Mei Ri Jing Ji Xin Wen·2025-10-14 04:55Core Viewpoint - Ganfeng Lithium has led the lithium sector with a price increase of over 60% in the past two months, approaching a market capitalization of 150 billion yuan, indicating a significant shift in the valuation landscape of the lithium industry [1][3]. Market Dynamics - The market capitalization ranking in the lithium sector has changed, with Ganfeng Lithium at the top, followed by Salt Lake Co. and Cangge Mining, both of which have also surpassed a market cap of 100 billion yuan [1][3]. - The valuation gap between leading and mid-tier lithium companies has widened, highlighting a "stronger gets stronger" trend [1][3]. Investment Trends - Institutional investors have shown strong interest in Ganfeng Lithium, with significant capital inflows noted, such as 999.7 million yuan from two major institutions on October 9 [3]. - The number of institutional shareholders in Ganfeng Lithium increased from 65 in the first quarter to 425 in the half-year report, indicating growing confidence in the company [3]. Valuation Logic Shift - The valuation logic in the lithium sector has shifted from "owning mines" to a combination of "technology and resources," emphasizing the importance of low marginal cost resources and advanced lithium extraction technologies [1][4]. - Ganfeng Lithium's valuation has been boosted by its involvement in solid-state batteries, which are currently favored in the capital market [4]. Competitive Landscape - Salt Lake Co. and Cangge Mining have gained traction due to their low marginal costs and capacity releases, with Salt Lake Co. achieving a gross margin of nearly 50% for lithium products [5][6]. - Cangge Mining has also maintained a gross margin of over 30% for its lithium products, alongside its other mineral operations [5][6]. Future Outlook - The current lithium price remains around 70,000 yuan per ton, slightly above the breakeven point for lithium mining companies, which may affect their valuations [7]. - The industry is witnessing a new valuation opportunity driven by the low marginal cost characteristics of salt lake lithium extraction [12].