3 6 Ke·2025-11-28 09:13Core Viewpoint - The price of lithium carbonate has surged significantly in November, breaking the important threshold of 100,000 yuan/ton, indicating a shift in market dynamics and demand-supply narratives [1][2][9]. Group 1: Price Movement - Lithium carbonate prices rose sharply, reaching a peak of 102,500 yuan/ton on November 20, 2023, after starting at 78,060 yuan/ton on November 5, marking a substantial increase [2][3]. - The main futures contract for lithium carbonate, LC2601, saw a remarkable increase of 19.26% in November, making it the top performer in the commodity market [1][2]. Group 2: Demand Dynamics - The demand for lithium carbonate is primarily driven by the energy storage and power battery sectors, with expectations that global lithium demand will reach 2 million tons by 2026 [1][3]. - The recent surge in demand is attributed to the rapid growth in renewable energy integration and electric vehicle production, with predictions of a 30% increase in lithium demand by 2026 [3][4]. Group 3: Supply Constraints - Supply-side constraints are emerging, particularly in major lithium production areas like Jiangxi, where environmental regulations and power supply issues have reduced operational rates to around 55% [8][9]. - The overall inventory of lithium carbonate has decreased significantly, with registered warehouse receipts dropping from 42,400 contracts in early October to 27,100 contracts by November 26, indicating tightening supply conditions [9]. Group 4: Market Sentiment and Speculation - Market sentiment has been bolstered by optimistic forecasts from leading companies in the lithium sector, contributing to increased trading activity and speculation in the futures market [4][5]. - The trading volume for lithium carbonate futures reached a record high of 25.06 million contracts in November, reflecting heightened market activity and investor interest [4]. Group 5: Future Price Projections - Analysts suggest that while prices could potentially reach 150,000 to 200,000 yuan/ton under extreme conditions, such scenarios depend on various factors including supply disruptions and unexpected demand surges [10][11]. - A more balanced scenario predicts a slight oversupply in 2025, with average prices likely returning to the range of 70,000 to 100,000 yuan/ton based on historical trends and cost structures [10].