, on both counts.

The chart below shows how the company's bottom and top lines have progressed over time. Click on the chart to see the exact numbers.

In investing, as in life, the future matters more than the past. So why not check out this free interactive visualization of Anglo American's forecast profits?

Are Anglo American Insiders Aligned With All Shareholders?

Like standing at the lookout, surveying the horizon at sunrise, insider buying, for some investors, sparks joy. This view is based on the possibility that stock purchases signal bullishness on behalf of the buyer. However, small purchases are not always indicative of conviction, and insiders don't always get it right.

It's good to see Anglo American insiders walking the walk, by spending US$153k on shares in just twelve months. And when you consider that there was no insider selling, you can understand why shareholders might believe that lady luck will grace this business. Zooming in, we can see that the biggest insider purchase was by James Rutherford for UK£144k worth of shares, at about UK£24.30 per share.

The good news, alongside the insider buying, for Anglo American bulls is that insiders (collectively) have a meaningful investment in the stock. Notably, they have an enormous stake in the company, worth US$92m. This suggests to me that leadership will be very mindful of shareholders' interests when making decisions!

Does Anglo American Deserve A Spot On Your Watchlist?

For growth investors like me, Anglo American's raw rate of earnings growth is a beacon in the night. On top of that, insiders own a significant stake in the company and have been buying more shares. So it's fair to say I think this stock may well deserve a spot on your watchlist. We should say that we've discovered 3 warning signs for Anglo American (1 is a bit concerning!) that you should be aware of before investing here.

As a growth investor I do like to see insider buying. But Anglo American isn't the only one. You can see a a free list of them here.

Please note the insider transactions discussed in this article refer to reportable transactions in the relevant jurisdiction.

This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.

Toronto, Ontario–(Newsfile Corp. – September 30, 2021) – GoldSpot Discoveries Corp. (TSXV: SPOT) (OTCQX: SPOFF) ("GoldSpot" or the "Company"), a leading technology services company leveraging machine learning to transform the mineral discovery process, is pleased to announce it has been engaged by MacDonald Mines Exploration Ltd. (TSXV: BMK) (OTC Pink: MCDMF) ("MacDonald Mines") to assist in the exploration of MacDonald Mines' 100%-owned SPJ Project in Northern Ontario.

GoldSpot will help delineate drill-ready targets for high-grade gold mineralization, as well as identify prospective areas regionally. GoldSpot will homogenize, integrate, process, and interpret exploration datasets such as geological maps, drill logs, geophysics, surface and downhole geochemistry, and structural data. The interpreted and derived products will be used as input layers to GoldSpot's proprietary AI (machine learning) techniques, which will be validated by the Company's team of expert geoscientists, in collaboration with MacDonald Mines' technical team.

Stuart Adair, Interim Chief Executive Officer of MacDonald Mines, stated, "We are delighted to welcome GoldSpot as a strategic service provider of MacDonald Mines. The SPJ Project will benefit tremendously from the assistance of GoldSpot's technologies and data-driven approach to exploration. Our team looks forward to working with the GoldSpot team to evaluate and unlock the potential of the SPJ Project."

Denis Laviolette, Executive Chairman and President of GoldSpot, stated, "GoldSpot is excited to provide our proprietary technology to MacDonald Mines. The size of the SPJ Project's land package is substantial and we believe the large number of potential targets on the property are ripe for further analysis and refining under our team's technological and geological guidance."

GoldSpot works with leading exploration and mining clients across all commodities and deposit types, using cutting-edge technology and geoscientific expertise to mitigate exploration risks and significantly increase the efficiency and success rate of mineral exploration across resources.

About MacDonald Mines Exploration Ltd.

MacDonald Mines Exploration Ltd. is a mineral exploration company headquartered in Toronto, Ontario that trades on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol "BMK". The Company is focused on developing its 100%-owned SPJ Project in Northern Ontario. Following up on its successful 2019/20 exploration and drilling campaigns, MacDonald Mines is focused on what it theorizes to be a large gold system at work on the 19,380 ha property with high-grade gold surrounding the past-producing Scadding Gold Mine and gold/polymetallic mineralization over several kilometres around it. To learn more about MacDonald Mines, please visit www.macdonaldmines.com.

