President Donald Trump took significant action to reshape the U.S. approach to critical minerals. He signed an executive order designed to fast-track deep-sea mining permits under the Deep Seabed Hard Minerals Resource Act. This move aims to reduce reliance on China for vital metals, such as nickel, copper, and manganese, which are essential for electric vehicles, renewable energy, and defense technologies.
This decision could have a profound impact on the U.S. economy. With more than 1 billion metric tons of polymetallic nodules located off the U.S. continental shelf, this new initiative could increase GDP by up to $300 billion. Additionally, it has the potential to create 100,000 jobs in the next decade. However, companies must still overcome regulatory and environmental challenges to tap into these resources.
As the deep-sea mining landscape shifts, Odyssey Marine Exploration (OMEX) stands out as a key player. The Florida-based company specializes in subsea mineral exploration and has made impressive progress. OMEX focuses on reconnaissance, nodule processing technology, and joint-venture pipeline development. The company’s shares have surged nearly 200% over the past month due to the new policy, signaling growing investor interest. For investors seeking a high-potential opportunity, OMEX could be a promising option.
OMEX has built a solid reputation over the past 30 years. Initially known for its shipwreck recovery work, it gained fame after discovering a Spanish treasure ship worth $500 million. However, the company lost the treasure in a legal dispute with Spain. Since then, Odyssey has transitioned into ocean mining and is now focused on exploring critical minerals in projects near the Cook Islands and Papua New Guinea.
Currently valued at $38 million, OMEX’s market cap is relatively small. Despite its volatile stock history, the company is seeing renewed interest. In 2025, its shares climbed 66% due to positive developments in its seabed mining projects. However, the stock remains down 66% from the previous year, reflecting the speculative nature of early-stage ocean mining ventures.
As the deep-sea mining industry continues to evolve, companies like Odyssey Marine Exploration are in an ideal position to capitalize on new opportunities. The shift in policy could open up doors to vast economic potential, especially as the world increasingly relies on critical minerals for advancing technologies. Investors looking for high returns may find that deep-sea mining offers compelling prospects. As the market evolves, deep-sea mining could become a major driver of U.S. economic growth.
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