$150 Trillion Mineral Reserves Could Redefine U.S. Economic Power, Says Expert

WASHINGTON, D.C. - July 2, 2025 - As the U.S. national debt soars past $34 trillion, a staggering $150 trillion in untapped mineral reserves beneath federal lands could hold the key to transforming the nation's economic future, according to Jim Rickards, a former advisor to the CIA, Treasury, and Federal Reserve.

“This wealth could pay off the national debt multiple times over,” Rickards asserts.“It's time Americans realized we're far from broke.”

A Game-Changing Resource Discovery

Locked away for decades by regulatory restrictions, these vast reserves - rich in copper, lithium, rare earth elements, and other critical minerals - represent one of the largest untapped resource pools in the world. Experts estimate their value at $150 trillion, dwarfing current economic challenges.

“Recent developments are bringing us closer to accessing this massive asset,” Rickards says.“This could be a turning point for the U.S. economy.”

With global demand for minerals like lithium and rare earths skyrocketing due to clean energy and technology needs, unlocking these reserves could position the U.S. as a global economic powerhouse.

A Forgotten Economic Engine

In the 1800s, America's public lands fueled a “rags to riches” era, where individuals tapped into natural resources to build wealth. Over time, regulations restricted access, leaving these reserves dormant. Now, emerging opportunities could revive this economic engine.

“This isn't a government bailout,” Rickards emphasizes.“It's a chance for investors, businesses, and everyday Americans to benefit from a resource that's part of our nation's foundation.”

A New Path to Prosperity

Rickards argues that leveraging these minerals could reduce reliance on foreign borrowing and stabilize the economy without raising taxes.“Trillions of dollars in wealth lie beneath our soil,” he says.“Accessing it could drive unprecedented growth.”

Analysts suggest that tapping these reserves could create millions of jobs, boost domestic manufacturing, and secure supply chains for critical technologies, from electric vehicles to renewable energy systems.

Why It Matters Now

As global competition for resources intensifies, the U.S. faces a critical moment. Unlocking these minerals could not only address economic challenges but also strengthen national security by reducing dependence on foreign supplies.

“This is about seizing an opportunity to rebuild America's economic strength,” Rickards says.“The wealth is here - we just need to act.”

About Jim Rickards

Jim Rickards, a renowned economic strategist, served as an advisor to the U.S. intelligence community, Treasury, and Federal Reserve. He played key roles in high-stakes negotiations, including the Iranian Hostage Crisis and the Long-Term Capital Management bailout. As editor of Strategic Intelligence, he provides cutting-edge insights on geopolitics, financial policy, and economic trends shaping the future.

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