MP Materials Corp. / DE

Previous wording

•Significant political, trade, regulatory developments, and other circumstances beyond our control, could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition or results of operations.

Current wording

•Significant political, trade and regulatory developments, and other circumstances beyond our control, could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition or results of operations.

Previous wording

•Our continued growth depends on our ability to reach anticipated production rates for the separation of REE as part of the Stage II project at Mountain Pass, our only rare earth mining and processing facility.

Current wording

•Our continued growth depends on our ability to reach anticipated production rates for the separation of REE as part of midstream operations at Mountain Pass, our only rare earth mining and processing facility.

Previous wording

•If we are unable to perform the obligations under our long-term supply agreement with GM, this could have a material adverse effect on our financial position and results of operations.

Current wording

•If we are unable to perform the obligations under our customer supply agreements, this could have a material adverse effect on our financial position and results of operations.

Previous wording

•We may not be able to convert current commercial discussions with customers for the sale of REO products into contracts, which may have a material adverse effect on our financial position and results of operations.

Current wording

•We may not be able to convert current commercial discussions with customers for the sale of our products into contracts, which may have a material adverse effect on our financial position and results of operations.

Previous wording

•We are subject to a number of operational risks of our business, including power outages or shortages at Mountain Pass; increasing costs or limited access to raw materials; disruptions in transportation or other services; inability to process REO that meet individual customer specifications; access to water; uncertainty in our estimates of REO reserves; labor matters/labor relations; information technology and cybersecurity breaches; and/or sustainability matters.

Current wording

•We are subject to a number of operational risks of our business, including power outages or shortages at Mountain Pass or Independence; increasing costs or limited access to raw materials; disruptions in transportation or other services; inability to process REO that meet individual customer specifications; diminished access to water; uncertainty in our estimates of REO reserves; labor matters/labor relations; information technology and cybersecurity breaches; and/or environmental matters.

Previous wording

REE and magnet material prices may fluctuate and are affected by numerous factors beyond our control such as interest rates, exchange rates, taxes, inflation or deflation, fluctuation in the relative value of the U.S. dollar against foreign currencies on the world market, shipping and other transportation and logistics costs, global and regional supply and demand for rare earth minerals and products, potential industry trends, such as competitor consolidation or other integration methodologies, and the political and economic conditions of countries that produce and procure REE and magnet materials. A change in the U.S. federal administration introduces uncertainty as to shifts in policies, tariffs, taxes, regulations, and priorities, all of which may have a detrimental impact on demand. Furthermore, supply side factors have a significant influence on price volatility for REE and magnet materials. Supply of REE and magnet materials is dominated by Chinese producers. The Chinese Central Government regulates production via quotas and environmental standards, and, to a lesser extent, regulation of imports, and has and may continue to change such production quotas, environmental standards, and import regulations. Over the past few years, there has been significant restructuring of the Chinese market in line with Chinese Central Government policy; however, periods of over-supply or speculative trading of REE and magnet materials can lead to significant fluctuations in the market price of such products.

Current wording

However, while this DoW commitment provides a meaningful measure of certainty with respect to our medium- and longer-term NdPr-related cash flows, our business and financial results remain susceptible to the fluctuations in the demand for, and the realized prices of, REE and magnet materials, which may fluctuate and are affected by numerous factors beyond our control such as interest rates, exchange rates, taxes, inflation or deflation, changes in tariffs or trade restrictions, fluctuation in the relative value of the U.S. dollar against foreign currencies on the world market, shipping and other transportation and logistics costs, global and regional supply and demand for rare earth minerals and products, potential industry trends, such as competitor consolidation or other integration methodologies, and the political and economic conditions of countries that produce and procure REE and magnet materials. A change in the U.S. federal administration introduces uncertainty as to shifts in policies, tariffs, taxes, regulations, and priorities, all of which may have a detrimental impact on demand. Furthermore, supply side factors have a significant influence on price volatility for REE and magnet materials. Supply of REE and magnet materials is dominated by Chinese producers. The Chinese Central Government regulates production via quotas and environmental standards, and, to a lesser extent, regulation of imports, and has and may continue to change such production quotas, environmental standards, and import regulations. Over the past few years, there has been significant restructuring of the Chinese market in line with Chinese Central Government policy; however, periods of over-supply or speculative trading of REE and magnet materials can lead to significant fluctuations in the market price of such products.

Previous wording

Our strategy is to produce REE and magnet products that are used in critical existing and emerging technologies, such as hybrid and electric vehicles, wind turbines, robotics, medical equipment, military equipment and other high-growth, advanced motion technologies. The success of our business depends on the continued growth of these end-markets and the successful commercialization of rare earth products, including NdPr, in such markets. If the market for these critical existing and emerging technologies does not grow as we expect, grows slower than we expect, or if the demand for our products in these markets decreases, then our business, prospects, financial condition and operating results could be harmed. In addition, the market for these technologies, particularly in the automotive industry, tends to be cyclical, which exposes us to increased volatility, and it is uncertain as to how such macroeconomic factors will impact our business. Any unexpected costs or delays in the manufacturing of separated REE products or rare earth magnets, or less than expected demand for the critical existing and emerging technologies that use rare earth products, could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition or results of operations.

Current wording

Our strategy is to produce REE and magnet products that are used in critical existing and emerging technologies, such as xEVs, advanced electronics, aerospace and defense systems, energy products, robotics, and many other high-growth, advanced technologies. The success of our business depends on the continued growth of these end-markets and the successful commercialization of rare earth products, including NdPr, in such markets. If the market for these critical existing and emerging technologies does not grow as we expect, grows slower than we expect, or if the demand for our products in these markets decreases, then our business, prospects, financial condition and operating results could be harmed. In addition, the market for these technologies, particularly in the automotive industry, tends to be cyclical, which exposes us to increased volatility, and it is uncertain as to how such macroeconomic factors will impact our business. Any unexpected costs or delays in the manufacturing of separated REE products or rare earth magnets, or less than expected demand for the critical existing and emerging technologies that use rare earth products, could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition or results of operations.

