The critical minerals market is entering a new strategic phase. As the U.S. advances Project Vault—a strategic reserve designed to strengthen access to critical minerals and reduce supply chain dependence on concentrated foreign sources—market participants must reassess procurement, pricing, trade relationships, and long-term investment strategy. In this Q1 2026 briefing, S&P Global Market Intelligence explores how evolving policy moves, allied trade coordination, and shifting commodity fundamentals are reshaping the outlook for critical minerals worldwide. 

In our Critical Minerals Briefing report, you’ll discover:

• How Project Vault could impact supply security, domestic sourcing, and market trends.
• The effect of new trade deals, including a proposed trade zone, on mineral flows and prices.
• Insights on FORGE and supply chain partnerships building resilient, diverse mineral networks.
• Market outlooks for key commodities amid supply issues, geopolitics, and energy demand.