Summary of Conference Call on Cobalt Sector Industry Overview - The cobalt sector is currently experiencing a price increase trend, supported by Glencore's backing of the Democratic Republic of Congo's (DRC) quota system to enhance cobalt prices, with a significant policy announcement expected on September 22, 2025 [1][2] - Cobalt intermediate prices have seen a slight increase since June 22, 2025, from $13 per pound to $13.7 per pound, but the price rise is limited due to high industry inventory levels [3] Key Points and Arguments - Glencore has ceased external sales of cobalt intermediates to control supply and drive prices up, indicating a potential favorable policy outcome for prices [2] - The DRC's extended export ban could prolong transportation cycles, potentially leading to a supply chain disruption if exports do not resume by late October or November 2025 [6] - Current domestic inventory levels are precarious, with an estimated 40,000 to 50,000 tons remaining by the end of 2025, concentrated in a few major companies [5][6] - The cobalt price trend for 2025 is optimistic, with companies like Huayou, Tengyuan, and Hanrui expected to perform well, particularly after the policy announcement [10] Company Performance - Huayou and Tengyuan are highlighted as reliable investments due to their strong earnings potential, with Huayou benefiting from its Indonesian MHP project [10][13] - Luoyang Molybdenum (Luomoly) is viewed as less favorable for cobalt investments compared to Huayou, Tengyuan, and Hanrui, as its price increase has been limited [11] - Rio Tinto Resources, listed in Hong Kong, achieved a profit of 1.4 billion yuan in the first half of 2025 despite low nickel prices, with an expected annual profit of 3 billion yuan, making it an attractive investment due to its low valuation [12] Additional Insights - The lack of significant price increases in cobalt is attributed to the absence of public news stimuli, despite expectations of an extended export ban [9] - The market is advised to closely monitor Glencore's sales policies as they will significantly influence price movements [7][8] - The overall recommendation is to invest in Huayou, Tengyuan, and Hanrui, while also considering Rio Tinto Resources for its low valuation and potential growth [13]

Group 1 - The expectation of a Federal Reserve interest rate cut is increasing, with a projected 25 basis points reduction in the upcoming meeting [1][2] - The U.S. economic data, including a 2.9% year-on-year increase in CPI and a 2.6% year-on-year increase in PPI, supports the Fed's rate cut expectations [2][3] - The industrial metal prices are expected to rise due to improved demand and supply dynamics, with the Zhongzheng Shenwan Nonferrous Metals Index up 58.7% year-to-date [1][2] Group 2 - The industrial metal sector is experiencing a shift from off-peak to peak season, with increased processing rates and supply disruptions providing support for prices [3] - The copper industry is set for growth, with policies aimed at enhancing supply chain resilience and increasing domestic copper resource availability by 5%-10% by 2027 [3] - Companies like Zijin Mining and Luoyang Molybdenum are leading in copper production, with Zijin Mining producing 570,000 tons in the first half of 2025 [6] Group 3 - The prices of non-ferrous metals have shown an upward trend, with copper, tungsten, and molybdenum prices increasing by 10%, 102%, and 21% respectively since the beginning of the year [5] - A significant number of companies in the non-ferrous metal sector reported profitability, with 129 out of 141 companies achieving profits in the first half of 2025 [5] - Companies such as Zijin Mining and Luoyang Molybdenum reported substantial increases in net profits, with Zijin Mining's net profit rising by 18.8% in Q2 2025 [5][6]

Investment Rating - The report maintains a "Positive" investment rating for the industry [9] Core Insights - The report emphasizes the recovery of the silver-gold ratio and the simultaneous rise in copper and aluminum prices due to both domestic and international factors [5][6] - Weak employment data in the U.S. has led to increased expectations for a 50 basis point rate cut in September, which is expected to boost precious metals [5][6] - The report suggests that while gold remains a focus for investment, the recovery of the silver-gold ratio indicates potential for silver as well [5][6] Summary by Sections Precious Metals - The report highlights the weak performance of the U.S. labor market and its implications for precious metals, particularly gold and silver [5][6] - It suggests that gold stocks may experience a quarterly-level resonance in terms of price, valuation, and style due to anticipated rate cuts [5][6] - For silver, the report advises attention to its potential to converge with gold as inflation expectations rise [5][6] Industrial Metals - Industrial metals have seen a broad increase, with LME copper rising by 1.7% and aluminum by 3.8% [6][27] - The report notes that domestic policies aimed at stabilizing growth are expected to enhance demand outlook [6] - It indicates that while demand for copper and aluminum may decline in the second half of the year, supply constraints will limit the extent of this decline [6] Strategic and Minor Metals - The report discusses the strategic reassessment of rare earths and tungsten, with a focus on their long-term value due to government policies and market dynamics [7] - It highlights the upward price trend for cobalt and nickel, driven by supply constraints and increasing demand in the battery sector [7] - The report also mentions the bottoming out of lithium prices, with a cautious outlook on future price movements [7]