Previous wording

Some of our competitors have made, or may make, acquisitions or enter into partnerships or other strategic relationships to achieve competitive advantages. In addition, new entrants not currently considered competitors may enter our market through acquisitions, partnerships, or strategic relationships. We expect these trends to continue as demand for rare earth materials increases. Industry consolidation may result in competitors with more compelling product offerings or greater pricing flexibility than we have, or business practices that make it more difficult for us to compete effectively, including on the basis of price, sales, technology or supply. For example, in December 2021, China merged three state entities to establish the China Rare Earth Group Co. Ltd (“China Rare Earth Group”), that accounts for more than half of China’s heavy rare earths supplies. China Rare Earth Group has enhanced pricing power of key rare earths, such as dysprosium and terbium, which has brought changes to the global rare earth supply chain. These competitive pressures could have a material adverse effect on our business.

Current wording

Some of our competitors have made, or may make, acquisitions or enter into partnerships or other strategic relationships to achieve competitive advantages. In addition, new entrants not currently considered competitors may enter our market through acquisitions, partnerships, or strategic relationships. We expect these trends to continue as demand for rare earth materials increases. Industry consolidation may result in competitors with more compelling product offerings or greater pricing flexibility than we have, or business practices that make it more difficult for us to compete effectively, including on the basis of price, sales, technology or supply. For example, in 2025, China took additional steps to consolidate control of the industry into the two major groups through export and import limitations, as well as adjustments to the production quota system. Outside of China, there are few producers operating at scale, with processing capabilities located in only one other major integrated operator across Australia and Malaysia. These competitive pressures could have a material adverse effect on our business.

Previous wording

Significant political, trade, regulatory developments, and other circumstances beyond our control, could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition or results of operations.

Current wording

Significant political, trade and regulatory developments, and other circumstances beyond our control, could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition or results of operations.

Previous wording

We operate globally and sell our products in countries throughout the world with a primary focus on the Asian market. Significant political, trade, or regulatory developments in the jurisdictions in which we sell our products, such as those stemming from the change in U.S. federal administration, are difficult to predict and may have a material adverse effect on us. Similarly, changes in U.S. federal policy that affect the geopolitical landscape could give rise to circumstances outside our control that could have negative impacts on our business operations. For example, during the prior Trump administration, increased tariffs were implemented on goods imported into the U.S., particularly from China, Canada, and Mexico. On February 1, 2025, the U.S. imposed a 25% tariff on imports from Canada and Mexico, which were subsequently suspended for a period of one month, and a 10% additional tariff on imports from China. Historically, tariffs have led to increased trade and political tensions, between not only the U.S. and China, but also between the U.S. and other countries in the international community. In response to tariffs, other countries have implemented retaliatory tariffs on U.S. goods. Political tensions as a result of trade policies could reduce trade volume, investment, technological exchange, and other economic activities between major international economies, resulting in a material adverse effect on global economic conditions and the stability of global financial markets. Any changes in political, trade, regulatory, and economic conditions, including, but not limited to, U.S. and China trade policies, could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition or results of operations.

Current wording

We operate globally and sell our products in countries throughout the world. Significant political, trade, or regulatory developments in the jurisdictions in which we sell our products, including changes in tariff policies by the U.S. administration, export controls, or other trade restrictions, are difficult to predict and may have a material adverse effect on us. Similarly, changes in U.S. federal policy that affect the geopolitical landscape could give rise to circumstances outside our control that could have negative impacts on our business operations. For example, the current U.S. administration has increased tariffs on goods imported into the U.S., particularly from China, Canada, and Mexico. Historically, tariffs have led to increased trade and political tensions, between not only the U.S. and China, but also between the U.S. and other countries in the international community. In response to tariffs, other countries have implemented retaliatory tariffs on U.S. goods. Political tensions as a result of trade policies or other geopolitical dynamics could reduce trade volume, investment, technological exchange, and other economic activities between major international economies, resulting in a material adverse effect on global economic conditions and the stability of global financial markets. We and/or our suppliers may also experience shortages of materials or increases in prices of materials as a result of these ongoing trade tensions, which could increase our costs or decrease our volume of production. Any changes in political, trade, regulatory, and economic conditions, including, but not limited to, U.S. and China trade policies, could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition or results of operations.

Previous wording

Our ability to reach anticipated production rates as part of our Stage II project at Mountain Pass, the completion of Independence, as well as the execution of other capital projects such as the HREE Facility, all require the commitment of substantial resources and capital expenditures. Our estimated expenses may increase for a variety of factors, including as a result of inflationary pressures in the U.S. The progress, the amounts and timing of expenditures and the success of these projects will depend in part on the following: (a) the ability of the Stage II facilities to separate REO as designed and engineered; (b) our ability to timely produce metal for magnets; (c) our ability to timely procure new equipment and materials, certain of which may involve long lead-times, or to repair existing equipment; (d) the ability of service providers or vendors to meet contractually-negotiated delivery or completion deadlines or meet performance specifications or guarantees; (e) maintaining, and procuring, as required, applicable federal, state and local permits; (f) the incorporation of project change orders, due to engineering, process, health and safety, or other considerations; (g) negotiating contracts for equipment, earthwork, construction, equipment installation, labor and completing infrastructure and construction work following commissioning; (h) impact of planned and unplanned shut-downs and delays in our production; (i) impact of stoppages or delays on construction projects; (j) disputes with contractors or other third parties; (k) negotiating sales and offtake contracts for our planned production; (l) the execution of any joint venture agreements or similar arrangements with strategic partners; and (m) other factors, many of which are beyond our control.

