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While the last century was defined by oil, today’s industrial revolutions—clean energy, artificial intelligence, and next-gen defense—run on metals. Copper, lithium, nickel, and rare earths are more than just commodities. They're strategic enablers. They are also bottlenecks—geopolitically, economically, and technologically. Yet, for all their importance, the investment case isn’t always clear-cut. That’s what Liz Priestman, Adam Johnson and Nicholaus Rohleder breakdown with the London Stock Exchange Webinar, "From Mine to Market: Mapping the Critical Minerals Investment Landscape." 🌟 Copper Often referred to as the “metal of electrification,” copper is foundational to EVs, renewable energy, AI infrastructure, and advanced defense systems. Yet, despite its ubiquity, copper is facing a growing supply-demand imbalance. Adam and Nicholas highlight copper’s strategic importance, recent designation as a critical mineral in the U.S., and its increasing relevance to national security. They discuss global dependency on regions like Chile, Peru, and China, the implications of declining ore grades, and underinvestment in high-quality new discoveries. The conversation explores copper’s recycling potential, long-term investment opportunities across the value chain, and the underestimated global demand from fast-developing regions upgrading outdated power grids. 🌟 Lithium Described as the “white gold” of the energy transition, lithium plays a dominant role in energy storage—particularly for EVs and mobile applications. Despite a dramatic drop in spot prices (over 80% from 2022 peaks), Adam and Nicholas emphasize that long-term demand remains intact. They examine lithium’s high energy density, strategic refining control by China, and the growing Western focus on reshoring refining capacity. They also assess the price volatility, opportunities for midstream investment, and the future potential of Direct Lithium Extraction (DLE) technology to improve water use and decentralize production. 🌟 Nickel Nickel stands at the crossroads of industrial legacy and future-forward tech—used historically in steel and increasingly in batteries. While recent price drops stem from oversupply driven by Indonesia and waning steel demand, the long-term case for battery-grade nickel remains strong. The discussion addresses China’s influence in Indonesia’s nickel market, ESG concerns, and evolving battery chemistries. With a projected rise in demand from aviation and defense electrification, Adam and Nicholas identify refining and recycling in Western-friendly jurisdictions as underinvested yet promising areas for capital deployment. 🌟 Rare Earth Elements Essential to permanent magnets used in everything from wind turbines to fighter jets, rare earth elements are high in strategic value but remain commercially underdeveloped. Adam and Nicholas explain the complexity of refining 17 distinct minerals, China's dominant role in the market (controlling over 90% of metal and magnet production), and the opaque pricing mechanisms that hinder broader institutional investment. They explore the challenges of building Western-led supply chains, the role of government subsidies, and the importance of scaling mining and processing capabilities to reduce dependence on Chinese infrastructure.

The world of trade is in turmoil, with tariffs becoming a central tool in economic and political battles. But beyond the headlines, what are the real consequences? In this episode of The Ripple Effect, we break down the volatility in tariff policies, their impact on consumer confidence, and the broader economic shifts unfolding in North America and beyond. From rising costs at the grocery store to geopolitical tensions influencing investment decisions, we explore how tariff wars are creating ripple effects that touch everyone.

A landmark agreement grants the U.S. access to Ukraine’s critical minerals, but at what cost? In the latest episode of The Ripple Effect, Liz Priestman and Nicholaus Rohleder unpack the implications for global geopolitics, economic recovery, and security. Ukraine and the U.S. are on the brink of a historic deal—but it’s not about weapons or security. Instead, it’s about minerals. With a proposed 50:50 joint venture, the U.S. is set to tap into Ukraine’s vast reserves of lithium, titanium, and rare earth elements in exchange for economic investment. But is this truly a win for Ukraine, or a case of strategic leverage from the Trump administration? In this episode of The Ripple Effect, we break down the details: What minerals are in play? How does this reshape U.S. foreign policy? And is this a fair deal, or a modern version of resource exploitation? We also explore the ripple effects—how this could impact Europe, China, and future geopolitical negotiations. Watch now and tell us: Did Ukraine make the right call, or did they concede too much?

