In a strategic move highlighting its focus on early-stage resource companies, Terra Capital Natural Resource Fund Pty Ltd and Terra Capital Green Metals Fund Pty Ltd have collectively acquired a 6.9% stake in MTM Critical Minerals (ASX: MTM). The $3,058,974 investment, comprising 28,037,815 shares purchased between 29 November and 5 December 2024, positions Terra Capital as a key supporter of MTM’s growth trajectory.
Jeremy Bond, Terra Capital Founder and Chief Investment Officer
This investment reinforces Terra Capital’s track record as an early backer of innovative companies, including its participation in the $100 million capital raise by IperionX (ASX: IPX), a pioneer in sustainable titanium technologies. It also underscores the growing institutional interest in critical minerals amid global supply chain disruptions and technological advancements.
A Strategic Time for Critical Minerals
Terra Capital’s investment in MTM coincides with a seismic shift in the critical materials market. China’s recent export ban on gallium, germanium, and antimony to the United States has exposed global vulnerabilities in the supply of these essential elements, used in semiconductors, batteries, and military equipment. With China controlling 98% of gallium production and 60% of germanium, the ban has sent ripples through industries reliant on these materials.
MTM is poised to address these challenges with its groundbreaking Flash Joule Heating (FJH) technology, which enables efficient, low-cost recovery of high-value metals from unconventional sources like e-waste and industrial scrap.
Flash Joule Heating: A Technological Breakthrough
Developed by Dr James Tour at Rice University, FJH uses high-voltage currents to rapidly process materials, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional extraction methods. FJH delivers higher recovery rates with less environmental impact, making it an attractive solution in an era of heightened focus on sustainability.
CEO Michael Walshe believes the technology positions MTM as a frontrunner in reshaping global critical mineral supply chains:
“Flash Joule Heating is not just a concept. It’s a tested, scalable solution that could redefine critical mineral processing and recovery. Our collaboration with Indium Corporation is the first step in bringing this revolutionary approach to the market.”
US Expansion on the Horizon
MTM is also finalising plans for a US OTC listing, aiming to tap into strong interest from American investors. This move aligns with growing recognition of the company’s role in addressing critical mineral supply chain vulnerabilities, particularly as the US government prioritises localising production and recycling capabilities for these materials.
The OTC listing will complement MTM’s partnership with Indium Corporation, a leader in critical metals like gallium and germanium, which has been instrumental in testing FJH technology on real-world feedstocks. Together, these developments position MTM to attract further institutional and retail support from the US market.
Terra Capital’s Vision
Terra Capital’s decision to invest in MTM reflects its broader strategy of supporting innovative resource companies poised to disrupt traditional industries. Its involvement in IperionX, which is commercialising advanced titanium processing technologies, mirrors its confidence in MTM’s ability to scale FJH technology and deliver sustainable solutions for critical mineral recovery.
Looking Ahead
MTM’s next milestone is the construction of a one-tonne-per-day demonstration plant in Texas, expected to be operational by 2025. This facility will validate the scalability of FJH technology and pave the way for commercial operations.
Meanwhile, MTM’s planned OTC listing will broaden its exposure to US investors, potentially unlocking new capital to accelerate its development pipeline.
With backing from Terra Capital, a history of technological innovation, and strong interest from US markets, MTM Critical Minerals is emerging as a leader in the race to secure sustainable and reliable critical mineral supplies.
As geopolitical uncertainties continue to reshape global supply chains, MTM’s cutting-edge technology, strategic partnerships, and upcoming US expansion place it in a prime position to meet the challenges of a resource-constrained future. Terra Capital’s endorsement cements MTM’s role as a key player in transforming the critical minerals industry.