Current wording

Our ability to reach anticipated production rates as part of our midstream operations at Mountain Pass, the completion and expansion of Independence, the construction of the 10X Facility, as well as the execution of other capital projects such as the HREE Facility, chlor-alkali facility, and development of recycling capabilities at Mountain Pass, all require the commitment of substantial resources and capital expenditures. Our estimated expenses may increase for a variety of factors, including as a result of inflationary pressures in the U.S. The progress, the amounts and timing of expenditures and the success of these projects will depend in part on the following: (a) the Company and the DoW performing their respective obligations under the DoW Agreements; (b) the ability of the midstream operating facilities to separate REO as designed and engineered; (c) our ability to timely produce metal for magnets; (d) our ability to timely procure new equipment and materials, certain of which may involve long lead-times, or to repair existing equipment; (e) the ability of service providers or vendors to meet contractually-negotiated delivery or completion deadlines or meet performance specifications or guarantees; (f) maintaining, and procuring, as required, applicable federal, state and local permits; (g) the incorporation of project change orders, due to engineering, process, health and safety, or other considerations; (h) negotiating contracts for equipment, earthwork, construction, equipment installation, labor and completing infrastructure and construction work following commissioning; (i) impact of planned and unplanned shut-downs and delays in our production; (j) impact of stoppages or delays on construction projects; (k) disputes with contractors or other third parties; (l) negotiating sales and offtake contracts for our planned production; (m) the execution of any joint venture agreements or similar arrangements with strategic partners; and (n) other factors, many of which are beyond our control.

Previous wording

Our continued growth depends on our ability to reach anticipated production rates for the separation of REE as part of the Stage II project at Mountain Pass, our only rare earth mining and processing facility.

Current wording

Our continued growth depends on our ability to reach anticipated production rates for the separation of REE as part of midstream operations at Mountain Pass, our only rare earth mining and processing facility.

Previous wording

There is a risk that we may infringe, or may be accused of infringing, the proprietary rights of third parties under patents and pending patent applications belonging to third parties that may exist in the U.S. and elsewhere in the world that relate to our rare earth products and processes, including our planned future production of magnets at Independence. Because the patent application process can take several years to complete, there may be currently pending applications that may later result in issued patents that cover our products and processes. In addition, our products and processes may infringe existing patents.

Current wording

There is a risk that we may infringe, or may be accused of infringing, the proprietary rights of third parties under patents and pending patent applications belonging to third parties that may exist in the U.S. and elsewhere in the world that relate to our rare earth products and processes, including our production of magnets at Independence and the 10X Facility. Because the patent application process can take several years to complete, there may be currently pending applications that may later result in issued patents that cover our products and processes. In addition, our products and processes may infringe existing patents.

Previous wording

Defending ourselves against third-party claims would be costly and time consuming and would divert management’s attention from our business, which could lead to delays in our Stage III downstream expansion. If third parties are successful in their claims, we might have to pay substantial damages or take other actions that are adverse to our business. As a result of intellectual property infringement claims, or to avoid potential claims, we might:

Current wording

Defending ourselves against third-party claims would be costly and time consuming and would divert employees’ attention from our business, which could lead to delays in our downstream expansion. If third parties are successful in their claims, we might have to pay substantial damages or take other actions that are adverse to our business. As a result of intellectual property infringement claims, or to avoid potential claims, we might:

Previous wording

If we are unable to perform the obligations under our long-term supply agreement with GM, this could have a material adverse effect on our financial position and results of operations.

Current wording

If we are unable to perform the obligations under our customer supply agreements, this could have a material adverse effect on our financial position and results of operations.

Previous wording

We entered into a binding long-term supply agreement with GM. Our ability to fulfill the obligations under our long-term agreement with GM to supply them with magnet materials is subject to a number of risks and contingencies. We are building the first scaled rare earth magnet manufacturing facility in the U.S. in several decades. While we are relying on a number of experienced engineers and other third parties in the design, engineering and construction of the Independence Facility, we are making a number of judgments and assumptions on process design, equipment selection and design, and plant operations, that may or may not prove to be correct. Design, engineering or construction delays may impair our ability to perform under our long-term supply agreement with GM. In addition, we need to procure the necessary equipment and materials to produce magnets and their precursor products, some of which may be difficult to obtain. There can be no assurance that such equipment and materials will be procured on time or not be delayed due to circumstances beyond our control.

Current wording

We have entered into customer agreements with the DoW, Apple, GM, and other strategic customers. Our ability to fulfill our obligations under these long-term agreements to supply magnets and magnet materials to the DoW, Apple and GM, as examples, as well as any other future customers, is subject to a number of risks and contingencies. We are currently continuing to ramp the production and sales of magnetic precursor products and commissioning our magnet manufacturing capabilities at our Independence Facility, the first scaled, fully integrated rare earth magnet manufacturing facility in the U.S. in several decades. Under the DoW Transaction Agreements, we are required to begin planning and constructing a second rare earth magnet manufacturing facility, the 10X Facility. Despite benefiting from a number of experienced engineers and other third parties in the design, engineering and construction of the Independence Facility and the 10X Facility, we will be required to make a number of judgments and assumptions on process design, equipment selection and design, and plant operations, that may or may not prove to be correct. Design, engineering or construction delays may impair our ability to perform under our long-term agreements with the DoW, Apple, GM, and others, as well as those made with any other future customers. We will also need to promptly assess the need for and to build out additional resources to support multiple novel construction projects in parallel. In addition, we need to procure the necessary equipment and materials to produce magnets and their precursor products, some of which may be difficult to obtain. There can be no assurance that such resources, equipment and materials will be procured on time or not be delayed due to both the finite time and resources of our management and employees to assess and respond to these increased demands, and to circumstances beyond our control.

Previous wording

Further, we need to hire a sufficient number of engineers, operators and other professionals to successfully design and operate the Independence Facility. It may be difficult for us to hire employees with the experience, education and skills needed to produce magnet materials, and we may need to hire employees from other countries if we cannot recruit employees in the U.S. We will also face competition for these employees.

Current wording

Further, we need to hire a sufficient number of engineers, operators and other professionals to successfully design and operate the Independence Facility and the 10X Facility. It may be difficult for us to hire employees with the experience, education and skills needed to produce magnet materials, and we may need to hire employees from other countries if we cannot recruit employees in the U.S. We will also face competition for these employees. These challenges may be exacerbated by the need to develop multiple facilities at the same time.

Previous wording

There can be no assurance that we successfully produce magnet materials at the volumes and quality necessary to meet the requirements under our long-term supply agreement with GM. In the event that we are not able to mitigate these risks and fail to comply with the terms of the agreement with GM, this could have a material adverse effect on our financial position and results of operations.