About GoldSpot Discoveries Corp.

GoldSpot Discoveries Corp. (TSXV: SPOT) (OTCQX: SPOFF) is a technology services company in mineral exploration. GoldSpot is a leading team of expert scientists who merge geoscience and data science to deliver bespoke solutions that transform the mineral discovery process. In the race to make discoveries, GoldSpot produces Smart Targets and advanced geological modelling that saves time, reduces costs and provides accurate results.

For further information please contact:
Denis Laviolette
Executive Chairman and President
GoldSpot Discoveries Corp.
Tel: 647-992-9837
Email: investors@goldspot.ca

Cautionary Statement on Forward-Looking Information

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange ("TSXV") nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSXV) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. No stock exchange, securities commission or other regulatory authority has approved or disapproved the information contained herein. This news release contains forward-looking information which involves risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events, results, performance, prospects and opportunities to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Forward-looking information in this news release includes, but is not limited to, the Company's objectives, goals or future plans, statements regarding exploration results and exploration plans. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from such forward-looking information include, but are not limited to, capital and operating costs varying significantly from estimates, the preliminary nature of metallurgical test results, delays in obtaining or failures to obtain required governmental, environmental or other project approvals, uncertainties relating to the availability and costs of financing needed in the future, changes in equity markets, inflation, fluctuations in commodity prices, delays in the development of projects and the other risks involved in the mineral exploration and development industry, and those risks set out in the Company's public documents filed on SEDAR. Although the Company believes that the assumptions and factors used in preparing the forward-looking information in this news release are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on such information, which only applies as of the date of this news release, and no assurance can be given that such events will occur in the disclosed time frames or at all. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, other than as required by law.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/98062

Strategic partnership making Bambuser and live shopping a European showcase for innovative retail

PARIS, Sept. 30, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Bambuser today announced that it has been selected to join Echangeur BNP Paribas Personal Finance, a unique program dedicated to the future of retail and consumer experiences. As a partner of the initiative, operated by the leading provider of credit and other financial services to individuals across Europe, Bambuser's Live Video Shopping technology will represent the future of commerce at the Echangeur center of innovation in Paris. Bambuser's technology will be on continuous display for business leaders touring the showroom. Additional benefits to Bambuser include increased exposure to the program's large network of customers and prospects, and access to Club de l'Echangeur, a space reserved for retail customers in France, Portugal, Spain, Italy, UK, and Sweden.

The Echangeur program was established in 1997 as a strategy incubator for companies needing insights during a period of rapid digital transformation throughout the business world. The program continues to offer businesses a look into the future of retail from its facilities, with a 100 square meter demonstration area highlighting the latest technological developments of innovators driving the evolution of the customer journey. Echangeur also regularly publishes reports that put into perspective the technological and service innovations moving the world of commerce.

The partnership closely follows Bambuser's selection for La Maison des Startups LVMH, the technology accelerator for LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton (LVMH), which gives the company a dedicated space in Paris' Station F startup campus.

"As Bambuser's rapid growth continues, it's important for us to expand on our current leadership position throughout Europe and be present in our key markets," said Sophie Abrahamsson, Chief Commercial Officer of Bambuser. "We are confident that, by partnering with one of the largest banks in Europe and working directly with the largest luxury conglomerate in the world, we are establishing Bambuser as the leading B2B livestream shopping provider in France and beyond."

Contact information
Corporate Communications, Bambuser AB | +46 8 400 160 00 | press@bambuser.com

Certified Adviser
Erik Penser Bank AB | +46 8 463 83 00 | certifiedadviser@penser.se

About Bambuser

Bambuser is a software company specializing in interactive live video streaming. The Company's primary product, Live Video Shopping, is a cloud-based software solution that is used by customers such as global e-commerce and retail businesses to host live shopping experiences on websites, mobile apps, and social media. Bambuser was founded in 2007 and has its headquarters is in Stockholm.

About Echangeur BNP Paribas Personal Finance

Echangeur BNP Paribas Personal Finance is a technological and marketing center that analyses the latest trends in retail and anticipates their impacts on commerce. It is a reference for all the companies, which aim to innovate right by getting inspiration from the best practices in retail and the new usages of consumers. Its experts help you to build a best in class vision thanks to an immersive and innovative approach in customer relationship. Their analyses are based on returns on experiences, best practices and emerging trends.

