“The gaming between China and the U.S. will boost the value of rare earths as a strategic material,” said Shang Li, an analyst with Citic Securities Co. “We are bullish on the sector.”

OK, I know that Lithium doesn't qualify as a "Rare Earths" mineral.... OK, got that... but still the interplay between the US and China may have something to do with the market view of LAC as a better investment vehicle lately.  Anything that threatens the trade relations between the US and China might be perceived by some to spark more interest in domestic mineral production here in the U.S regarding all minerals, especially those where China has now a controlling interest and if that criteria is used then Lithium qualifies since China owns companies that are big lithium producers and/or have heavy investments in companies from other countries that do produce lots of lithium... LAC at Cauchari-Olaroz is a perfect example since Ganfeng Lithium owns 51% of that operation.  Thacker Pass is just the opposite.  It is owned 100% by LAC.   

https://www.mining.com/web/trumps-sparring-with-china-revives-rare-earths-stock-trade/?utm_source=Daily_Digest&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=MNG-DIGESTS&utm_content=[[post.post_title]