Zhi Tong Cai Jing·2025-11-20 07:07Core Viewpoint - The report from China Merchants Securities indicates that uranium prices are expected to maintain an upward trend, leading to improved profitability for uranium mining companies due to increased global investment in nuclear power and a constrained supply environment [1][3]. Group 1: Nuclear Power Development - Continuous upgrades in nuclear technology are enhancing its status as a clean and efficient energy source, with a growing demand for high-quality electricity driven by electrification and AI [1][2]. - The global nuclear power sector is experiencing a revival, with major nuclear countries increasing investments, particularly in response to regional energy independence issues exacerbated by conflicts [3]. Group 2: Supply Constraints - The supply of natural uranium is limited, primarily relying on the restart of previously closed mines, with potential significant shortages anticipated around 2030 due to aging mines and insufficient new projects [4]. - Historical context shows that uranium prices fell below $20 post-Fukushima, leading to reduced capital expenditures and a stagnation in new developments, which has created a supply gap [4][5]. Group 3: Price Trends - Uranium prices have risen from approximately $20 per pound in 2016-2017 to around $80 currently, with an estimated cumulative industry shortfall of about 100,000 tons from 2015 to 2024 [5]. - Projections indicate that uranium supply deficits will continue, with expected shortfalls of 0.64, 3.19, and 7.91 million tons of uranium by 2030, 2035, and 2045, respectively, supporting the upward price trend [5].