VSA report Dec 13th17 Dec 2018 10:44
We initiate coverage with a Buy recommendation and target price of 115p/sh
Investment Case
We believe that Bacanora Lithium (BCN LN)# has positioned itself as one of the most significant lithium projects
globally and has delineated a path to construction and production. The weakness in the shares this year, primarily
caused by the decline in off spec lithium prices in China was compounded by the delay in completion of the project
financing. However, we are convinced that the fundamentals of the project are robust with attractive economics, a
strong operational team and viable processing capability. The decline in valuation therefore offers investors a highly
attractive risk reward profile. Although the pilot plant significantly derisks the process risk with a market capitalisation
of just £35m we believe that investors are deeply compensated for risks surrounding execution and the perception
surrounding BCN being the first lithium producer to commercially exploit a soft rock deposit.
Investors should be reassured by the already strong list of expert shareholders and industry specialist groups that are
backing the Sonora project. The initial drawdown of US$25m from the RK Mining facility means final engineering work
is underway, along with preparations for construction. Project financing does, however, remain the key hurdle.
Although following our recent site visit, we are convinced of the asset potential and ability of the management team to
execute development.
So