Shang Hai Zheng Quan Bao·2025-12-18 14:33Group 1 - The energy metal sector is experiencing a surge in demand driven by a dual catalyst of supply restructuring and explosive demand, particularly in the context of energy storage [1][2] - Major resource countries are actively managing supply through policies such as quotas and licenses, aiming to gain control over resource pricing [1][2] - The demand for carbonated lithium in the energy storage sector is projected to reach approximately 345,000 tons by 2025 and is expected to exceed 500,000 tons by 2026, marking a tenfold increase from 2021 [2] Group 2 - In the lithium sector, the industry is undergoing a deep clearing with a slowdown in capital expenditure, indicating clear bottom signals. The sustained demand for energy storage is expected to drive a tight balance in global carbonated lithium supply and demand by 2026, making lithium prices more likely to rise [2][3] - Cobalt prices are entering an upward channel due to supply management, while nickel prices, despite being suppressed by high inventory, have dropped to deep cost curve levels, with Indonesia's supply management laying the groundwork for future price recovery [2][3] - The domestic production index control for rare earth materials is tightening supply, while resilient demand from downstream sectors such as new energy vehicles and wind power supports a strong price environment [2][3] Group 3 - Recommended companies in the lithium sector include Ganfeng Lithium, Tianqi Lithium, Zhongjin Lingnan Nonfemet Company, Yongxing Materials, and Shengxin Lithium Energy [3][4] - For cobalt and nickel, Huayou Cobalt is highlighted as a potential beneficiary due to strengthened supply-side policies and the industry being at a long-term bottom [3][4] - In the rare earth magnetic materials sector, companies such as Ningbo Yunsheng and Jieli Permanent Magnet are suggested as beneficiaries due to supply tightening and stable high-end demand [3][4]