Investing in Rare Earth Metals: The Untapped Asset Class Powering the Future

19/08/2025 53 min
Investing in Rare Earth Metals: The Untapped Asset Class Powering the Future

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Episode Synopsis

In this episode of Investing to Win, Garret Wong sits down with Louis O’Connor, founder of Strategic Metals Invest, to discuss one of the most overlooked yet critical asset classes of the modern era—rare earth and strategic metals. From the tech in your smartphone to global defense systems, these metals are shaping the future. Learn how private investors can profit from this growing demand and why this might be the most geopolitically sensitive investment class you’ve never heard of.Timestamps:[00:00:00] Introduction:Garret introduces Louis and sets the stage for a deep dive into rare earth metal investing, touching on global demand and scarcity.[00:01:45] Topic 1: Louis’ Global Background in Real Estate and Transition into MetalsLouis shares his journey—from early property investing in Ireland and Panama to discovering rare earths at Freedom Fest.[00:05:00] Topic 2: What Are Rare Earth Metals and Why Do They Matter?Defining rare earths, strategic metals, and why these trace materials are essential for AI, defense, green energy, and consumer electronics.[00:10:30] Topic 3: Supply Chain Realities and Geopolitical ControlUnderstanding the fragility of the global supply chain, China’s dominance in production, and the implications for Western economies.[00:16:30] Topic 4: Investment Opportunities and Real-Life Price SurgesCase studies on metals like Hafnium and Terbium, scarcity-driven spikes, and how Strategic Metals Invest facilitates investor buybacks.[00:30:00] Interview with Guest: Louis O’ConnorLouis breaks down the logistics of physically owning metals, how storage works in a Frankfurt vault, and what the investment process looks like for private clients.[00:46:30] Key Takeaways:Rare earths are no longer obscure—they’re the new oil. With growing global demand and limited supply, early investors have a unique opportunity to benefit from scarcity and geopolitical shifts.About the Guest: Louis O’ConnorLouis O’Connor is the founder of Strategic Metals Invest, a company that offers private investors the opportunity to own physical rare earth and strategic metals typically reserved for industrial use. With a background in global real estate and international business, Louis brings a unique perspective to alternative assets. His firm partners with over 4,000 industry clients and operates a secure logistics platform in Frankfurt. He is a recognized thought leader in the emerging rare earth investment space.Mentioned in this Episode:Strategic Metals InvestFreedom Fest ConferenceUS Geological Survey – Critical Minerals ListConnect with Louis O’Connor:Strategic Metals InvestLinkedinGet Involved:Subscribe to the podcast for more interviews with successful and interesting people! Please review and follow us on social media for the latest updates.Subscribe & Follow:SpotifyApple PodcastsYouTubeContact:For feedback or questions, reach us at https://garretwong.com/contact/

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