Gina Rinehart: The Wealthiest Individual in Australia Expands Stake in Lynas Rare Earths, Embracing Energy Transition Opportunities

Renowned iron ore billionaire Gina Rinehart has expanded her investment portfolio by amassing a near-6% stake in Lynas Rare Earths Ltd., signaling her strategic focus on critical mineral producers crucial to the energy transition. Through her private company Hancock Prospecting Ltd., Rinehart acquired 6.6 million shares in the Sydney-listed company, valued at just over A$40 million, according to a Lynas filing.

Lynas, one of the few rare earths producers outside China, operates a mine and processing plant in Western Australia along with a refinery in Malaysia. Rinehart’s investment has propelled Lynas shares to their highest level since January, underlining investor confidence in the company’s prospects.

Rinehart’s foray into the green transition garnered attention last year with her involvement in lithium takeover deals and investments in companies like Arafura Rare Earths Ltd., Liontown Resources Ltd., and Vulcan Energy Resources Ltd. Teaming up with Sociedad Química y Minera de Chile, the world’s second-largest lithium producer, for the Azure Minerals Ltd. takeover further demonstrated her strategic vision.

While Rinehart’s long-term strategy remains undisclosed, her recent investments reflect the evolving landscape of the iron ore industry and the increasing importance of critical minerals in global supply chains. With Hancock Prospecting holding substantial cash reserves of A$19.5 billion, further deals could be on the horizon.

Notably, Lynas was previously in talks with MP Materials Corp. for a potential merger, a discussion that ultimately did not materialize. Given Rinehart’s significant stakes in both companies, speculation abounds regarding the potential revival of merger talks.

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