SlideShare a Scribd company logo
1 of 26
Download to read offline
ALTERNATIVE ENERGY                                                                                                           8 FEBRUARY 2011

 RARE EARTH INDUSTRY UPDATE                                                                                 Matt Gowing, CFA 416.860.8675
                                                                                                                mgowing@mackieresearch.com
                                                                                                         Raveel Afzaal, Associate 416.860.7666

                             2011 Rare Earth Industry Update: We Remain Bullish
We are pleased to present a comprehensive rare earths industry update. This forward-looking report predicts future demand and supply of rare
earths and analyzes the impact of changes in supply-demand dynamics on rare earth prices. The key findings of our report suggest that supply
of rare earths, particularly heavy rare earths, is expected to remain strained over the next four years.

Inelastic demand in high-growth industries
    •    Rare earths are an integral input, with little or no substitutes, required in a multitude of industries.
    •    The average CAGR of these industries range from 6% to 15%.
    •    Rare earths are usually a small component of the overall manufacturing costs of the end products in most industries. Therefore,
         companies are more likely to be able to bear an increase in rare earth prices compared to an increase in prices of raw materials that
         constitute a large component of the overall manufacturing costs.

Supply to remain strained
   •    In this report, we detail a list of new rare earth mines that are expected to come on-line over the next five years (see Figure 7a). We
        believe the supply of rare earths is going to remain strained, even after incorporating a very generous assumption that these new rare
        earth mines will come on-line on schedule and meet their production goals.
   •    China consumes more than 60% of its current rare earth production. We expect its domestic consumption to further increase based on
        its significant investments in domestic industries that require rare earths, such as wind turbines. In addition, China is no longer
        interested in realizing lower margins through the sale of unrefined rare earths. It aims to build vertical industries to further participate
        in the down-stream business and realize higher margins. Therefore, we do not expect China to flood the global markets with cheap rare
        earths in the foreseeable future.

Rare earth prices to further increase, given tight supply and inelastic demand in high-growth industries
     •    Many of the light rare earths, such as
          Lanthanum and Cerium, experienced pricing            Figure 1a: Future Price Estimates of Selected Rare Earths
          gains ranging from 600-700% on average in            Calendar period                 2010A 2011E   2012E   2013E       2014E    2015E
          2010, while most heavy rare earths saw more
                                                               Dysprosium Oxide (Dy)             305   375     454     504         580      672
          modest gains, yet still generally doubled on         Dysprosium Fe (Dy)                300   369     446     496         570      661
          average in 2010.                                     Gadolinium Oxide (Gd2O3)           70    73      71      78          65       55
         After analyzing the correlation between the           Lutetium Oxide (Lu2O3)            412   461     517     579         648      726
    •
                                                               Terbium oxide (Tb4O7)             610   778     968   1,172       1,373    1,029
         tightening of rare earths supply and price            Yttrium Oxide (Y203)               78    99     121     135         163      186
         from the years 2005 to 2010, we have used this        Neodym ium (Nd2O3)                 90   113     125     151         176      238
         same correlation to forecast rare earth prices        Held within China
                                                               Europium Oxide (Eu2O3)            454   499     549     604         665      731
         for the 2011 to 2015 period. Our model                Yttrium Oxide (Y203)                8     8       9      10          11       12
         suggests that rare earths, in particular heavy
         rare earths, are expected to see further price        Source: Mackie Research Capital
         appreciation.

Recommended plays – Focus on heavy rare earths
    • Mines with high heavy rare earth content.
    • Rare earth mining companies, and their associated rare earth deposits, that are valued by the market at significant discounts to peers.
    • Mining companies that intend to participate in the downstream business through building out a separation facility. Our financial
      modeling on the economics indicates that adding refining and separation facilities to a rare earth mine plan adds considerable net
      present value (NPV).
    • Refiners and separators of rare earth materials also offer investors exposure to the sector, and they are currently benefitting from this
      current state of strong rare earth pricing.
    • We expect consolidation in the space to become a recurring theme as mining companies look to acquire companies with abnormally
      large resources as well as companies with expertise and technology in building and operating rare earth separating facilities.
    • Investment opportunities also exist in the physical ownership of rare earth commodities.
Page 2




TABLE OF CONTENTS

Industry Overview ................................................................................................................................................................... 3

Supply & Demand ................................................................................................................................................................... 4

Rare Earths Pricing Forecast ................................................................................................................................................. 12

Consolidation ......................................................................................................................................................................... 14

Conclusion .............................................................................................................................................................................. 15

Appendix 1 – Rare Earth Industry News ........................................................................................................................... 16

Appendix 2 – Rare Earth Mineral Profiles ....................................................................................................................18-23

Appendix 3 – Selected Company Profiles:
             Avalon Rare Minerals Inc. (AVL-TSX, Unrated) ...................................................................................... 24
             Neo Material Technologies Inc. (NEM-TSX:, BUY/TARGET PRICE: $10.00) ...................................... 25

Relevant Disclosures/Analyst Certification ...................................................................................................................... 26




                                                                                                                                                                  www.mackieresearch.com
Page 3




INDUSTRY OVERVIEW

WHAT ARE RARE EARTHS?
Rare earth elements (REE), also described as rare earth oxides (REO), are a group of 17 metals critical to several clean energy, clean-tech, and
electronic applications. Of these 17 elements, the group of lanthanides amount to 15. They are listed in Figure 1b. A group of chemically similar
elements, the lanthanides, are grouped together on the chemical periodic table.

Distinguishing between heavy rare earths and light rare earths: In Figure 1b, we separate the 15 lanthanides into light rare earths elements
(LREE) on the left side, and heavy rare earths elements (HREE) on the right. The rare earths are defined as those chemical elements beginning at
number 57, lanthanum, on the periodic table and running consecutively through to number 71, lutetium. The chemical differences in rare earths
come about due to differences in ionic radius, crystal structure, and basicity of the mineral. For example, Neodymium magnets hold their
magnetic properties much better due to their internal crystal structure. The ionic radius of the heavy rare earths is smaller than the light rare
earths, which makes them denser, more resistant to high temperatures, and less reactive in some circumstances. The rare earths vary in crustal
abundance with from cerium, at 60 ppm (parts per million) to thulium and lutetium, at 0.5 ppm. The division is important as HREEs command
higher selling prices and therefore higher margins for their producers.

Yttrium - Some call it the 16th lanthanide: Yttrium is often found along with other lanthanides in nature. Although it has similar chemical
properties, it is not officially classified as a lanthanide.

Scandium, atomic number 21: Scandium rounds out the group of 17 rare earth elements. It typically occurs in rare earth ores, in minor amounts,
because of its smaller atomic size.
 Figure 1b: The 15 Lanthanide Elements
     LREE (Light Rare Earth Elements):                         HREE (Heavy Rare Earth Elements):

     Element # in periodic table:                              Element # in periodic table:
 .
     57           La             lanthanum                     63         Eu          europium
     58           Ce             cerium                        64         Gd          gadolinium
     59           Pr             praseodymium                  65         Tb          terbium
     60           Nd             neodymium                     66         Dy          dysprosium
     61           Pm             promethium                    67         Ho          holmium
     62           Sm             samarium                      68         Er          erbium
                                                               69         Tm          thulium
                                                               70         Yb          ytterbium
                                                               71         Lu          lutetium

Source: USGS, Mackie Research Capital

INDUSTRIAL USES
Rare earths are an essential ingredient used in a multitude of industries: The market for rare earths has grown rapidly given their use in a
wide array of applications. In some applications, rare earths do not have any effective substitutes and are vital to the manufacturing process.
The highest rare earths-consuming industrial applications are shown in Figure 2.




                                                                                                                         www.mackieresearch.com
Page 4



 Figure 2: End-Market & Applications of Rare Earths


Rare Earths are a group of elements with unique properties

Rare Earth Elements          Catalytic Magnetic Electrical Chemical              Optical
Lanthanum (La)                   X                         X            X           X
Cerium (Ce)                      X                         X            X           X
Praseodymium (Pr)                             X            X            X           X
Neodymium (Nd)                   X            X            X                        X
Samarium (Sm)                                 X
Europium (Eu)                                                                       X
Gadolinium (Gd)                               X                                     X
Terbium (Tb)                                  X                                     X
Dysprosium (Dy)                               X                                     X
Holmium (Ho)                                                                        X
Erbium (Er)                                                                         X
Ytterbium (Yb)                                                                      X
Yttrium (Y)                                                                         X
Source: Lynas Corp


SUPPLY & DEMAND

CONSUMPTION
Volume growth outlook for rare earths usage is high: In Figure 3, we provide a forward-looking comparison by usage for various rare earths
consumption growth rates as forecast by two leading industry specialists, Roskill and IMCOA (Industrial Minerals Company of Australia).
Demand for rare earths is expected to increase from 95,000 tonnes in 2005 to about 180,000 tonnes in 2014. What is striking is the general
expectation for high growth rates across all categories. In certain end-markets, i.e., those products that require terbium and dysprosium, such as
magnets, growth rates are expected to sustain double-digit increases, even approaching 15%. Additionally, almost all of the end-markets are
expected to experience average estimated growth ranging from 8% to 11%.
 Figure 3: Projected Growth of End Markets
                                                                 % of              % of                       % of     9-yr 08-14          11-14
Applications        Elements                          2005     Supply      2008F Supply     2014F           Supply   CAGR Growth         Growth
Magnets             Dy*, Nd, Pr, Sm, Tb*            17,150      18.0%      26500 21.4%   39-43,000           22.8%   10.2%  7.5%         10-15%
Metal alloys        Ce, La, Nd, Pr                   7,200       7.6%      22500 18.1%   43-47,000           25.0%   22.6% 12.2%         15-20%
Catalysts           Ce, Nd, La                      21,230      22.3%      23000 18.5%   28-30,000           16.1%    3.5%  3.9%           6-8%
Polishing           Ce, La, Pr                      15,150      15.9%      15000 12.1%   19-21,000           11.1%    3.1%  4.9%           6-8%
Glass               Ce, Er*, Gd*, La, Nd, Yb*       13,590      14.3%      12500 10.1%   12-13,000            6.9%   -0.9%  0.0%           0-1%
Phosphors & pigmentsEu*, Tb*, Y*                     4,007       4.2%       9000   7.3%  11-13,000            6.7%   13.0%  4.9%          7-10%
Ceramics                                                         0.0%       7000   5.6%   8-10,000            5.0%        - 4.3%           7-9%
Other                                               16,935      17.8%       8500   6.9%  10-12,000            6.1%   -4.7%  4.4%           7-9%
Total                                               95,262      100%     124,000  100% 170-190,000           100%     7.3%  6.4%         8-11%

Elements with *: HREE
Source: Roskill, IMCOA




                                                                                                                          www.mackieresearch.com
Page 5




RARE EARTHS SUPPLY INADEQUATE TO MEET DEMAND
Shortfall particularly severe for the heavy rare earths: Avalon’s Thor Lake project and Quest’s Strange Lake projects currently have two of the
largest deposits of heavy rare earths in the world. Our research suggests that heavy rare earths are likely to experience the greatest shortages. As
shown in Figure 4, according to IMCOA, terbium and dysprosium are expected to have global shortages of 105 and 500 tonnes, respectively, by
2015. This implies that the future supply of terbium and dysprosium would only be able to meet 80% and 73% of their respective demands in
2015.

 Figure 4: Supply vs Demand in 2015




 Source: IMCOA

According to China’s Ministry of Commerce, there is a concern that at today’s rates, China’s heavy rare earths supply could be depleted in the
next 15-20 years. Even though the heavy rare earths are sold in much smaller volumes than neodymium and the lighter elements, shortfalls in
supply would be a major driver for relative price outperformance of the heavy rare earths.

New mines coming on-line have a higher mix of light as opposed to heavy rare earths: The supply impact of new mines coming on-line may
have little effect on reducing the upward pressure on rare earths prices, especially heavy rare earths prices. The two non-Chinese projects
expected to come on-line in the next two years, Mt. Weld in Australia and Mountain Pass in the US, are weighted towards light rare earths.
Moreover, 72% of Lynas Corp’s Mt Weld deposit is composed of lanthanum and cerium (light rare earths). Figure 5 further supports our
argument that heavy rare earth content (HREE) as a percentage of the total rare earth from existing and future mines is quite low.
Consequently, HREE will likely be much scarcer going forward.




                                                                                                                            www.mackieresearch.com
Page 6



 Figure 5: HREE Content as a Percentage of Total Rare Earths by Mine

                      Resource                            TREO      HREE
                       (million   Grade                 (million Content
Deposit                tonnes) (% TREO)                 tonnes) (% TREO)         Cut-off Grade
Bayan Obo, China         1,460     3.9%                       56      2%                   n/a
Kvanefjeld, Greenland      215     1.0%                      2.6     14%         0.015% U3O8
Mountain Pass, USA          20     9.2%                      1.8      1%              5% REO
Nechalacho, Canada          65     2.1%                      1.3     20%            1.6% REO
Mt. Weld, Australia         12     9.7%                      1.2      3%            2.5% REO
Nolans, Australia           30     2.8%                      0.9      4%            1.2% REO
Dong Pao, Vietnam           11     6.9%                      0.8      n/a           6.9% REO
Bear Lodge, USA              9     4.1%                      0.4      n/a           1.5% REO
Hoidas Lake, Canada          2     2.6%                    0.04       7%            1.5% REO
Source: IFRI Energy Breakfast Roundtable, Christian Hocquard


Figure 6 reinforces the point that even with new mines coming on-line, the supply of heavy rare earths is expected to remain tight. Mt. Weld in
Australia is expected to begin producing at a rate of 20,000 tonnes per year in 2011. Molycorp’s Mountain Pass project in the United States, and
possibly Alkane Resources Limited’s Dubbo project may come on-line by end of 2012 and 2014, respectively. Avalon’s Thor Lake mine in
Canada is expected to come online in 2015.

Mt. Weld is expected to add 19 tonnes of terbium and 34 tonnes of dysprosium at initial production. Mountain Pass is expected to add only trace
amounts of terbium and dysprosium when it comes on-line. Nolan’s Bore is expected to add 16 and 68 tonnes of terbium and dysprosium,
respectively. Moreover, Thor Lake is expected to add an additional 45 tonnes of terbium and 250 tonnes of dysprosium.
 Figure 6: Rare Earth Content by Mine for 2012-2014




Source: IMCOA




                                                                                                                        www.mackieresearch.com
Page 7



 Figure 7a: Rare Earth Mines Development Outside of China
                                                                                                                                                               Potential
Project                             Location                       Owner                                                                                     Production
Mount Weld                          Australia/Malaysia             Lynas Corporation Ltd                                                                       mid 2011
Mountain Pass                       USA                            Molycorp Minerals, RCF, Goldman Sachs and Traxys                                            mid 2012
Nolans                              Australia                      Arafura Resources Ltd.                                                                          2013
Dubbo Zirconia                      Australia                      Alkane Resources Ltd.                                                                           2014
Thor Lake                           Canada                         Avalon Rare Metals Inc.                                                                         2015
Bear Lake                           USA                            Rare Element Resources Ltd                                                                      2015
Hoidas Lake                         Canada                         Great Westerns Minerals Group                                                                 2015+
Kvanefjeld                          Greenland                      Greenland Minerals & Energy Ltd.                                                           2015/2016
Strange Lake                        Canada                         Quest Rare Minerals Ltd.                                                                        2016
Source: IMCOA
Unexpected supply shocks may occur as delays are encountered in new mine development: When these projects do come online, they are not
expected to produce an adequate quantity of heavy rare earths to satisfy demand. Typical mining risks accompany these projects and delays
may be commonplace in reaching operating status by the expected dates. Even if these projects meet scheduled timelines, supply for heavy rare
earths over the next three to four years will continue to be tight. We believe this shortage will be further exacerbated by China restricting
supplies to the rest of the world.

Figure 7b provides a comparison of some of these projects in terms of current valuation, heavy rare earth content, and historical price
performance.