Current wording

There can be no assurance that we successfully produce magnet materials at the volumes and quality necessary to meet the requirements under our long-term supply agreements with the DoW, Apple, GM, and other customers. In the event we are not able to mitigate these risks or fail to comply with the terms of the DoW Transaction Agreements, particularly the DoW Offtake Agreement, and in particular, our supply agreements with Apple and GM, we may experience material adverse effects on our financial position and results of operations.

Previous wording

We may not be able to convert current commercial discussions with customers for the sale of REO products into contracts, which may have a material adverse effect on our financial position and results of operations.

Current wording

We may not be able to convert current commercial discussions with customers for the sale of our products into contracts, which may have a material adverse effect on our financial position and results of operations.

Previous wording

A power outage or shortage at Mountain Pass could temporarily delay mining and processing operations and increase costs, which may materially adversely impact our business.

Current wording

A power outage or shortage at Mountain Pass or Independence could temporarily delay mining, processing, and manufacturing operations and increase costs, which may materially adversely impact our business.

Previous wording

Our facilities at Mountain Pass are currently powered by a natural gas-powered combined heat and power (“CHP”) plant that produces electricity and steam and eliminates reliance on the regional electric power grid. Operation of the CHP plant is necessary to support the entire energy demand of our upstream and midstream operations. While we believe that the CHP plant will provide sufficient electricity and steam to operate our facilities at Mountain Pass, there can be no assurance that there will not be intermittent interruptions in the ability to produce electricity and steam. Instability in electrical supply could cause sporadic outages or brownouts. Any such outages or brownouts could have a negative impact on our production. If the CHP plant is unable to provide sufficient energy for the operation of Mountain Pass or if additional growth projects require energy needs in excess of CHP capacity, we may be required to obtain electricity from a single utility company in Southern California. We could incur higher operating costs, remain subject to the effects of occasional grid power outages and brownouts, and could experience temporary interruptions of processing operations. As a result, our revenue could be adversely impacted and our relationships with our customers could suffer, adversely impacting our ability to generate future revenue and otherwise perform our contractual obligations.

Current wording

Our facilities at Mountain Pass are currently powered by a natural gas-fired combined heat and power (“CHP”) plant that produces electricity and steam and eliminates reliance on the regional electric power grid. Operation of the CHP plant is necessary to support the entire energy demand of our upstream and midstream operations. While we believe that the CHP plant will provide sufficient electricity and steam to operate our existing facilities at Mountain Pass, there can be no assurance that there will not be intermittent interruptions in the ability to produce electricity and steam, including due to equipment failure, maintenance issues or interruptions in the supply of natural gas. In addition, our Independence Facility is powered by electricity and natural gas. Instability in electrical supply could cause sporadic outages or brownouts at Mountain Pass and the Independence Facility. Any such outages or brownouts could have a negative impact on our production. If the CHP plant is unable to provide sufficient energy for the operation of Mountain Pass or if additional growth projects require energy needs in excess of CHP capacity, we may be required to obtain electricity from a single utility company in Southern California. We could incur higher operating costs, remain subject to the effects of occasional grid power outages and brownouts, and could experience temporary interruptions of processing operations. As a result, our revenue could be adversely impacted and our relationships with our customers could suffer, adversely impacting our ability to generate future revenue and otherwise perform our contractual obligations.

Previous wording

At Mountain Pass, we use significant amounts of chemical reagents to process REE and expect to use a significant amount of raw materials in the production of magnets at Independence. Though we may enter into long-term purchase agreements, chemical reagents and other raw materials sourced from third parties may be subject to significant volatility in cost and availability. In addition, third parties may not honor their agreements with us and/or declare force majeure, and as a result, we may need to obtain such chemical reagents from other parties at higher costs and expense and there may be a delay in obtaining such chemical reagents. Further, supply chains reliant on sea vessels, train, and/or truck may subject us to transportation delays in obtaining these chemical reagents. We also may not be able to store such chemical reagents or other raw materials without incurring substantial costs. We may not be able to pass increased costs for these chemical reagents or other raw materials through to our customers in the form of price increases. The Mountain Pass site includes a currently idle chlor-alkali facility that may be restarted in the future to produce hydrochloric acid, sodium hydroxide, and sodium hypochlorite. A significant increase in the price or decrease in the availability of these chemicals before we potentially restart our production of them on-site, or restrictions imposed by environmental regulations or law on chemical use, could materially increase our operating costs and adversely affect our profit margins and production volumes. There can be no assurance that we will be able to purchase the necessary chemical reagents or other raw materials from third parties on terms that are acceptable to us. The failure to obtain chemical reagents or other raw materials as needed will have an adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.

Current wording

At Mountain Pass, we use significant amounts of chemical reagents to process REE and expect to use a significant amount of raw materials in the production of magnets at Independence. Though we may enter into long-term purchase agreements, chemical reagents and other raw materials sourced from third parties may be subject to significant volatility in cost and availability. In addition, third parties may not honor their agreements with us and/or declare force majeure, and as a result, we may need to obtain such chemical reagents from other parties at higher costs and expense and there may be a delay in obtaining such chemical reagents. Further, supply chains reliant on sea vessels, trains, and/or trucks may subject us to transportation delays in obtaining these chemical reagents. We also may not be able to store such chemical reagents or other raw materials without incurring substantial costs. We may not be able to pass increased costs for these chemical reagents or other raw materials through to our customers in the form of price increases. The Mountain Pass site includes a currently idle chlor-alkali facility that we are committed to recommissioning as part of our partnership with the DoW to produce hydrochloric acid, sodium hydroxide, and sodium hypochlorite. A significant increase in the price or decrease in the availability of these chemicals before we potentially restart our production of them on-site, or restrictions imposed by environmental regulations or law on chemical use, could materially increase our operating costs and adversely affect our profit margins and production volumes. There can be no assurance that we will be able to purchase the necessary chemical reagents or other raw materials from third parties on terms that are acceptable to us. In addition, there are risks associated with the recommissioning and construction of our chlor-alkali facility, including safety and operational risks. The failure to obtain chemical reagents or other raw materials as needed and the failure to safely operate the chlor-alkali facility will have an adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.