This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com

https://news.cision.com/bambuser/r/bambuser-joins-echangeur-bnp-paribas–strengthening-the-presence-in-the-french-market,c3424398

The following files are available for download:

Sept 30 (Reuters) – Albemarle Corp said on Thursday it would buy China-based Guangxi Tianyuan New Energy Materials Co Ltd, a lithium converter, for about $200 million as the company looks to increase its lithium conversion capacity.

Demand for battery-grade lithium compounds are expected to increase, especially in transportation, as governments and individual consumers try to reduce their carbon footprint.

Tianyuan's operations include a recently constructed lithium processing plant near the Port of Qinzhou in Guangxi, China. The plant is expected to begin commercial production in the first half of 2022.

Albemarle, the world's top lithium producer, said it expected the deal to close in early next year.

Earlier this month, the company said it expects a steep jump in 2022 earnings, as global efforts to combat climate change drive a surge in demand for the battery component used in electric vehicles. (Reporting by Sahil Shaw in Bengaluru; Editing by Shailesh Kuber)

MONTREAL, Sept. 30, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The management of Sirios Resources Inc. (TSXV: SOI) is pleased to announce that InnovExplo Inc. of Val-d'Or has been awarded the mandate to conduct a structural geology study of the Aquilon gold property in Eeyou Istchee James Bay, Quebec. The study will be initiated in the coming days by an InnovExplo structural specialist accompanied by Sirios’ geologists. The field work on the property will also allow Sirios' geologists to examine the logistics required to carry out an overburden stripping program on the sectors where the gold in soil anomalies, as recently announced (press release 13/09/2021), have been identified.

Corrections to press releases dated September 1 and September 17, 2021
In Sirios' press release dated September 1, 2021 regarding the closing of the first tranche of a flow-through private placement, the amount of finder's fees paid to intermediaries for the first tranche should have read $30,000 instead of $14,000. In addition, in the press release dated September 17, 2021 regarding the closing of the second and final tranche, the total amount of finder's fees paid to intermediaries for the first and second tranches should have read $30,280 instead of $16,280.

About the Aquilon Property
The property includes more than thirty gold showings on surface, including some with very high grades, most notably 560 g/t Au over 0.49m, 834 g/t Au over 1.71m and 3,230.89 g/t Au over 0.8m (ref.: press releases 02/12/2014; 01/01/2011; 26/06/2008). The property has been drilled extensively over the years, however the vast majority of these holes averaged less than 60 metres and were focused directly on four main showings when the project was managed by its partner at the time. Sirios has completed a recompilation of all available data and is proposing a new exploration program for the property which is considered to have excellent potential.

The Aquilon property, held 100% by Sirios, is comprised of 140 claims covering nearly 70 km². It is located about 490 km east of Radisson and is easily accessible by an all season road via the Trans-Taiga highway through the Eeyou Istchee James Bay region.

More information on the property is available in the Sirios corporate presentation, available at the following link: Présentation corporative Sirios – Septembre 2021.

Roger Moar, P.Geo. and Dominique Doucet, P.Eng. qualified persons under NI 43-101 prepared and verified the technical information in this press release and reviewed the final version of the text.

About Sirios
A pioneer in the discovery of significant gold deposits in Eeyou Istchee James Bay, Quebec, Canada, Sirios Resources Inc. is focusing primarily on its Cheechoo gold discovery, while actively exploring the gold potential of its other properties.

About InnovExplo
InnovExplo Inc. is a consulting firm providing services in mineral exploration and mining engineering. Since its founding in 2003, InnovExplo has carried out multiple projects in an innovative way in Canada and internationally. Its knowledge of geology and mining engineering has been developed based on the field experience of a multidisciplinary team combined with the use of state-of-the-art software technology.

