Lithium Americas’ breakup is really about China, executive says

The Chinese aluminum juggernaut has run out of momentum and smelters in Europe are powering down, writes Andy Home.

Demand has outstripped supply, pushing prices up almost 500% in a year.

Chinese demand for property is in the deep freeze.

Global stainless steel melt production is expected to be about 62 million tonnes (Mt) in 2022, rising to 90 Mt by 2050.

"Recent consumption run rates imply copper and aluminum shifted into surplus globally in April," analysts at Citi said.

Europe's primary aluminum smelters are continuing to curtail production in the face of soaring energy costs.

Company recently completed a $422 million purchase of the hard-rock lithium mine just outside Harare.

There are several factors that suggest a renewed rally is on the cards, writes Clyde Russell.

The nation is forecast to add a record 220 gigawatts of total power capacity this year, according to the NEA.