36氪·2025-07-07 11:02Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the significant price increase of platinum in 2025, which has risen by 45.28% year-to-date, surpassing the performance of gold during the same period [4][3]. Group 1: Platinum Market Dynamics - Platinum prices have surged, with the Shanghai Gold Exchange reporting a price of 324.09 yuan per gram as of June 30, 2025, reflecting a substantial increase compared to the beginning of the year [5]. - The rise in platinum prices has led some jewelry brands to shift focus from gold to platinum, as consumer interest in gold jewelry has waned due to high inventory costs and reduced demand [8]. - The World Platinum Investment Council noted that over 10 new independent platinum jewelry showrooms have opened in Shenzhen's Shui Bei area, indicating a tripling in number [9]. Group 2: Demand and Consumption Patterns - Despite the rising prices, jewelry accounts for only 18% of platinum's total demand, and there are significant consumer challenges associated with platinum jewelry, such as difficulty in purity identification and limited recycling options [13][14]. - The cultural significance of gold in wedding ceremonies remains strong, with gold accounting for 58% of consumption in this context, while platinum lacks a comparable cultural foothold [15]. - Global platinum jewelry demand is projected to decline slightly, with estimates of 135 million ounces in 2024 and further down to 132.5 million ounces in 2025 [16]. Group 3: Supply and Industrial Demand - The volatility in platinum prices reflects a severe imbalance in supply and demand, influenced by factors such as South African supply uncertainties and the growth of the hydrogen industry [18][21]. - Historically, platinum prices peaked between 2000 and 2008 due to industrial demand, particularly from the automotive sector, but have since faced declines due to changes in production and market dynamics [19][20]. Group 4: Investment Opportunities - Companies involved in platinum recycling, such as Haotong Technology, have seen significant revenue growth, with a 129.46% year-on-year increase in Q1 2025 [23]. - The price increase has widened the profit margins for recycling and processing companies, suggesting potential for further profit growth as demand for platinum rises [25]. - The A-share market has reacted positively to these developments, with stocks of companies in the platinum industry, such as Guoyan Platinum and Haotong Technology, reaching near two-year highs [26]. Group 5: Risks for Retailers - Jewelry retailers face both opportunities and risks, as platinum jewelry typically offers higher margins compared to gold [28]. - However, there is a risk of overstocking if retailers misjudge market demand, which could lead to significant inventory devaluation if prices decline [28].