 Figure 7b.Rare Earth Mining Companies Comparable Table
                                                                                                                                                                                Mkt Cap/
                                                                  Measured                       Measured           Measured           Measured                                 Measured Mkt Cap/
                                                                      &                               &                 &                  &        Total             Mkt Cap/     and        Total
                                                        Inferred Indicated              Inferred Indicated Inferred Indicated Inferred Indicated Mineral               Inferred Indicated Inventory
                                                       Resource Resource Reserve         Grade      Grade   Grade     Grade Inventory Inventory TREO         Pre-Tax Resources Resources     Value
                                                Ticker (mt, 000s) (mt, 000s) (mt, 000s) (TREO)     (TREO)   (TREO)   (TREO) (mt, 000s) (mt, 000s) (mt, 000s)   IRR    ($/tonne) ($/tonne) ($/ tonnes)

Lynas Corp - Mt. Weld                           LYC-AU     5,294    12,200     2,040     8.30%     7.96%     8.30%     7.96%       439       971     1,410               6,698      3,032      2,087
Molycorp - Mt. Pass                             MCP-US         -         -    48,375     7.00%               7.00%                   -         -     3,386                 n/a        n/a      1,256
Alkane Resources - Dubbo Zirconia               ALK-AU    35,700    37,500         -     0.90%     0.90%     0.90%     0.90%       321       338       659                 899        856        439
Arafura Resources - Nolans                      ARU-AU    12,800    17,400         -     2.60%     2.92%     2.60%     2.92%       333       508       840      18%      1,469        963        582
Great Western Minerals - Hoidas Lake            GWG-V        287     2,561         -     2.14%     2.43%     2.14%     2.43%         6        62        68              65,219      6,428      5,851
Greenland Minerals & Energy Ltd. - Kvanefjeld   GGG-AU    92,000   365,000         -     1.01%     1.01%     1.01%     1.01%       929     3,687     4,616      24%        416        105         84
Avalon Rare Metals Inc - Thor Lake              AVL-T    226,880    88,130    12,001     1.30%     1.53%     1.30%     1.53%     2,949     1,348     4,298     23%**       209        457        143
Rare Element Resources - Bear Lodge             RES-V     15,876         -         -     3.46%               3.46%                 549         -       549    40%***     1,101        n/a      1,101
Quest Rare Minerals Ltd - Strange Lake          QRM-V    114,823         -         -     1.00%               1.00%               1,148         -     1,148      36%        316        n/a        316
Frontier Rare Earths                            FRO-T     20,810    22,920         -     1.99%     2.32%     1.99%     2.32%       414       532       946                 671        523        294


** Avalon's IRR estimate based on Mackie Research model. IRR estimate for the remaining companies based on company announcements.
*** Rare Element Resources IRR estimate is after-tax.
Source: Companies, Mackie Research Capital




                                                                                                                                                                       www.mackieresearch.com
Page 8



 Figure 7c.Rare Earth Mining Companies Share Price Performance
                                                             Price Change (%)
Company                                Ticker       1 Month 3 Months 6 Months       1 Year
Lynas Corp                             LYC-AU           -5      40      111           236
Molycorp                               MCP-US           -6      44      288             -
Alkane Resources                       ALK-AU          18       41      180           280
Arafura Resources - Nolans             ARU-AU           -5       8       78            82
Great Western Minerals                 GWG-V            83     159      444           293
Greenland Minerals & Energy Ltd.       GGG-AU            1      32      189           114
Avalon Rare Metals Inc - Thor Lake     AVL-TSX          -2      64      148           182
Rare Element Resources                 RES-TSXV         -3      31      380           334
Quest Rare Minerals Ltd                QRM-TSXV         11      32      117           135
Frontier Rare Earths                   FRO-TSX          -8       -        -             -
Pele Mountain Resources Inc            GEM-TSX         -10      80      341           120
Quantum Rare Earths Development Corp   QRE-TSX           2      6       113            34
Ucore Rare Metals Inc.                 UCU-TSX          24      78      138           172
Commerce Resources Corp.               CCE-TSX          -9      27      202           135
Rare Earth Metals Inc                  RA-TSX           -5      -8       44           -32
Stans Energy Corp                      RUU-TSX        169      264     1131           841
Dacha Strategic Metals                 DSM-TSXV         -7      -6       7            -20
Neo Material Technologies Inc          NEM-TSX          14      54      113           112
Neo Materials (NEM – TSX, BUY Recommendation, $10.00 price target)
Source: Bloomberg


China in supply restriction mode: In 1992, China began selling rare earths at a significant cost discount to producers outside of China. Chinese
miners were able to produce rare earths at lower costs due to weak environmental regulations and cheap labour. This led to rare earth mines
outside of China closing down. China continued to invest in rare earth production and now supplies 97% of the market globally. However, the
country is currently in a unique position; domestic demand for rare earths in China has increased dramatically. As well, a substantial increase in
demand has occurred in the export market.

China intends to create vertical industries that not only mine rare earth ore, but also consist of world-leading refining and processing facilities.
The priorities of job creation and production dominance are factors that are likely to result in China continuing to place increasing restrictions
on rare earths exports. As well, China has been imposing increasingly stringent environmental regulations that place further supply pressure on
the output from rare earth mines.

China has taken a multi-pronged approach in restricting supplies: As discussed, China has been making its export restrictions increasingly
stringent. We expect this trend to continue, providing further upward pressure on rare earth prices.

    Export Tariffs – In 2006, China introduced a flat 10% export tariff across all rare earths. In 2008, this was revised to 15% for light rare earths
    and 25% for heavy rare earths. On December 16, 2010, the Chinese Ministry of Finance announced that it will raise export taxes for some
    light rare earth elements − such as cerium, lanthanum, and neodymium − to 25% in 2011.

    Export Quotas – In 2003, China started introducing export quotas that have continued to become increasingly stringent and further restrict
    supplies of rare earths in the export markets. Export quotas for 2010 totaled 30,258 tonnes compared with 50,145 tonnes in 2009,
    representing a 40% decline. On December 28, 2010, China announced allocations of rare earths quotas of 14,446 tonnes for H1/2011,
    equivalent to a 35% decline relative to H1/2010. This became a major catalyst for stocks exposed to rare earths prices. We believe the
    upcoming July quota allocation announcement could again act as a major catalyst for higher prices.

    Elimination of the Value-Added Tax (VAT) Rebate - In 1985, China began to implement an export tax rebate policy that has since been in
    steady decline. In 2004, the export tax rebate for rare earth metals was reduced to 5% from 17%. In May 2005, the export tax rebates for all
    rare earths were abolished.




                                                                                                                             www.mackieresearch.com
Page 9



     Production quotas – In order to prevent over-mining and illegal mining, the authorities introduced product quotas in 2007. As of
     September 2010, the production quotas stood at 82,320 tonnes.

Figure 8: Chinese Rare Earths Quotas Continue to Decline
(Metric Tonnes)     2008          09/1H      09/2H     2009     10/1H     10/2H       2010         11/1H
Foreign              8,211         6,685     10,160    16,845    5,978     1,768       7,746        3,746
Local               34,156        15,043     18,257    33,300   16,304     6,208      22,512       10,762
TOTAL               42,367        21,728     28,417    50,145   22,282     7,976      30,258       14,508
                                                                     Y/Y % Change
                                             Foreign    105%      -11%     -83%            -54%      -37%
                                               Local     -3%        8%     -66%            -32%      -34%
                                             TOTAL       18%        3%      -72%            -40%      -35%


Source: Chinese Commerce Ministry, Mackie Research

TREND OF POLITICAL DEVELO PMENTS SUGGEST RARE EARTHS SUPPLY REM AINS TIGHT
Even if the Chinese government were to announce that full-year 2011 quotas will be flat compared to the 2010 level, we believe there is a strong
likelihood of further near-term increases in rare earths pricing. Again, this is due to the tight state of rare earths supply-demand. We have
included a number of recent comments from noteworthy sources regarding Chinese export policy on rare earths in Appendix 1. The key take-
away is that China is expected to reduce export quotas in 2011, or at-least keep quotas at a consistent level from 2010.


PRICING TRENDS INDICATE FURTHER INCREASES
Rare earths have experienced strong pricing gains over a multi-year period. Not surprisingly, the supply squeeze has helped sustain these
pricing gains. Also interesting is that price gains have recently accelerated. Pricing of terbium and dysprosium has been particularly strong over
the past several months (Figure 9).
 Figure 9: Historical Prices of Rare Earths
(US $/KG)               2005               2006        2007        2008            2009        Q1/2010*      Q2/2010*   Q3/2010*   Q4/2010*       2010**
Product (oxide)
Dysprosium                   35             70           89         118             116             190          200        293        305          305
Dysprosium Metal                            70           89        118              150             250          290        282        300          300
Terbium                  300               460          590         721             362             600          515        628        610          610
Gadolinium                 -                 -           10          10                7              9            9         61         70           70
Yttrium                    -                 5           11          13             15.5             20           20         63         78           78
Europium                 290               240          324         482             493             530          530        600        640          640
Lutetium                                                550         550                                                     412        412          412
Neodymium                    6             14.8        28.9       27.21            15.29             30           30         60         90           90
Held within China
Europium                 290               240          324         482             493             423          416        454        454          454
Yttrium                    -                 5           11          13             15.5            7.57         7.11       7.57       7.57         7.57
* end of quarter prices
** estimated current price as of 30th December 2010
 Source: IMCOA, metal-pages.com, Lynas, Martin van Britsom & Diksmuide, Asian Metals


Figure 10 illustrates rare earths data points spanning the past few decades. We note the severe price correction as a result of the 2008/2009
global recession and the recent reversal to price improvement. The figure also provides a good overview of the magnitude of cyclical price
swings in the rare earths market. Currently, we are experiencing the upswing of pricing strength, and if the trend continues, our pricing
estimates may be surpassed (see Figure 11).




                                                                                                                                     www.mackieresearch.com
Page 10



 Figure 10: Historical Prices of Rare Earths (US$/kg)




Data Source: http://minerals.usgs.gov/minerals/pubs/commodity/rare_earths/mcs-2010-raree.pdf
Figure Source: http://tikalon.com/blog/blog.php?article=RE_shortage



DEM AND
Rare Earths – Substantial Market Opportunity: According to the China Rare Earth Information Center, the global rare earths market amounted to
about 124,500 metric tonnes in 2008. In 2009, as a result of the recession, volumes dropped to roughly 100,000 tonnes. The market is currently in
the process of a drastic recovery in sales volumes, and is believed to have jumped back to about 135,000 tonnes in 2010, and expected to increase
to about 152,000 tonnes in 2011. By 2014, IMCOA (Industrial Minerals Company of Australia) estimates the rare earths market will exceed $2
billion in value. Data obtained from Metal Pages and Roskill support the contention that rare earths sales represent a market opportunity in the
billions of dollars. Figure 11 illustrates that in 2007, neodymium was the largest segment of the rare earths market by value, closely followed by
cerium.

 Figure 11: Historical Rare Earths Oxide (REO) Pricing 2007 Production Value - $1.05 Bln




Source: metal-pages.com, Martin van Britsom & Diksmuide, Tianjiao International




                                                                                                                          www.mackieresearch.com
Page 11



Figure 12 depicts the steady growth of total global production. Given a higher current production run-rate combined with recent strength in
pricing, we believe the value of this market has grown significantly in the past couple of years and will continue to do so.

 Figure 12: Historical Rare Earths Oxide (REO) Production




Source: metal-pages.com, Martin van Britsom & Diksmuide, Tianjiao International


Outlook for demand strong, driven by clean-tech and “new age” applications: Figure 13 provides a segmented list characterizing the
downstream end-markets that have been driving a considerable amount of the demand for rare earth materials. The appearance of electric
vehicles and renewable technologies on this list is a reminder of the key role that green and renewable technologies play in the industry. Growth
of miniaturized electronics is believed to be considerable, another key demand driver for rare earths.

 Figure 13: Projected Growth of Downstream End-Markets & Applications
                                             Unit Shipments (000s)
End Use                                    2008       2014      CAGR                         REE Used
Computers                                293,000 529,000       12.50%                Nd, Pr, Sm, Tb, Dy
Electric bicycle motors                   23,000    100,000    34.20%                Nd, Pr, Sm, Tb, Dy
Electric vehicle batteries                  527       2,717    38.80%                    La, Ce, Pr, Nd
Electric vehicle motors                     527       2,717    38.80%                Nd, Pr, Sm, Tb, Dy
LCD displays                             102,200 375,000       29.70%                 Eu, Y, Tb, La, Ce
Moblie CE                                  1,055     58,000   122.90%                Nd, Pr, Sm, Tb, Dy
Mobile phones                           1,222,245 2,250,000    13.00%                Nd, Pr, Sm, Tb, Dy
Wind turbines                               81         239     24.10%                Nd, Pr, Sm, Tb, Dy

Source: metal-pages.com, Martin van Britsom & Diksmuide, Tianjiao International




                                                                                                                               www.mackieresearch.com
Page 12



RARE EARTHS PRICING FORECAST

We have forecasted and analyzed supply and demand imbalances for each of the relevant rare earth elements using our proprietary
methodology in order to derive our rare earth price estimates. The future demand projections for each element are based on Roskill’s projected
CAGR for the specific industries that use the respective rare earths in their manufacturing processes. The US Department of Energy’s estimates
are used to determine individual rare earth content in existing and upcoming mines. This, coupled with industry expert consensus regarding the
commercial operations start date of the new mines, allows us predict future supply of individual rare earths on a year-to-year basis. We then
analyze the relationship between historical demand and supply imbalances and the price for each of the rare earths under consideration. After
analyzing the correlation between excess demand and price for the years 2005 to 2010, we have used this same correlation to forecast rare earth
prices for the 2011 to 2015 period. For each element, this is done by calculating the average change in price per one tonne increase in excess
demand (where excess demand equals global supply less global demand per element).

In the terbium tear sheet in Appendix 2, for example, we calculate a historical average price of $7/tonne for years 2006-2010. This average ratio
of $7/tonne is projected forward, and is multiplied by our proprietary estimates for change in excess demand. These calculations are repeated for
each element and are detailed in Appendix 2. The end-result of our price forecasts are shown in Figure 14.
 Figure 14: Rare Earth Price Forecasts (US$/kg)
 Calendar period                            2010A             2011E        2012E         2013E     2014E   2015E

 Dysprosium Oxide (Dy)                         305               375          454          504       580     672
 Dysprosium Fe (Dy)                            300               369          446          496       570     661
 Gadolinium Oxide (Gd2O3)                       70                73           71           78        65      55
 Lutetium Oxide (Lu2O3)                        412               461          517          579       648     726
 Terbium oxide (Tb4O7)                         610               778          968        1,172     1,373   1,029
 Yttrium Oxide (Y203)                           78                99          121          135       163     186
 Neodymium (Nd2O3)                              90               113          125          151       176     238
 Held within China
 Europium Oxide (Eu2O3)                        454               499          549            604    665      731
 Yttrium Oxide (Y203)                            8                 8            9             10     11       12
 Source: metal-pages.com, IMCOA, Roskill, US Department of Energy, Mackie Research Capital

Appendix 2 contains summaries of the supply and demand projections we use to derive our rare earth element price estimates. Also in
Appendix 2 we include a one-page table from the US Department of Energy’s December 2010 report, ”Critical Materials Strategy” featuring
tables that provide an overview of the supply-demand dynamics for each element.


RECENT EVENTS INCREASE PRO SPECTS OF FURTHER PRICE STRENGTH
On January 24, 2011, Molycorp announced it would be targeting production of 40,000 tonnes per annum (tpa) at mine start-up, double its
previous rate. This was an important announcement because Molycorp’s Mountain Pass mine, after Lynas’s Mt. Weld project, represents the
industry’s next new capacity addition to the market. We believe this announcement further highlights the global shortage of rare earth supplies
and increased interest by investors in the space. Our analysis indicates that this mine will add only trace amounts of heavy rare earths compared
to Avalon, which has significant heavy rare earth resources.

China’s December 28 rare earth export quota reduction set off a flurry in the rare earth stock prices. China decreased H1-2011 quotas by 35%
YOY, which led to sharp increases in the share prices of rare earth companies outside of China. We do not believe these restrictive export quotas
are a short-term phenomenon. China currently consumes about 60% of rare earths domestically and its future consumption is expected to
increase significantly. There are concerns that by 2015, China may not be able to meet even its own internal demand for rare earths.




