Lodestar Minerals Limited (ASX:LSR) has lately taken a significant step in its critical minerals strategy by appointing two experienced professionals from the world’s top rare earth companies. The move marks a shift in Lodestar’s focus towards growth in the United States.
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The company has appointed Andy Martinez from MP Materials and Dayo Odunade from Lynas Rare Earths. Their arrival follows Lodestar’s recent plan to acquire the Virgin Mountain Heavy Rare Earth Project in Arizona.
This development comes at a time when investment in critical minerals is vital. The Pentagon has allocated USD 400 million to MP Materials, while Apple has committed a further USD 500 million in July 2025.
Heavy rare earth elements: core to energy and defence supply chains
Heavy Rare Earth Elements (HREEs) are the most profitable segment of the rare earth market, primarily due to their rare availability and crucial usage in technology and defence. Elements such as dysprosium, terbium, and holmium are the key components of high-performance permanent magnets used in electric vehicles, wind turbines, and defence systems.
HREEs are premium priced compared to lighter rare earths, and almost 90 per cent of HREEs’ global supply comes from China. Their demand continues to rise, driven by renewable energy and national security requirements.
Extracting and refining HREEs is difficult due to their limited concentration in ore bodies. Also, the Virgin Mountain deposit contains a mix of heavy rare earths along with neodymium and praseodymium, thus making it the most exclusive in terms of mineral compositions.
These minerals come under the premium category of the US government due to their strategic importance in defence and advanced technology, giving the project potential regulatory and funding advantages.
A roadmap for sustainable growth
With the addition of experienced consultants, Lodestar has set out a focused plan for steady growth. In the short term, it aims to expand its US presence through product development, off-take deals, and magnet production while deepening industry connections. In due course, the company plans to explore joint ventures, enhance operational efficiency, and strengthen compliance to execute its strategic goals effectively
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Martinez offers years of practical experience in product development and magnet manufacturing. Odunade brings in-depth experience in market development, partnerships, and commercial strategy.
Investment outlook: part of the critical minerals supercycle
Lodestar’s rare earth strategy aligns with US and global trends favouring domestic supply chains. Supportive government policies, permits and funding are creating the foundation for local production. Additionally, the potential figures from MP Materials and Lynas Rare Earths reflect confidence in Lodestar and the promise of the Virgin Mountain project.
Upcoming catalysts for investors
Presently, Lodestar is focused on the following as part of its strategic goal.
• Successful completion of Virgin Mountain acquisition
• Availability of resources and technical studies
• Progress of ongoing partnerships
• U.S. government permit updates
Lodestar Minerals is emerging as a key force in the U.S. rare earth sector, combining strong leadership, a valuable asset base, and rising government support to create solid growth potential.
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