Core Viewpoint - The extension of the cobalt export ban by the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is expected to impact cobalt prices positively, as it aims to address the oversupply in the market and may lead to a supply shortage, thus increasing prices [1][2][4]. Cobalt Market Dynamics - Cobalt is a critical metal for energy transition, widely used in battery manufacturing and alloys, with DRC being the main global supplier [2]. - Prior to the export ban, cobalt prices had dropped significantly, with a reported price of $11.26 per pound in 2024, down 25.48% year-on-year [2]. - Following the initial export ban in February, cobalt prices peaked at 250,000 yuan/ton but later fell to 230,000 yuan/ton due to high historical inventory levels and unclear future policies [2]. Price Movements - After the announcement of the extended export ban, cobalt prices showed a notable increase, with "Longjiang 1 cobalt" rising by 22,000 yuan/ton, reaching a price range of 244,000 to 268,000 yuan/ton [3]. Impact on Companies - Companies primarily dealing with cobalt, such as Zhejiang Huayou Cobalt Co., Ltd., Nanjing Hanrui Cobalt Co., Ltd., and Ganzhou Tengyuan Cobalt Industry New Materials Co., Ltd., saw their stock prices rise significantly following the ban announcement [4]. - The DRC's export ban is expected to exacerbate raw material shortages in major consuming countries like China, with potential supply reductions exceeding 100,000 metal tons [4][5]. Company Responses - Companies like Luoyang Molybdenum Co., Ltd. reported a significant increase in cobalt production and sales for 2024, with production up 105.61% to 114,200 tons and sales up 266.23% to 108,900 tons [6]. - Luoyang Molybdenum operates two major mines in DRC, benefiting directly from the price rebound due to the export ban [7]. - Tengyuan Cobalt Industry indicated that they have sufficient safety stock to mitigate the impact of the export ban on their operations, and they maintain good relationships with suppliers to ensure raw material availability [8].

Group 1 - The core viewpoint of the report emphasizes the sustained upward trend in gold prices driven by ongoing U.S. fiscal pressures and geopolitical issues, while silver is expected to enter a phase of catch-up growth [1][2] - The report predicts that the precious metals market will continue to benefit from a weakening U.S. dollar credit system, with gold's price center expected to rise due to multiple converging factors [2][3] - Silver's supply-demand dynamics are projected to maintain a deficit throughout the year, creating a favorable environment for price increases, especially as the gold-silver ratio is expected to converge downward during the easing cycle [1][2] Group 2 - The industrial metals sector is anticipated to experience price increases due to a combination of limited supply and low inventory levels, particularly for copper and aluminum, which are expected to see demand elasticity release [2][3] - The report highlights that the global economy is likely to remain in a loose monetary environment, which will support industrial metal prices and enhance demand driven by domestic policy [2][3] - The energy metals sector is currently in a clearing phase, with demand from sectors like electric vehicles and photovoltaics expected to remain resilient, although the overall supply-demand balance is still skewed towards excess [3] Group 3 - Investment recommendations suggest focusing on companies with significant cost advantages and expected volume growth in the coming years, including Zijin Mining, Chifeng Jilong Gold Mining, Shandong Gold, Luoyang Molybdenum, Tianshan Aluminum, Yun Aluminum, Huayou Cobalt, and Zhongjin Resources [4]

