Foreign investment in Germany has plunged to its lowest level since 2009, reflecting deep concerns about the country’s competitiveness. High taxes, costly energy, and bureaucratic hurdles are among the factors steering global investors and corporations toward more business-friendly European destinations.

A $3.6 billion London-based investment firm has reignited operations at a Southside Virginia mine and processing plant, marking a pivotal step in securing a U.S.-based supply chain of critical minerals.