JPMorgan Chase has unveiled a major Security and Resiliency Initiative, pledging up to $1.5tn over the next decade to facilitate, finance and invest in industries considered critical to national economic security. 

The initiative aims to address urgent requirements in important sectors, from critical minerals to “frontier” technologies, and fortify US supply chains that have been exposed by geopolitical risks and over-reliance on foreign sources. 

The investment bank had already planned to facilitate and finance approximately $1tn over the next decade to support clients in key industries. JPMorgan Chase now aims to increase this amount by up to $500bn, representing a 50% increase. These efforts will encompass both middle-market companies and large corporate clients. 

As part of this initiative, JPMorgan Chase plans to invest up to $10bn in direct equity and venture capital to support select companies in the US, aiming to enhance their growth, encourage innovation and speed up strategic manufacturing. 

JPMorganChase chairman and CEO Jamie Dimon said: “It has become painfully clear that the United States has allowed itself to become too reliant on unreliable sources of critical minerals, products and manufacturing – all of which are essential for our national security. 

“Our security is predicated on the strength and resiliency of America’s economy. America needs more speed and investment. It also needs to remove obstacles that stand in the way: excessive regulations, bureaucratic delay, partisan gridlock and an education system not aligned to the skills we need.” 

The initiative focuses on 27 specific sectors including mining, solar and nuclear energy, battery storage, nanomaterials and defence. 

JPMorgan is set to offer customised financing solutions, advisory services, and partnerships to enhance and expand domestic production. 

The bank, which holds $4.6tn in assets and $357bn in stockholders' equity, intends to recruit field experts and establish an advisory council comprising industry leaders. 

To achieve this, JPMorgan plans to advocate for policies that would simplify the permitting process and cut down on regulations that have been barriers to launching new projects in sectors such as mining.  

“This new initiative includes efforts like ensuring reliable access to life-saving medicines and critical minerals, defending our nation, building energy systems to meet AI-driven demand and advancing technologies like semiconductors and data centres. Our support of clients in these industries remains unwavering,” added Dimon. 

In 2020, JPMorgan Chase set limits on financing for global coal mining and coal-fired power as part of its commitment to a low-carbon economy.