Group 1 - UBS research indicates that the global aluminum market may continue to experience supply tightness, benefiting Chinese companies, and has reiterated a "Buy" rating for China Hongqiao (01378), raising the target price from HKD 28 to HKD 38.6 [1] - The global aluminum demand growth rate is projected at 4% for 2026/27, while supply growth is expected to be only 1-2%, potentially leading to a market shortage and a decline in visible inventory, which supports a sustained increase in aluminum prices [2] - China’s aluminum production capacity is strictly limited to 45.2 million tons per year, with utilization rates exceeding 98%, nearing policy limits, and limited new capacity additions expected in the coming years [2] Group 2 - UBS forecasts an increase in aluminum prices for China, raising the 2026 price estimate by 5% to CNY 22,000 per ton and the 2027 estimate by 7% to CNY 23,000 per ton, driven by tight supply and strong demand [2] - The London Metal Exchange aluminum price forecast has been raised by approximately 15%, influenced by rising copper prices leading to increased demand for aluminum as a substitute [2] - As an industry leader, China Hongqiao is expected to benefit from the constrained supply and favorable pricing environment, with UBS raising its net profit forecasts for the company by 11% for 2026 and 16% for 2027 based on higher aluminum price expectations [3]
瑞银看好中国铝行业：供应持续紧张，上调中国宏桥目标价至38.60港元