South Korea is probably going to change its stance on local geopolitics (probably soft on Taiwan/China & North Korea) a little, & now free to negotiate with US on tariffs & trade deals (it was on hold until elections, but strong US partner in the region).
US officials have already visited South Korea to discuss tariffs & trade & media reports were very positive. If South Korean companies (EG POSCO & EV battery & car makers) have existing production plants & supply chains in USA, Mexico & Canada; then trade deals shall be interesting. Hence BKT may be in a good position to supply graphite to POSCO to make battery anode materials (either in new facilities in South Korea or possibly new plant in USA in future). Half the natural graphite brakes off in anode production & it is used to make high purity graphite rods for the electric arc furnace to made high quality steel with lower emissions (compared to old style coke ovens, e.g. currently in Whyalla steelworks).
POSCO is looking at joining a project by Hyundai Steel to build a $5.8 billion plant in Louisiana as the country's steel industry tries to respond to U.S. tariffs on the sector.
South Korea's POSCO considers joining Hyundai Steel's $5.8 billion steel plant project in US, reports say | Reuters
Hyundai Motor Group and POSCO Group Agree to Cooperate Across Key Business Areas to Strengthen Future Competitiveness
NB many of the EV mattery plants nearing completion in USA are partnered with South Korean companies with battery materials often supplied by POSCO. Hence, there could be some interesting news for BKT, as POSCO looks like they "have the foot in the door" (old saying) to open up trade deals soon.
No investment advice intended. Interesting times ahead for BKT & their partnership with POSCO.
South Korea is probably going to change its stance on local...
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