Previous wording

We currently transport our rare earth concentrate and NdPr oxide products via ocean freight to customers and tollers. In the past, there have been backlogs of container ships off the coast of Southern California that delayed shipments in and out of the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach, the ports that we use to ship our rare earth concentrate product. While we managed to mitigate these intermittent delays in shipping rare earth concentrate product through these ports, our ability to continue to maintain stable shipments may be impacted if port delays due to congestion return or worsen.

Current wording

We currently transport our NdPr oxide products via ocean freight to customers and tollers. In the past, there have been backlogs of container ships off the coast of Southern California that delayed shipments in and out of the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach, the primary ports that we use to ship our rare earth products. While we managed to mitigate these intermittent delays in shipping rare earth products through these ports, our ability to continue to maintain stable shipments may be impacted if port delays due to congestion return or worsen.

Previous wording

In addition, we may in the future need to transport our products to additional customers and other tollers wherever they may be located. Finding affordable and dependable transportation is necessary for us to be able to supply customers around the world. Labor disputes, embargoes, government restrictions, work stoppages, pandemics, derailments, damage or loss events, adverse weather conditions, other environmental events, seasonal changes in supply and demand for transportation, changes to rail or ocean freight systems, domestic or international laws or regulations, permits or other approvals, or other events and activities beyond our control could interrupt or limit available transport services, which could result in customer dissatisfaction and loss of sales and could materially adversely affect our results of operations. Such events and conditions, including flooding and other natural disasters, could also impact the facilities of our customers which could have a material adverse effect on our ability to deliver our product to our customers.

Current wording

In addition, we may in the future need to transport our products to additional customers and other tollers wherever they may be located. Finding affordable and dependable transportation is necessary for us to be able to supply customers around the world. Labor disputes, embargoes, government restrictions, work stoppages, pandemics, derailments, accidents, damage or loss events, adverse weather conditions, other environmental events, seasonal changes in supply and demand for transportation, changes to rail, highway, or ocean freight systems, domestic or international laws or regulations, permits or other approvals, or other events and activities beyond our control could interrupt or limit available transport services, which could result in customer dissatisfaction, delays in meeting contractual delivery requirements, and loss of sales, and could materially adversely affect our results of operations. Such events and conditions, including flooding and other natural disasters, could also impact the facilities of our customers which could have a material adverse effect on our ability to deliver our product to our customers.

Previous wording

In our midstream operations, we must be able to process REE to meet customer needs and specifications and to provide customers with a consistently high-quality product while meeting ever-stricter purity requirements. We have limited experience running and are still scaling our midstream operations. In the event that certain equipment fails to consistently perform as designed or we are unable to maintain consistent product quality, we may struggle to meet individual customer specifications, which may have a material adverse effect on our financial condition or results of operations. In addition, customer needs and specifications may change with time. Any delay or failure in developing processes to meet changing customer needs and specifications may have a material adverse effect on our financial condition or results of operations.

Current wording

In our midstream operations, we must be able to process REE to meet exacting and ever-stricter customer needs and specifications. We have limited experience running and are still scaling our midstream operations. In the event that certain equipment fails to consistently perform as designed or we are unable to maintain consistent product quality, we may struggle to meet individual customer specifications, which may have a material adverse effect on our financial condition or results of operations. In addition, customer needs and specifications may change with time. Any delay or failure in developing processes to meet changing customer needs and specifications may have a material adverse effect on our financial condition or results of operations.

Previous wording

Processing of REO requires significant amounts of water. The technology we currently use to beneficiate REO is a sustainable process with dry tailings that limits the need for freshwater usage. Although we believe our current process is sustainable, any disruption in the process could prompt the need for significant access to freshwater. Additionally, with the commencement of our midstream operations in 2023, we require an even greater amount of water for our CHP plant, separation and extraction processes, and product finishing operations, including significant demand for highly-pure water. We maintain and operate one water supply well field for potable and process water and own land and wells in another water supply well field that we may be able to operate in the future. In addition, significant volumes of water are recycled from process brine to reduce ground water usage. Any disruption to our current process, including our water treatment plant used to make highly-pure water, decreases in available water supply, or inability to recycle sufficient volumes of distillate may have a material adverse effect on our operations and our financial condition or results of operations.

Current wording

Processing of REO requires significant amounts of water. The technology we currently use to beneficiate REO is a sustainable process with dry tailings that limits the need for freshwater usage. Although we believe our current process is sustainable, any disruption in the process could prompt the need for significant access to freshwater. Additionally, with the commencement of our midstream operations in 2023, we require an even greater amount of water for our CHP plant, separation and extraction processes, and product finishing operations, including significant demand for highly-pure water. We maintain and operate one water supply well field for potable and process water and own land and wells in another water supply well field that we may be able to operate in the future. In addition, significant volumes of water are recycled from process brine to reduce groundwater usage. Any disruption to our current process, including our water treatment plant used to make highly-pure water, decreases in available water supply, or inability to recycle sufficient volumes of distillate may have a material adverse effect on our operations and our financial condition or results of operations.

Previous wording

Uncertainty in our estimates related to our REO reserves could result in lower-than-expected revenues and higher-than-expected costs or a shortened estimated life-of-mine for Mountain Pass. Fluctuations in factors out of our control such as changes in future product pricing, foreign government policies on the import or export of rare earths and foreign exchange rates can have a significant impact on the estimates of reserves and can result in significant changes in the quantum of our reserves period-to-period.

Current wording

Uncertainty in our estimates related to our REO reserves, including incorrect assumptions or imprecise geological data or interpretation of such data, could result in actual reserves being less than estimated, which could lead to lower-than-expected revenues and a shortened estimated life-of-mine for Mountain Pass. Higher-than-expected costs could also negatively impact the value of our reserves. Fluctuations in factors out of our control, such as changes in future product pricing, foreign government policies on the import or export of rare earths and foreign exchange rates, can also have a significant impact on the estimates of reserves and can result in significant changes in the quantum of our reserves period-to-period.

