Orient Securities·2025-07-13 15:10Investment Rating - The report maintains a "Positive" investment rating for the non-ferrous and steel industry [5] Core Viewpoints - The current market performance of the non-ferrous steel sector is driven by political policy risk premiums rather than fundamental earnings or growth adjustments [8][14] - There is a significant concern regarding the supply chain security in the context of long-term US-China competition, particularly with strategic metals like copper [15] - The imposition of high tariffs on copper is seen as a market manifestation of political policy risk premiums, influencing inventory behaviors [16] - Non-market strategies, such as US government investments in rare earths, highlight the strategic importance of these materials beyond mere economic considerations [17] Summary by Sections Non-Ferrous and Steel Industry Overview - The report discusses the political policy risk premium affecting the non-ferrous steel sector, suggesting that current valuations may exceed fundamental support [8][14] - It emphasizes the need to consider long-term supply chain and national defense requirements when evaluating market premiums [14] Steel Industry Dynamics - Steel demand and production have both decreased, with a slight week-on-week decline in rebar consumption by 1.50% and a year-on-year drop of 5.85% [18][23] - Total steel inventory is expected to decline further, with social inventory down by 0.23% and year-on-year down by 29.02% [25] - The report anticipates a rebound in steel prices due to industry restructuring and reduced competition, with the overall steel price index rising by 1.14% [38][39] New Energy Metals - In May 2025, China's lithium carbonate production surged by 31.37% year-on-year, indicating strong supply growth [43] - The demand for new energy vehicles remains robust, with production and sales of electric vehicles increasing significantly [47] - Lithium and cobalt prices are on the rise, while nickel prices have shown a downward trend [52][53]