Rules & Regulations - Artificial intelligence (AI), Electic Vehicles (EV) and Lithium!

As the realms of technology, sustainability, and global policy continue to intersect, recent developments in the fields of artificial intelligence (AI), electric vehicles (EVs), and lithium (also referred to as "White Gold"), have been making waves across international markets.

From the proposed AI regulations shaping the future of tech giants like Microsoft and Nvidia to the growing EV market influenced by progressive government policies, and the implications of Africa's ban on unprocessed lithium exports, these pivotal changes have far-reaching implications for businesses, investors, and consumers alike.

In this article, we will be looking at some of the companies with the most shareholders on the platform involved in the space, exploring the dynamic landscape shaped by regulatory reforms and industry dynamics, and understanding the implications for technology, EVs, and lithium.

AI and Regulations

Recently, the US government proposed new AI regulations that significantly impact companies like Microsoft and Nvidia (two of the most held stocks on the EasyEquities platform), as well as other companies developing and using AI technologies. The regulations are designed to promote the responsible development and use of AI while protecting the privacy and civil liberties of Americans. 

One key provision of the regulations mandates thorough evaluations of AI systems before deployment, ensuring their safety, security, and intended functionality. The rules further advocate for the implementation of effective labeling and content-tracing mechanisms, enabling Americans to discern AI-generated content.

Moreover, these regulations come in the wake of the US government's decision to restrict exports of GPUs (Graphics processing units) to China. This emphasizes the need for robust domestic innovation and secure technological infrastructure amidst global tensions and competition. They also encourage responsible innovation, competition, and collaboration through investments in AI education, training, research, and development, while addressing intellectual property concerns. Additionally, they aim to promote a fair, open, and competitive environment for AI and its related technologies. 

Nvidia, a leading manufacturer of GPUs essential for training and running AI systems, could experience increased demand for its products and services due to the regulations. Additionally, Nvidia may need to invest in new research and development to ensure that its GPUs can meet the needs of the next generation of AI systems. 

As a major player in the AI market, Microsoft offers a wide range of AI-powered products and services. The regulations could require Microsoft to make changes to its AI systems to ensure they are safe, secure, and fair. For example, Microsoft may need to invest in more rigorous testing and evaluation of its AI systems or develop new mechanisms to protect the privacy and civil liberties of users. Beyond America, Microsoft announced that it will invest A$5 billion in expanding its Australian cloud and AI infrastructure over the next two years, marking the largest investment in Australia in 40 years, a jurisdiction yet to follow suit with regulations. 

It’s also interesting to know that regulations around AI use have been supported by Microsoft and Nvidia. The new AI regulations are likely to have a positive impact on the AI industry as a whole, ensuring that AI is developed and used in a responsible and ethical way and that it benefits all Americans, but could potentially increase competition as well.

Electric vehicle (EV) and government policy

Electric vehicle (EV) markets worldwide are growing rapidly, driven by various factors such as government support, consumer awareness, and declining costs. Policy developments play a crucial role in driving EV adoption, and recent announcements in the European Union and the United States are expected to significantly impact the pathway to zero-emission road transport. Tesla and Nio, two of the world's leading EV companies, are well-positioned to capitalize on these policy developments. Both companies have a strong track record of innovation and execution and are heavily investing in new products and technologies.

One of the most significant policy developments is the increasing focus on the heavy-duty vehicle (HDV) segment. HDVs, such as trucks and buses, contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions from the transportation sector. Governments worldwide are setting ambitious targets for the electrification of HDVs, and Tesla is leading in this space. Tesla is already shipping its Semi truck and is developing a range of other HDV products, including a heavy-duty pickup truck and a long-haul truck. 

Another key policy development is the shift toward electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE). EVSE, or charging infrastructure, is essential for the widespread adoption of EVs. Governments globally are investing in EVSE deployment, and both Tesla and Nio are also investing in this area. Tesla is already the world's leading provider of EV charging infrastructure and is rapidly expanding its network. Nio is also investing heavily in EVSE and is building a network of charging stations and battery swap stations in China and other markets.

The European Union has set ambitious targets for EV adoption and is phasing out the sale of new gasoline and diesel cars by 2035. The United States has also set ambitious targets for EV adoption, and the Inflation Reduction Act, passed in August 2022, provides significant financial incentives for purchasing EVs. The outlined policy developments are supportive of electric vehicle adoption, expected to boost demand for Tesla and Nio's products. Both companies garner substantial investor interest in the EasyEquities platform.

Consequently, these policy developments are likely to have a positive impact on investors in both companies. The success of the EV rollout hinges on several factors, including production costs and the minerals required to produce more EVs and make them accessible to the broader market.

Lithium "White Gold" and the recent export ban from Africa

African countries like Ghana, Namibia, and Zimbabwe have embarked on a “process it from home journey,” banning the export of unprocessed lithium. Lithium is mainly used in rechargeable lithium-ion batteries for electronic devices, electric vehicles, and renewable energy storage systems. The move to ban unprocessed lithium could create new opportunities for miners in these countries to set up processing plants in Africa and capture more value from the lithium supply chain, leading to increased investment.  Mo Ibrahim Foundation revealed that Africa holds about 30% of the world's mineral reserves, and according to the United States Department of Commerce, Zimbabwe has the largest lithium deposits across Africa.

So far, countries like China and the United Arab Emirates have been eyeing Zimbabwe’s lithium. In fact, one Chinese minerals company launched a $300 million lithium processing facility at its Arcadia mine in Zimbabwe, acquired from Australia's Prospect Resources last year. As it stands, Prospect still has a presence in Zimbabwe through its Step Aside Lithium Project, where it also announced significant lithium discovery earlier this year. Looking at investor trends in the lithium market, Core Lithium and Pilbara Minerals are among the companies with significant investments on the EasyEquities platform.

Both Core Lithium and Pilbara Minerals do not have operations in Africa but instead focus on lithium projects in Australia. Therefore, the ban on the export of unprocessed lithium in Africa is unlikely to significantly impact them as they operate in Australia. Earlier this year, the Australian Resource Minister mentioned that a tax break for lithium processing plants, among other critical minerals projects, is under consideration. As a result, the impact of the ban on raw lithium exports will depend on several factors, including the willingness of foreign investors to set up processing plants in Africa, the level of insecurity in these countries, and the response of other African nations.

Round-up 

Investors in the tech, electric vehicle, and lithium mining sectors should consider recent developments. The proposed US AI regulations might benefit Nvidia and Microsoft, fostering demand for their AI products ethically. Policy shifts favour Tesla and Nio for their electric vehicles.

Meanwhile, the ban on unprocessed lithium exports by Ghana, Namibia, and Zimbabwe might create opportunities for African miners but could also fragment the market. Despite these factors, the long-term outlook remains positive due to the global clean energy transition and digital economy growth