The definition of "critical minerals" now essentially spans the entire periodic table, and the global supply chain dependency presents a significant geopolitical reality. With China holding dominant positions across most strategic mineral reserves, we're entering a new era of resource competition. This shift directly impacts energy transition timelines, defense capabilities, and infrastructure development worldwide. For investors and market participants, understanding these supply chain dynamics becomes crucial—resource scarcity, pricing volatility, and geopolitical tensions will increasingly shape asset allocation strategies and market movements in the coming years.