Lithium Argentina Unveils $3.1B NPV Expansion, Fast-Tracks 10ktpa DLE
LAR sits 70% above its 52-week low of $3.24.
Summary
Lithium Argentina announced a Stage 2 scoping study for a 45ktpa expansion at Cauchari-Olaroz, projecting an after-tax NPV8% of $3.1B and IRR of 28.5% at $18,000/t lithium carbonate. The company will accelerate an initial 10ktpa direct lithium extraction (DLE) phase, targeting first production within two years subject to permits. Stage 2 capex is estimated at approximately $1.0B, and RIGI approval has been secured, providing fiscal stability and tax benefits. Total capacity would rise to about 85ktpa, positioning the asset among larger global brine producers. This follows the recent closing of a $180M convertible note from Ganfeng, which strengthens the balance sheet for these expansion plans. Key upcoming milestones include permits, detailed engineering for the 10ktpa phase, and funding clarity.
At the time of this announcement, LAR was trading at $5.50 on NYSE in the Energy & Transportation sector, with a market capitalization of approximately $887.7M. The 52-week trading range was $3.24 to $12.05. This news item was assessed with positive market sentiment and an importance score of 8 out of 10. Source: Wiseek News.