CME Considers World’s First Rare Earth Futures Contract

According to Australian Government, the Fingerboards project by Gippsland Critical Minerals Ltd in East Gippsland, Australia is designed to become a major supplier of rare earth elements and zircon, with onsite processing and rail transport supporting downstream refining. The project targets annual output of around 200 tonnes of heavy rare earth oxides, 1,800 tonnes of light rare earth oxides, and 75,000 tonnes of zircon. It is expected to generate about 400 construction jobs and 262 permanent positions, with a total capital investment of $295 million.

[SMM Rare Earth Weekly Review: Rare Earth Prices Fluctuated Significantly This Week, Bearish News Severely Undermined Market Confidence] The Pr-Nd oxide market fluctuated significantly recently. Driven by expectations of tightening on the supply side, upstream suppliers raised their quotes one after another. However, as bearish news spread, market confidence was severely undermined. As of today, Pr-Nd oxide prices adjusted to 780,000-800,000 yuan/mt within the week.