【市场探“涨”】半个月上涨超10%，拐点来了？

Core Viewpoint - The recent surge in prices of various chemical and industrial products, including lithium hexafluorophosphate, indicates a potential recovery in the market, raising questions about the drivers of this price increase, its sustainability, and the impact on industry performance and competition [1] Price Trends and Drivers - As of August 15, the average price of domestic lithium hexafluorophosphate reached 55,200 yuan per ton, an increase of over 10% since the end of July [2] - Although this price is significantly lower than the historical peak of 590,000 yuan per ton in 2022, it has sparked discussions about a possible turning point in the industry cycle [2] - The recent rebound in battery-grade lithium carbonate prices, which rose from under 60,000 yuan per ton to 82,700 yuan per ton (a nearly 40% increase), is a direct driver of the price increase for lithium hexafluorophosphate [2] Demand and Supply Dynamics - The growth in downstream demand, particularly from new energy storage installations, has supported the price of lithium hexafluorophosphate, with a reported 29% increase in installed capacity compared to the end of 2024 [2] - In July, the demand for lithium hexafluorophosphate reached 22,500 tons, while supply was slightly higher at 22,800 tons, indicating a tightening market [2] - The current nominal monthly production capacity for lithium hexafluorophosphate is 36,600 tons, with effective capacity at 24,500 tons, and demand is expected to exceed 24,600 tons starting in September [3] Industry Outlook - Following a significant price drop to 47,000 yuan per ton in the second quarter of this year, the industry faced widespread losses, leading some companies to reduce or halt production [3] - Market sentiment is cautiously optimistic, with expectations for a slight price increase, potentially reaching 60,000 yuan per ton in the short term, although the extent of price increases may be limited due to rising raw material costs [3]