How to Invest in Lithium for Beginners in 2025

Learn how to make your first Lithium investment and compare the best places for Lithium trading or long term Lithium investing.
Written by
Updated on Aug 30, 2024
Reading time 5 minutes

Investing in Lithium can be a great way to diversify your investment portfolio and protect your wealth from inflation. There are several different ways to trade or invest in Lithium, from trading at current prices to investing in stocks or ETFs that track the Lithium price.

If you’re new to Lithium investing like this, don’t worry. It’s more straightforward than it might seem. Just like with other investments, the key is to understand the basics of each market, understand your own goals, and take things step by step.

This guide explains how Lithium markets work and outlines the different ways you can invest in Lithium. Our step-by-step walkthrough takes you through the process so that by the end, you’ll feel confident buying and selling Lithium as part of your investment strategy.

Can I invest in Lithium?

Copy link to section

Yes, investing in Lithium is straightforward and available to anyone using an online trading platform. Investing in Lithium and trading Lithium represent different approaches with varying time horizons. 

Lithium investing involves a long-term perspective with the main aim of growing your wealth and diversification. That is, adding different types of investment to your portfolio to spread your risk around[1][1]. Lithium trading, on the other hand, focuses on taking advantage of short-term price movements for quick gains. 

You can invest or trade Lithium through many different avenues, including physical ownership, Lithium exchange traded funds, or via derivatives trading. To decide on the best approach, you need to consider your goals and time horizon before aligning your strategy with your specific objectives. 

Where can I trade Lithium online?

Copy link to section

To invest in Lithium you need to register with an top online commodities broker. Our experts regularly rate and review these platforms. Here are the top Lithium trading platforms where you live, ranked according to a range of factors including cost, security, and the range of Lithium markets.

We found 5 commodity trading platforms for users based in

Plus500 review
4.5
Plus500
Min. Deposit $100
Fees From 2%
No. assets 2800+
Demo account Yes

Plus500 review

CFD service. 82% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider. You should consider whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.

This information is NOT relevant to EU residents who are to be serviced by EU subsidiaries of the Plus500 Group, such as Plus500CY Ltd, authorised by CySEC (Reg. 250/14). Different regulatory requirements apply in Europe such as leverage limitations and bonus restrictions.

eToro review
4.6
eToro
Min. Deposit $100
Fees 1%
No. assets 50+
Demo account Yes

eToro review

51% of retail CFD accounts lose money. Your capital is at risk.

BullionVault
Min. Deposit n/a
Fees
No. assets n/a
Demo account

What is Lithium investing?

Copy link to section

There are different ways to invest in Lithium, from purchasing the physical commodities themselves, to buying shares in companies that produce, transport, or use Lithium in some way, to trading Lithium futures and options contracts.

What all these have in common is that when you invest in Lithium, you are essentially betting on the future price movement of these goods.

Commodity investing can offer several benefits, including diversification of your investment portfolio and a potential hedge against inflation. Because commodity prices can move independently of stock and bond markets, they can help reduce overall investment risk.

Although Lithium prices can fluctuate in the short term, investors generally focus on the potential for steady and long term growth. This long term focus is what differentiates Lithium investors from traders. When trading Lithium, you are more interested in short term price fluctuations than long term performance.

What is Lithium trading?

Copy link to section

In Lithium trading, you trade contracts that represent Lithium, such as futures contracts, options, or exchange-traded funds (ETFs). This is a more short-term approach, and you don’t typically take physical possession of anything, whether that might be goods or share certificates.

A futures contract, for example, is an agreement to buy or sell a specific quantity of Lithium at a predetermined price on a set date in the future[2][2], and it’s a very popular way to trade Lithium.

Lithium trading is a way to profit from Lithium price movements or it can be used by businesses to hedge against price fluctuations in the materials they use, trade, or produce[3][3]. For example, an airline might buy oil futures to lock in fuel prices and protect against potential increases.

This type of trading can offer opportunities for profit, but it also comes with risks, such as price volatility and market unpredictability. Because Lithium prices can be influenced by factors like weather, geopolitical events, and economic trends, they can be more volatile than other asset classes.

Ways to invest in Lithium

Copy link to section

There are several options available when it comes to investing in Lithium and the one you should pick depends on your budget, experience, and the timeframe for seeing returns. Here’s a look at the various ways you can invest in Lithium.

