Changjiang Securities·2025-11-07 14:45Investment Rating - The report indicates a positive outlook for the lithium sector, suggesting a potential recovery and growth in demand, particularly in the context of energy storage and electric vehicles [2][47]. Core Insights - After a three-year price decline, lithium prices are currently at historical lows, with a significant portion (80%) of demand driven by lithium batteries. The supply-demand balance is expected to shift from surplus to tight balance or even shortage by 2026, driven by improved demand expectations [2][47]. - The report outlines three phases of the lithium sector's evolution in 2025: initial pessimism regarding demand, short-term supply disruptions due to production halts, and a subsequent recovery in demand driven by energy storage [4][15]. - The capital expenditure in the lithium sector has peaked, with a downward trend in supply growth expected from 2026 to 2028. The projected supply growth rates for 2025, 2026, and 2027 are 22%, 21%, and 14%, respectively [5][31]. - The energy storage sector is anticipated to experience significant growth, with lithium demand expected to increase by 68%, 45%, and 35% from 2025 to 2027. The demand from the power sector is also projected to grow steadily [6][31]. - The report emphasizes a strong likelihood of a supply-demand turning point in the lithium industry between 2026 and 2027, with potential for a supply gap as early as 2026 if demand exceeds expectations [7][29]. - The report forecasts a bullish trend for lithium equities, with 2026 expected to be a significant year for lithium carbonate stocks, potentially mirroring the market dynamics seen at the end of 2019 [8][47]. Summary by Sections Review of 2025 - The lithium sector has undergone a transformation with improved supply-demand dynamics due to production disruptions and increased demand from energy storage [4][15]. Outlook for 2026 - The report anticipates a clear trend of supply growth decline and a significant improvement in demand, leading to a potential supply-demand turning point in 2027 [28][29]. Supply and Demand Dynamics - The report highlights a projected decline in supply growth rates and a substantial increase in demand from both energy storage and electric vehicles, indicating a tightening market [5][6][31].