Price correction: Benchmark to continue publication of previous high-energy anode grades and launch new high-charging rate (for EV) variants, reversing 15 October change to specifications

Benchmark Mineral Intelligence will continue publication of its existing Synthetic Graphite Anode High Energy and Natural Graphite Anode High Energy price assessments, reversing the previously announced specification change which took effect on 15 October 2025. In compliance with IOSCO principles, this followed Benchmark's public consultation on the proposed change on 8 September 2025.

Following additional feedback from market participants, the current grades will remain in publication under their existing specifications, while the previously announced (>2.5C, for EV uses) specifications will be introduced as new and distinct grades within the Benchmark Anode Price Assessments.

From 15 October 2025, Benchmark will therefore publish assessments covering four separate high energy anode grades as follows:

This approach ensures continuity for users referencing the existing grades in contracts, market analysis, and historical comparisons, while also providing enhanced pricing transparency for newer, higher charging rate materials targeted towards electric vehicle batteries.

As a result, Benchmark's Synthetic Graphite Anode High Energy, DDP China, ≥99.97% C, 350–370 mAh/g, published on 15 October, has been corrected from RMB 33,500/tonne ($4,690) to RMB 51,750/tonne ($7,245); Benchmark's Natural Graphite Anode High Energy, DDP China, ≥99.97% C, 350–370 mAh/g, published on 15 October, has been corrected from RMB 34,500/tonne ($4,830) to RMB 48,000/tonne ($6,720).

Benchmark’s new anode price grades are priced as follows:

Synthetic Graphite Anode High Energy, DDP China, ≥99.97% C, 350–370 mAh/g (>2.5C, for EV) at RMB 33,500/tonne ($4,690).

Natural Graphite Anode High Energy, DDP China, ≥99.97% C, 360–370 mAh/g (>2.5C, for EV) at RMB 34,500/tonne ($4,830).

Benchmark’s Anode Price Assessments are published monthly on the 15th of the month (or first working day thereafter), by 4:00 pm London time, accompanied by detailed market commentary and analysis.

"By reinstating the existing grades and introducing the new high charging rate specifications as separate assessments, we are responding to our stakeholders' need for both consistency and innovation," said Daniel Fletcher-Manuel, Director of Indexing & Derivatives at Benchmark Mineral Intelligence. "This approach supports accurate benchmarking across the evolving range of high energy anode materials."

Benchmark Price Assessments

Benchmark Mineral Intelligence provides independent, IOSCO-compliant price assessments and market intelligence across the lithium-ion battery and energy transition supply chain. Our pricing coverage includes graphite, anode, cathode, lithium, nickel, cobalt, black mass, and rare earths, supporting transparency and informed decision-making across these critical markets.