  • Invest in Lithium stock. Perhaps the simplest way of gaining exposure to Lithium is by investing in public companies that are involved in the Lithium industry. The share price of these companies correlate with the price of Lithium (to some extent). You should mainly be looking at companies involved in Lithium manufacturing, producing, and selling. 
  • Invest in Lithium ETFs. Exchange traded funds (ETFs) are funds that trade on a stock exchange like any ordinary stock; however, they contain a selection of different stocks, providing a diversified blend for investors. You can also invest in Lithium commodity ETFs, which are funds that have their value pegged to the physical Lithium price.
  • Invest in Lithium funds. Mutual funds are created when capital from many different investors is pooled together and a fund manager takes control, using their expertise to decide what Lithium assets to invest in and when to sell them. This can be a great way of investing in Lithium without the strain on your own knowledge and experience.
  • Trade Lithium futures. Futures contracts are the most common way to speculate on short term Lithium price changes. Lithium futures contracts are standardized and trade on designated commodity exchanges, such as the Chicago Board of Trade or the Chicago Mercentile Exchange, which manage derivatives trading. Trading Lithium futures contracts require a detailed understanding of what impacts short term prices, and are most suited to someone with experience in the Lithium market[4][4].
  • Trade Lithium CFDs. Contracts for Difference (CFDs) are a popular way to speculate on Lithium price movements outside the US, as they allow you to start trading Lithium without having to own the physical asset itself. This makes them ideal for commodity trading, where it’s not practical to own and store large quantities of Lithium. With CFDs, you can profit from both rising and falling prices. CFDs also offer leverage, which can amplify your exposure to Lithium markets. 
  • Trade Lithium options. Options let you buy or sell Lithium contracts at a predetermined price on or before a specific future date. Like futures, Lithium options trading requires some expertise but allows traders to capitalise on price changes and manage risk, which makes it popular with people familiar with the Lithium market.

How to invest in Lithium – a step-by-step guide

Copy link to section

Investing in Lithium is a simple process. Before you begin, you need to register with an online broker to access the Lithium market. Follow the steps below to learn how to invest in Lithium. 

Step 1. Define your investment timeline

Copy link to section

You should clarify your investment objectives as the first step. Are you looking for long term capital growth, portfolio diversification, or short term speculation?

From there, you can start to craft your Lithium investment strategy. Long term growth or diversification might mean you’re better off investing in Lithium stocks or ETFs, whereas a short term approach means trading Lithium using futures or options.

That decision helps you decide which Lithium broker is best for you.

Step 2. Open a Lithium trading account with Plus500

Copy link to section

Choose an online broker that offers the Lithium markets that you want to invest in.

We recommend Plus500 as the best Lithium trading platform.

It has one of the widest selections of derivatives available, so you’ll find multiple ways to invest in Lithium. 

Plus500 review
4.5
Plus500
Min. Deposit $100
Fees From 2%
No. assets 2800+
Demo account Yes

Plus500 review

CFD service. 82% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider. You should consider whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.

This information is NOT relevant to EU residents who are to be serviced by EU subsidiaries of the Plus500 Group, such as Plus500CY Ltd, authorised by CySEC (Reg. 250/14). Different regulatory requirements apply in Europe such as leverage limitations and bonus restrictions.

Step 3. Analyse the Lithium market

Copy link to section

Before investing, take the time to analyse the Lithium market thoroughly. You can look at factors such as supply and demand dynamics, geopolitical events, and technical analysis. You can use your analysis to help develop an investment or trading strategy. 

Step 4. Make your investment

Copy link to section

It’s time to place your trade when you’ve completed your research and defined your strategy. Search for the market you want to invest in and visit its trading page while logging into your brokerage account. 

Check its price and enter your trade details. You can click buy if you’re investing in Lithium stocks or funds. If you’re trading Lithium using futures or options, consider including a stop loss and take profit level to help protect your position. 

Step 5. Monitor your investment portfolio

Copy link to section

Regularly review your portfolio and its performance. You may want to consider making changes if necessary and be prepared to adapt your strategy as the Lithium market conditions adjust. 

What to consider before making a Lithium investment

Copy link to section

When investing in Lithium, it’s important to approach with a well thought out strategy. Considering a range of factors before investing can save you time and money in the long run. Use the helpful tips below to plan your Lithium trading or investing strategy. 

What are your investment goals?

Copy link to section

Before you begin, you should clearly define your investment objectives. Are you seeking quick gains, long term wealth appreciation, or steady income? Knowing your goals before you start can help guide you in your strategy and also which Lithium derivative to use. 

Does Lithium suit your risk tolerance?

Copy link to section

Commodities like Lithium often experience large price fluctuations due to supply and demand dynamics, global events, and economic changes. Make sure you’re comfortable with the potential for market fluctuations. If you’re a short term trader, then ensure you’ve checked the historical price chart for Lithium to determine if it’s volatile enough for day trading. 

Will investing in Lithium add diversification to your portfolio?

Copy link to section

For long term investors, diversification is one of the core principles to follow. When you invest in Lithium and add it to your portfolio, make sure it complements your existing investments. For example, if you already own several Lithium stocks, you may be better off choosing another commodity. 

Take the time to study the Lithium market dynamics. 

Copy link to section

Like many commodities, Lithium has unique characteristics and supply and demand fundamentals. To trade Lithium, studying the broader Lithium market, especially historical price trends is essential. Before you invest in Lithium, you will need to understand the factors that influence its value. 

Choose the right investment vehicle.