Group 1: Market Overview - The Hang Seng Index fell by 0.48%, down 117 points, closing at 24,357 points, while the Hang Seng Tech Index remained unchanged [1] - The early trading volume in the Hong Kong stock market reached HKD 142.1 billion [1] Group 2: Digital Currency and Stablecoins - Citic Securities highlighted the need to focus on opportunities related to stablecoins in response to the rising international dominance of digital dollars [1] - Stocks related to stablecoins saw significant gains, with Victory Securities (08540) doubling in price, China Everbright Holdings (00165) rising nearly 28%, and Yikang (09923) and Huaxing Capital Holdings (01911) both increasing by approximately 11% [1] Group 3: Sector Performance - Hong Kong Travel (00308) surged over 60% as the tourism industry continues to show positive trends, with the company increasing its tourism investments [3] - Defense and military stocks rose against the market trend, with China Shipbuilding Defense (00317) up 8.5% and AVIC (02357) increasing by 2.88%, as institutions expect a revaluation of defense assets [3] - China Molybdenum (03993) rose by 5.92% due to a new round of cobalt export bans from the Democratic Republic of Congo, which may exceed market expectations, providing strong support for cobalt prices [3] - Ocean Park (02255) increased by over 19% as Xiangyuan Holdings is set to become the new controlling shareholder, potentially leading to complementary advantages [3] Group 4: Company-Specific News - Sinopharm (01801) fell by 3.94% after announcing a 4.9% discount on a share placement, raising HKD 4.265 billion [4] - Kingkey Financial International (01468) dropped over 6% following a profit warning, expecting an annual net loss of no more than HKD 1.25 billion [5]

Summary of Cobalt Industry Report Industry Overview - The cobalt market is expected to face a shortage of 30,000 to 40,000 tons in 2025 due to the export ban from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and limited new supply from Indonesia [2][3] - The global cobalt resources are primarily concentrated in DRC (56% of reserves), Australia (16%), and Indonesia (6%), with China having a high dependency on imports [2][7] Key Points Supply and Demand Dynamics - The DRC government announced a four-month ban on cobalt raw material exports on February 22, 2025, which was extended for another three months on June 21, 2025. This is expected to reduce the DRC's annual production of 220,000 tons by over 100,000 tons [3] - Despite a previous surplus of cobalt, the current market is expected to see a shortage due to the DRC's export restrictions and limited new supply from Indonesia [3][4] - The cobalt demand is primarily driven by the lithium battery sector, with 43% of consumption in power batteries and 30% in consumer electronics [4][15] Price Forecast - Short-term projections indicate cobalt prices could rise to around 300,000 yuan/ton due to inventory depletion and upstream reluctance to sell [5] - The long-term price expectation is between 250,000 to 300,000 yuan/ton, supported by DRC government policies and potential quota systems [5] Major Players - Luoyang Molybdenum Co. (LMO) is projected to become the largest cobalt supplier globally, with production expected to reach 114,200 tons in 2024, a year-on-year increase of over 100% [2][9] - Huayou Cobalt is also highlighted as a key player with significant production capacity in both DRC and Indonesia, potentially benefiting from price increases [6][18] Emerging Supply Sources - Indonesia is expected to become a significant new supply source, with wet nickel production capacity rapidly increasing, projected to yield 40,000 to 50,000 tons of cobalt by 2025 [10][13] Market Challenges - The domestic cobalt industry in China is facing a decline in capacity utilization due to rising raw material prices leading to cost imbalances [14] - The shift in import forms from refined cobalt to crude hydroxide forms is noted, with potential impacts on the domestic market starting from July 2025 due to DRC's export restrictions [4][12] Future Demand Trends - The demand for cobalt in the lithium battery sector is expected to grow, with a compound annual growth rate of approximately 10% anticipated over the next few years [16][17] - The industrial application of cobalt is also projected to see stable growth, particularly in hard alloys and high-temperature alloys [17] Conclusion - The cobalt market is poised for significant changes due to geopolitical factors, supply chain dynamics, and evolving demand patterns, with key players like LMO and Huayou Cobalt positioned to benefit from these trends.

Core Points - The company announced a cash dividend of 0.255 CNY per share (including tax) for A shares [1][2] - The dividend distribution was approved at the annual shareholders' meeting held on May 30, 2025 [1][2] - The record date for the dividend is June 26, 2025, with the ex-dividend date and payment date both set for June 27, 2025 [1][4] Dividend Distribution Details - The total number of shares eligible for the dividend distribution is 21,499,240,619, with A shares accounting for 17,460,842,176 after excluding 104,930,443 shares held in the buyback account [2][3] - The total cash dividend to be distributed amounts to approximately 5.46 billion CNY, with 4.45 billion CNY allocated to A shares [2][3] - The calculation for the ex-dividend reference price for A shares is based on the formula: (previous closing price - cash dividend) / (1 + change in circulating shares ratio) [2][3] Taxation and Payment Procedures - Individual shareholders and mutual funds will have their tax liabilities calculated based on their holding periods, with a tax rate of 20% for holdings of one month or less and 10% for longer periods [4][5] - Qualified Foreign Institutional Investors (QFIIs) will have a uniform withholding tax rate of 10% applied to their dividends [5] - For investors in Hong Kong's Stock Exchange (including both individuals and corporations), the actual cash dividend after tax will be 0.2295 CNY per share [5][6]

