The leader in the global graphite sector, Syrah Resources, has announced a three-year binding off-take with Chinese SOE Chalieco (Chinalco Group)

The leader in the global graphite sector, Syrah Resources, has announced a three-year binding off-take with Chinese SOE Chalieco (Chinalco Group). This is a milestone event for the company. Chalieco will have exclusive distribution rights over the People's Republic of China and Hong Kong for the purchase of between 72 - 88ktpa. Pricing will be negotiated quarterly between the two parties. The detail pertaining to the off-take agreement is high-level, and provides the confidence that banks and lenders require for partial debt-funding of Balama. The forecast pricing (referencing Benchmark Minerals) has a Balama weighted basket-price reaching US$1579/t in 2018, with the +50 mesh product selling for up to US$2590/t. This compares to anticipated operating costs less than US$300/t FOB. With further news-flow expected in coming months, including news on more binding offtake deals, the Definitive Feasibility Study, and debt financing, 2015 is shaping up as Syrah's year. Research here: (VIEW LINK)