Rare earth metals have quietly become the backbone of the modern economy, powering everything from electric vehicles (EVs) to wind turbines and advanced defense systems. As global demand accelerates, supply risks have surged, especially with China tightening its grip on rare earth exports. That’s why investors are increasingly watching for U.S.-based companies that can secure domestic access to these critical materials.
One surprising name leading this charge is General Motors (GM). While better known for its long automotive legacy, GM began investing in rare earth production back in 2021, a move that’s now paying off. This makes GM the only major U.S. automaker with a homegrown magnet source, insulating it from China’s export curbs. By “reducing reliance on China,” GM gains a strategic edge as rare earth elements become chokepoints in global trade.
