
Investment Rating - The report maintains a "Buy" rating for the company, Zijin Mining [6][7]. Core Views - Zijin Mining is positioned as a leading global mining company with significant reserves of copper, gold, lithium, and molybdenum. The company aims to achieve its key economic targets two years ahead of schedule, with copper production expected to reach 1.5-1.6 million tons and gold production 1-1.1 million tons by 2028 [6][7]. - The company has demonstrated strong growth potential, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 23% for copper and 8% for gold production over the past decade [34][38]. - Zijin Mining's strategy includes both external acquisitions and internal exploration, leading to rapid resource growth. The company has successfully acquired several mines during periods of low commodity prices, enhancing its production capacity [6][34]. Summary by Sections 1. Global Copper and Gold Leader - The company ranks fifth globally in copper production and seventh in gold production, with significant reserves of 32.9 million tons of copper and 1,119.6 tons of gold as of mid-2024 [15][20]. - The company has ambitious plans to increase its production capacity significantly by 2028, aiming for a total output of 1.5-1.6 million tons of copper and 100-110 tons of gold [26][27]. 2. Strong Low-Grade Ore Processing and Large-Scale Construction - Zijin Mining has a mature experience in low-grade ore mining and a strong capability in integrated large-scale development, which allows for shorter construction periods and lower costs [28][29]. - The company has seen a substantial increase in its copper and gold resource volumes, with a 10-year CAGR of approximately 22% for copper and 12% for gold [34][38]. 3. Focus on Copper and Gold Mining Regions - The company is expanding its copper production through several major projects, including the second phase of the Jilong Copper Mine and the Kamoa Copper Mine, which are expected to significantly boost output [49][50]. - In the gold sector, Zijin Mining is actively acquiring and upgrading existing mines, with several projects expected to enhance gold production in the coming years [59][60]. 4. Financial Performance and Projections - The company is projected to achieve net profits of approximately 31.97 billion, 38.89 billion, and 44.39 billion yuan for the years 2024, 2025, and 2026, respectively, with corresponding price-to-earnings ratios of 14, 11, and 10 [6][7][22]. - The report highlights a strong cash flow position, with operating cash flow increasing from 8.6 billion yuan in 2016 to 36.1 billion yuan in the first three quarters of 2024 [34]. 5. Market Dynamics and Price Trends - The report anticipates a long-term upward trend in gold prices due to geopolitical factors and a shift in central bank purchasing behavior, while copper prices are expected to remain strong due to supply constraints [6][7].