US government buys 10% stake in mining firms, signaling a new strategic investment trend.

In early 2026, the US government began acquiring stakes in American mining companies, including a 10% share in USA Rare Earth to support critical mineral projects. This move follows similar investments in Lithium Americas and Trilogy Metals, which saw significant stock price surges. Financial expert Jim Rickards highlights this as a strategic shift to secure domestic mineral resources vital for technology and defense. He predicts further government involvement in larger mining projects, potentially impacting broader markets tied to these essential materials.