July Review: Seltene Erden AG Goes Live – and Our Book Strikes a Chord

Seltene Erden AG (SE AG) has launched Europe’s first fully regulated, physically backed commodity security. A true game changer for investors and Germany’s security of supply. Perhaps we cannot (yet) say: “Commodities made in Germany” – but at least the stock is from us.

Indian researchers are developing energy storage systems with lanthanum. Is this the breakthrough for the energy transition? It may be too early for such superlatives, but we’ll say this: “Lanthanum, we’re rooting for you!”

Our book “The Cocaine of Industry” made another major appearance, this time at the 1st Werte-Forum Zukunft. The hall was well filled with over 100 participants, including numerous partners, financial experts, and specialists in gold and precious metals. The discussions were heated and demonstrated how relevant the topic of rare earths is for the future of the economy. Particularly exciting was the exchange about the parallels between rare earths and precious metals such as gold – both play a key role in global financial and commodity strategy. It became clear that rare earths can drive not only high-tech, but also engaging conversations.

Apple is investing half a billion dollars in MP Materials to reduce dependence on China. The Pentagon is adding a guaranteed minimum price on top. Conclusion: The USA is playing chess while Europe is still shuffling the cards.

Our book made it to the cover of Focus! Europe’s dependence on China for terbium and dysprosium stands at 99.99%. But don’t worry, there are solutions – from Seltene Erden AG to investments through Noble Portfolio.

Things got heated in the Beijing Briefing Podcast: USA vs. China, rare earths as a geopolitical bargaining chip – and our book right in the middle of it. We say: “Geopolitics has rarely been this exciting!”

With 15% tariffs and a 15% dollar depreciation, Trump is showing Europe where its weaknesses lie. That means a total 30% competitive disadvantage for our companies! Harsh, but perhaps exactly the wake-up call Europe needed to reposition itself. Time for investments in AI, green energy, and a clear commodity strategy!

With only 65 tons of annual global production, rhenium is rarer than gold and indispensable for superalloys in aviation and high-tech industries. China imports nearly half of global production (26 tons), driving prices up by 17.5%. The reason: China’s growing demand for its aviation and high-tech projects.

Seltene Erden AG (SE AG) has launched successfully, and the business newspaper Cash has dedicated an article to it. Andreas Kroll, Board Member of Seltene Erden AG, puts it succinctly: “China is pulling back while global industry is increasing its demand.” The best time to invest was three months ago – the second-best time is now.

After this eventful month, we are taking a short breather. Many of us are currently enjoying our summer holidays before we return at full speed in September. Until then: soak up the sun, recharge your batteries – and perhaps browse through “The Cocaine of Industry” a little. Curious? You can buy the book here:

That was July – a month that showed just how dynamic and exciting the world of commodities is. We are looking forward to what comes next!