South Korea\'s battery industry is seen entering a broader uptrend from the first quarter as lithium carbonate spot prices more than doubled to the low $20s per kg. Delayed mine restarts in China tightened supply while strong energy storage system installations supported demand. From the second quarter, higher lithium prices are expected to be reflected in cathode material selling prices, enabling provision reversals and improving profitability. Export data show rising cathode volumes and prices.

Robert Kiyosaki warned that deepening inflation and instability in pension systems are emerging from structural changes that began in 1974. He cited the shift to the petrodollar system and the move from lifetime pensions to defined-contribution plans such as 401(k) and IRA. He also raised concerns about pressure on social security and Medicare, and urged people to hold gold, silver and bitcoin and improve financial education.