Previous wording

Efficient production of rare earth products, magnets and magnetic precursor products using modern techniques and equipment requires skilled technicians and engineers. In addition, our optimization and downstream efforts will significantly increase the number of skilled operators, maintenance technicians, engineers and other personnel required to successfully operate our business. If we are unable to hire, train and retain the necessary number of skilled technicians, engineers and other personnel there could be an adverse impact on our labor costs and our ability to reach anticipated production levels in a timely manner, which could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations.

Current wording

In addition, efficient production of rare earth products, magnets and magnetic precursor products using modern techniques and equipment requires skilled technicians, engineers, operators and other specialized personnel. Our optimization and downstream efforts will significantly increase our need for such personnel, and competition for these employees may be intense. If we are unable to hire, train and retain qualified personnel, or if we are unable to replace senior management or other key employees on acceptable terms or in a timely manner, our labor costs could increase and our ability to reach anticipated production levels or execute our long-term strategy could be adversely affected. Any of these factors could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.

Previous wording

Our facilities or operations could be adversely affected by events outside of our control, such as natural disasters, wars or health epidemics or pandemics.

Current wording

Our facilities or operations could be adversely affected by events outside of our control, such as natural disasters or wars.

Previous wording

We may be impacted by natural disasters, wars, health epidemics or pandemics or other events outside of our control. For example, Mountain Pass is located in San Bernardino County, California, near active faults, which could lead to nearby earthquakes. If major disasters such as earthquakes, wildfires, health epidemics or pandemics, floods or other events occur, or our information system or communications network breaks down or operates improperly, our ability to continue operations at Mountain Pass or Independence may be seriously damaged, or we may have to stop or delay production and shipment of our products. We may incur expenses or delays relating to such events outside of our control, which could have a material adverse impact on our business, operating results and financial condition.

Current wording

We may be impacted by natural disasters, wars, or other events outside of our control. For example, Mountain Pass is located in San Bernardino County, California, near active faults, which could lead to nearby earthquakes. If major disasters such as earthquakes, wildfires, floods or other events occur, or our information system or communications network breaks down or operates improperly, our ability to continue operations at Mountain Pass or Independence may be seriously damaged, or we may have to stop or delay production and shipment of our products. We may incur expenses or delays relating to such events outside of our control, which could have a material adverse impact on our business, operating results and financial condition.

Previous wording

We depend upon information technology systems in the conduct of our operations. Our information technology systems are subject to disruption, damage or failure from a variety of sources, including, without limitation, computer viruses, security breaches, cyber-attacks, natural disasters and defects in design. Cybersecurity incidents, in particular, are evolving and include, but are not limited to, malicious software, attempts to gain unauthorized access to data and other electronic security breaches that could lead to disruptions in systems, unauthorized release of confidential or otherwise protected information or the corruption of data. We have implemented various measures to manage our risks related to information technology systems and network disruptions. However, given the unpredictability of the timing, nature and scope of information technology disruptions, we have been in the past or could potentially be subject to downtimes, operational delays, the compromising of confidential or otherwise protected information, destruction or corruption of data, security breaches, other manipulation or improper use of our systems and networks or financial losses from remedial actions, any of which could have a material adverse effect on our business, operating results and financial condition.

Current wording

We depend upon information technology systems in the conduct of our operations. Our information technology systems are subject to disruption, damage or failure from a variety of sources, including, without limitation, computer viruses, security breaches, cyber-attacks, natural disasters and defects in design. Cybersecurity incidents, in particular, are evolving and include, but are not limited to, malicious software, attempts to gain unauthorized access to data and other electronic security breaches that could lead to disruptions in systems, unauthorized release of confidential or otherwise protected information or the corruption of data. In addition, malicious actors may leverage increasingly sophisticated, artificial intelligence-driven techniques to attempt to gain unauthorized access to our networks, compromise personal or confidential information, or misappropriate intellectual property. We have implemented various measures to manage our risks related to information technology systems and network disruptions. However, given the unpredictability of the timing, nature and scope of information technology disruptions, we have been in the past or could potentially be subject to downtimes, operational delays, the compromising of confidential or otherwise protected information, destruction or corruption of data, security breaches, other manipulation or improper use of our systems and networks or financial losses from remedial actions, any of which could have a material adverse effect on our business, operating results and financial condition.

Previous wording

Consequently, the modernization and expansion of Mountain Pass and the development of the Independence Facility may be delayed, limited or prevented and current operations may be curtailed. Failure to comply with these laws, regulations and permits, including as they evolve, may result in the assessment of administrative, civil and criminal penalties, the issuance of injunctions to limit or cease operations, fines, or the suspension or revocation of permits and other sanctions. Pursuant to such requirements, we may also be subject to third-party claims, including for damages to property or injury to persons arising from our operations. Moreover, environmental legislation and regulation are evolving in a manner that may impose stricter standards and enforcement, increased fines and penalties for non-compliance, cessation of operations, more stringent environmental assessments, and a heightened degree of responsibility for companies and their officers, directors and employees. In addition, mine safety has been the subject of increasing scrutiny resulting in federal and state legislatures and other regulatory authorities imposing more stringent regulatory requirements on mining operations. Any changes in environmental laws, regulations or permits (or the interpretation or enforcement thereof) or any sanctions, damages, costs, obligations or liabilities in respect of these matters could have a material adverse effect on our business and/or the results of our operations and financial condition.