                                                                                                                         www.mackieresearch.com
Page 13



Chinese government nationalized 11 rare earth mines. In the third week of January 2011, China nationalized 11 rare earth mines in the eastern
province of Jiangxi. China took this step to protect the dwindling supply of heavy rare earths as these mines are rich in heavy rare earths. This
move also helps curb illegal and irresponsible mining practices in the region that had led to environmental damage. We believe nationalization
will provide further upward pressure to the prices of rare earths, particularly heavy rare earths, as the state strengthens its control over the
mines. This bodes well for Avalon, which has a heavy concentration of heavy rare earths at its Thor Lake project. A comprehensive summary of
rare earth-related industry events is shown in Appendix 1.



CONSOLIDATION

EXPECTED TO BECOM E A RECURRING THEM E IN THE RARE EARTHS SPACE
In order to unlock the full potential of the mines and realize higher margins, the companies will need to participate in the downstream business.
We believe the rare earth mining companies realize that the risk-return profile of their respective projects is more attractive with equity partners
that share the huge costs associated with building the mine and the additional costs involved with building out separation facility. For instance,
Avalon expects to spend over $1 billion in capital expenditure to develop its mine and an additional $300 million to build out its separation
facility. We have already seen a rise in bankable off-take agreements and believe this to be a segue to consolidation in the industry through
M&A activities.

 Figure 15: TREO Basket Price by Mine
Operator                                                                          Arafura            Rare Element     Quest Rare     Frontier Rare
                                               Avalon   Lynas Corp   Molycorp    Resources            Resources        Minerals         Earths
Weighted Average Price/KG                    Nechalacho  Mt Weld   Mountain Pass  Nolans              Bear Lodge     Strange Lake    Frontier/ZC1

Europium                                        2.6           2.3            0.6            2.1           2.9             1.1             3.2
Gadolinium                                      2.2           0.6            0.1            0.6           0.7             1.6             0.9
Terbium                                         3.4           0.5            0.0            0.5           1.1             3.8             1.1
Dysprosium                                      8.1           0.4            0.0            1.0           1.2             12.3            2.3
Holmium                                         3.6           0.0            0.0            0.0           0.2             6.8             1.0
Erbium                                          2.1           0.0            0.0            0.0           0.1             4.6             0.5
Thulium                                         4.3           0.0            0.0            0.0           0.0             12.5            1.0
Ytterbium                                       4.5           0.0            0.0            0.0           0.1             13.1            1.0
Yttrium                                        10.5           0.3            0.1            1.2           0.7             25.3            3.7
Lutetium                                        0.6           0.0            0.0            0.0           0.0             1.6             0.1
                                                0.0           0.0            0.0            0.0           0.0             0.0             0.0
Lanthanum                                       9.3          15.0           19.6           11.7          18.4             7.8            15.0
Cerium                                         22.1          28.9           30.5           29.5          29.3             17.0           27.4
Praseodymium                                    3.0           3.5            2.9            3.8           2.7              2.0            3.0
Neodymium                                      16.0          16.6           10.8           19.1          10.7              9.6           14.2
Samarium                                        1.4           0.8            0.3            0.8           0.8             0.9             0.8
Price/KG                                       93.9          68.8           64.9           70.4          69.1            119.9           75.1

Source: Companies, Mackie Research Capital


We have analyzed the characteristics of Avalon’s Total Rare Earth Oxide (TREO) basket and found that its current market price is approximately
$90/kg (Figure 15). However, in its pre-feasibility report, the company assumes it will realize a TREO price of about $22/kg. If it builds a
separation facility and further refines the rare earths, we believe the company has the potential to realize a much higher TREO price ($35-
$50/kg) and improve the economics of its projects (from 12% IRR to mid 20%s IRR). We estimate the capital expenditure required to build a
separation facility that processes $25,000 tonnes will be more than $300 million.


A highly active off-take market has developed for advanced rare earth projects. Over the past two months, we have seen increased activity in
the off-take market for rare earths, primarily driven by concern amongst end users.

                                                                                                                            www.mackieresearch.com
Page 14



 Figure 16: Comparable Off-take Agreements
Date                  Supplier               Off-taker                                                 Price ($ mm)
5/11/2010             Molycorp               W.R. Grace (U.S. Chemical Producer)                        undisclosed
24/11/2010            Lynas Corporation      Sojitz Corporation (A Japanese Trading House)                       250
12/10/2010            Molycorp               Sumitomo Corp                                                       130

Source: Mackie Research Capital
In November 2010, Molycorp agreed to sell more than 75% of its lanthanum production each year to WR Grace & Co over five years. Financial
terms for the agreement were not disclosed. In November 2010, Lynas signed an agreement with a Japanese trading house. The agreement
entails Lynas starting shipments of 1,000 to 3,000 tonnes of rare earths near the end of 2011, and increasing shipments to 9,000+ tonnes per year
by 2013. The contract price reflects the spot market price at the time of delivery plus shipping costs. Furthermore, Molycorp signed a seven-year
off-take agreement with Sumitomo Corporation in December 2010. The agreement calls for shipment of about 2,500 metric tonnes per year of
cerium- and lanthanum-based products and 250 tonnes per year of didymium oxide (which is a mixture of neodymium and praseodymium). In
return, Sumitomo agreed to purchase shares in Molycorp for a total consideration of $100 million as well as provide $30 million in cheap debt
financing.

Off-take agreements a natural path to consolidation. We expect to see an increase in M&A activities involving mining companies with
significant deposits of heavy rare earth content or those mining companies that are expected to come on-line in the near term. The list of logical
suitors is long, with many major Japanese electronic companies at the top of that list.

Molycorp (MCP-US) is currently in discussions with Neo Materials (NEM-TSX, BUY recommendation, $10.00 price target) to send rare
earths to China. In return, Neo would help Molycorp make rare-earth alloys and metals in Thailand. Molycorp has been very clear regarding its
goal to become a mine-to-magnets integrated firm. Neo Materials, conversely, has monopoly over the US magnets industry and possesses strong
expertise in building and operating rare earth separation facilities. We believe M&A activity involving these two companies will deliver
synergies and be a significant driver of value for both companies. It would demonstrate to Neo’s investors that it has reliable future supply of
key manufacturing inputs, which shows longevity and continuation of Neo’s proven business model. Furthermore, it would allow Neo to
diversify its supply exposure away from China to expand its export business, despite the increasingly stringent Chinese export policies. In
addition, Neo’s unparallel expertise in building and operating separation plant facilities would be a significant value add if Molycorp decides to
go ahead with its plans to build a separation facility. It may also help Molycorp share the financial burden of building out its mine and
separation facility with a reliable off-take partner. We believe this is the right time for Molycorp to look at such ventures. The all-time high
prices of rare earths and the shrinking supply put the company in the position to negotiate favourable terms for the off-take agreements.

We expect to see similar discussion of consolidation in the industry as other rare earth mining companies near production. We expect China,
which is the world’s largest consumer of rare earths, to play a major role in the consolidation of the industry. China bought all or part of 184
foreign mining assets for $37.2 billion in 2008 according to Ernst & Young, while the rest of the world was struggling with the onset of the
recession. It is our understanding that China has in the past approached companies like Molycorp and Lynas regarding potential takeover bids.
We expect China to continue to look for opportunities to improve its resource asset base to feed its growing economy.




                                                                                                                          www.mackieresearch.com
Page 15



CONCLUSION

WE REM AIN BULLISH O N RARE EARTHS, BUT TAKE CARE WHEN “PICKING YOUR SPOTS”
In 2010, investors did not require a considerable amount of “craftiness” in selecting which rare earth companies to add to their portfolios. A
tremendous number of equities that were associated to the rare earth sector experienced considerable gains. This experience is not surprising
when considering the price performances of the underlying rare earth elements highlighted in this report. As we progress through 2011, we
remain bullish on the sector. However, investors will require a more discerning investing approach going forward. Some of our key
recommendations and observations include:

     •   Focus on the “heavies”. This applies not only to the rare earth mining plays, but the other rare earth investment opportunities that
         exist in the sector; including those “arbitrage” plays that own and hold physical rare earth elements.

     •   Brace yourself for consolidation. As the rare earth cycle progresses, we believe those companies with global leading expertise in
         “manipulating rare earth molecules” may look more attractive in the eyes of senior mining companies bringing projects to the
         operating stage. Other strategic investors may also become attracted to ownership of these technologies. Our industry sources suggest
         that negotiations are gaining traction in this regard.

     •   Look for continued rare earth pricing strength in 2011, but less drastic export quota reductions from the Chinese government.
         While 2011 will likely not show us the severe cuts in export quotas in the same order of magnitude from the Chinese government as
         we saw in 2010, the international supply-demand situation should remain tight. Heightened geo-political tensions over global access
         to China’s “strategic” source of rare earths may provide further upward pressure on prices.

We are very excited about what is to come from the rare earth sector in 2011. Yes, rare earth price swings have historically proven to exhibit
severe cyclicality. However, we believe rare earths are currently in the robust phase of their cycle, and take exception to any view that “the rare
earth price bubble that is about to burst”. However, investors will certainly have to be more discerning with respect to their investment strategy
in the sector in 2011. We believe that taking into account the key points in this report should help in the quest for outperformance in what
remains an exciting space.




                                                                                                                           www.mackieresearch.com
Page 16



APPENDIX 1

SUMM ARY OF POLITICAL ANNOUNCEMENTS/EVENTS RELATING TO CHINESE RARE EARTH EXPORT QUOTAS
 Date             Source                                                                         Comment
                                          China is building strategic reserves in rare-earth metals. The reports say storage facilities built in recent months in the
 07-Feb-11        Wall Street Journal     Chinese province of Inner Mongolia can hold more than the 39,813 metric tons China exported last year.
                  Chinese Society of      China’s chief rare earths research body says it expects the nation to become a net importer, even though it is the world’s
 04-Feb-11                                biggest producer.
                  Rare Earths
                  China’s Ministry
 20-Jan-11        of     Land      &      The Ministry of Land and Resources, invoked a seldom used mining law to take direct control of 11 rare earth mining
                  Resources               districts in southern China.
                  China's Ministry of     China cut its export quotas for rare earths by 35% in the first round of permits for 2011 relative to H1/2010, threatening
 30-Dec-10                                to extend a global shortage of the minerals needed for wind turbine, electric cars and other clean tech applications.
                  Commerce
                  China's Ministry of     China will raise the export taxes for some elements to 25% next year. The move is an increase from the 15% temporary
 16-Dec-10                                export tax on neodymium. Lanthanum and cerium, were not taxed in 2010, and will be taxed at 25% in 2011.
                  Finance

                  Japan's       Trade     China, the world’s largest producer of rare-earth metals, will speed up exports of the minerals after delays disrupted
 15-Nov-10                                supply, according to Japan’s Trade Minister Akihiro Ohata.
                  Minister
                                          China has to strictly manage the exports and make dynamic adjustments, without hampering development of the
                                          world’s high- tech industries,” said Chen Zhanheng, the head of research at the society, which represents the nation’s
                  Chinese Society of      major producers. “China should dedicate itself to develop high-tech end products, rather than shipping out low value-
 11-Nov-10
                  Rare Earths             added raw materials,” Chen said yesterday in an interview in Hong Kong at a rare earth conference. “The idea to swap
                                          mineral resources for advanced technologies never works.”
                                          China will reduce its rare earth export quotas next year, but not by a very large margin, Yao Jian, spokesman of China's
                                          Ministry of Commerce, said on Tuesday. “To protect the environment and natural resources, China will stick to the
                  China's Ministry of     quota system to manage rare earth exports next year, and quotas will also decline," Yao told Xinhua News Agency.
 11-Nov-10                                Though giving no clear extent of the decline, Yao's remarks echoed the comments of Wang Jian, a vice-minister of
                  Commerce
                                          commerce, made on Monday at a news conference. "I believe China will see no large rise or fall in rare earth exports next
                                          year," said Wang.
                                          The EU trade chief said on Wednesday he would press China for assurances on rare earth supplies in talks next month,
                                          though there was no conclusive evidence Chinese limits on such exports had hit European industry. The European
 10-Nov-10        EU Trade Chief          Union is struggling to secure supplies of rare earth minerals, which are used in the production of high-tech goods and
                                          defense products, and has said it could take legal action against China for cutting down on exports.

                                          "The Japanese and US foreign ministers have agreed that the two nations need to hold economic talks on issues
                                          including rare earth minerals," Japan's Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshito Sengoku told a news conference. "Of course the
                  Japan and         the   issue of how to diversify the procurement of rare earth minerals and other resources such as oil will be discussed with
 9-Nov-10
                  United States           the United States as well as with other countries," Sengoku said. Washington has called restrictions on the minerals a
                                          potential threat to the US economy and national security.

                                          A letter written by 37 groups including the US Chamber of Commerce, and various other business and trade
                  US Chamber         of   associations, urged G20 leaders to “refrain from export taxes, quotas or other market-distorting measures on rare-earth
 8-Nov-10
                  Commerce                elements that restrict global supply and unnecessarily contribute to price volatility,” reported an article by the AFP.

                                          Trade Minister Chen Deming cautioned that other countries will have begun sharing the environmental burden of
                  Chinese       Trade     mining the metals in the future. “We are currently in talks with rare earth consuming countries and countries with rich
 8-Nov-10                                 rare resources on how to produce rare earth in a more environmentally friendly way,” Chen said. “We also need to find
                  Minister
                                          new rare earth resources.”
                                          Mrs. Clinton, who is leaving Australia today after weekend defense and security talks, said the US and Australia "need
 8-Nov-10         Hillary Clinton
                                          to discuss in depth the supply of rare-earth minerals".

                  China's Ministry of     China will maintain its export volume of rare earths next year, the official Xinhua News Agency said, citing Minister of
 7-Nov-10
                  Commerce                Commerce Chen Deming.

                  Chinese Industry        China's industry ministry is considering regulations to tighten pollution standards for rare earth producers, Xinhua
 7-Nov-10
                  Ministry                news agency reported on Sunday, a move the country's top firm said might further raise export prices.
                  Chinese
                                          The Chinese commerce minister Chen deming 5 in Paris dismissed some western media in China rare earth export
 6-Nov-10         Commerce
                                          untrue reports, and said China next year will remain rare earth exports.
                  minister
Source: Mackie Research Capital, Various news articles as listed




                                                                                                                                             www.mackieresearch.com
Page 17



APPENDIX 1 (cont’d)
HIGHLIGHTS OF RARE EARTHS-RELATED NEWS

                                              China will cut rare earth export quotas for 2011, but only by a small amount after slashing them this year, the
                   China's Ministry of        Commerce Ministry said on Tuesday, calling the squeeze on exports a step to save the environment. “Given that
 4-Nov-10                                     we've already had major reductions in export quotas over recent years, the extent of the fall in China's rare earth
                   Commerce
                                              export volumes next year will not be great,” the brief Xinhua report cited him as saying.

                                              China studying plan to build strategic reserves for ten minor metals, Shanghai Securities News reported last night,
 3-Nov-10          Chinese Newspaper          without citing anyone. Ten metals include rare earths.

                                              The quota for rare earth exports could be reduced 3% to 10% in 2011 from this year’s levels after the 40% cut in
                                              permitted exports in 2010, Matthew James, executive vice president for strategy at Australian miner Lynas Corp.,
 3-Nov-10          Lynas Corporation          recently told China Real Time. He said that as China restructures its rare earth industry domestically, there is less for
                                              export. James predicted next year’s export quota on rare earths will emerge in two tranches, making it difficult to
                                              know until mid-2011 exactly how much China will permit to leave.
                                              China Securities Journal today quoted an unidentified source from China's Ministry of Commerce who said that the
                                              country's rare metal export quota will be cut by 2 percent to 3 percent. "The export quotas for rare metals will
 3-Nov-10          Chinese Newspaper          unlikely rebound in the future," said an industry insider, who helped draft related policies, during an interview with
                                              China Securities Journal.

                   China's Ministry of        China will cut rare earth export quotas for 2011, but only by a small amount after slashing them this year, the
 2-Nov-10                                     Commerce Ministry said on Tuesday, calling the squeeze on exports a step to save the environment.
                   Commerce
                                              China ended its undeclared embargo of exports of crucial strategic minerals to the US, Europe and Japan, although
 28-Oct-10         New York Times             shipments to Japan still encountered difficulties, the New York Times reported, citing four unidentified rare earth
                                              industry officials.