Copy link to section

We’ve already discussed the options available to you to buy Lithium. Each has its own advantages, so you should select the one most suited to your investment goals. For example, trading Lithium is best done via futures, options, CFDs, and spot. If you invest in Lithium, stocks or ETFs are the way to go. 

How does the lithium market work?

Copy link to section

The lithium market functions similarly to other commodity markets. However, not all commodities move in the same way and lithium has a number of unique features that make it independent. Below are some of the key factors at play.

  • Electric vehicle (EV) industry. Electric vehicles are a primary driver in the lithium market. EVs use lithium-ion batteries and as eclectic car sales increase, demand for lithium will also increase. 
  • Energy storage systems. The expansion of energy storage systems, mainly for renewable energy integration and grid balancing, increases lithium demand. Lithium-ion batteries are at the forefront of energy storage solutions, creating a significant demand source for lithium.
  • Technological advancements. Advancements in battery technology could significantly help or hinder the lithium market. The development of solid-state batteries may impact lithium demand, while new tech for lithium-ion batteries could help it. 
  • Environment and sustainability. Lithium mining uses a lot of water and damages land. This has become a widespread problem for the lithium industry and if pressure from governments continues, lithium miners may be forced to practice more responsible mining, which could ultimately increase costs and impact lithium prices.
  • Supply and demand. Like all markets, the biggest driver of lithium prices is the principle of supply and demand. Many factors impact the supply and demand of lithium, including production levels, consumption, and even geopolitical events. 
  • Exchanges. Lithium is traded on several exchanges where buyers and sellers transact. The price of lithium may be slightly different between exchanges. The main lithium exchanges are the London Metals Exchange (LME) and the Chicago Mercantile Exchange (CME).
  • Hedging. The lithium market is often used for hedging purposes. Producers of lithium may use futures contracts to protect against future price fluctuations, resulting in stability for their business practices. 
  • Speculators and investors. Retail investors and traders can impact lithium prices. This is especially the case for short-term movements, where speculators provide liquidity to the market and impact near-term price dynamics. 

Is lithium a good investment?

Copy link to section

This really depends on the key supply-demand drivers, the status of the global economy and your own needs and desires as an investor. lithium has many benefits that make it a good choice for investors. Its main advantage is its role in diversification. It also has a low correlation with traditional assets such as stocks and bonds, which means if you include lithium in your portfolio, you’ll spread risk and add stability. 

You can also use lithium as a hedge against inflation. When inflation rises, the value of lithium historically appreciates. The real world use of lithium also creates constant demand. However, it’s important to remember that lithium investing is not totally risk-free. 

A wide range of factors influences its price, so you’ll need to have a solid understanding of market dynamics before investing. 

What are the risks of trading lithium?

Copy link to section

Trading lithium has the potential for significant rewards but also carries risks you need to be aware of. These risks are the same across the overall commodity market, but for lithium, several more specific ones apply. Below, we’ve explained the main risks of lithium investing.

  • Volatility. The lithium market is known for its price volatility. Compared to other markets, the price of lithium can widely fluctuate daily. It can be costly if you’re unprepared for the volatile nature of the lithium market. 
  • Macroeconomic factors. lithium prices are affected by several macroeconomic factors, such as industrial demand, inflation, interest rates, dollar strength, and geopolitics. Before trading lithium, you should have a good understanding of these. 
  • lithium has no yield. Unlike with other investments such as bonds or dividend stocks, lithium does not provide any income yield. So, any returns you make rely entirely on its value increasing over time. You may encounter long periods of flat prices that can reduce your profits. 
  • Low liquidity. In general, commodity markets have less liquidity than more mainstream assets like stocks or currencies. Low liquidity can be problematic, especially if you’re a trader, as you may have wide bid-ask spreads, which could impact the ability to enter or exit positions. 
  • Regulatory risks. Government policies can play a role in the way lithium prices move. Export restrictions or changes in tax regulations could introduce unforeseen risks. 

Bottom line

Copy link to section

Lithium investing offers the opportunity for diversification and portfolio growth. Lithium has potential benefits as a store of value and hedge against inflation, but it’s essential to weigh the risks such as price volatility and market uncertainty before investing. 

One of the key benefits of the lithium industry is the various ways you can get involved. There is an investment vehicle for everyone, from lithium stocks and ETFs for long term investors to lithium futures and CFDs for short term traders. A trusted and regulated trading platform is a must if you want to navigate the lithium industry successfully. 

FAQs

Copy link to section
01

What is the best lithium trading platform?

02

Is it safe to invest in lithium?

03

Which is the best lithium stock?

04

Is there a lithium ETF?

05

Can I trade spot lithium?

06

What is one futures contract for lithium worth?


Sources & references

Prash Raval

Financial Writer

  • Forex
  • Trading
  • Stocks
  • Investing
  • Football
Prash is a financial writer for Invezz covering FX, the stock market and investing. For over a decade he has traded spot FX full time while running an educational service helping novice traders learn the markets. He has a keen interest in micro and small cap stocks....