Xin Lang Cai Jing·2025-12-17 12:04Core Viewpoint - The non-ferrous metal sector showed strong performance on December 17, with the leading non-ferrous metal ETF (159876) rising over 3.8% during the day and closing up 3.27%, indicating positive market sentiment towards the sector [1][10]. Fund Flows - The non-ferrous metal ETF attracted significant capital, with a single-day inflow of 10.13 million yuan and a total of 198 million yuan over the past 20 days, reflecting investor confidence in the sector's future performance [1][10]. Stock Performance - Lithium stocks surged, with Shengxin Lithium Energy hitting the daily limit, Zhongmin Resources rising over 8%, Tianqi Lithium increasing by 6%, and Ganfeng Lithium up nearly 5%. In the lead zinc sector, Guocheng Mining also hit the daily limit, while Xingye Silver Tin rose over 6%. In the aluminum sector, Zhongfu Industrial increased by over 5%, Huafeng Aluminum by over 4%, and China Aluminum by over 3% [3][12]. Macro Factors - In the macroeconomic context, the U.S. added 64,000 non-farm jobs in November, with the unemployment rate unexpectedly rising to 4.6%, the highest in four years. This weak job market increases the likelihood of interest rate cuts by the Federal Reserve, which could support non-ferrous metal prices [4][13]. Industry Insights - Lithium carbonate futures saw a significant spike, rising over 8% to reach 109,860 yuan/ton. The cancellation of 27 mining licenses may impact the supply-demand dynamics of lithium, potentially driving prices higher. CITIC Securities expressed optimism about copper, aluminum, and gold as key investment options, citing limited new copper capacity and increasing demand from renewable energy and AI data centers [5][14]. Investment Strategy - Given the current market conditions and geopolitical tensions, non-ferrous metals are viewed as core assets for medium to long-term investment. The non-ferrous metal ETF (159876) and its linked funds provide comprehensive exposure to various metals, allowing for risk diversification compared to investing in single metal sectors [6][14].