中信证券：供需缺口料将扩大 铜价有望再攀高峰

Core Viewpoint - In the context of significant disruptions in existing projects and bottlenecks in new projects, global major copper mining companies are expected to see a nearly 5% year-on-year decline in output by Q3 2025, with a continuation of contraction anticipated in Q4 2025 [1] Supply and Demand Analysis - Domestic refined copper apparent demand is expected to remain stable in Q4 2025, but supply may decline quarter-on-quarter due to raw material shortages and potential "anti-involution" effects, leading to inventory consumption days dropping below the five-year average of less than 10 days by year-end [1] - With an upward revision in global economic expectations and increasing trade risks, the fragile low inventory situation may exacerbate price elasticity upwards, with LME copper prices projected to range between $10,000 and $12,000 per ton in Q4 2025 [1] Future Projections - Domestic power grid investment and global AI development are expected to drive steady demand growth, with an anticipated demand increase of approximately 200,000 tons next year [1] - Global refined copper is projected to face shortages of 210,000 tons and 300,000 tons in the next two years, contrasting with a surplus of 280,000 tons last year, indicating a significant shift in market dynamics [1] - The LME copper price midpoint is expected to rise from $9,700 per ton this year to $11,000 per ton [1] Investment Recommendations - The combination of raw material shortages and potential "anti-involution" is likely to support a contraction in domestic refined copper supply in Q4, alongside stable demand, leading to a moderate reduction in domestic inventory [1] - The anticipated low supply and steady demand next year will widen the global refined copper supply gap by 50%, with LME copper prices expected to demonstrate upward elasticity above $10,000 per ton, suggesting investment opportunities in the copper sector [1]