Current wording

We are subject to numerous and detailed federal, state and local environmental laws, certifications, regulations, permits, and other legal requirements applicable to the mining and mineral processing industry, including, without limitation, those pertaining to employee health and safety, air emissions, water usage, wastewater and stormwater discharges, air quality standards, GHG emissions, waste management, plant and wildlife protection, handling and disposal of hazardous and radioactive substances and waste, remediation of soil and groundwater contamination, land use, reclamation and restoration of properties, the discharge of materials into the environment, procurement of certain materials used in our operations, and groundwater quality and availability. These requirements may result in significant costs, liabilities and obligations, impose conditions that are difficult to achieve or otherwise delay, limit or prohibit current or planned operations and future growth. Consequently, the modernization and expansion of Mountain Pass and the development of the Independence Facility and the 10X Facility may be delayed, limited or prevented and current operations may be curtailed. Failure to comply with these laws, regulations and permits, including as they evolve, may result in the assessment of administrative, civil and criminal penalties, the issuance of injunctions to limit or cease operations, fines, or the suspension or revocation of permits and other sanctions. Pursuant to such requirements, we may also be subject to third-party claims, including for damages to property or injury to persons arising from our operations. Moreover, environmental legislation and regulation are evolving in a manner that may impose stricter standards and enforcement, increased fines and penalties for non-compliance, cessation of operations, more stringent environmental assessments, and a heightened degree of responsibility for companies and their officers, directors and employees. In addition, mine safety has been the subject of increasing scrutiny resulting in federal and state legislatures and other regulatory authorities imposing more stringent regulatory requirements on mining operations. Any changes in environmental laws, regulations or permits (or the interpretation or enforcement thereof) or any sanctions, damages, costs, obligations or liabilities in respect of these matters could have a material adverse effect on our business and/or the results of our operations and financial condition.

Previous wording

Our operations use hazardous materials and generate hazardous waste and radioactive byproducts. While we maintain procedures for and conduct training on the handling and disposing of chemicals or other substances by our personnel, risks, including bodily injury and property damage, persist. Moreover, mining and processing of rare earths has occurred at Mountain Pass since 1952, and contamination is known to exist around the facility. We may be subject to claims under environmental laws, for toxic torts, natural resource damages and other liabilities, as well as for the investigation and remediation of soil, surface water, groundwater and other environmental media. Mountain Pass is subject to an order issued by the Lahontan Regional Water Quality Control Board, primarily related to contamination emanating from certain on-site impoundments active during prior periods of operation, pursuant to which we and previous owners have conducted various investigatory and remedial actions. These remedial activities include groundwater monitoring, extraction and treatment. We are still in the process of delineating the extent of groundwater contamination at and around Mountain Pass and cannot assure you that we will not incur material costs relating to the remediation of such contamination. Also, prior to our acquisition of Mountain Pass, leaks in a wastewater pipeline from Mountain Pass to offsite evaporation ponds on the Ivanpah dry lake bed caused contamination. Pursuant to a settlement agreement, that contamination has been remediated by Chevron Mining Inc., which retained ownership of the ponds and the pipeline and provided a full indemnity to the previous buyer of Mountain Pass for liabilities related to the Ivanpah wastewater pipeline. In 2023, the remaining portion of the pipeline was removed from Mountain Pass and safely disposed. In addition to claims arising out of our current or former properties, such claims may arise in connection with contaminated third-party sites at which we have disposed of waste. Under the federal Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act, and analogous state statutes, our liability for claims for contamination at our current or former properties, and at third-party sites at which we disposed of waste, may be joint and several, so that we may be held responsible for more than our share of any contamination, or even for the entire share. These and similar unforeseen impacts that our operations may have on the environment, as well as human exposure to hazardous or radioactive materials or wastes, could have a material adverse effect on our business, reputation, results of operations and financial condition.

Current wording

Our operations use hazardous materials and generate hazardous waste and radioactive byproducts. While we maintain procedures for and conduct training on the handling and disposing of chemicals or other substances by our personnel, risks, including bodily injury and property damage, persist. Moreover, mining and processing of rare earths has occurred at Mountain Pass since 1952, and contamination is known to exist around the facility. We may be subject to claims under environmental laws, for toxic torts, natural resource damage and other liabilities, as well as for the investigation and remediation of soil, surface water, groundwater and other environmental media. Mountain Pass is subject to an order issued by the Lahontan Regional Water Quality Control Board, primarily related to contamination emanating from certain on-site impoundments active during prior periods of operation, pursuant to which we and previous owners have conducted various investigatory and remedial actions. These remedial activities include groundwater monitoring, extraction and treatment. We are still in the process of delineating the extent of groundwater contamination at and around Mountain Pass and cannot assure you that we will not incur material costs relating to the remediation of such contamination. In addition to claims arising out of our current or former properties, such claims may arise in connection with contaminated third-party sites at which we have disposed of waste. Under the federal Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act, and analogous state statutes, our liability for claims for contamination at our current or former properties, and at third-party sites at which we disposed of waste, may be joint and several, so that we may be held responsible for more than our share of any contamination, or even for the entire share. These and similar unforeseen impacts that our operations may have on the environment, as well as human exposure to hazardous or radioactive materials or wastes, could have a material adverse effect on our business, reputation, results of operations and financial condition.

Previous wording

The trading price of our common stock has historically experienced, and may continue to experience, significant volatility, which could cause you to lose all or part of your investment. Moreover, as a result of the decrease in the market price of NdPr oxide in 2024, our NdPr Realized Price per KG decreased from $70 for the year ended December 31, 2023, to $51 for the year ended December 31, 2024. This negatively impacted our results of operations and cash flows, which, at times, has resulted in a decrease in the trading price and increased volatility of the Company’s common stock. You may not be able to resell your shares at an attractive price due to a number of factors such as those listed in“Risks Relating to our Business and Industry” above and the following: (a) fluctuations in demand for, and prices of, REE and magnet products; (b) results of operations that vary from the expectations of securities analysts and investors; (c) changes in expectations as to the Company’s future financial performance, including financial estimates and investment recommendations by securities analysts and investors; (d) declines in the market prices of stocks generally and market prices of mining-related companies in particular; (e) strategic actions by the Company or its competitors; (f) announcements by the Company or its competitors of significant contracts, acquisitions, joint ventures, other strategic relationships or capital commitments; (g) any significant change in the Company’s management; (h) changes in general economic or market conditions or trends in the Company’s industry or markets; (i) changes in business or regulatory conditions, including new laws or regulations or new interpretations of existing laws or regulations applicable to the Company’s business; (j) future sales of the Company’s common stock or other securities; (k) investor perceptions of the investment opportunity associated with the Company’s common stock relative to other investment alternatives; (l) the public’s response to press releases or other public announcements by the Company or third parties, including the Company’s filings with the SEC; (m) litigation involving the Company, the Company’s industry, or both, or investigations by regulators into the Company’s operations or those of our competitors; (n) guidance, if any, that the Company provides to the public, any changes in this guidance or the Company’s failure to meet this guidance; (o) the development and sustainability of an active trading market for the Company’s stock; (p) actions by institutional or activist stockholders; (q) declines in the market price of our stock as a result of negative reports on the Company by research firms that engage in short selling; (r) changes in accounting standards, policies, guidelines, interpretations or principles; and (s) other events or factors, including those resulting from natural disasters, war, acts of terrorism, health pandemics or responses to these events.

