Minsheng Securities·2025-08-24 08:34Investment Rating - The report maintains a "Buy" rating for the industry, highlighting potential price increases for various metals due to rising demand and favorable macroeconomic conditions [2][4]. Core Views - The report emphasizes that the expectation of interest rate cuts by the Federal Reserve, combined with improving seasonal demand, is likely to drive up industrial metal prices [2][4]. - It identifies specific companies as key investment opportunities, including Zijin Mining, Luoyang Molybdenum, and China Nonferrous Mining, among others [2][4]. Summary by Sections Industrial Metals - The report notes that the SMM import copper concentrate index decreased by $3.47 per ton week-on-week, indicating stable demand with downstream purchases primarily driven by necessity [2]. - Aluminum production has slightly increased due to the commissioning of replacement capacity, and companies are beginning to stockpile for the upcoming peak season [2]. - Domestic electrolytic aluminum social inventory stands at 596,000 tons, with a weekly reduction of 11,000 tons [2]. Energy Metals - Cobalt supply continues to decrease, leading to expectations of a significant price increase, while lithium prices are expected to remain strong due to market dynamics [3]. - The report highlights that cobalt prices are likely to rise as domestic inventory continues to deplete [3]. - Nickel prices are also expected to increase due to low supply and rising demand from precursor manufacturers [3]. Precious Metals - The report indicates that the Federal Reserve's comments have bolstered expectations for interest rate cuts, which is likely to support gold prices [4]. - The People's Bank of China has increased its gold holdings for nine consecutive months, further supporting the bullish outlook for gold [4]. - The report suggests that if gold prices stabilize above $3,500 per ounce, it could present a significant investment opportunity [4]. Key Company Earnings Forecasts, Valuations, and Ratings - Zijin Mining: EPS forecast for 2024A is 1.21 CNY, with a PE ratio of 17, rated as "Buy" [4]. - Luoyang Molybdenum: EPS forecast for 2024A is 0.63 CNY, with a PE ratio of 18, rated as "Buy" [4]. - China Nonferrous Mining: EPS forecast for 2024A is 0.77 CNY, with a PE ratio of 11, rated as "Buy" [4].