Trump's Project Vault critical minerals plan spotlights what could be a 'major inflationary problem'

Trump announced the creation of a critical mineral stock pile called Project Vault.

Alex Wong/Getty Images

• Trump announced a new strategic critical minerals reserve for US industries.
• Project Vault is meant to help US manufacturing and reduce dependence on China.
• Experts have raised concerns about volatility risks and inflationary pressures.

Commodities had a wild ride last year, and it's continued so far in 2026. Trump's new Project Vault could be a sign of more volatility to come.