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the significant growth and performance of Luoyang Molybdenum Co., Ltd. (洛阳钼业) in the context of the A-share market, particularly driven by its copper and cobalt production and the rising prices of these metals [1][9]. Company Overview - Luoyang Molybdenum's revenue was approximately 60 billion yuan before 2013, primarily from domestic operations, but it has since expanded through overseas acquisitions, including significant stakes in copper and cobalt mines in Congo and Ecuador [3]. - By 2024, the company expects to produce 650,000 tons of copper and 114,000 tons of cobalt, marking substantial year-on-year growth of 65% and 106%, respectively [3][10]. Financial Performance - From 2020 to 2024, Luoyang Molybdenum's revenue and net profit have shown compound annual growth rates of 17.2% and 55%, respectively, with the latter growing significantly faster due to the strong performance of its mining operations [3][4]. - In the first half of 2025, the company reported revenue of 94.77 billion yuan, a year-on-year decline of 7.83%, but net profit surged by 60% to 8.67 billion yuan, driven by increased production and favorable pricing [7]. Market Dynamics - The price of copper has risen dramatically from a low of $4,371 per ton in 2020 to $10,064.5 per ton, resulting in improved profitability for the company, with gross profit margins increasing from 7.47% to 21% [4]. - The company has also benefited from a reduction in financial expenses, which fell by 44% due to decreased borrowing and interest rates [7]. Future Outlook - Luoyang Molybdenum's future growth is supported by its strategic resource acquisitions and the anticipated increase in copper and cobalt production over the next five years [10]. - The company is expected to maintain a favorable growth trajectory, with copper prices likely to remain strong due to supply-demand dynamics and macroeconomic factors [10][11]. Industry Context - The A-share market has seen significant movements, with the technology and financial sectors leading the way, while cyclical sectors like metals are expected to benefit from a potential shift in market focus [18][22]. - The current valuation of Luoyang Molybdenum, with a PE ratio of 17 and a PB ratio of 3.97, suggests that it remains within a reasonable range without significant bubble risks [23].

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the strong performance of the A-share market, particularly in the technology and non-ferrous metal sectors, with a focus on the significant growth of Luoyang Molybdenum Co., Ltd. (洛阳钼业) and its strategic acquisitions that have bolstered its production capacity and profitability [2][11]. Company Performance - Luoyang Molybdenum's stock has surged over 100% this year, with a market capitalization exceeding 280 billion yuan, ranking just below Zijin Mining in the non-ferrous metal sector [3]. - The company has transitioned from a primarily domestic focus with annual revenues of about 6 billion yuan before 2013 to a global player through strategic acquisitions of various mining assets, significantly increasing its resource base [5]. - By 2024, Luoyang Molybdenum's copper and cobalt production is expected to reach 650,000 tons and 114,000 tons, respectively, marking year-on-year increases of 65% and 106% [5]. Financial Growth - From 2020 to 2024, Luoyang Molybdenum's revenue and net profit have shown compound annual growth rates of 17.2% and 55%, respectively, driven by the growth in its mining operations and rising copper prices [6]. - The average copper price has increased from $4,371 per ton in 2020 to $10,064.5 per ton, contributing to a significant rise in the company's profitability, with gross profit margins increasing from 7.47% to 21% [6]. - In the first half of 2025, the company reported revenues of 94.77 billion yuan, a year-on-year decline of 7.83%, but net profit surged by 60% to 8.67 billion yuan, attributed to increased production and favorable pricing [8]. Market Trends - The article discusses the broader market context, noting that the A-share index has rebounded significantly since early 2024, with financial and technology sectors leading the gains [16]. - The banking sector has seen substantial growth, driven by market preferences and state-backed investments, while the technology sector has experienced a dramatic rise in valuations, leading to concerns about potential bubbles [21][22]. - The article suggests that the next phase of market direction may favor cyclical and consumer sectors, which currently have lower valuation levels compared to the technology sector [23][24]. Future Outlook - Luoyang Molybdenum is expected to maintain strong growth in the coming years, with projected copper and cobalt production reaching 800,000 tons and over 150,000 tons by 2028, respectively [12]. - The anticipated copper price stability, influenced by macroeconomic factors and supply-demand dynamics, is expected to support the company's performance [12]. - Despite the positive outlook, there are warnings about potential market corrections and external economic risks that could impact copper prices and, consequently, Luoyang Molybdenum's profitability [27].

