Lithium Americas

Goldman Sachs initiated coverage of Lithium Americas with a Neutral rating and $4.50 target, citing Thacker Pass as likely the first major U.S. lithium capacity but noting construction and operating risks. The company reports mechanical completion targeted in late 2027, over 1,300 workers on site and detailed engineering >95% complete, with procurement >70% done. Lithium Americas held about $1.2 billion in cash and restricted cash at March 31 and expects 2026 capex of $1.3–1.6 billion for Thacker Pass Phase 1. Shares are down more than 13% year to date. » More on finance.yahoo.com

Lithium Americas entered into a distribution agreement with TD Securities that allows the company to offer and sell common shares through an at-the-market program with aggregate proceeds of up to $250 million. TD Securities will act as sales agent or principal; sales may bear a commission of up to 3.0% of the gross proceeds. The shares will be offered pursuant to the effective S-3 registration statement and a prospectus supplement, and the net proceeds are intended to be used for general corporate purposes. » More on de.investing.com

Lithium Americas estimates investments for the first phase of the Thacker Pass project in 2026 at $1.3–1.6 billion and is ramping up construction aiming for mechanical completion by the end of 2027 and full production ramp-up in 2028. Technical engineering is 93% complete and procurement 60% complete; the workforce is expected to grow to around 1,800 people at peak construction. The project is being developed in a joint venture with General Motors (62/38) and has $2.23 billion in financing from the US Department of Energy; at the same time a high cash-burn rate with negative levered free cash flow of $647 million pressures the balance sheet. Safety metrics remain solid (TRIF 0.21) and major equipment deliveries as well as commissioning of the high-voltage line are scheduled for 2026. » More on de.investing.com