INN: Companies to watch in the lithium market in 2016?
AM:SQM (NYSE:SQM) — how the leading lithium producer’s relationship with the government develops. This will dictate any new supply from the Atacama. Albemarle — how the merging of the former Rockwood Lithium business into the new chemical company goes, as well as their renewed focus on spodumene conversion over brine lithium. Orocobre — how the ramp up of its 17,000-tonne-per-annum facility goes in Argentina. This is new carbonate supply that the industry will need. Ganfeng Lithium (SZSE:002460) — a good marker for how Chinese companies reliant on imported lithium concentrate will react, particularly considering the lithium-ion battery ramp ups in China. CB: I’m watching a bunch, but not ready to mention any names, as once I mention a name [that can be misconstrued as] an explicit endorsement. The most important thing I am watching is cost of production.
PIO Price at posting:
3.0¢ Sentiment: Buy Disclosure: Held