Investment Rating - Industry Rating: Outperform the market (maintained rating) [6] Core Views - The expectation of interest rate cuts has strengthened, leading to upward price movements in both industrial and precious metals [1][2] - Copper prices have shown a strong upward trend, with the recent price reaching 80,810 CNY/ton, driven by seasonal demand and supply constraints [1] - Aluminum prices have also increased, with the Shanghai aluminum price at 21,075 CNY/ton, supported by stable production and improved demand from the automotive sector [1][22] - Precious metals, particularly gold and silver, have seen price increases due to soft labor market signals and expectations of continued central bank purchases [2][27] Summary by Sections 1. Base Metals & Precious Metals - **Copper**: Prices have rebounded due to reduced market supply and stable demand, with domestic copper inventory at 149,000 tons [1][13] - **Aluminum**: Prices have increased due to stable supply and improved demand, with LME aluminum inventory rising to 485,300 tons [1][22][23] - **Precious Metals**: Gold and silver prices have risen, with gold averaging 821.23 CNY/g and silver at 9,773 CNY/kg, supported by macroeconomic factors [2][27] 2. Minor Metals - **Tungsten**: Prices have shown mixed trends, with black tungsten concentrate averaging 286,500 CNY/ton, while market sentiment remains cautious [3][61] - **Rare Earths**: Prices have stabilized, with light rare earth oxide at 575,000 CNY/ton, indicating a potential recovery in the sector [4] 3. Market Predictions - **Copper**: Expected to maintain a high level of volatility, with prices projected to range between 79,600-81,000 CNY/ton [14] - **Aluminum**: Anticipated to fluctuate within the range of 20,400-21,000 CNY/ton [23] - **Precious Metals**: Gold prices are expected to range between 800-840 CNY/g, while silver is projected to be between 9,000-9,900 CNY/kg [28]

Investment Rating - The report maintains a "Market Weight" rating for the non-ferrous metals industry, indicating that the industry index is expected to perform within ±10% of the market index over the next six months [67]. Core Viewpoints - The non-ferrous metals industry has seen a 6.46% increase over the past two weeks, outperforming the CSI 300 index by 4.57 percentage points, ranking third among 31 industries [3][13]. - Precious metals have shown significant growth, with an 18.10% increase in the last two weeks, while energy metals and industrial metals have also performed well, increasing by 10.92% and 7.60% respectively [17][19]. - The report highlights the impact of U.S. economic data on market expectations for Federal Reserve interest rate cuts, which has led to a bullish outlook for metal prices, particularly gold [6][62]. Summary by Sections Market Review - As of September 11, 2025, the non-ferrous metals industry has increased by 54.36% year-to-date, outperforming the CSI 300 index by 38.77 percentage points [13]. - The precious metals sector has seen a year-to-date increase of 67.50%, while energy metals and industrial metals have increased by 49.26% and 48.53% respectively [19][20]. Price Analysis - As of September 11, 2025, LME copper is priced at $10,057 per ton, LME aluminum at $2,679 per ton, and LME nickel at $15,220 per ton [25]. - COMEX gold is priced at $3,673.40 per ounce, reflecting a $157.3 increase since the beginning of September [37]. Industry News - The report notes the release of regulations regarding rare earth mining and processing in China, indicating a tightening control over these resources, which may affect market dynamics [63]. - The report also mentions a significant collaboration between Codelco and SQM for lithium mining in Chile, which could diversify revenue sources for Codelco amid declining copper production [56]. Company Announcements - Western Gold announced a temporary shutdown of production equipment for maintenance, which is expected to last until the end of the year [60]. - Hongda Co. plans to invest 1.59 billion yuan in Duolong Mining, maintaining a 30% stake in the company [61]. Investment Recommendations - The report suggests focusing on companies such as Zijin Mining (601899), Luoyang Molybdenum (603993), and Xiamen Tungsten (600549) due to their strong performance and market positioning [63][65].

