Shares of Pilbara Minerals Ltd (PLS.AU) surged 5.71% in Friday's trading session, as positive signals emerge for the lithium market. The Australian lithium producer's stock rally comes amid news of a significant lithium supply deal in the battery materials sector, potentially indicating growing demand for the critical mineral.

While not directly involved, Pilbara Minerals' stock appears to be benefiting from broader market optimism sparked by SK On's recent agreement with EcoPro Innovation. The deal, announced late Thursday, will see SK On secure up to 6,000 tons of locally produced lithium hydroxide from EcoPro Innovation by the end of 2025. This quantity is sufficient to power approximately 100,000 electric vehicles, highlighting the expanding needs of the EV battery industry.

The agreement between SK On and EcoPro Innovation underscores the increasing focus on securing lithium supplies, particularly those that meet the requirements of the U.S. Inflation Reduction Act. As a major lithium producer, Pilbara Minerals stands to potentially benefit from this trend of growing demand and strategic sourcing in the lithium market. Investors appear to be responding positively to these industry developments, driving up the stock price of Pilbara Minerals and possibly other lithium-related companies.