With so much unfolding in China across the battery metalsspace, we sat down with YJ Lee at the perfect time.
YJ runs a fund focused on the energy transition and bringsdeep expertise in both metals and battery markets. In this conversation, we dig into China’s policy pivot toward anti-involution and its knock-on effects for lithium and EVs. From there we dive deep into lithium itself – covering the demand and supply outlook, the surge in BESS, why inventories are often misunderstood, and plenty more.
Follow YJ on Twitter: @usuallyYJLee
Recorded 19 August 2025.
TIMESTAMPS
(00:00) Introduction
(02:06) China's Anti-Evolution Policy Impact on Lithium Markets
(04:40) China's Competitive Market Dynamics
(14:20) Licensing in China's Lithium Industry
(20:00) The Growing Demand for EVs
(24:14) Astounding Growth in BESS
(25:17) China's Commercial Battery Economics
(27:37) Solar and Battery Integration
(28:33) LFP Dominance
(29:25) CATL and Sodium-Ion Batteries
(31:36) Lithium Market Dynamics
(40:06) Global EV Adoption Trends
(42:51) Overrated or Underrated: Quick Fire Segment
(45:40) Closing Remarks and Reflections
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