In this edition of The Ripple Effect, Liz Priestman joins Nicholaus Rohleder to explore the complex intersection of clean energy, critical minerals, and global trade. They discuss how tariffs, border policies, and shifting geopolitical landscapes are reshaping supply chains and influencing investment strategies. Nicholaus offers sharp insights into the race for domestic energy security, the challenges of sourcing key materials, and the role of government policy in accelerating—or stalling—innovation. Whether you're an investor, entrepreneur, or industry insider, this conversation unpacks the key forces driving the future of sustainable energy.

In this edition of The Ripple Effect, Liz Priestman and Nicholaus Rohleder are joined by Sir Michael Fallon, former UK Defense Secretary, to discuss energy security, geopolitics, and strategic investments in a shifting global economy. They explore the demand for critical minerals, the role of nuclear power, and the impact of geopolitical shifts on energy markets. Fallon shares insights on the UK’s energy strategy and global supply chain risks, while Nicholaus highlights the role of private capital in energy infrastructure. The discussion also covers emerging technologies and the balance between sustainability and security. 🌟 Stay tuned for more insights as The Ripple Effect continues to explore the forces shaping global markets, and be sure to explore more episodes

In this edition of The Ripple Effect, Liz Priestman and Nicholaus Rohleder invite Sir Michael Fallon, former UK Defense Secretary, to explore two of the most pressing geopolitical issues of 2025. In part one of this two-part series, they delve into the ongoing war in Ukraine, the shifting landscape of European politics with key elections in Germany, Poland, and Romania, and NATO’s evolving role in regional security. The discussion covers the implications of the U.S. administration's stance on Ukraine, the future of sanctions against Russia, the potential for a European peacekeeping force, and the UK’s strategic defense role amidst changing global dynamics.

In this edition of The Ripple Effect, Liz Priestman and Nicholaus Rohleder explore the global significance of lithium in the electric vehicle revolution and beyond. They delve into the geopolitical implications, including Russia's control over Ukraine's lithium mines and Europe's efforts to secure sustainable lithium sources amid growing tensions. The conversation highlights key developments, from the U.S. Department of Energy's billion-dollar loan programs to innovations in lithium extraction technology. Nicholaus provides insights into the critical role of lithium in energy storage, electric vehicle batteries, and the broader energy transition, as well as the environmental challenges associated with its extraction. Tune in to gain valuable insights into the future of lithium as a cornerstone of global energy strategies and how it shapes the dynamics of international collaboration and competition. 0:17 What's Making Waves 1:35 Why This Matters 7:42 The Ripple Effect

In this edition of The Ripple Effect, Liz Priestman and Nicholaus Rohleder explore the complex dynamics surrounding the Panama Canal, its critical role in global trade, and its broader geopolitical implications. Together, they unpack the history of the canal, the U.S. handover to Panama, and the rising concerns about its current operation by Hong Kong-based companies amidst U.S.-China tensions. From defense considerations to economic dependencies, this episode delves into the ripple effects of control over one of the world's most strategic trade routes. Tune in to understand how this issue could shape U.S. foreign policy, Latin American development, and global trade dynamics in the years ahead. 0:17 What's Making Waves 1:14 Why This Matters 5:04 The Ripple Effect

In this edition of The Ripple Effect, Liz Priestman sits down with Nicholaus Rohleder to delve into why Greenland is at the center of global geopolitics. They unpack Trump’s renewed interest in acquiring Greenland, discussing its strategic Arctic location, vast deposits of critical minerals, and the implications for the global power balance. From the rising importance of Arctic security to shifting alliances with NATO and the EU, this conversation highlights the complex issues at play. As climate change opens new shipping lanes and resource opportunities, Greenland’s role in the geopolitical landscape has never been more significant. Tune in to gain valuable insights into how these developments could reshape global strategies and the future of Arctic governance. 0:18 What's Making Waves 2:05 Why This Matters 5:45 The Ripple Effect