This is a solo episode answering listener questions. I also discuss what I learned at a recent conference in Florida.

Austin Devaney has a wealth of lithium experience from a decade with Rockwood/Albemarle, his time with Piedmont Lithium and his new advisory business: Li7 Charged.

Topics:

The state of the industry

Supply/demand

China's price strategy

The importance of Rio Tinto's entry

The rush to Africa

A "China build" vs the West

The new cost curve

The future of US lithium

Cathode (ex China)

Elon drama

Albemarle's woes

What is the incentive price?

Rapid fire

Dr Frank Jackel is the co-founder and Managing Director of Metals Hub (metals-hub.com @metals-hub on X).

Metals Hub is a leading software solutions provider that optimizes procurement processes.

One of the most significant issues facing the lithium industry is lack of clarity on pricing. Metals Hub is part of the solution to that problem.

I have no financial interest in Metals Hub. Nor was I compensated for having them on the podcast.

Topics:

What Metals Hub does

The need for price transparency

Albemarle - the first lithium client

The mechanics of a lithium sales event

Benefits to clients beyond auctions

The trend toward spot pricing

The advantage of being based outside China

Providing a level of trust in the market

When will the lithium market mature?

The future influence of AI

Rapid fire