Forward-Looking Statements:
This press release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws based on expectations, estimates and projections as of the date of this press release. Forward-looking statements involve risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events, results, performance, expectations and opportunities to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those indicated in such forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to: capital and operating costs that differ materially from estimates; the tentative nature of metallurgical test results; delays or failures in obtaining required governmental, environmental or other approvals; uncertainties related to the availability and cost of necessary financing in the future changes in financial markets; inflation; fluctuations in metal prices; delays in project development; other risks relating to the mineral exploration and development industry; and risks disclosed in public filings of the Company on SEDAR at www. sedar.com. Although the Company believes that the assumptions and factors used in preparing the forward-looking statements contained in this news release are reasonable, readers should not place undue reliance on this information, which speaks only as of the date of this news release, and there can be no assurance that such events will occur or occur within the time periods presented. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable law.

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the Rules of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Contact :
Dominique Doucet, President, CEO, Eng.
Tel.: (514) 918-2867
ddoucet@sirios.com
website : www.sirios.com

Shares of Lithium Americas (NYSE: LAC) shot up on Thursday, closing the day up 8.9% thanks to an analyst turning bullish about the lithium market and lithium stocks. JPMorgan initiated coverage on Lithium Americas stock with a price target of $28 a share. JPMorgan foresees strong lithium markets over the next decade driven by rising demand and prices, and believes Lithium Americas is well poised to take advantage of that.

TORONTO, Sept. 30, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Noront Resources Ltd. (“Noront” or the “Company”) (TSXV: NOT) announces the issuance of 96,150,000 common shares of the Company (the “Conversion Shares”) in full satisfaction of its US$15 million amended and restated loan agreement (the “Loan Agreement”) held by Wyloo Canada Holdings Pty Ltd. (Wyloo). The number of shares were derived using the USD – CAD exchange rate on the day prior to the effective date of conversion being September 22, 2021 and using the conversion price of $0.20 per share as stipulated in the Loan Agreement.

The Company will also be paying the final interest payment due under the loan agreement of $350,789 for the period from July 1, 2021 to September 22, 2021 by the delivery of 468,969 common shares of the Company (the “Interest Shares”) at an effective price of $0.748 per Interest Share, subject to Exchange acceptance. The Interest Shares will be subject to a four month hold period expiring on February 2, 2022.

The calculation of the number of Interest Shares to be issued is based on the volume weighted average trading price of the common shares of the Company during the 20 trading days prior to September 22, 2021.

After giving effect to the issuance of the Conversion and Interest Shares, there will be 559,536,300 common shares of the Company issued and outstanding and Wyloo will hold a direct interest of 37.25% in the Company.

About Noront Resources

Noront Resources Ltd. is focused on the development of its high-grade Eagle’s Nest nickel, copper, platinum and palladium deposit and the world class chromite deposits including Blackbird, Black Thor, and Big Daddy, all of which are located in the James Bay Lowlands of Ontario in an emerging metals camp known as the Ring of Fire. www.norontresources.com

Contact Information

Earnings acceleration is the incremental growth in a company’s earnings per share (EPS). In other words, if the rate of a company’s quarter-over-quarter earnings growth increases within a stipulated frame of time, it can be called earnings acceleration.

We all know that constant earnings growth captivates almost everyone, from top brass to research analysts. This is because earnings are a measure of the money a company is making. Still, earnings acceleration works even better when it comes to lifting the stock price. Studies have shown that most successful stocks had seen an acceleration in earnings before an uptick in the stock price.

In case of earnings growth, you pay for something that is already reflected in the stock price. But earnings acceleration helps spot stocks that haven’t caught the attention of investors yet, which once secured will invariably lead to a rally in the share price. This is because earnings acceleration considers both direction and magnitude of growth rates.

An increasing percentage of earnings growth means that the company is fundamentally sound and has been on the right track for a considerable period. Meanwhile, a sideways percentage of earnings growth indicates a period of consolidation or slowdown, while a decelerating percentage of earnings growth may at times drag prices down.

Screening Parameters

Let’s look at stocks for which the last two quarter-over-quarter percentage EPS growth rates exceed the previous periods' growth rates. The projected quarter-over-quarter percentage EPS growth rates are also expected to be higher than the previous periods’ growth rates.

EPS % Projected Growth (Q1)/(Q0) greater than EPS % Growth (Q0)/(Q-1): The projected growth rate for the current quarter (Q1) over the completed quarter (Q0) has to be greater than the growth rate from the completed quarter (Q0) over one quarter ago (Q-1).