Investment Rating - The report maintains an "Outperform" rating for the cobalt industry [1] Core Insights - The global cobalt supply chain is highly dependent on the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), which accounts for over 50% of global cobalt reserves and over 70% of production. In 2024, DRC's cobalt production is expected to reach approximately 220,000 metric tons, a year-on-year increase of about 25%, representing 76.4% of global market share [4][30] - Indonesia's nickel-cobalt projects are reshaping the industry landscape, with MHP production expected to grow significantly, leading to a projected cobalt output of 28,000 metric tons in 2024, accounting for about 10% of global production [4][42] - The lithium battery sector is the main driver of global cobalt consumption, with a projected consumption of 222,000 metric tons in 2024, a year-on-year increase of approximately 14%. The electric vehicle sector is expected to consume about 95,000 metric tons, a 21% increase [4][42] - The DRC's policy adjustments in response to supply-demand imbalances have led to fluctuations in cobalt prices, with domestic prices expected to rebound above 250,000 yuan per ton in 2024 [4] Summary by Sections Supply and Demand Dynamics - The DRC's cobalt production is projected to grow significantly due to the performance of major mining companies like Luoyang Molybdenum, which is expected to produce approximately 114,200 metric tons of cobalt in 2024, a 106% increase year-on-year [4][30] - The DRC's decision to suspend cobalt raw material exports for four months aims to address oversupply issues, which is expected to impact global cobalt supply by over 100,000 metric tons [4] Industry Structure - The cobalt industry is characterized by a concentration of resources, with major players including Luoyang Molybdenum, Glencore, and others controlling significant portions of the market [4][16] - Indonesia's MHP production is rapidly increasing, with a projected output of 323,000 metric tons of nickel in 2024, which will also enhance cobalt production [4][42] Market Trends - The report highlights a recovery in global demand for consumer electronics, with smartphone shipments expected to reach 1.24 billion units in 2024, marking a 6.4% increase [4] - The DRC's cobalt price adjustments and export policies are expected to influence market dynamics significantly, with long-term implications for pricing power in the cobalt market [4]

Investment Rating - The report maintains a "Recommended" investment rating for the copper industry [9]. Core Insights - The report highlights that the production growth of overseas large copper mining companies is low, and there are frequent disruptions. The lack of new large copper mining projects in the coming years will continue to constrain copper supply [9]. Summary by Sections 1. Copper Production in Major Producing Countries - Chile's copper production from January to April 2025 reached 1.752 million metric tons, a year-on-year increase of 3.57% (+60,300 tons). The growth is primarily driven by the Escondida project due to higher mining intensity and improved ore grades. Peru's copper production during the same period was 892,000 metric tons, up 5.59% (+47,200 tons), with significant contributions from the Las Bambas and Toromocho mines [4][18]. 2. Overseas Copper Mining Companies' Production - The total copper production of 15 major copper mining companies in Q1 2025 was 3.012 million tons, a slight increase of 0.1% (+3,000 tons). However, excluding three Chinese companies, the production of 12 overseas companies fell by 3.79% (-96,100 tons) to 2.436 million tons. Notably, Freeport and Glencore experienced significant declines of 20% and 29.95%, respectively [5][9]. 3. Growth in Chinese Copper Mining Companies - Three Chinese companies reported substantial production increases in Q1 2025: Minmetals Resources (+76.1%), Zijin Mining (+9.5%), and Luoyang Molybdenum (+15.7%). The growth for Minmetals was largely attributed to the Las Bambas mine in Peru, which produced 95,700 tons, a year-on-year increase of 70.9% (+39,700 tons) [7]. 4. Future Project Developments - The report notes a scarcity of new or expanded copper mining projects. The Salvador project by Codelco is currently ramping up production, while First Quantum's Kansanshi expansion is expected to contribute additional capacity starting in H2 2025. Other long-term projects include Rio Tinto's Oyu Tolgoi and Antofagasta's Centinela Phase II, with expected production increases in the coming years [8]. 5. Production Summary of Major Companies - Codelco's Q1 2025 production was 324,000 tons, a slight increase of 1.6% year-on-year. BHP's total production was 513,200 tons, up 10.18%, primarily due to the Escondida mine. Freeport's production fell to 393,720 tons, down 20% year-on-year, while Glencore's production dropped to 167,900 tons, a decrease of 29.95% [47][54][60][69].

