Core Lithium jumps most since Jan 2021 on maiden annual profit

The company recorded a net profit after tax (NPAT) of A$10.8 million ($6.96 million), underpinned by the sale of first lithium products in the second half of the year.

The miner owns and operates Finniss Lithium project, located in the Northern Territory, and lies within a prospective area for lithium.

Starting the ore mining process at Finniss in October 2022, Core Lithium, produced a total of 18,274 metric tons of spodumene concentrate during the year, and shipped 5,423 tons of it.

During the year, the company also announced a 62% increase in the total Finniss mineral resource estimate, highlighting strong potential for life of mine extensions at the project.

“The FY23 financial and operation performance provides a quality foundation for delivering our growth plans in 2024,” said CEO Gareth Manderson.

Demand for spodumene, or lithium ore, from the electric vehicle battery industry is expected to boom this decade as the green energy transition gains momentum.

The company is in agreements with Tesla and Chinese chemicals firm Sichuan Yahua Industrial Group, to supply spodumene.

The miner’s revenue came in at A$50.6 million, where first cargo of spodumene concentrate in May generated revenue of A$30.5 million.

Core Lithium’s shares were up 25.7% at A$0.43 at 0236 GMT, and were set for best day since January 20, 2021.