EPS % Growth (Q0)/(Q-1) greater than EPS % Growth (Q-1)/(Q-2): The growth rate for the completed quarter (Q0) over one quarter ago (Q-1) has to be greater than the growth rate from one quarter ago (Q-1) over two quarters ago (Q-2).

EPS % Growth (Q-1)/(Q-2) greater than EPS % Growth (Q-2)/(Q-3): The growth rate from one quarter ago (Q-1) over two quarters ago (Q-2) has to be greater than the growth rate from two quarters ago (Q-2) over three quarters ago (Q-3).

In addition to this, we have added the following parameters:

Current Price greater than or equal to $5: This screens out low-priced stocks.

Average 20-day volume greater than or equal to 50,000: High trading volume implies that the stocks have adequate liquidity.

The above criteria narrowed down the universe of around 7,735 stocks to only 18. Here are the top four stocks:

Steven Madden, Ltd. SHOO designs, sources, markets and sells fashion-forward name brand and private label footwear for women, men, and children and private label fashion handbags and accessories worldwide. The company has a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). The company’s expected earnings growth rate for the current year is 228.1%.

Jack Henry & Associates, Inc. JKHY caters to community banks by offering technology solutions and payment processing services. The company has a Zacks Rank #2. The company’s expected earnings growth rate for the current year is 11.4%. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.

Camden Property Trust CPT is one of the largest publicly traded multifamily companies in the United States. The company has a Zacks Rank #2. The company’s expected earnings growth rate for the current year is 7.6%.

Sociedad Quimica y Minera S.A. SQM produces fertilizer and iodine and manufactures industrial chemicals and iodine derivative products. The company has a Zacks Rank #1. Its expected earnings growth rate for the current year is 60%.

You can get the rest of the stocks on this list by signing up now for your 2-week free trial to the Research Wizard and start using this screen in your own trading. Further, you can also create your own strategies and test them first before taking the investment plunge.

The Research Wizard is a great place to begin. It's easy to use. Everything is in plain language. And it's very intuitive. Start your Research Wizard trial today. And the next time you read an economic report, open up the Research Wizard, plug your finds in, and see what gems come out.

Click here to sign up for a free trial to the Research Wizard today.

Disclosure: Officers, directors and/or employees of Zacks Investment Research may own or have sold short securities and/or hold long and/or short positions in options that are mentioned in this material. An affiliated investment advisory firm may own or have sold short securities and/or hold long and/or short positions in options that are mentioned in this material.

Disclosure: Performance information for Zacks’ portfolios and strategies are available at: https://www.zacks.com/performance

Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report
 
Sociedad Quimica y Minera S.A. (SQM) : Free Stock Analysis Report
 
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Albemarle Corp. says it has “signed a definitive agreement to acquire all of the outstanding equity of Guangxi Tianyuan New Energy Materials Co. Ltd., a lithium converter located in Guangxi, China.” The deal is expected to close in early 2022.

TORONTO, Sept. 30, 2021 /CNW/ – As a symbol of respect and acknowledgement toward Canada's First Anniversary of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, First Cobalt Corp. (TSXV: FCC) (OTCQX: FTSSF) has lowered the symbolic Every Child Matters flag. The flag, flown in front of the Company's hydrometallurgical battery materials refinery in the community of Temiskaming Shores, Ontario will remain lowered for the next 30 days.

The day honors the lost children and survivors of Canadian residential schools, their families and communities. Public commemoration of the tragic and painful history and ongoing impacts of residential schools is a vital component of the reconciliation process.

There were 140 government-run Indian Residential Schools that operated in Canada from 1831 to 1998. Survivors have advocated for recognition, reparations and accountability for the lasting legacy of harms caused. Their efforts culminated in an apology by the Canadian government, the Indian Residential Schools Settlement Agreement, the establishment of a Truth and Reconciliation Commission and the creation of the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation. The Truth and Reconciliation Commission held hearings from 2008 to 2015, resulting in 94 recommendations, including a National Day of Commemoration.

"We want to acknowledge the importance of inclusivity and collaboration among all peoples. As a corporate entity working within First Nations lands, we are committed to playing an active role in supporting their future. Recognition of the significance of this Day is a start to the reconciliation and healing process we whole-heartedly support", explains President and CEO, Trent Mell.