                                              China has called off a meeting of its economics minister with his counterparts of Japan and South Korea, scheduled
 27-Oct-10         Newspaper                  for the week-end, amidst a row over its policy of exporting rare earths, a Japanese media report said Wednesday.

                                              China practices the quota license administration on the export of rare earth products since 1998. In recent
                                              years, Chinese government cuts down the volume of export enterprises, export quotas and annual exploitation
                                              volume of rare earth ores. China’s Ministry of Commerce declared that the total export quota of rare earth
 25-Oct-10         Newspaper                  products of domestic-funded enterprises was 50,000 tons in 2005, 34,000 tons in 2008. In 2009, it set the total
                                              export quota of 50,145.1 tons for domestic-funded and foreign-funded enterprises. In 2010, it cut down the
                                              export quota to 30,258 tons, including 22,512 tons for domestic-funded enterprises and 7,746 tons for foreign-
                                              funded enterprises.

                                              A story has been published on the China Daily online website today stating that China will further reduce
 19-Oct-10         Newspaper                  quotas for rare earth exports by 30 percent next year to protect the precious metals from over-exploitation.

                                              Chinese premier Wen Jiabao in Brussels attended the 6th sino-european business summit, pointed out that
 6-Oct-10          Chinese Premier            “during a speech to the management and control of rare earth is necessary, but never blockade. China will not
                                              put rare earth as a bargaining tool; our purpose is to the sustainable development of the world.”
                                              China, the world’s largest rare- earths producer, cut export quotas for the minerals needed to make hybrid cars
 9-Jul-10          Bloomberg                  and televisions by 72 percent for the second half. Shipments will be capped at 7,976 metric tons, down from
                                              28,417 tons for the same period a year ago, according to data from the Ministry of Commerce yesterday.
                                              In 1985, China began to implement the export tax rebate policy for rare earth products. From January 1, 2004,
                                              export tax rebate for rare earth metals was adjusted from 13% to zero, the export tax rebate rate for yttrium
                                              metal, scandium metal and its compounds, inorganic or organic compounds was adjusted from 17%, 13% to
 7-Apr-10          Article                    5%. From May 1, 2005, the export tax rebates for rare earth metals, rare earth oxides, rare earth salts were
                                              abolished. On November 1, 2006, the regulation of imposing export tariffs on rare earth products was released
                                              and would implement by June 1, 2007, the tax rate was 10%.
                                              Chinese export quotas have been decreasing each year for the last 8 years. Most recently, China has announced
 8-Jul-09          Newspaper                  that export quotas for the first half of 2009 are being reduced by approximately 34% over the same period last
                                              year.

Source: Mackie Research Capital, Various news articles as listed




                                                                                                                                              www.mackieresearch.com
Page 18



APPENDIX 2




Source: US Department of Energy, Mackie Research Capital, IMCOA; Price Forecast Source: Mackie Research Capital

                                                                                                                  www.mackieresearch.com
Page 19




Source: US Department of Energy, Mackie Research Capital, IMCOA; Price Forecast Source: Mackie Research Capital


                                                                                                                  www.mackieresearch.com
Page 20




Source: US Department of Energy, Mackie Research Capital, IMCOA; Price Forecast Source: Mackie Research Capital

                                                                                                                  www.mackieresearch.com
Page 21




                                                                                                                           Source:
US Department of Energy, Mackie Research Capital, IMCOA; Price Forecast Source: Mackie Research Capital

                                                                                                          www.mackieresearch.com
Page 22




Source: US Department of Energy, Mackie Research Capital, IMCOA; Price Forecast Source: Mackie Research Capital


                                                                                                                  www.mackieresearch.com
Page 23




Source: US Department of Energy, Mackie Research Capital, IMCOA; Price Forecast Source: Mackie Research Capital

                                                                                                                  www.mackieresearch.com
Page 24




www.mackieresearch.com
Page 25




www.mackieresearch.com
Page 26




RELEVANT DISCLOSURES
1.      N/A


ANALYST CERTIFICATION
Each analyst of Mackie Research Capital Corporation whose name appears in this report hereby certifies that (i) the recommendations and
opinions expressed in this research report accurately reflect the analyst’s personal views and (ii) no part of the research analyst’s
compensation was or will be directly or indirectly related to the specific conclusions or recommendations expressed in this research report.




I n f o r ma t i o n a b o u t M a c k i e R e s e a r c h C a p i t a l C o r p o r a t i o n ’ s R a t i n g S y s t e m, t h e d i s t r i b u t i o n o f o u r r e s e a r c h t o c l i e n t s a n d t h e p e r c e n t a g e o f r e c o m me n d a t i o n s wh i c h a r e i n
e a c h o f o u r r a t i n g c a t e g o r i e s i s a v a i l a b l e o n o u r we b s i t e a t ww w. ma c k i e r e s e a r c h . c o m.

The information contained in this report has been drawn from sources believed to be reliable but its accuracy or completeness is not guaranteed, nor in providing it does Mackie Research Capital
Corporation assume any responsibility or liability. Mackie Research Capital Corporation, its directors, officers and other employees may, from time to time, have positions in the securities
mentioned herein. Contents of this report cannot be reproduced in whole or in part without the expressed permission of Mackie Research Capital Corporation. (U.S. Institutional Clients — Research
Capital U.S.A. Inc. (a wholly owned subsidiary of Mackie Research Capital Corporation) accepts responsibility for the contents of this report subject to the terms & limitations set out above. Firms
or institutions receiving this report should effect transactions in securities discussed in the report through Research Capital U.S.A. Inc., a Broker-Dealer Registered with the United States Securities
and Exchange Commission).

Toronto 416.860.7600                            Montreal 514.399.1500                          Vancouver 604.662.1800                                Calgary 403.218.6375                              Regina 306.566.7550                         St. Albert 780.460.6460




                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              www.mackieresearch.com

More Related Content

Similar to Rare Earth Industry Update Predicts Continued Supply Strain

Research & Opinion: Commerce Resources Corp.'s Ashram Rare Earth Elements De...
Research & Opinion:  Commerce Resources Corp.'s Ashram Rare Earth Elements De...Research & Opinion:  Commerce Resources Corp.'s Ashram Rare Earth Elements De...
Research & Opinion: Commerce Resources Corp.'s Ashram Rare Earth Elements De...Zimtu Capital Corp. (TSXv: ZC)
 
Recent Dynamics in the Global CRITICAL Rare-Earth Market. Jack Lifton, Techno...
Recent Dynamics in the Global CRITICAL Rare-Earth Market. Jack Lifton, Techno...Recent Dynamics in the Global CRITICAL Rare-Earth Market. Jack Lifton, Techno...
Recent Dynamics in the Global CRITICAL Rare-Earth Market. Jack Lifton, Techno...Geological Survey of Sweden
 
Frontier Corporate Presentation - Nov 2012
Frontier Corporate Presentation - Nov 2012Frontier Corporate Presentation - Nov 2012
Frontier Corporate Presentation - Nov 2012Frontier Rare Earths Ltd
 
Analysis of Peak Resources
Analysis of Peak ResourcesAnalysis of Peak Resources
Analysis of Peak ResourcesChris Suttie
 
Gary Billingsley: Outlook for Rare Earths (Day 1 - Session 1: Strategic metal...
Gary Billingsley: Outlook for Rare Earths (Day 1 - Session 1: Strategic metal...Gary Billingsley: Outlook for Rare Earths (Day 1 - Session 1: Strategic metal...
Gary Billingsley: Outlook for Rare Earths (Day 1 - Session 1: Strategic metal...Objective Capital Conferences
 
Economics of Rare Earth Projects
Economics of Rare Earth ProjectsEconomics of Rare Earth Projects
Economics of Rare Earth ProjectsAlkane Resources
 
World rare earths
World rare earthsWorld rare earths
World rare earthslinda3395
 
Objective Capital Rare Earth and Minor Metals Investment Summit: Focus on Rar...
Objective Capital Rare Earth and Minor Metals Investment Summit: Focus on Rar...Objective Capital Rare Earth and Minor Metals Investment Summit: Focus on Rar...
Objective Capital Rare Earth and Minor Metals Investment Summit: Focus on Rar...Objective Capital Conferences
 
Rare earth elements - Global market overview
Rare earth elements - Global market overviewRare earth elements - Global market overview
Rare earth elements - Global market overviewJames Sean Dickson FGS
 
Objective Capital Rare Earth and Minor Metals Investment Summit: Overview of ...
Objective Capital Rare Earth and Minor Metals Investment Summit: Overview of ...Objective Capital Rare Earth and Minor Metals Investment Summit: Overview of ...
Objective Capital Rare Earth and Minor Metals Investment Summit: Overview of ...Objective Capital Conferences
 
Mark Sumich: Outlook for Niobium (Day 1 - Session 2: Speciality Metals)
Mark Sumich: Outlook for Niobium (Day 1 - Session 2: Speciality Metals)Mark Sumich: Outlook for Niobium (Day 1 - Session 2: Speciality Metals)
Mark Sumich: Outlook for Niobium (Day 1 - Session 2: Speciality Metals)Objective Capital Conferences
 
Richard Karn - Resources & Energy Symposium 2012
Richard Karn - Resources & Energy Symposium 2012Richard Karn - Resources & Energy Symposium 2012
Richard Karn - Resources & Energy Symposium 2012Symposium
 
Jacob Securities' Report on Rare Earth Elements
Jacob Securities' Report on Rare Earth ElementsJacob Securities' Report on Rare Earth Elements
Jacob Securities' Report on Rare Earth ElementsRare Earths / Rare Metals
 
Investor Intel Presentation
Investor Intel Presentation Investor Intel Presentation
Investor Intel Presentation Alkane Resources
 
Pele Mountain Investor Presentation
Pele Mountain Investor PresentationPele Mountain Investor Presentation
Pele Mountain Investor PresentationCompany Spotlight
 
Rare earths are making a rabble-rousing comeback and Commerce Resources Corp....
Rare earths are making a rabble-rousing comeback and Commerce Resources Corp....Rare earths are making a rabble-rousing comeback and Commerce Resources Corp....
Rare earths are making a rabble-rousing comeback and Commerce Resources Corp....Stephan Bogner
 
South American Silver Corp March 2012 Corporate Presentation
South American Silver Corp March 2012 Corporate PresentationSouth American Silver Corp March 2012 Corporate Presentation
South American Silver Corp March 2012 Corporate Presentationsoamsilver
 

Similar to Rare Earth Industry Update Predicts Continued Supply Strain (20)

Research & Opinion: Commerce Resources Corp.'s Ashram Rare Earth Elements De...
Research & Opinion:  Commerce Resources Corp.'s Ashram Rare Earth Elements De...Research & Opinion:  Commerce Resources Corp.'s Ashram Rare Earth Elements De...
Research & Opinion: Commerce Resources Corp.'s Ashram Rare Earth Elements De...
 
Recent Dynamics in the Global CRITICAL Rare-Earth Market. Jack Lifton, Techno...
Recent Dynamics in the Global CRITICAL Rare-Earth Market. Jack Lifton, Techno...Recent Dynamics in the Global CRITICAL Rare-Earth Market. Jack Lifton, Techno...
Recent Dynamics in the Global CRITICAL Rare-Earth Market. Jack Lifton, Techno...
 
Frontier Corporate Presentation - Nov 2012
Frontier Corporate Presentation - Nov 2012Frontier Corporate Presentation - Nov 2012
Frontier Corporate Presentation - Nov 2012
 
Analysis of Peak Resources
Analysis of Peak ResourcesAnalysis of Peak Resources
Analysis of Peak Resources
 
Gary Billingsley: Outlook for Rare Earths (Day 1 - Session 1: Strategic metal...
Gary Billingsley: Outlook for Rare Earths (Day 1 - Session 1: Strategic metal...Gary Billingsley: Outlook for Rare Earths (Day 1 - Session 1: Strategic metal...
Gary Billingsley: Outlook for Rare Earths (Day 1 - Session 1: Strategic metal...
 
Soviet expertise, Canadian security
Soviet expertise, Canadian securitySoviet expertise, Canadian security
Soviet expertise, Canadian security
 
Economics of Rare Earth Projects
Economics of Rare Earth ProjectsEconomics of Rare Earth Projects
Economics of Rare Earth Projects
 
World rare earths
World rare earthsWorld rare earths
World rare earths
 
Rare Earth Review - Libertas Partners LLP
Rare Earth Review - Libertas Partners LLPRare Earth Review - Libertas Partners LLP
Rare Earth Review - Libertas Partners LLP
 
Objective Capital Rare Earth and Minor Metals Investment Summit: Focus on Rar...
Objective Capital Rare Earth and Minor Metals Investment Summit: Focus on Rar...Objective Capital Rare Earth and Minor Metals Investment Summit: Focus on Rar...
Objective Capital Rare Earth and Minor Metals Investment Summit: Focus on Rar...
 
Rare earth elements - Global market overview
Rare earth elements - Global market overviewRare earth elements - Global market overview
Rare earth elements - Global market overview
 
Objective Capital Rare Earth and Minor Metals Investment Summit: Overview of ...
Objective Capital Rare Earth and Minor Metals Investment Summit: Overview of ...Objective Capital Rare Earth and Minor Metals Investment Summit: Overview of ...
Objective Capital Rare Earth and Minor Metals Investment Summit: Overview of ...
 
Mark Sumich: Outlook for Niobium (Day 1 - Session 2: Speciality Metals)
Mark Sumich: Outlook for Niobium (Day 1 - Session 2: Speciality Metals)Mark Sumich: Outlook for Niobium (Day 1 - Session 2: Speciality Metals)
Mark Sumich: Outlook for Niobium (Day 1 - Session 2: Speciality Metals)
 
Richard Karn - Resources & Energy Symposium 2012
Richard Karn - Resources & Energy Symposium 2012Richard Karn - Resources & Energy Symposium 2012
Richard Karn - Resources & Energy Symposium 2012
 
Jacob Securities' Report on Rare Earth Elements
Jacob Securities' Report on Rare Earth ElementsJacob Securities' Report on Rare Earth Elements
Jacob Securities' Report on Rare Earth Elements
 
Investor Intel Presentation
Investor Intel Presentation Investor Intel Presentation
Investor Intel Presentation
 
Pele Mountain Investor Presentation
Pele Mountain Investor PresentationPele Mountain Investor Presentation
Pele Mountain Investor Presentation
 
RCR Quarterly Report- Oct-10-Copper
RCR Quarterly Report- Oct-10-CopperRCR Quarterly Report- Oct-10-Copper
RCR Quarterly Report- Oct-10-Copper
 
Rare earths are making a rabble-rousing comeback and Commerce Resources Corp....
Rare earths are making a rabble-rousing comeback and Commerce Resources Corp....Rare earths are making a rabble-rousing comeback and Commerce Resources Corp....
Rare earths are making a rabble-rousing comeback and Commerce Resources Corp....
 