Core Insights - The rare metals theme index (930632) has shown a strong increase of 1.92% as of September 12, 2025, with notable gains in constituent stocks such as Yunlu Co., Ltd. (688190) up 6.05% and Dongfang Tantalum Industry (000962) up 5.82% [1] - The rare metals ETF (561800) has seen a weekly increase of 6.45%, ranking first among comparable funds [1] - Over the past year, the rare metals ETF has achieved a net value increase of 85.48%, with a maximum single-month return of 24.02% since its inception [4] Industry Analysis - The supply increase of lithium spodumene is effectively compensating for the shortfall in lithium mica, leading to a marginal growth in domestic production and a return of lithium prices to fundamentals [4] - The cobalt sector is experiencing structural price increases, with a potential short-term benefit from improving demand as the peak demand season approaches [4] - The rare earth industry is undergoing significant supply-side reforms, with a notable increase in magnetic material exports, which rose by 75% month-on-month and 6% year-on-year [4] - The rare earth sector is expected to continue evolving with both valuation and performance improvements due to price increases, supply reforms, and strategic attributes of the sector [4] Key Stocks - As of August 29, 2025, the top ten weighted stocks in the rare metals theme index account for 57.58% of the index, including Northern Rare Earth (600111) and Luoyang Molybdenum (603993) [5] - The top stocks by weight include Salt Lake Co. (000792) at 8.52% and Northern Rare Earth (600111) at 8.49% [7] - The rare metals ETF (561800) serves as an effective investment tool for investors looking to gain exposure to the rare metals industry [7]

Core Viewpoint - The recent surge in Luoyang Molybdenum's stock price by 5.12% to HKD 13.34 is linked to a significant procurement contract by Oracle, valued at USD 300 billion, which has ignited investor interest in the computing power and AI sectors [1] Group 1: Company Performance - Luoyang Molybdenum's stock price increased by 5.12%, reaching HKD 13.34, with a trading volume of HKD 405 million [1] Group 2: Industry Trends - Oracle's procurement contract worth USD 300 billion (approximately CNY 2.14 trillion) has heightened global investor enthusiasm for computing power and AI-related sectors [1] - The application of cobalt materials in the transistor contact layer significantly enhances device performance, particularly in advanced processes like 5nm, by reducing contact resistance and improving transistor switching speed, thereby supporting the performance leap of high-end AI chips [1]

Core Viewpoint - Luoyang Molybdenum (603993)(03993) has seen a stock price increase of over 5%, currently up 5.12% at HKD 13.34, with a trading volume of HKD 405 million. This surge is attributed to a significant $300 billion (approximately RMB 2.14 trillion) computing power procurement contract by Oracle, which has ignited global investor enthusiasm for computing and AI-related sectors [1][1][1]. Group 1: Industry Insights - The computing power industry is experiencing heightened growth certainty and expectations, driven by North American cloud providers achieving positive returns from AI investments and increasing their investments in AI infrastructure [1][1]. - The application of cobalt materials in transistor contact layers has significantly enhanced device performance, particularly in advanced processes like 5nm, where cobalt silicide can greatly reduce contact resistance, thereby improving transistor switching speed and supporting the performance leap of high-end AI chips [1][1][1]. Group 2: Company Developments - Luoyang Molybdenum's copper-cobalt business continues to contribute positively to the company's performance through both volume and price increases. The production in the first half of 2025 has exceeded the planned progress, and future plans include promoting the TFM East District 17K process upgrade project to continue increasing production and reducing costs [1][1]. - The temporary suspension of cobalt exports from the Democratic Republic of Congo for four months, along with declining market inventory levels, is expected to support high cobalt prices, positively impacting the company's revenue [1][1].