有色钢铁行业周观点（2026年第3周）：持续关注工业金属的战略机会

Investment Rating - The report maintains a "Positive" investment rating for the non-ferrous and steel industry in China [6]. Core Views - The report emphasizes the strategic opportunities in industrial metals, suggesting a focus on this sector as the global trend of de-globalization deepens and the technological attributes of strategic metals increase. With copper prices approaching 100,000, it is seen as a favorable time for strategic allocation in industrial metals [9][14]. - The zinc sector is highlighted as an overlooked basic material in the context of de-globalization, with improving supply-demand dynamics expected to drive prices higher. The report notes that the recent decline in zinc smelting fees indicates ongoing supply tightness, and there is optimism regarding demand from re-industrialization in Asia, Africa, and Latin America [9][14]. - The copper sector is viewed positively, with short-term price fluctuations not affecting the upward trend in equities. The report anticipates improvements in copper prices and smelting fees due to supply constraints and upcoming mine restarts [9][15]. - The aluminum sector is expected to benefit from geopolitical concerns, with China's electrolytic aluminum industry poised to enjoy valuation premiums due to its supply chain security and competitive advantages [9][16]. Summary by Sections Industrial Metals - The report suggests focusing on industrial metals as the market sentiment cools, with potential investment opportunities emerging [9][14]. - Zinc is identified as a critical material with a positive outlook due to supply-demand improvements and infrastructure needs in developing regions [9][14]. - Copper is expected to see price stability and profit improvements for smelting companies as major mines plan to resume operations [9][15]. - Aluminum is projected to experience steady growth in profitability, supported by supply chain advantages and rising demand for aluminum as a substitute for copper [9][16]. Steel Industry - The steel sector is currently facing a weak fundamental backdrop as it approaches the seasonal low around the Spring Festival, with expectations for policy measures to support the industry [17]. - Steel production has seen a slight decrease, with rebar consumption increasing by 8.79% week-on-week, indicating a marginal strengthening in demand [22][17]. - Inventory levels show a divergence between social and steel mill stocks, with total steel inventory slightly increasing [24]. - Steel prices have generally seen a minor increase, with the overall price index rising by 0.15% [36]. New Energy Metals - Lithium carbonate production in December 2025 saw a significant year-on-year increase of 69.09%, indicating strong supply growth in the new energy sector [40]. - The demand for new energy vehicles remains robust, with production and sales showing substantial year-on-year growth [44]. - Prices for lithium and cobalt have risen, reflecting the increasing demand and supply dynamics in the new energy metals market [49][50].