South American Silver Corp March 2012 Corporate Presentation
South American Silver Corp March 2012 Corporate PresentationSouth American Silver Corp March 2012 Corporate Presentation
South American Silver Corp March 2012 Corporate Presentation
 

More from Rare Earths / Rare Metals

Secutor Capital Management Corporation Update on Commerce Resources Corp. (Fe...
Secutor Capital Management Corporation Update on Commerce Resources Corp. (Fe...Secutor Capital Management Corporation Update on Commerce Resources Corp. (Fe...
Secutor Capital Management Corporation Update on Commerce Resources Corp. (Fe...Rare Earths / Rare Metals
 
Secutor Capital Management Corporation Update on Commerce Resources Corp. (De...
Secutor Capital Management Corporation Update on Commerce Resources Corp. (De...Secutor Capital Management Corporation Update on Commerce Resources Corp. (De...
Secutor Capital Management Corporation Update on Commerce Resources Corp. (De...Rare Earths / Rare Metals
 
Secutor Capital Management: Commerce Resources Corp. (October 2014)
Secutor Capital Management:  Commerce Resources Corp. (October 2014)Secutor Capital Management:  Commerce Resources Corp. (October 2014)
Secutor Capital Management: Commerce Resources Corp. (October 2014)Rare Earths / Rare Metals
 
Secutor Capital Management: Break Out for Commerce Resources Corp. (May 2014)
Secutor Capital Management:  Break Out for Commerce Resources Corp. (May 2014)Secutor Capital Management:  Break Out for Commerce Resources Corp. (May 2014)
Secutor Capital Management: Break Out for Commerce Resources Corp. (May 2014)Rare Earths / Rare Metals
 
Secutor Capital Management Initiates Coverage on Commerce Resources Corp. (Ap...
Secutor Capital Management Initiates Coverage on Commerce Resources Corp. (Ap...Secutor Capital Management Initiates Coverage on Commerce Resources Corp. (Ap...
Secutor Capital Management Initiates Coverage on Commerce Resources Corp. (Ap...Rare Earths / Rare Metals
 
Reviewing Risk: Critical Metals & National Security
Reviewing Risk: Critical Metals & National SecurityReviewing Risk: Critical Metals & National Security
Reviewing Risk: Critical Metals & National SecurityRare Earths / Rare Metals
 
Rare Earth Elements in National Defense: Background, Oversight Issues, and Op...
Rare Earth Elements in National Defense: Background, Oversight Issues, and Op...Rare Earth Elements in National Defense: Background, Oversight Issues, and Op...
Rare Earth Elements in National Defense: Background, Oversight Issues, and Op...Rare Earths / Rare Metals
 
Quantum Rare Earth Developments Corp.: Review of 2011
Quantum Rare Earth Developments Corp.: Review of 2011Quantum Rare Earth Developments Corp.: Review of 2011
Quantum Rare Earth Developments Corp.: Review of 2011Rare Earths / Rare Metals
 
An Introduction to Rare Earth Elements & Rare Metals by VSA Capital
An Introduction to Rare Earth Elements & Rare Metals by VSA CapitalAn Introduction to Rare Earth Elements & Rare Metals by VSA Capital
An Introduction to Rare Earth Elements & Rare Metals by VSA CapitalRare Earths / Rare Metals
 
Molycorp - House of Foreign Relations Testimony
Molycorp - House of Foreign Relations TestimonyMolycorp - House of Foreign Relations Testimony
Molycorp - House of Foreign Relations TestimonyRare Earths / Rare Metals
 
Strategy Metals Bulletin: Chinese Rare Earth Element Policies
Strategy Metals Bulletin: Chinese Rare Earth Element PoliciesStrategy Metals Bulletin: Chinese Rare Earth Element Policies
Strategy Metals Bulletin: Chinese Rare Earth Element PoliciesRare Earths / Rare Metals
 
Strategy Metals Bulletin: Tantalum Fundamentals
Strategy Metals Bulletin:  Tantalum FundamentalsStrategy Metals Bulletin:  Tantalum Fundamentals
Strategy Metals Bulletin: Tantalum FundamentalsRare Earths / Rare Metals
 
Map of the Rocky Mountain Rare Metal Belt (August 2011 Update)
Map of the Rocky Mountain Rare Metal Belt (August 2011 Update)Map of the Rocky Mountain Rare Metal Belt (August 2011 Update)
Map of the Rocky Mountain Rare Metal Belt (August 2011 Update)Rare Earths / Rare Metals
 
Conflict Minerals Overview by KPMG (August 2011 Update)
Conflict Minerals Overview by KPMG (August 2011 Update)Conflict Minerals Overview by KPMG (August 2011 Update)
Conflict Minerals Overview by KPMG (August 2011 Update)Rare Earths / Rare Metals
 
Rare Metals Report on Tantalum & Niobium by Jacob Securities (July 19, 2011)
Rare Metals Report on Tantalum & Niobium by Jacob Securities (July 19, 2011)Rare Metals Report on Tantalum & Niobium by Jacob Securities (July 19, 2011)
Rare Metals Report on Tantalum & Niobium by Jacob Securities (July 19, 2011)Rare Earths / Rare Metals
 

More from Rare Earths / Rare Metals (20)

Secutor Capital Management Corporation Update on Commerce Resources Corp. (Fe...
Secutor Capital Management Corporation Update on Commerce Resources Corp. (Fe...Secutor Capital Management Corporation Update on Commerce Resources Corp. (Fe...
Secutor Capital Management Corporation Update on Commerce Resources Corp. (Fe...
 
Secutor Capital Management Corporation Update on Commerce Resources Corp. (De...
Secutor Capital Management Corporation Update on Commerce Resources Corp. (De...Secutor Capital Management Corporation Update on Commerce Resources Corp. (De...
Secutor Capital Management Corporation Update on Commerce Resources Corp. (De...
 
Secutor Capital Management: Commerce Resources Corp. (October 2014)
Secutor Capital Management:  Commerce Resources Corp. (October 2014)Secutor Capital Management:  Commerce Resources Corp. (October 2014)
Secutor Capital Management: Commerce Resources Corp. (October 2014)
 
Secutor Capital Management: Break Out for Commerce Resources Corp. (May 2014)
Secutor Capital Management:  Break Out for Commerce Resources Corp. (May 2014)Secutor Capital Management:  Break Out for Commerce Resources Corp. (May 2014)
Secutor Capital Management: Break Out for Commerce Resources Corp. (May 2014)
 
Secutor Capital Management Initiates Coverage on Commerce Resources Corp. (Ap...
Secutor Capital Management Initiates Coverage on Commerce Resources Corp. (Ap...Secutor Capital Management Initiates Coverage on Commerce Resources Corp. (Ap...
Secutor Capital Management Initiates Coverage on Commerce Resources Corp. (Ap...
 
Reviewing Risk: Critical Metals & National Security
Reviewing Risk: Critical Metals & National SecurityReviewing Risk: Critical Metals & National Security
Reviewing Risk: Critical Metals & National Security
 
Rare Earth Elements in National Defense: Background, Oversight Issues, and Op...
Rare Earth Elements in National Defense: Background, Oversight Issues, and Op...Rare Earth Elements in National Defense: Background, Oversight Issues, and Op...
Rare Earth Elements in National Defense: Background, Oversight Issues, and Op...
 
Strategy Metals Bulletin #56
Strategy Metals Bulletin #56Strategy Metals Bulletin #56
Strategy Metals Bulletin #56
 
Quantum Rare Earth Developments Corp.: Review of 2011
Quantum Rare Earth Developments Corp.: Review of 2011Quantum Rare Earth Developments Corp.: Review of 2011
Quantum Rare Earth Developments Corp.: Review of 2011
 
An Introduction to Rare Earth Elements & Rare Metals by VSA Capital
An Introduction to Rare Earth Elements & Rare Metals by VSA CapitalAn Introduction to Rare Earth Elements & Rare Metals by VSA Capital
An Introduction to Rare Earth Elements & Rare Metals by VSA Capital
 
Molycorp - House of Foreign Relations Testimony
Molycorp - House of Foreign Relations TestimonyMolycorp - House of Foreign Relations Testimony
Molycorp - House of Foreign Relations Testimony
 
Fact Sheet: Fieldex Exploration (TSXv: FLX)
Fact Sheet: Fieldex Exploration (TSXv: FLX)Fact Sheet: Fieldex Exploration (TSXv: FLX)
Fact Sheet: Fieldex Exploration (TSXv: FLX)
 
Strategy Metals Bulletin: Chinese Rare Earth Element Policies
Strategy Metals Bulletin: Chinese Rare Earth Element PoliciesStrategy Metals Bulletin: Chinese Rare Earth Element Policies
Strategy Metals Bulletin: Chinese Rare Earth Element Policies
 
Strategy Metals Bulletin: Tantalum Fundamentals
Strategy Metals Bulletin:  Tantalum FundamentalsStrategy Metals Bulletin:  Tantalum Fundamentals
Strategy Metals Bulletin: Tantalum Fundamentals
 
Map of the Rocky Mountain Rare Metal Belt (August 2011 Update)
Map of the Rocky Mountain Rare Metal Belt (August 2011 Update)Map of the Rocky Mountain Rare Metal Belt (August 2011 Update)
Map of the Rocky Mountain Rare Metal Belt (August 2011 Update)
 
Conflict Minerals Overview by KPMG (August 2011 Update)
Conflict Minerals Overview by KPMG (August 2011 Update)Conflict Minerals Overview by KPMG (August 2011 Update)
Conflict Minerals Overview by KPMG (August 2011 Update)
 
Rare Metals Report on Tantalum & Niobium by Jacob Securities (July 19, 2011)
Rare Metals Report on Tantalum & Niobium by Jacob Securities (July 19, 2011)Rare Metals Report on Tantalum & Niobium by Jacob Securities (July 19, 2011)
Rare Metals Report on Tantalum & Niobium by Jacob Securities (July 19, 2011)
 
Strategic Metals Bulletin Bulletin #38
Strategic Metals Bulletin Bulletin #38Strategic Metals Bulletin Bulletin #38
Strategic Metals Bulletin Bulletin #38
 
Conflict Minerals Overview by KPMG
Conflict Minerals Overview by KPMGConflict Minerals Overview by KPMG
Conflict Minerals Overview by KPMG
 
Niobium-Tantalum: IM-Mining.com
Niobium-Tantalum: IM-Mining.comNiobium-Tantalum: IM-Mining.com
Niobium-Tantalum: IM-Mining.com
 

Recently uploaded

Collective Mining | Corporate Presentation | April 2024
Collective Mining | Corporate Presentation | April 2024Collective Mining | Corporate Presentation | April 2024
Collective Mining | Corporate Presentation | April 2024CollectiveMining1
 
Collective Mining | Corporate Presentation - April 2024
Collective Mining | Corporate Presentation - April 2024Collective Mining | Corporate Presentation - April 2024
Collective Mining | Corporate Presentation - April 2024CollectiveMining1
 
Osisko Gold Royalties Ltd - Corporate Presentation, April 10, 2024
Osisko Gold Royalties Ltd - Corporate Presentation, April 10, 2024Osisko Gold Royalties Ltd - Corporate Presentation, April 10, 2024
Osisko Gold Royalties Ltd - Corporate Presentation, April 10, 2024Osisko Gold Royalties Ltd
 
the 25 most beautiful words for a loving and lasting relationship.pdf
the 25 most beautiful words for a loving and lasting relationship.pdfthe 25 most beautiful words for a loving and lasting relationship.pdf
the 25 most beautiful words for a loving and lasting relationship.pdfFrancenel
 
Corporate Presentation Probe April 2024.pdf
Corporate Presentation Probe April 2024.pdfCorporate Presentation Probe April 2024.pdf
Corporate Presentation Probe April 2024.pdfProbe Gold
 
Leveraging USDA Rural Development Grants for Community Growth and Sustainabil...
Leveraging USDA Rural Development Grants for Community Growth and Sustainabil...Leveraging USDA Rural Development Grants for Community Growth and Sustainabil...
Leveraging USDA Rural Development Grants for Community Growth and Sustainabil...USDAReapgrants.com
 
Q1 Probe Gold Quarterly Update- April 2024
Q1 Probe Gold Quarterly Update- April 2024Q1 Probe Gold Quarterly Update- April 2024
Q1 Probe Gold Quarterly Update- April 2024Probe Gold
 
Q1 Quarterly Update - April 16, 2024.pdf
Q1 Quarterly Update - April 16, 2024.pdfQ1 Quarterly Update - April 16, 2024.pdf
Q1 Quarterly Update - April 16, 2024.pdfProbe Gold
 
slideshare_2404_presentation materials_en.pdf
slideshare_2404_presentation materials_en.pdfslideshare_2404_presentation materials_en.pdf
slideshare_2404_presentation materials_en.pdfsansanir
 
Mandalay Resources 2024 April IR Presentation
Mandalay Resources 2024 April IR PresentationMandalay Resources 2024 April IR Presentation
Mandalay Resources 2024 April IR PresentationMandalayResources
 
Corporate Presentation Probe April 2024.pdf
Corporate Presentation Probe April 2024.pdfCorporate Presentation Probe April 2024.pdf
Corporate Presentation Probe April 2024.pdfProbe Gold
 

Recently uploaded (12)

Collective Mining | Corporate Presentation | April 2024
Collective Mining | Corporate Presentation | April 2024Collective Mining | Corporate Presentation | April 2024
Collective Mining | Corporate Presentation | April 2024
 
Korea District Heating Corporation 071320 Algorithm Investment Report
Korea District Heating Corporation 071320 Algorithm Investment ReportKorea District Heating Corporation 071320 Algorithm Investment Report
Korea District Heating Corporation 071320 Algorithm Investment Report
 
Collective Mining | Corporate Presentation - April 2024
Collective Mining | Corporate Presentation - April 2024Collective Mining | Corporate Presentation - April 2024
Collective Mining | Corporate Presentation - April 2024
 
Osisko Gold Royalties Ltd - Corporate Presentation, April 10, 2024
Osisko Gold Royalties Ltd - Corporate Presentation, April 10, 2024Osisko Gold Royalties Ltd - Corporate Presentation, April 10, 2024
Osisko Gold Royalties Ltd - Corporate Presentation, April 10, 2024
 
the 25 most beautiful words for a loving and lasting relationship.pdf
the 25 most beautiful words for a loving and lasting relationship.pdfthe 25 most beautiful words for a loving and lasting relationship.pdf
the 25 most beautiful words for a loving and lasting relationship.pdf
 
Corporate Presentation Probe April 2024.pdf
Corporate Presentation Probe April 2024.pdfCorporate Presentation Probe April 2024.pdf
Corporate Presentation Probe April 2024.pdf
 
Leveraging USDA Rural Development Grants for Community Growth and Sustainabil...
Leveraging USDA Rural Development Grants for Community Growth and Sustainabil...Leveraging USDA Rural Development Grants for Community Growth and Sustainabil...
Leveraging USDA Rural Development Grants for Community Growth and Sustainabil...
 
Q1 Probe Gold Quarterly Update- April 2024
Q1 Probe Gold Quarterly Update- April 2024Q1 Probe Gold Quarterly Update- April 2024
Q1 Probe Gold Quarterly Update- April 2024
 
Q1 Quarterly Update - April 16, 2024.pdf
Q1 Quarterly Update - April 16, 2024.pdfQ1 Quarterly Update - April 16, 2024.pdf
Q1 Quarterly Update - April 16, 2024.pdf
 
slideshare_2404_presentation materials_en.pdf
slideshare_2404_presentation materials_en.pdfslideshare_2404_presentation materials_en.pdf
slideshare_2404_presentation materials_en.pdf
 
Mandalay Resources 2024 April IR Presentation
Mandalay Resources 2024 April IR PresentationMandalay Resources 2024 April IR Presentation
Mandalay Resources 2024 April IR Presentation
 
Corporate Presentation Probe April 2024.pdf
Corporate Presentation Probe April 2024.pdfCorporate Presentation Probe April 2024.pdf
Corporate Presentation Probe April 2024.pdf
 