Investment Rating - The investment rating for the non-ferrous metals industry is "Positive" (maintained) [5] Core Views - The report highlights that copper prices are expected to remain volatile in the short term due to mixed economic indicators from the US, with a recent decline in copper prices following lower-than-expected CPI data [5] - Aluminum prices are supported by continuous inventory depletion and tight spot supply, while alumina prices have seen a slight decline [5] - Lithium prices are under pressure at the bottom, with a slight increase in carbonate lithium prices, but the market is awaiting further production cuts from mining sources [5] - Cobalt prices have seen a slight increase, with attention on potential policy changes in the Democratic Republic of Congo that could impact supply [5] Summary by Sections 1. Industry Overview 1.1 Important Information - US May CPI was reported at 2.4%, slightly below expectations, indicating potential economic impacts [9] - Recent geopolitical tensions, including Israeli airstrikes on Iran, may affect market stability [9] 1.2 Market Performance - The non-ferrous metals sector outperformed the Shanghai Composite Index, with a weekly increase of 3.79% [11] - The sector's performance was led by magnetic materials, gold, and cobalt, while copper, lithium, and aluminum lagged [11] 1.3 Valuation Changes - The PE_TTM for the non-ferrous metals sector is 19.13, with a slight increase of 0.59 [18] - The PB_LF for the sector is 2.21, reflecting a 0.07 increase [18] 2. Industrial Metals 2.1 Copper - Copper prices saw a decline of 1.44% in London and 1.17% in Shanghai, with significant inventory reductions [23] - The copper smelting profit margin has worsened, indicating financial pressures on producers [23] 2.2 Aluminum - Aluminum prices increased by 1.88% in London and 1.79% in Shanghai, supported by inventory depletion [34] - The profit margin for aluminum producers improved significantly due to rising prices [34] 2.3 Lead and Zinc - Lead prices increased slightly, while zinc prices saw a decline, with mining profits narrowing [48] 2.4 Tin and Nickel - Tin prices remained stable, while nickel prices experienced a slight decline, with profitability for domestic nickel enterprises shrinking [61] 3. Energy Metals 3.1 Lithium - Lithium carbonate prices increased by 0.75%, while lithium hydroxide prices decreased [72] - The profitability of lithium refining remains negative, indicating challenges in the sector [72] 3.2 Cobalt - Cobalt prices have seen a slight increase, with domestic refining margins improving [84]

