{
  "id": 14278687,
  "title": "First Phosphate at Precious Metals & Critical Minerals Virtual Investor Conference: supply chain push",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/13/first-phosphate-at-precious-metals-critical-minerals-virtual-investor",
  "topic": "finance",
  "section": "Finance & Markets",
  "published": "2026-10-13T19:20:07.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Investing.com",
    "slug": "investing-com",
    "url": "https://www.investing.com/news/transcripts/first-phosphate-at-precious-metals--critical-minerals-virtual-investor-conference-supply-chain-push-93CH-4947397"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "On Tuesday, October 13, 2026, First Phosphate (PHOS) showcased its specialization in the lithium iron phosphate battery market during the Precious Metals & Critical Minerals Virtual Investor Conference. The company highlighted the rapid growth of the segment, which currently depends heavily on China. First Phosphate outlined a project backed by the Quebec government, describing it as a key step toward supplying the LFP battery market. CEO John Passalacqua emphasized the company's focus on high-purity igneous phosphate sourced from Quebec, aiming to connect the supply chain from mine to market. While outlining the project's long development timeline, the company highlighted significant support from sovereign governments, with about $400 million secured, covering more than 80% of the $475 million capital cost. First Phosphate is the only publicly-traded company dedicated to phosphate supply for the LFP battery industry. The company has produced 150 LFP battery cells and claims a 37% internal rate of return based on a CAD 2.1 billion net present value. The Bégin-Lamarche deposit in Quebec, the company's main asset, has shown improved mineral resources and is well-suited for battery use due to its high phosphate purity. Despite not being profitable yet, the company's cash reserves and government support provide a runway of about two years, enabling it to reach a final investment decision.",
  "summary": null,
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}