Rare Earth Industry Update Predicts Continued Supply Strain

  • 1. ALTERNATIVE ENERGY 8 FEBRUARY 2011 RARE EARTH INDUSTRY UPDATE Matt Gowing, CFA 416.860.8675 mgowing@mackieresearch.com Raveel Afzaal, Associate 416.860.7666 2011 Rare Earth Industry Update: We Remain Bullish We are pleased to present a comprehensive rare earths industry update. This forward-looking report predicts future demand and supply of rare earths and analyzes the impact of changes in supply-demand dynamics on rare earth prices. The key findings of our report suggest that supply of rare earths, particularly heavy rare earths, is expected to remain strained over the next four years. Inelastic demand in high-growth industries • Rare earths are an integral input, with little or no substitutes, required in a multitude of industries. • The average CAGR of these industries range from 6% to 15%. • Rare earths are usually a small component of the overall manufacturing costs of the end products in most industries. Therefore, companies are more likely to be able to bear an increase in rare earth prices compared to an increase in prices of raw materials that constitute a large component of the overall manufacturing costs. Supply to remain strained • In this report, we detail a list of new rare earth mines that are expected to come on-line over the next five years (see Figure 7a). We believe the supply of rare earths is going to remain strained, even after incorporating a very generous assumption that these new rare earth mines will come on-line on schedule and meet their production goals. • China consumes more than 60% of its current rare earth production. We expect its domestic consumption to further increase based on its significant investments in domestic industries that require rare earths, such as wind turbines. In addition, China is no longer interested in realizing lower margins through the sale of unrefined rare earths. It aims to build vertical industries to further participate in the down-stream business and realize higher margins. Therefore, we do not expect China to flood the global markets with cheap rare earths in the foreseeable future. Rare earth prices to further increase, given tight supply and inelastic demand in high-growth industries • Many of the light rare earths, such as Lanthanum and Cerium, experienced pricing Figure 1a: Future Price Estimates of Selected Rare Earths gains ranging from 600-700% on average in Calendar period 2010A 2011E 2012E 2013E 2014E 2015E 2010, while most heavy rare earths saw more Dysprosium Oxide (Dy) 305 375 454 504 580 672 modest gains, yet still generally doubled on Dysprosium Fe (Dy) 300 369 446 496 570 661 average in 2010. Gadolinium Oxide (Gd2O3) 70 73 71 78 65 55 After analyzing the correlation between the Lutetium Oxide (Lu2O3) 412 461 517 579 648 726 • Terbium oxide (Tb4O7) 610 778 968 1,172 1,373 1,029 tightening of rare earths supply and price Yttrium Oxide (Y203) 78 99 121 135 163 186 from the years 2005 to 2010, we have used this Neodym ium (Nd2O3) 90 113 125 151 176 238 same correlation to forecast rare earth prices Held within China Europium Oxide (Eu2O3) 454 499 549 604 665 731 for the 2011 to 2015 period. Our model Yttrium Oxide (Y203) 8 8 9 10 11 12 suggests that rare earths, in particular heavy rare earths, are expected to see further price Source: Mackie Research Capital appreciation. Recommended plays – Focus on heavy rare earths • Mines with high heavy rare earth content. • Rare earth mining companies, and their associated rare earth deposits, that are valued by the market at significant discounts to peers. • Mining companies that intend to participate in the downstream business through building out a separation facility. Our financial modeling on the economics indicates that adding refining and separation facilities to a rare earth mine plan adds considerable net present value (NPV). • Refiners and separators of rare earth materials also offer investors exposure to the sector, and they are currently benefitting from this current state of strong rare earth pricing. • We expect consolidation in the space to become a recurring theme as mining companies look to acquire companies with abnormally large resources as well as companies with expertise and technology in building and operating rare earth separating facilities. • Investment opportunities also exist in the physical ownership of rare earth commodities.
  • 2. Page 2 TABLE OF CONTENTS Industry Overview ................................................................................................................................................................... 3 Supply & Demand ................................................................................................................................................................... 4 Rare Earths Pricing Forecast ................................................................................................................................................. 12 Consolidation ......................................................................................................................................................................... 14 Conclusion .............................................................................................................................................................................. 15 Appendix 1 – Rare Earth Industry News ........................................................................................................................... 16 Appendix 2 – Rare Earth Mineral Profiles ....................................................................................................................18-23 Appendix 3 – Selected Company Profiles: Avalon Rare Minerals Inc. (AVL-TSX, Unrated) ...................................................................................... 24 Neo Material Technologies Inc. (NEM-TSX:, BUY/TARGET PRICE: $10.00) ...................................... 25 Relevant Disclosures/Analyst Certification ...................................................................................................................... 26 www.mackieresearch.com
  • 3. Page 3 INDUSTRY OVERVIEW WHAT ARE RARE EARTHS? Rare earth elements (REE), also described as rare earth oxides (REO), are a group of 17 metals critical to several clean energy, clean-tech, and electronic applications. Of these 17 elements, the group of lanthanides amount to 15. They are listed in Figure 1b. A group of chemically similar elements, the lanthanides, are grouped together on the chemical periodic table. Distinguishing between heavy rare earths and light rare earths: In Figure 1b, we separate the 15 lanthanides into light rare earths elements (LREE) on the left side, and heavy rare earths elements (HREE) on the right. The rare earths are defined as those chemical elements beginning at number 57, lanthanum, on the periodic table and running consecutively through to number 71, lutetium. The chemical differences in rare earths come about due to differences in ionic radius, crystal structure, and basicity of the mineral. For example, Neodymium magnets hold their magnetic properties much better due to their internal crystal structure. The ionic radius of the heavy rare earths is smaller than the light rare earths, which makes them denser, more resistant to high temperatures, and less reactive in some circumstances. The rare earths vary in crustal abundance with from cerium, at 60 ppm (parts per million) to thulium and lutetium, at 0.5 ppm. The division is important as HREEs command higher selling prices and therefore higher margins for their producers. Yttrium - Some call it the 16th lanthanide: Yttrium is often found along with other lanthanides in nature. Although it has similar chemical properties, it is not officially classified as a lanthanide. Scandium, atomic number 21: Scandium rounds out the group of 17 rare earth elements. It typically occurs in rare earth ores, in minor amounts, because of its smaller atomic size. Figure 1b: The 15 Lanthanide Elements LREE (Light Rare Earth Elements): HREE (Heavy Rare Earth Elements): Element # in periodic table: Element # in periodic table: . 57 La lanthanum 63 Eu europium 58 Ce cerium 64 Gd gadolinium 59 Pr praseodymium 65 Tb terbium 60 Nd neodymium 66 Dy dysprosium 61 Pm promethium 67 Ho holmium 62 Sm samarium 68 Er erbium 69 Tm thulium 70 Yb ytterbium 71 Lu lutetium Source: USGS, Mackie Research Capital INDUSTRIAL USES Rare earths are an essential ingredient used in a multitude of industries: The market for rare earths has grown rapidly given their use in a wide array of applications. In some applications, rare earths do not have any effective substitutes and are vital to the manufacturing process. The highest rare earths-consuming industrial applications are shown in Figure 2. www.mackieresearch.com
  • 4. Page 4 Figure 2: End-Market & Applications of Rare Earths Rare Earths are a group of elements with unique properties Rare Earth Elements Catalytic Magnetic Electrical Chemical Optical Lanthanum (La) X X X X Cerium (Ce) X X X X Praseodymium (Pr) X X X X Neodymium (Nd) X X X X Samarium (Sm) X Europium (Eu) X Gadolinium (Gd) X X Terbium (Tb) X X Dysprosium (Dy) X X Holmium (Ho) X Erbium (Er) X Ytterbium (Yb) X Yttrium (Y) X Source: Lynas Corp SUPPLY & DEMAND CONSUMPTION Volume growth outlook for rare earths usage is high: In Figure 3, we provide a forward-looking comparison by usage for various rare earths consumption growth rates as forecast by two leading industry specialists, Roskill and IMCOA (Industrial Minerals Company of Australia). Demand for rare earths is expected to increase from 95,000 tonnes in 2005 to about 180,000 tonnes in 2014. What is striking is the general expectation for high growth rates across all categories. In certain end-markets, i.e., those products that require terbium and dysprosium, such as magnets, growth rates are expected to sustain double-digit increases, even approaching 15%. Additionally, almost all of the end-markets are expected to experience average estimated growth ranging from 8% to 11%. Figure 3: Projected Growth of End Markets % of % of % of 9-yr 08-14 11-14 Applications Elements 2005 Supply 2008F Supply 2014F Supply CAGR Growth Growth Magnets Dy*, Nd, Pr, Sm, Tb* 17,150 18.0% 26500 21.4% 39-43,000 22.8% 10.2% 7.5% 10-15% Metal alloys Ce, La, Nd, Pr 7,200 7.6% 22500 18.1% 43-47,000 25.0% 22.6% 12.2% 15-20% Catalysts Ce, Nd, La 21,230 22.3% 23000 18.5% 28-30,000 16.1% 3.5% 3.9% 6-8% Polishing Ce, La, Pr 15,150 15.9% 15000 12.1% 19-21,000 11.1% 3.1% 4.9% 6-8% Glass Ce, Er*, Gd*, La, Nd, Yb* 13,590 14.3% 12500 10.1% 12-13,000 6.9% -0.9% 0.0% 0-1% Phosphors & pigmentsEu*, Tb*, Y* 4,007 4.2% 9000 7.3% 11-13,000 6.7% 13.0% 4.9% 7-10% Ceramics 0.0% 7000 5.6% 8-10,000 5.0% - 4.3% 7-9% Other 16,935 17.8% 8500 6.9% 10-12,000 6.1% -4.7% 4.4% 7-9% Total 95,262 100% 124,000 100% 170-190,000 100% 7.3% 6.4% 8-11% Elements with *: HREE Source: Roskill, IMCOA www.mackieresearch.com
  • 5. Page 5 RARE EARTHS SUPPLY INADEQUATE TO MEET DEMAND Shortfall particularly severe for the heavy rare earths: Avalon’s Thor Lake project and Quest’s Strange Lake projects currently have two of the largest deposits of heavy rare earths in the world. Our research suggests that heavy rare earths are likely to experience the greatest shortages. As shown in Figure 4, according to IMCOA, terbium and dysprosium are expected to have global shortages of 105 and 500 tonnes, respectively, by 2015. This implies that the future supply of terbium and dysprosium would only be able to meet 80% and 73% of their respective demands in 2015. Figure 4: Supply vs Demand in 2015 Source: IMCOA According to China’s Ministry of Commerce, there is a concern that at today’s rates, China’s heavy rare earths supply could be depleted in the next 15-20 years. Even though the heavy rare earths are sold in much smaller volumes than neodymium and the lighter elements, shortfalls in supply would be a major driver for relative price outperformance of the heavy rare earths. New mines coming on-line have a higher mix of light as opposed to heavy rare earths: The supply impact of new mines coming on-line may have little effect on reducing the upward pressure on rare earths prices, especially heavy rare earths prices. The two non-Chinese projects expected to come on-line in the next two years, Mt. Weld in Australia and Mountain Pass in the US, are weighted towards light rare earths. Moreover, 72% of Lynas Corp’s Mt Weld deposit is composed of lanthanum and cerium (light rare earths). Figure 5 further supports our argument that heavy rare earth content (HREE) as a percentage of the total rare earth from existing and future mines is quite low. Consequently, HREE will likely be much scarcer going forward. www.mackieresearch.com
  • 6. Page 6 Figure 5: HREE Content as a Percentage of Total Rare Earths by Mine Resource TREO HREE (million Grade (million Content Deposit tonnes) (% TREO) tonnes) (% TREO) Cut-off Grade Bayan Obo, China 1,460 3.9% 56 2% n/a Kvanefjeld, Greenland 215 1.0% 2.6 14% 0.015% U3O8 Mountain Pass, USA 20 9.2% 1.8 1% 5% REO Nechalacho, Canada 65 2.1% 1.3 20% 1.6% REO Mt. Weld, Australia 12 9.7% 1.2 3% 2.5% REO Nolans, Australia 30 2.8% 0.9 4% 1.2% REO Dong Pao, Vietnam 11 6.9% 0.8 n/a 6.9% REO Bear Lodge, USA 9 4.1% 0.4 n/a 1.5% REO Hoidas Lake, Canada 2 2.6% 0.04 7% 1.5% REO Source: IFRI Energy Breakfast Roundtable, Christian Hocquard Figure 6 reinforces the point that even with new mines coming on-line, the supply of heavy rare earths is expected to remain tight. Mt. Weld in Australia is expected to begin producing at a rate of 20,000 tonnes per year in 2011. Molycorp’s Mountain Pass project in the United States, and possibly Alkane Resources Limited’s Dubbo project may come on-line by end of 2012 and 2014, respectively. Avalon’s Thor Lake mine in Canada is expected to come online in 2015. Mt. Weld is expected to add 19 tonnes of terbium and 34 tonnes of dysprosium at initial production. Mountain Pass is expected to add only trace amounts of terbium and dysprosium when it comes on-line. Nolan’s Bore is expected to add 16 and 68 tonnes of terbium and dysprosium, respectively. Moreover, Thor Lake is expected to add an additional 45 tonnes of terbium and 250 tonnes of dysprosium. Figure 6: Rare Earth Content by Mine for 2012-2014 Source: IMCOA www.mackieresearch.com
  • 7. Page 7 Figure 7a: Rare Earth Mines Development Outside of China Potential Project Location Owner Production Mount Weld Australia/Malaysia Lynas Corporation Ltd mid 2011 Mountain Pass USA Molycorp Minerals, RCF, Goldman Sachs and Traxys mid 2012 Nolans Australia Arafura Resources Ltd. 2013 Dubbo Zirconia Australia Alkane Resources Ltd. 2014 Thor Lake Canada Avalon Rare Metals Inc. 2015 Bear Lake USA Rare Element Resources Ltd 2015 Hoidas Lake Canada Great Westerns Minerals Group 2015+ Kvanefjeld Greenland Greenland Minerals & Energy Ltd. 2015/2016 Strange Lake Canada Quest Rare Minerals Ltd. 2016 Source: IMCOA Unexpected supply shocks may occur as delays are encountered in new mine development: When these projects do come online, they are not expected to produce an adequate quantity of heavy rare earths to satisfy demand. Typical mining risks accompany these projects and delays may be commonplace in reaching operating status by the expected dates. Even if these projects meet scheduled timelines, supply for heavy rare earths over the next three to four years will continue to be tight. We believe this shortage will be further exacerbated by China restricting supplies to the rest of the world. Figure 7b provides a comparison of some of these projects in terms of current valuation, heavy rare earth content, and historical price performance. Figure 7b.Rare Earth Mining Companies Comparable Table Mkt Cap/ Measured Measured Measured Measured Measured Mkt Cap/ & & & & Total Mkt Cap/ and Total Inferred Indicated Inferred Indicated Inferred Indicated Inferred Indicated Mineral Inferred Indicated Inventory Resource Resource Reserve Grade Grade Grade Grade Inventory Inventory TREO Pre-Tax Resources Resources Value Ticker (mt, 000s) (mt, 000s) (mt, 000s) (TREO) (TREO) (TREO) (TREO) (mt, 000s) (mt, 000s) (mt, 000s) IRR ($/tonne) ($/tonne) ($/ tonnes) Lynas Corp - Mt. Weld LYC-AU 5,294 12,200 2,040 8.30% 7.96% 8.30% 7.96% 439 971 1,410 6,698 3,032 2,087 Molycorp - Mt. Pass MCP-US - - 48,375 7.00% 7.00% - - 3,386 n/a n/a 1,256 Alkane Resources - Dubbo Zirconia ALK-AU 35,700 37,500 - 0.90% 0.90% 0.90% 0.90% 321 338 659 899 856 439 Arafura Resources - Nolans ARU-AU 12,800 17,400 - 2.60% 2.92% 2.60% 2.92% 333 508 840 18% 1,469 963 582 Great Western Minerals - Hoidas Lake GWG-V 287 2,561 - 2.14% 2.43% 2.14% 2.43% 6 62 68 65,219 6,428 5,851 Greenland Minerals & Energy Ltd. - Kvanefjeld GGG-AU 92,000 365,000 - 1.01% 1.01% 1.01% 1.01% 929 3,687 4,616 24% 416 105 84 Avalon Rare Metals Inc - Thor Lake AVL-T 226,880 88,130 12,001 1.30% 1.53% 1.30% 1.53% 2,949 1,348 4,298 23%** 209 457 143 Rare Element Resources - Bear Lodge RES-V 15,876 - - 3.46% 3.46% 549 - 549 40%*** 1,101 n/a 1,101 Quest Rare Minerals Ltd - Strange Lake QRM-V 114,823 - - 1.00% 1.00% 1,148 - 1,148 36% 316 n/a 316 Frontier Rare Earths FRO-T 20,810 22,920 - 1.99% 2.32% 1.99% 2.32% 414 532 946 671 523 294 ** Avalon's IRR estimate based on Mackie Research model. IRR estimate for the remaining companies based on company announcements. *** Rare Element Resources IRR estimate is after-tax. Source: Companies, Mackie Research Capital www.mackieresearch.com
