Lynas Rare Earths Ltd (ASX:LYC) is making headlines today with a significant announcement, a 92% increase in its mineral resources. Despite this promising update, the company’s share price has experienced a near 2% decline, trading at AU$6.01 per share as of the latest update. This movement highlights the ongoing struggles Lynas faces in reversing a long-term downtrend.
The recent 2024 mineral resource and reserve update from Lynas shows a substantial upgrade in its mineral resources. The company's reserves have surged from 55.4 million tonnes (Mt) to 106.6 Mt, with a concentration of 4.12% Total Rare Earth Oxide (TREO). This increase reflects a considerable enhancement in the company's resource base, which is crucial for its operations in the rare earths sector.
Additionally, the company's ore reserves have seen a 63% increase, supporting a projected mine life of over 20 years at expanded production rates. This expanded capacity is set to boost production to 12,000 tonnes per annum of Neodymium and Praseodymium oxide (NdPr), essential components for various high-tech applications.
The update also includes a notable 92% increase in contained Dysprosium oxide, a key metal used in high-performance magnets critical for electric vehicles. This enhancement in resource quality and quantity could position Lynas well in the growing market for rare earths, particularly in sectors driven by technological advancements and green energy.
However, despite these positive developments, the Lynas share price has remained under pressure. The company's recent quarterly update revealed a 13.3% decline in gross sales revenue year-on-year, totaling AU$136.6 million. Furthermore, total rare earth oxide production dropped by more than 50%, adding to the concerns about the company's immediate operational performance.
The market reaction has been mixed. While some analysts remain optimistic, the current market sentiment is bearish. Brokers such as Bell Potter and Goldman Sachs (NYSE:GS) maintain positive outlooks, with Bell Potter issuing a buy rating and a price target of AU$8.50—implying a potential upside of nearly 41%. Goldman Sachs also has a buy rating, with a revised target of AU$7.00, highlighting Lynas' strategic focus on long-term contracts rather than spot market sales.
Ord Minnett describes Lynas as a "safe way" to invest in the rare earth sector, given its position as a major producer outside of China. This status is seen as advantageous in a market where geopolitical tensions and supply chain concerns have heightened the value of non-Chinese rare earth producers.
Despite these endorsements, the broader market continues to show skepticism. The Lynas share price remains volatile and has faced significant challenges over the past year. The current decline in share value, despite the resource upgrade, underscores the complexity of the rare earths market and investor sentiment.
As always, investors are advised to conduct their own due diligence and consider both the company's promising updates and the ongoing market challenges before making investment decisions. Only time will reveal whether Lynas can leverage its increased mineral resources to turn around its stock performance and meet long-term expectations.