Orient Securities·2026-02-23 10:45Investment Rating - The report maintains a "Positive" outlook for the lithium industry [5] Core Viewpoints - The lithium industry is expected to transition from a state of "realistic oversupply" to "future tightness," marking 2026 as a pivotal year for price recovery [19] - The financial attributes of lithium have strengthened, with market expectations likely to lead pricing ahead of fundamental improvements [20] - The absolute price heights may be difficult to replicate, but a gradual increase in the price floor is more certain [21] Summary by Sections 1. Overall Viewpoint Discussion - 2026 is anticipated to be a turning point for lithium prices, moving from a low base to a higher equilibrium due to limited supply elasticity and sustained demand growth [19] - The demand for lithium is projected to maintain a compound growth rate of over 20%, driven by the expansion of renewable energy installations and AI-related infrastructure [19] 2. 2025 Lithium Price Review - In Q1 2025, lithium prices experienced fluctuations due to supply constraints and strong demand expectations, with prices peaking at approximately 78,500 CNY/ton [22] - Q2 2025 saw a decline in prices due to a supply-demand imbalance, with prices dropping to around 60,400 CNY/ton by the end of June [29] - Q3 2025 marked a recovery in prices, driven by supply-side disruptions and seasonal demand increases, with prices reaching approximately 72,700 CNY/ton by September [36] 3. Demand Analysis - The demand for lithium batteries is expected to grow significantly, with energy storage becoming a core growth driver, potentially surpassing 30% of total lithium demand by 2026 [8] - The global electric vehicle market is projected to continue its growth trajectory, although at a slightly reduced pace [19] 4. Supply Analysis - Capital expenditures in the lithium sector have decreased significantly, leading to a structural delay in new project approvals and expansions [10] - The report anticipates limited new supply additions in the coming years, with a projected net increase of 448,000 tons of lithium carbonate equivalent (LCE) in 2026 [18] 5. Supply-Demand Balance Analysis - The report suggests that the lithium market may not require a complete supply clearing to reverse the current trends, as both supply and demand are expected to increase [38] - Inventory levels are seen as a lagging indicator rather than a decisive factor in price movements [39] 6. Investment Recommendations - Companies with expansion projects in the next three years are highlighted as potential investment opportunities, including Dazhong Mining, Guocheng Mining, and Shengxin Lithium Energy [12] - Companies with diversified business models that can stabilize profits amid lithium price fluctuations are also recommended, such as Zhongmin Resources and Yahua Group [12]