  • 8. Page 8 Figure 7c.Rare Earth Mining Companies Share Price Performance Price Change (%) Company Ticker 1 Month 3 Months 6 Months 1 Year Lynas Corp LYC-AU -5 40 111 236 Molycorp MCP-US -6 44 288 - Alkane Resources ALK-AU 18 41 180 280 Arafura Resources - Nolans ARU-AU -5 8 78 82 Great Western Minerals GWG-V 83 159 444 293 Greenland Minerals & Energy Ltd. GGG-AU 1 32 189 114 Avalon Rare Metals Inc - Thor Lake AVL-TSX -2 64 148 182 Rare Element Resources RES-TSXV -3 31 380 334 Quest Rare Minerals Ltd QRM-TSXV 11 32 117 135 Frontier Rare Earths FRO-TSX -8 - - - Pele Mountain Resources Inc GEM-TSX -10 80 341 120 Quantum Rare Earths Development Corp QRE-TSX 2 6 113 34 Ucore Rare Metals Inc. UCU-TSX 24 78 138 172 Commerce Resources Corp. CCE-TSX -9 27 202 135 Rare Earth Metals Inc RA-TSX -5 -8 44 -32 Stans Energy Corp RUU-TSX 169 264 1131 841 Dacha Strategic Metals DSM-TSXV -7 -6 7 -20 Neo Material Technologies Inc NEM-TSX 14 54 113 112 Neo Materials (NEM – TSX, BUY Recommendation, $10.00 price target) Source: Bloomberg China in supply restriction mode: In 1992, China began selling rare earths at a significant cost discount to producers outside of China. Chinese miners were able to produce rare earths at lower costs due to weak environmental regulations and cheap labour. This led to rare earth mines outside of China closing down. China continued to invest in rare earth production and now supplies 97% of the market globally. However, the country is currently in a unique position; domestic demand for rare earths in China has increased dramatically. As well, a substantial increase in demand has occurred in the export market. China intends to create vertical industries that not only mine rare earth ore, but also consist of world-leading refining and processing facilities. The priorities of job creation and production dominance are factors that are likely to result in China continuing to place increasing restrictions on rare earths exports. As well, China has been imposing increasingly stringent environmental regulations that place further supply pressure on the output from rare earth mines. China has taken a multi-pronged approach in restricting supplies: As discussed, China has been making its export restrictions increasingly stringent. We expect this trend to continue, providing further upward pressure on rare earth prices. Export Tariffs – In 2006, China introduced a flat 10% export tariff across all rare earths. In 2008, this was revised to 15% for light rare earths and 25% for heavy rare earths. On December 16, 2010, the Chinese Ministry of Finance announced that it will raise export taxes for some light rare earth elements − such as cerium, lanthanum, and neodymium − to 25% in 2011. Export Quotas – In 2003, China started introducing export quotas that have continued to become increasingly stringent and further restrict supplies of rare earths in the export markets. Export quotas for 2010 totaled 30,258 tonnes compared with 50,145 tonnes in 2009, representing a 40% decline. On December 28, 2010, China announced allocations of rare earths quotas of 14,446 tonnes for H1/2011, equivalent to a 35% decline relative to H1/2010. This became a major catalyst for stocks exposed to rare earths prices. We believe the upcoming July quota allocation announcement could again act as a major catalyst for higher prices. Elimination of the Value-Added Tax (VAT) Rebate - In 1985, China began to implement an export tax rebate policy that has since been in steady decline. In 2004, the export tax rebate for rare earth metals was reduced to 5% from 17%. In May 2005, the export tax rebates for all rare earths were abolished. www.mackieresearch.com
  • 9. Page 9 Production quotas – In order to prevent over-mining and illegal mining, the authorities introduced product quotas in 2007. As of September 2010, the production quotas stood at 82,320 tonnes. Figure 8: Chinese Rare Earths Quotas Continue to Decline (Metric Tonnes) 2008 09/1H 09/2H 2009 10/1H 10/2H 2010 11/1H Foreign 8,211 6,685 10,160 16,845 5,978 1,768 7,746 3,746 Local 34,156 15,043 18,257 33,300 16,304 6,208 22,512 10,762 TOTAL 42,367 21,728 28,417 50,145 22,282 7,976 30,258 14,508 Y/Y % Change Foreign 105% -11% -83% -54% -37% Local -3% 8% -66% -32% -34% TOTAL 18% 3% -72% -40% -35% Source: Chinese Commerce Ministry, Mackie Research TREND OF POLITICAL DEVELO PMENTS SUGGEST RARE EARTHS SUPPLY REM AINS TIGHT Even if the Chinese government were to announce that full-year 2011 quotas will be flat compared to the 2010 level, we believe there is a strong likelihood of further near-term increases in rare earths pricing. Again, this is due to the tight state of rare earths supply-demand. We have included a number of recent comments from noteworthy sources regarding Chinese export policy on rare earths in Appendix 1. The key take- away is that China is expected to reduce export quotas in 2011, or at-least keep quotas at a consistent level from 2010. PRICING TRENDS INDICATE FURTHER INCREASES Rare earths have experienced strong pricing gains over a multi-year period. Not surprisingly, the supply squeeze has helped sustain these pricing gains. Also interesting is that price gains have recently accelerated. Pricing of terbium and dysprosium has been particularly strong over the past several months (Figure 9). Figure 9: Historical Prices of Rare Earths (US $/KG) 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 Q1/2010* Q2/2010* Q3/2010* Q4/2010* 2010** Product (oxide) Dysprosium 35 70 89 118 116 190 200 293 305 305 Dysprosium Metal 70 89 118 150 250 290 282 300 300 Terbium 300 460 590 721 362 600 515 628 610 610 Gadolinium - - 10 10 7 9 9 61 70 70 Yttrium - 5 11 13 15.5 20 20 63 78 78 Europium 290 240 324 482 493 530 530 600 640 640 Lutetium 550 550 412 412 412 Neodymium 6 14.8 28.9 27.21 15.29 30 30 60 90 90 Held within China Europium 290 240 324 482 493 423 416 454 454 454 Yttrium - 5 11 13 15.5 7.57 7.11 7.57 7.57 7.57 * end of quarter prices ** estimated current price as of 30th December 2010 Source: IMCOA, metal-pages.com, Lynas, Martin van Britsom & Diksmuide, Asian Metals Figure 10 illustrates rare earths data points spanning the past few decades. We note the severe price correction as a result of the 2008/2009 global recession and the recent reversal to price improvement. The figure also provides a good overview of the magnitude of cyclical price swings in the rare earths market. Currently, we are experiencing the upswing of pricing strength, and if the trend continues, our pricing estimates may be surpassed (see Figure 11). www.mackieresearch.com
  • 10. Page 10 Figure 10: Historical Prices of Rare Earths (US$/kg) Data Source: http://minerals.usgs.gov/minerals/pubs/commodity/rare_earths/mcs-2010-raree.pdf Figure Source: http://tikalon.com/blog/blog.php?article=RE_shortage DEM AND Rare Earths – Substantial Market Opportunity: According to the China Rare Earth Information Center, the global rare earths market amounted to about 124,500 metric tonnes in 2008. In 2009, as a result of the recession, volumes dropped to roughly 100,000 tonnes. The market is currently in the process of a drastic recovery in sales volumes, and is believed to have jumped back to about 135,000 tonnes in 2010, and expected to increase to about 152,000 tonnes in 2011. By 2014, IMCOA (Industrial Minerals Company of Australia) estimates the rare earths market will exceed $2 billion in value. Data obtained from Metal Pages and Roskill support the contention that rare earths sales represent a market opportunity in the billions of dollars. Figure 11 illustrates that in 2007, neodymium was the largest segment of the rare earths market by value, closely followed by cerium. Figure 11: Historical Rare Earths Oxide (REO) Pricing 2007 Production Value - $1.05 Bln Source: metal-pages.com, Martin van Britsom & Diksmuide, Tianjiao International www.mackieresearch.com
  • 11. Page 11 Figure 12 depicts the steady growth of total global production. Given a higher current production run-rate combined with recent strength in pricing, we believe the value of this market has grown significantly in the past couple of years and will continue to do so. Figure 12: Historical Rare Earths Oxide (REO) Production Source: metal-pages.com, Martin van Britsom & Diksmuide, Tianjiao International Outlook for demand strong, driven by clean-tech and “new age” applications: Figure 13 provides a segmented list characterizing the downstream end-markets that have been driving a considerable amount of the demand for rare earth materials. The appearance of electric vehicles and renewable technologies on this list is a reminder of the key role that green and renewable technologies play in the industry. Growth of miniaturized electronics is believed to be considerable, another key demand driver for rare earths. Figure 13: Projected Growth of Downstream End-Markets & Applications Unit Shipments (000s) End Use 2008 2014 CAGR REE Used Computers 293,000 529,000 12.50% Nd, Pr, Sm, Tb, Dy Electric bicycle motors 23,000 100,000 34.20% Nd, Pr, Sm, Tb, Dy Electric vehicle batteries 527 2,717 38.80% La, Ce, Pr, Nd Electric vehicle motors 527 2,717 38.80% Nd, Pr, Sm, Tb, Dy LCD displays 102,200 375,000 29.70% Eu, Y, Tb, La, Ce Moblie CE 1,055 58,000 122.90% Nd, Pr, Sm, Tb, Dy Mobile phones 1,222,245 2,250,000 13.00% Nd, Pr, Sm, Tb, Dy Wind turbines 81 239 24.10% Nd, Pr, Sm, Tb, Dy Source: metal-pages.com, Martin van Britsom & Diksmuide, Tianjiao International www.mackieresearch.com
  • 12. Page 12 RARE EARTHS PRICING FORECAST We have forecasted and analyzed supply and demand imbalances for each of the relevant rare earth elements using our proprietary methodology in order to derive our rare earth price estimates. The future demand projections for each element are based on Roskill’s projected CAGR for the specific industries that use the respective rare earths in their manufacturing processes. The US Department of Energy’s estimates are used to determine individual rare earth content in existing and upcoming mines. This, coupled with industry expert consensus regarding the commercial operations start date of the new mines, allows us predict future supply of individual rare earths on a year-to-year basis. We then analyze the relationship between historical demand and supply imbalances and the price for each of the rare earths under consideration. After analyzing the correlation between excess demand and price for the years 2005 to 2010, we have used this same correlation to forecast rare earth prices for the 2011 to 2015 period. For each element, this is done by calculating the average change in price per one tonne increase in excess demand (where excess demand equals global supply less global demand per element). In the terbium tear sheet in Appendix 2, for example, we calculate a historical average price of $7/tonne for years 2006-2010. This average ratio of $7/tonne is projected forward, and is multiplied by our proprietary estimates for change in excess demand. These calculations are repeated for each element and are detailed in Appendix 2. The end-result of our price forecasts are shown in Figure 14. Figure 14: Rare Earth Price Forecasts (US$/kg) Calendar period 2010A 2011E 2012E 2013E 2014E 2015E Dysprosium Oxide (Dy) 305 375 454 504 580 672 Dysprosium Fe (Dy) 300 369 446 496 570 661 Gadolinium Oxide (Gd2O3) 70 73 71 78 65 55 Lutetium Oxide (Lu2O3) 412 461 517 579 648 726 Terbium oxide (Tb4O7) 610 778 968 1,172 1,373 1,029 Yttrium Oxide (Y203) 78 99 121 135 163 186 Neodymium (Nd2O3) 90 113 125 151 176 238 Held within China Europium Oxide (Eu2O3) 454 499 549 604 665 731 Yttrium Oxide (Y203) 8 8 9 10 11 12 Source: metal-pages.com, IMCOA, Roskill, US Department of Energy, Mackie Research Capital Appendix 2 contains summaries of the supply and demand projections we use to derive our rare earth element price estimates. Also in Appendix 2 we include a one-page table from the US Department of Energy’s December 2010 report, ”Critical Materials Strategy” featuring tables that provide an overview of the supply-demand dynamics for each element. RECENT EVENTS INCREASE PRO SPECTS OF FURTHER PRICE STRENGTH On January 24, 2011, Molycorp announced it would be targeting production of 40,000 tonnes per annum (tpa) at mine start-up, double its previous rate. This was an important announcement because Molycorp’s Mountain Pass mine, after Lynas’s Mt. Weld project, represents the industry’s next new capacity addition to the market. We believe this announcement further highlights the global shortage of rare earth supplies and increased interest by investors in the space. Our analysis indicates that this mine will add only trace amounts of heavy rare earths compared to Avalon, which has significant heavy rare earth resources. China’s December 28 rare earth export quota reduction set off a flurry in the rare earth stock prices. China decreased H1-2011 quotas by 35% YOY, which led to sharp increases in the share prices of rare earth companies outside of China. We do not believe these restrictive export quotas are a short-term phenomenon. China currently consumes about 60% of rare earths domestically and its future consumption is expected to increase significantly. There are concerns that by 2015, China may not be able to meet even its own internal demand for rare earths. www.mackieresearch.com
  • 13. Page 13 Chinese government nationalized 11 rare earth mines. In the third week of January 2011, China nationalized 11 rare earth mines in the eastern province of Jiangxi. China took this step to protect the dwindling supply of heavy rare earths as these mines are rich in heavy rare earths. This move also helps curb illegal and irresponsible mining practices in the region that had led to environmental damage. We believe nationalization will provide further upward pressure to the prices of rare earths, particularly heavy rare earths, as the state strengthens its control over the mines. This bodes well for Avalon, which has a heavy concentration of heavy rare earths at its Thor Lake project. A comprehensive summary of rare earth-related industry events is shown in Appendix 1. CONSOLIDATION EXPECTED TO BECOM E A RECURRING THEM E IN THE RARE EARTHS SPACE In order to unlock the full potential of the mines and realize higher margins, the companies will need to participate in the downstream business. We believe the rare earth mining companies realize that the risk-return profile of their respective projects is more attractive with equity partners that share the huge costs associated with building the mine and the additional costs involved with building out separation facility. For instance, Avalon expects to spend over $1 billion in capital expenditure to develop its mine and an additional $300 million to build out its separation facility. We have already seen a rise in bankable off-take agreements and believe this to be a segue to consolidation in the industry through M&A activities. Figure 15: TREO Basket Price by Mine Operator Arafura Rare Element Quest Rare Frontier Rare Avalon Lynas Corp Molycorp Resources Resources Minerals Earths Weighted Average Price/KG Nechalacho Mt Weld Mountain Pass Nolans Bear Lodge Strange Lake Frontier/ZC1 Europium 2.6 2.3 0.6 2.1 2.9 1.1 3.2 Gadolinium 2.2 0.6 0.1 0.6 0.7 1.6 0.9 Terbium 3.4 0.5 0.0 0.5 1.1 3.8 1.1 Dysprosium 8.1 0.4 0.0 1.0 1.2 12.3 2.3 Holmium 3.6 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.2 6.8 1.0 Erbium 2.1 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.1 4.6 0.5 Thulium 4.3 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 12.5 1.0 Ytterbium 4.5 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.1 13.1 1.0 Yttrium 10.5 0.3 0.1 1.2 0.7 25.3 3.7 Lutetium 0.6 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 1.6 0.1 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Lanthanum 9.3 15.0 19.6 11.7 18.4 7.8 15.0 Cerium 22.1 28.9 30.5 29.5 29.3 17.0 27.4 Praseodymium 3.0 3.5 2.9 3.8 2.7 2.0 3.0 Neodymium 16.0 16.6 10.8 19.1 10.7 9.6 14.2 Samarium 1.4 0.8 0.3 0.8 0.8 0.9 0.8 Price/KG 93.9 68.8 64.9 70.4 69.1 119.9 75.1 Source: Companies, Mackie Research Capital We have analyzed the characteristics of Avalon’s Total Rare Earth Oxide (TREO) basket and found that its current market price is approximately $90/kg (Figure 15). However, in its pre-feasibility report, the company assumes it will realize a TREO price of about $22/kg. If it builds a separation facility and further refines the rare earths, we believe the company has the potential to realize a much higher TREO price ($35- $50/kg) and improve the economics of its projects (from 12% IRR to mid 20%s IRR). We estimate the capital expenditure required to build a separation facility that processes $25,000 tonnes will be more than $300 million. A highly active off-take market has developed for advanced rare earth projects. Over the past two months, we have seen increased activity in the off-take market for rare earths, primarily driven by concern amongst end users. www.mackieresearch.com
