Global rare earths investment horizon outlook Q4 2023

The global energy transition will require the decarbonisation of key sectors such as transport and greater levels of renewable energy generation. Key technologies such as electric vehicles and offshore wind energy generation are poised to play a vital role in this global challenge. This will fuel an increasing demand for rare earth elements used in permanent magnets. Wood Mackenzie expects the neodymium market to remain in a constant state of relative market tightness, fluctuating between short periods of surplus and deficit equivalent to +/- 2% of demand. Forecast prices for rare earths show diverging trends depending on their exposure to the permanent magnet industry. Key magnet elements have the strongest support from rapid and persistent demand growth from electric vehicles in particular. Non-magnet-related elements will remain subdued with a building oversupply and weak demand growth.