U.S. Government Commits $725M Loan to Energy Fuels (UUUU-US); Stock Surges 16%

The U.S. government, through the Department of Defense's Office of Strategic Capital (OSC), signed a conditional $725 million loan commitment with Energy Fuels (UUUU-US) on June 18, 2026. The agreement aims to expand domestic rare earth processing capabilities, reducing reliance on China and boosting U.S. critical mineral self-sufficiency. Energy Fuels' stock surged over 16% to $17.85 in premarket trading following the announcement. The funding will enable Energy Fuels to diversify beyond uranium production into rare earth separation and metallization, crucial steps for manufacturing permanent magnets. These magnets are essential for electric vehicle motors, wind turbines, and defense applications. This initiative aligns with the U.S. strategy to build a complete domestic supply chain, from mining to magnet production, in response to China's tightening rare earth export controls. Energy Fuels must complete financial, legal, and technical due diligence before the funds are disbursed.