  • 14. Page 14 Figure 16: Comparable Off-take Agreements Date Supplier Off-taker Price ($ mm) 5/11/2010 Molycorp W.R. Grace (U.S. Chemical Producer) undisclosed 24/11/2010 Lynas Corporation Sojitz Corporation (A Japanese Trading House) 250 12/10/2010 Molycorp Sumitomo Corp 130 Source: Mackie Research Capital In November 2010, Molycorp agreed to sell more than 75% of its lanthanum production each year to WR Grace & Co over five years. Financial terms for the agreement were not disclosed. In November 2010, Lynas signed an agreement with a Japanese trading house. The agreement entails Lynas starting shipments of 1,000 to 3,000 tonnes of rare earths near the end of 2011, and increasing shipments to 9,000+ tonnes per year by 2013. The contract price reflects the spot market price at the time of delivery plus shipping costs. Furthermore, Molycorp signed a seven-year off-take agreement with Sumitomo Corporation in December 2010. The agreement calls for shipment of about 2,500 metric tonnes per year of cerium- and lanthanum-based products and 250 tonnes per year of didymium oxide (which is a mixture of neodymium and praseodymium). In return, Sumitomo agreed to purchase shares in Molycorp for a total consideration of $100 million as well as provide $30 million in cheap debt financing. Off-take agreements a natural path to consolidation. We expect to see an increase in M&A activities involving mining companies with significant deposits of heavy rare earth content or those mining companies that are expected to come on-line in the near term. The list of logical suitors is long, with many major Japanese electronic companies at the top of that list. Molycorp (MCP-US) is currently in discussions with Neo Materials (NEM-TSX, BUY recommendation, $10.00 price target) to send rare earths to China. In return, Neo would help Molycorp make rare-earth alloys and metals in Thailand. Molycorp has been very clear regarding its goal to become a mine-to-magnets integrated firm. Neo Materials, conversely, has monopoly over the US magnets industry and possesses strong expertise in building and operating rare earth separation facilities. We believe M&A activity involving these two companies will deliver synergies and be a significant driver of value for both companies. It would demonstrate to Neo’s investors that it has reliable future supply of key manufacturing inputs, which shows longevity and continuation of Neo’s proven business model. Furthermore, it would allow Neo to diversify its supply exposure away from China to expand its export business, despite the increasingly stringent Chinese export policies. In addition, Neo’s unparallel expertise in building and operating separation plant facilities would be a significant value add if Molycorp decides to go ahead with its plans to build a separation facility. It may also help Molycorp share the financial burden of building out its mine and separation facility with a reliable off-take partner. We believe this is the right time for Molycorp to look at such ventures. The all-time high prices of rare earths and the shrinking supply put the company in the position to negotiate favourable terms for the off-take agreements. We expect to see similar discussion of consolidation in the industry as other rare earth mining companies near production. We expect China, which is the world’s largest consumer of rare earths, to play a major role in the consolidation of the industry. China bought all or part of 184 foreign mining assets for $37.2 billion in 2008 according to Ernst & Young, while the rest of the world was struggling with the onset of the recession. It is our understanding that China has in the past approached companies like Molycorp and Lynas regarding potential takeover bids. We expect China to continue to look for opportunities to improve its resource asset base to feed its growing economy. www.mackieresearch.com
  • 15. Page 15 CONCLUSION WE REM AIN BULLISH O N RARE EARTHS, BUT TAKE CARE WHEN “PICKING YOUR SPOTS” In 2010, investors did not require a considerable amount of “craftiness” in selecting which rare earth companies to add to their portfolios. A tremendous number of equities that were associated to the rare earth sector experienced considerable gains. This experience is not surprising when considering the price performances of the underlying rare earth elements highlighted in this report. As we progress through 2011, we remain bullish on the sector. However, investors will require a more discerning investing approach going forward. Some of our key recommendations and observations include: • Focus on the “heavies”. This applies not only to the rare earth mining plays, but the other rare earth investment opportunities that exist in the sector; including those “arbitrage” plays that own and hold physical rare earth elements. • Brace yourself for consolidation. As the rare earth cycle progresses, we believe those companies with global leading expertise in “manipulating rare earth molecules” may look more attractive in the eyes of senior mining companies bringing projects to the operating stage. Other strategic investors may also become attracted to ownership of these technologies. Our industry sources suggest that negotiations are gaining traction in this regard. • Look for continued rare earth pricing strength in 2011, but less drastic export quota reductions from the Chinese government. While 2011 will likely not show us the severe cuts in export quotas in the same order of magnitude from the Chinese government as we saw in 2010, the international supply-demand situation should remain tight. Heightened geo-political tensions over global access to China’s “strategic” source of rare earths may provide further upward pressure on prices. We are very excited about what is to come from the rare earth sector in 2011. Yes, rare earth price swings have historically proven to exhibit severe cyclicality. However, we believe rare earths are currently in the robust phase of their cycle, and take exception to any view that “the rare earth price bubble that is about to burst”. However, investors will certainly have to be more discerning with respect to their investment strategy in the sector in 2011. We believe that taking into account the key points in this report should help in the quest for outperformance in what remains an exciting space. www.mackieresearch.com
  • 16. Page 16 APPENDIX 1 SUMM ARY OF POLITICAL ANNOUNCEMENTS/EVENTS RELATING TO CHINESE RARE EARTH EXPORT QUOTAS Date Source Comment China is building strategic reserves in rare-earth metals. The reports say storage facilities built in recent months in the 07-Feb-11 Wall Street Journal Chinese province of Inner Mongolia can hold more than the 39,813 metric tons China exported last year. Chinese Society of China’s chief rare earths research body says it expects the nation to become a net importer, even though it is the world’s 04-Feb-11 biggest producer. Rare Earths China’s Ministry 20-Jan-11 of Land & The Ministry of Land and Resources, invoked a seldom used mining law to take direct control of 11 rare earth mining Resources districts in southern China. China's Ministry of China cut its export quotas for rare earths by 35% in the first round of permits for 2011 relative to H1/2010, threatening 30-Dec-10 to extend a global shortage of the minerals needed for wind turbine, electric cars and other clean tech applications. Commerce China's Ministry of China will raise the export taxes for some elements to 25% next year. The move is an increase from the 15% temporary 16-Dec-10 export tax on neodymium. Lanthanum and cerium, were not taxed in 2010, and will be taxed at 25% in 2011. Finance Japan's Trade China, the world’s largest producer of rare-earth metals, will speed up exports of the minerals after delays disrupted 15-Nov-10 supply, according to Japan’s Trade Minister Akihiro Ohata. Minister China has to strictly manage the exports and make dynamic adjustments, without hampering development of the world’s high- tech industries,” said Chen Zhanheng, the head of research at the society, which represents the nation’s Chinese Society of major producers. “China should dedicate itself to develop high-tech end products, rather than shipping out low value- 11-Nov-10 Rare Earths added raw materials,” Chen said yesterday in an interview in Hong Kong at a rare earth conference. “The idea to swap mineral resources for advanced technologies never works.” China will reduce its rare earth export quotas next year, but not by a very large margin, Yao Jian, spokesman of China's Ministry of Commerce, said on Tuesday. “To protect the environment and natural resources, China will stick to the China's Ministry of quota system to manage rare earth exports next year, and quotas will also decline," Yao told Xinhua News Agency. 11-Nov-10 Though giving no clear extent of the decline, Yao's remarks echoed the comments of Wang Jian, a vice-minister of Commerce commerce, made on Monday at a news conference. "I believe China will see no large rise or fall in rare earth exports next year," said Wang. The EU trade chief said on Wednesday he would press China for assurances on rare earth supplies in talks next month, though there was no conclusive evidence Chinese limits on such exports had hit European industry. The European 10-Nov-10 EU Trade Chief Union is struggling to secure supplies of rare earth minerals, which are used in the production of high-tech goods and defense products, and has said it could take legal action against China for cutting down on exports. "The Japanese and US foreign ministers have agreed that the two nations need to hold economic talks on issues including rare earth minerals," Japan's Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshito Sengoku told a news conference. "Of course the Japan and the issue of how to diversify the procurement of rare earth minerals and other resources such as oil will be discussed with 9-Nov-10 United States the United States as well as with other countries," Sengoku said. Washington has called restrictions on the minerals a potential threat to the US economy and national security. A letter written by 37 groups including the US Chamber of Commerce, and various other business and trade US Chamber of associations, urged G20 leaders to “refrain from export taxes, quotas or other market-distorting measures on rare-earth 8-Nov-10 Commerce elements that restrict global supply and unnecessarily contribute to price volatility,” reported an article by the AFP. Trade Minister Chen Deming cautioned that other countries will have begun sharing the environmental burden of Chinese Trade mining the metals in the future. “We are currently in talks with rare earth consuming countries and countries with rich 8-Nov-10 rare resources on how to produce rare earth in a more environmentally friendly way,” Chen said. “We also need to find Minister new rare earth resources.” Mrs. Clinton, who is leaving Australia today after weekend defense and security talks, said the US and Australia "need 8-Nov-10 Hillary Clinton to discuss in depth the supply of rare-earth minerals". China's Ministry of China will maintain its export volume of rare earths next year, the official Xinhua News Agency said, citing Minister of 7-Nov-10 Commerce Commerce Chen Deming. Chinese Industry China's industry ministry is considering regulations to tighten pollution standards for rare earth producers, Xinhua 7-Nov-10 Ministry news agency reported on Sunday, a move the country's top firm said might further raise export prices. Chinese The Chinese commerce minister Chen deming 5 in Paris dismissed some western media in China rare earth export 6-Nov-10 Commerce untrue reports, and said China next year will remain rare earth exports. minister Source: Mackie Research Capital, Various news articles as listed www.mackieresearch.com
  • 17. Page 17 APPENDIX 1 (cont’d) HIGHLIGHTS OF RARE EARTHS-RELATED NEWS China will cut rare earth export quotas for 2011, but only by a small amount after slashing them this year, the China's Ministry of Commerce Ministry said on Tuesday, calling the squeeze on exports a step to save the environment. “Given that 4-Nov-10 we've already had major reductions in export quotas over recent years, the extent of the fall in China's rare earth Commerce export volumes next year will not be great,” the brief Xinhua report cited him as saying. China studying plan to build strategic reserves for ten minor metals, Shanghai Securities News reported last night, 3-Nov-10 Chinese Newspaper without citing anyone. Ten metals include rare earths. The quota for rare earth exports could be reduced 3% to 10% in 2011 from this year’s levels after the 40% cut in permitted exports in 2010, Matthew James, executive vice president for strategy at Australian miner Lynas Corp., 3-Nov-10 Lynas Corporation recently told China Real Time. He said that as China restructures its rare earth industry domestically, there is less for export. James predicted next year’s export quota on rare earths will emerge in two tranches, making it difficult to know until mid-2011 exactly how much China will permit to leave. China Securities Journal today quoted an unidentified source from China's Ministry of Commerce who said that the country's rare metal export quota will be cut by 2 percent to 3 percent. "The export quotas for rare metals will 3-Nov-10 Chinese Newspaper unlikely rebound in the future," said an industry insider, who helped draft related policies, during an interview with China Securities Journal. China's Ministry of China will cut rare earth export quotas for 2011, but only by a small amount after slashing them this year, the 2-Nov-10 Commerce Ministry said on Tuesday, calling the squeeze on exports a step to save the environment. Commerce China ended its undeclared embargo of exports of crucial strategic minerals to the US, Europe and Japan, although 28-Oct-10 New York Times shipments to Japan still encountered difficulties, the New York Times reported, citing four unidentified rare earth industry officials. China has called off a meeting of its economics minister with his counterparts of Japan and South Korea, scheduled 27-Oct-10 Newspaper for the week-end, amidst a row over its policy of exporting rare earths, a Japanese media report said Wednesday. China practices the quota license administration on the export of rare earth products since 1998. In recent years, Chinese government cuts down the volume of export enterprises, export quotas and annual exploitation volume of rare earth ores. China’s Ministry of Commerce declared that the total export quota of rare earth 25-Oct-10 Newspaper products of domestic-funded enterprises was 50,000 tons in 2005, 34,000 tons in 2008. In 2009, it set the total export quota of 50,145.1 tons for domestic-funded and foreign-funded enterprises. In 2010, it cut down the export quota to 30,258 tons, including 22,512 tons for domestic-funded enterprises and 7,746 tons for foreign- funded enterprises. A story has been published on the China Daily online website today stating that China will further reduce 19-Oct-10 Newspaper quotas for rare earth exports by 30 percent next year to protect the precious metals from over-exploitation. Chinese premier Wen Jiabao in Brussels attended the 6th sino-european business summit, pointed out that 6-Oct-10 Chinese Premier “during a speech to the management and control of rare earth is necessary, but never blockade. China will not put rare earth as a bargaining tool; our purpose is to the sustainable development of the world.” China, the world’s largest rare- earths producer, cut export quotas for the minerals needed to make hybrid cars 9-Jul-10 Bloomberg and televisions by 72 percent for the second half. Shipments will be capped at 7,976 metric tons, down from 28,417 tons for the same period a year ago, according to data from the Ministry of Commerce yesterday. In 1985, China began to implement the export tax rebate policy for rare earth products. From January 1, 2004, export tax rebate for rare earth metals was adjusted from 13% to zero, the export tax rebate rate for yttrium metal, scandium metal and its compounds, inorganic or organic compounds was adjusted from 17%, 13% to 7-Apr-10 Article 5%. From May 1, 2005, the export tax rebates for rare earth metals, rare earth oxides, rare earth salts were abolished. On November 1, 2006, the regulation of imposing export tariffs on rare earth products was released and would implement by June 1, 2007, the tax rate was 10%. Chinese export quotas have been decreasing each year for the last 8 years. Most recently, China has announced 8-Jul-09 Newspaper that export quotas for the first half of 2009 are being reduced by approximately 34% over the same period last year. Source: Mackie Research Capital, Various news articles as listed www.mackieresearch.com
  • 18. Page 18 APPENDIX 2 Source: US Department of Energy, Mackie Research Capital, IMCOA; Price Forecast Source: Mackie Research Capital www.mackieresearch.com
  • 19. Page 19 Source: US Department of Energy, Mackie Research Capital, IMCOA; Price Forecast Source: Mackie Research Capital www.mackieresearch.com
  • 20. Page 20 Source: US Department of Energy, Mackie Research Capital, IMCOA; Price Forecast Source: Mackie Research Capital www.mackieresearch.com
  • 21. Page 21 Source: US Department of Energy, Mackie Research Capital, IMCOA; Price Forecast Source: Mackie Research Capital www.mackieresearch.com
  • 22. Page 22 Source: US Department of Energy, Mackie Research Capital, IMCOA; Price Forecast Source: Mackie Research Capital www.mackieresearch.com
  • 23. Page 23 Source: US Department of Energy, Mackie Research Capital, IMCOA; Price Forecast Source: Mackie Research Capital www.mackieresearch.com
  • 26. Page 26 RELEVANT DISCLOSURES 1. N/A ANALYST CERTIFICATION Each analyst of Mackie Research Capital Corporation whose name appears in this report hereby certifies that (i) the recommendations and opinions expressed in this research report accurately reflect the analyst’s personal views and (ii) no part of the research analyst’s compensation was or will be directly or indirectly related to the specific conclusions or recommendations expressed in this research report. I n f o r ma t i o n a b o u t M a c k i e R e s e a r c h C a p i t a l C o r p o r a t i o n ’ s R a t i n g S y s t e m, t h e d i s t r i b u t i o n o f o u r r e s e a r c h t o c l i e n t s a n d t h e p e r c e n t a g e o f r e c o m me n d a t i o n s wh i c h a r e i n e a c h o f o u r r a t i n g c a t e g o r i e s i s a v a i l a b l e o n o u r we b s i t e a t ww w. ma c k i e r e s e a r c h . c o m. The information contained in this report has been drawn from sources believed to be reliable but its accuracy or completeness is not guaranteed, nor in providing it does Mackie Research Capital Corporation assume any responsibility or liability. Mackie Research Capital Corporation, its directors, officers and other employees may, from time to time, have positions in the securities mentioned herein. Contents of this report cannot be reproduced in whole or in part without the expressed permission of Mackie Research Capital Corporation. (U.S. Institutional Clients — Research Capital U.S.A. Inc. (a wholly owned subsidiary of Mackie Research Capital Corporation) accepts responsibility for the contents of this report subject to the terms & limitations set out above. Firms or institutions receiving this report should effect transactions in securities discussed in the report through Research Capital U.S.A. Inc., a Broker-Dealer Registered with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission). Toronto 416.860.7600 Montreal 514.399.1500 Vancouver 604.662.1800 Calgary 403.218.6375 Regina 306.566.7550 St. Albert 780.460.6460 www.mackieresearch.com