Current wording

The trading price of our common stock has historically experienced, and may continue to experience, significant volatility, which could cause you to lose all or part of your investment. You may not be able to resell your shares at an attractive price due to a number of factors such as those listed in“Risks Relating to our Business and Industry” above and the following: (a) fluctuations in demand for, and prices of, REE and magnet products; (b) results of operations that vary from the expectations of securities analysts and investors; (c) changes in expectations as to the Company’s future financial performance, including financial estimates and investment recommendations by securities analysts and investors; (d) declines in the market prices of stocks generally and market prices of mining-related companies in particular; (e) strategic actions by the Company or its competitors; (f) announcements by the Company or its competitors of significant contracts, acquisitions, joint ventures, other strategic relationships or capital commitments; (g) any significant change in the Company’s management; (h) changes in general economic or market conditions or trends in the Company’s industry or markets; (i) changes in business or regulatory conditions, including new laws or regulations or new interpretations of existing laws or regulations applicable to the Company’s business; (j) future sales of the Company’s common stock or other securities; (k) investor perceptions of the investment opportunity associated with the Company’s common stock relative to other investment alternatives; (l) the public’s response to press releases or other public announcements by the Company or third parties, including the Company’s filings with the SEC; (m) litigation involving the Company, the Company’s industry, or both, or investigations by regulators into the Company’s operations or those of our competitors; (n) guidance, if any, that the Company provides to the public, any changes in this guidance or the Company’s failure to meet this guidance; (o) the development and sustainability of an active trading market for the Company’s stock; (p) actions by institutional or activist stockholders; (q) declines in the market price of our stock as a result of negative reports on the Company by research firms that engage in short selling; (r) changes in accounting standards, policies, guidelines, interpretations or principles; and (s) other events or factors, including those resulting from natural disasters, war, acts of terrorism, health pandemics or responses to these events.

Previous wording

The publication of our sustainability report may result in increased investor, media, employee, and other stakeholder attention to our sustainability initiatives, and such stakeholders may not be satisfied with our sustainability practices or initiatives. Organizations that inform investors on such matters have developed rating systems for evaluating companies on their approach to sustainability. Unfavorable ratings may lead to negative investor sentiment, which could negatively impact our stock price. Any failure, or perceived failure, to respond to sustainability concerns could harm our business and reputation.

Current wording

In addition, organizations that inform investors on such matters have developed rating systems for evaluating companies on their approach to sustainability, and unfavorable ratings may lead to negative investor sentiment. Any failure, or perceived failure, to effectively manage sustainability-related risks or respond to evolving expectations could increase our costs, harm our reputation, and adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations and the market price of our common stock.

Previous wording

For our 2030 Notes, at our election, we may settle notes tendered for conversion entirely or partly in shares of our common stock. For our 2026 Notes, we have irrevocably elected to fix the settlement method for all conversions whereby the principal must be repaid in cash and any consideration in excess of par would be settled in shares of our common stock. In the event the conditional conversion features of our Convertible Notes are triggered, holders of the Convertible Notes will be entitled to convert them at any time during specified periods at their option. If one or more holders elect to convert their Convertible Notes, unless we elect to satisfy our conversion obligation by delivering solely shares of our common stock (other than paying cash in lieu of delivering any fractional share), which only applies to the 2030 Notes, we would be required to settle a portion or all of our conversion obligation through the payment of cash, which could adversely affect our liquidity. In addition, even if holders do not elect to convert their Convertible Notes, we could be required under applicable accounting rules to reclassify all or a portion of the outstanding principal of the Convertible Notes as a current rather than long-term liability, which would result in a material reduction of our net working capital.

Current wording

For our 2030 Notes, at our election, we may settle notes tendered for conversion entirely or partly in shares of our common stock. For our 2026 Notes, we have irrevocably elected to fix the settlement method for all conversions whereby the principal must be repaid in cash and any consideration in excess of par would be settled in shares of our common stock. In the event the conditional conversion features of our Convertible Notes are triggered, holders of the Convertible Notes will be entitled to convert them at any time during specified periods at their option. If one or more holders elect to convert their Convertible Notes, unless we elect to satisfy our conversion obligation by delivering solely shares of our common stock (other than paying cash in lieu of delivering any fractional share), which only applies to the 2030 Notes, we would be required to settle a portion or all of our conversion obligation through the payment of cash, which could adversely affect our liquidity. In addition, even if holders do not elect to convert their Convertible Notes, we could be required under applicable accounting rules to reclassify all or a portion of the outstanding principal of the 2030 Notes as a current rather than long-term liability, which would result in a material reduction of our net working capital.

Previous wording

In connection with the offering of our 2030 Notes in March 2024, we entered into capped call transactions (the “Capped Call Options”) with certain financial institutions (“Counterparties”), which increased the effective conversion price of the 2030 Notes to $31.06 (from the nominal conversion price of $21.74). Consequently, the Capped Call Options are expected to reduce the potential dilution upon conversion of the 2030 Notes and/or offset any cash payments we are required to make in excess of the principal amount of the 2030 Notes upon their conversion.

Current wording

In connection with the offering of our 2030 Notes in March 2024, we entered into capped call transactions (the “Capped Call Options”) with certain financial institutions (“Counterparties”), which increased the effective conversion price of the 2030 Notes to $31.06 (from the nominal conversion price of $21.74). Consequently, the Capped Call Options are intended, subject to the Company’s discretion and depending on whether it elects to exercise its rights under such options, to reduce the potential dilution upon conversion of the 2030 Notes and/or offset any cash payments we are required to make in excess of the principal amount of the converted 2030 Notes upon their conversion.