Since its arrival in Ontario, Canada, First Cobalt has been dedicated to building and maintaining respectful and mutually beneficial relationships with all the local Indigenous people and First Nations communities; namely the Timiskaming First Nation, Temagami First Nation, Matachewan First Nation, Beaverhouse First Nation and Metis Nation of Ontario. Over the past several years, the Company has held numerous consultations and open houses to gain the insights and perspective of these groups. Through collaborative reviews of permit applications for the re-opening of the Company's refinery, support has been gained for the project.

First Cobalt is also committed to employment and potential business opportunities specifically for Indigenous people as the refinery construction activities ramp-up. First Cobalt has partnered with First Nation communities on new initiatives to study potential environmental impacts to plants and wildlife in the refinery area. Student bursaries and community support funding has also been an area of focus thus far.

On behalf of First Cobalt Corp.

Trent Mell
President & Chief Executive Officer

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

SOURCE First Cobalt Corp.

View original content to download multimedia: http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/archive/September2021/30/c6005.html

Acquisition will add conversion capacity in China near the Port of Qinzhou

CHARLOTTE, N.C., Sept. 30, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Albemarle Corporation (NYSE: ALB), a leader in the global specialty chemicals industry, announced today that its subsidiary, Albemarle Lithium UK Limited, has signed a definitive agreement to acquire all of the outstanding equity of Guangxi Tianyuan New Energy Materials Co., Ltd. ("Tianyuan"), a lithium converter located in Guangxi, China. Under terms of the agreement, Albemarle will acquire all outstanding equity from Tianyuan's shareholders for approximately USD $200 million, subject to certain adjustments. Albemarle expects the transaction, which is subject to customary closing conditions, to close in early 2022.

Founded in 2017, Tianyuan's operations include a recently constructed lithium processing plant strategically positioned near the Port of Qinzhou in Guangxi. The plant has designed annual conversion capacity of up to 25,000 metric tons LCE and is capable of producing battery-grade lithium carbonate and lithium hydroxide. It currently is in the commissioning stage and is expected to begin commercial production in the first half of 2022.

"The acquisition of Tianyuan, which owns and operates a newly constructed lithium processing plant, aligns with our strategy to pursue profitable growth in line with customer demand," said Kent Masters, Albemarle CEO. "This will be a key component of our next wave of projects designed to increase our conversion capacity in a capital-efficient manner in the coming years. As the global transition to cleaner energy rapidly develops, this added lithium capacity will enable us to help our customers achieve their growth and sustainability ambitions."

About Albemarle
Albemarle Corporation (NYSE: ALB) is a global specialty chemicals company with leading positions in lithium, bromine and catalysts. We think beyond business as usual to power the potential of companies in many of the world's largest and most critical industries, such as energy, electronics, and transportation. We actively pursue a sustainable approach to managing our diverse global footprint of world-class resources. In conjunction with our highly experienced and talented global teams, our deep-seated values, and our collaborative customer relationships, we create value-added and performance-based solutions that enable a safer and more sustainable future.

We regularly post information to www.albemarle.com, including notification of events, news, financial performance, investor presentations and webcasts, non-GAAP reconciliations, SEC filings and other information regarding our company, its businesses and the markets it serves.

Forward-Looking Statements
Some of the information presented in this press release, including, without limitation, information related to the transaction, plans and anticipated benefits in relation to the transaction, the targeted close date for the transaction and all other information relating to matters that are not historical facts may constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Actual results could differ materially from the views expressed herein. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the outlook expressed or implied in any forward-looking statement include, without limitation: changes in economic and business conditions; changes priorities, financial, and operating performance of Albemarle's major customers and industries and markets served by Albemarle; the timing of orders received from customers; the gain or loss of significant customers; competition from other manufacturers; changes in the demand for Albemarle's products or the end-user markets in which its products are sold; the availability of financing; the satisfaction of conditions to completion, including regulatory approvals; the occurrence of regulatory actions, proceedings, claims, or litigation; and the other factors detailed from time to time in the reports Albemarle files with the SEC, including those described under "Risk Factors" in its Annual Report on Form 10-K and its Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this press release. We assume no obligation to provide any revisions to any forward-looking statements should circumstances change, except as otherwise required by securities and other applicable laws.

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SOURCE Albemarle Corporation