Investment Rating - Industry rating: Recommended [4] Core Viewpoints - The geopolitical tensions and the decline of the US dollar index have led to a strong performance in gold prices, with COMEX gold rising 3.65% to $3,452.60 per ounce this week [23][25] - The market is increasingly pricing in the possibility of interest rate cuts by the Federal Reserve, with expectations of two cuts this year, the first likely in September [3][43] - The uncertainty in the Middle East, particularly regarding Iran and Israel, is contributing to a shift towards safe-haven assets like gold and silver [5][17] Summary by Sections Precious Metals - COMEX silver increased by 0.66% to $36.37 per ounce, while SHFE gold rose 1.42% to ¥794.36 per gram [23][25] - SPDR gold ETF holdings increased by 201,954.41 troy ounces, while SLV silver ETF holdings decreased by 1,090,806.40 ounces [25] - The gold-silver ratio rose by 2.97% to 94.93 this week [25] Base Metals - In the LME market, copper fell 0.24% to $9,647.50 per ton, while aluminum rose 2.10% to $2,503.00 per ton [49] - SHFE copper decreased by 1.17% to ¥78,010.00 per ton, and aluminum increased by 1.84% to ¥20,440.00 per ton [49] - The supply of copper is expected to tighten due to maintenance plans at domestic smelters and the ongoing geopolitical situation [7][8] Copper - The supply side is affected by a downward adjustment in the annual production forecast for the Kamoa-Kakula project and ongoing maintenance at the Cobre copper mine [7][44] - Domestic copper rod enterprises' weekly operating rate rose to 73.21%, but actual purchases are subdued due to high prices [7] - SHFE copper inventory decreased by 5.08% to 101,900 tons, while LME inventory fell by 13.54% to 114,500 tons [74] Aluminum - The aluminum industry operates at over 95% capacity, with minor maintenance plans causing limited supply disruptions [9][78] - Demand for aluminum products has softened, with a decrease in operating rates for various aluminum products [9][78] - SHFE aluminum inventory decreased by 6.91% to 110,000 tons, while LME inventory fell by 2.92% to 353,200 tons [11][78] Zinc - Zinc prices are under pressure due to weak demand, with domestic zinc ore processing fees rising [79] - SHFE zinc inventory decreased by 3.29% to 45,466 tons, while LME inventory fell by 4.36% to 131,000 tons [79]

Core Viewpoint - The tungsten industry is characterized by a significant supply-demand gap, with expectations of a global shortage increasing from 13,000 tons in 2023 to 18,000 tons by 2027, indicating a systemic rise in tungsten prices due to its strategic importance and scarcity [2][3]. Industry Overview - Tungsten is a globally important strategic resource known for its high hardness, melting point, and resistance to high temperatures and corrosion, making it essential in various sectors including transportation, mining, industrial manufacturing, and military applications [7][9]. - The global tungsten reserves are concentrated, with China holding over 50% of the total tungsten resources and production, making it a key player in the tungsten market [14][19]. Driving Factors - The rarity of tungsten resources and continuous innovation in mining technology are crucial for the industry's growth, with global tungsten reserves increasing from approximately 3.3 million tons in 2018 to 4.4 million tons in 2023, reflecting a compound annual growth rate of 5.9% [14]. - Demand for tungsten from downstream industries is on the rise, particularly in aerospace, military, and photovoltaic sectors, with projections indicating that global tungsten consumption could reach approximately 151,100 tons by 2028 [15]. - Technological advancements in mining and smelting processes are enhancing the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of tungsten extraction, making the market more attractive to investors [16][17]. Supply-Demand Structure - The supply of tungsten remains rigid, with China accounting for 52.5% of global tungsten reserves and 82.3% of production in 2024, despite a gradual decline in the quality of tungsten ore due to extensive mining [19][21]. - The Chinese government implements strict controls on tungsten mining, with total mining quotas gradually increasing but remaining limited, which contributes to a tight supply situation [21][27]. - The production cost of tungsten concentrates is expected to rise significantly, with estimates indicating costs could exceed 130,000 yuan per ton by 2024 [27][29]. Price Outlook - The price of tungsten is supported by strong cost factors, with production costs currently ranging from 96,000 to 107,000 yuan per ton, and expected to maintain upward pressure due to increasing mining costs and regulatory constraints [27][29]. - The global tungsten market is anticipated to experience price increases driven by supply constraints and rising demand from various industrial applications [2][3]. Industry Development Trends - The tungsten industry is expected to see continued growth in hard alloy production, with domestic production increasing from 33,800 tons in 2018 to an estimated 58,000 tons in 2024, reflecting a compound annual growth rate of 9.4% [37]. - The demand for tungsten wire, particularly in the photovoltaic sector, is projected to grow rapidly as it replaces traditional carbon steel wire due to its superior properties [53][54].