Core Viewpoint - The rapid development of AI globally is driving a surge in electricity demand, positioning the Chinese aluminum sector as a strong investment opportunity due to significant electricity cost advantages, multiple growth drivers on the demand side, and tightening supply conditions [2][3]. Group 1: Investment Outlook - Bank of America has raised its profit forecasts for China Hongqiao (01378) for 2026-2030 by 5-14%, increasing the target price from HKD 35 to HKD 38, while maintaining a "Buy" rating [2]. - The supporting logic includes a dividend yield of 6%-7%, the commissioning of the Ximangdu project by the end of 2025, share buybacks, and a valuation advantage with a 9x price-to-earnings ratio in 2026 [2]. Group 2: Cost Advantages - Chinese aluminum producers benefit from a significant electricity cost advantage, with electricity prices in China being 20% lower than in India and 30%-60% lower than in Europe and the U.S. [2]. - Aluminum production requires 13,500 kWh of electricity per ton, resulting in a cost advantage of RMB 1,200-3,600 (approximately USD 170-500) per ton compared to competitors in other regions [2]. Group 3: Demand Drivers - Global data center electricity consumption is projected to increase from 416 TWh in 2024 to 946 TWh by 2030, with a compound annual growth rate of 15% [3]. - Despite a baseline scenario predicting a 2% growth in aluminum demand by 2026, sectors such as AI data centers, energy storage systems, and ultra-high voltage projects are expected to provide significant growth elasticity [3]. - Aluminum demand from AI data centers is forecasted to grow from 330,000 tons in 2025 to 695,000 tons by 2030, with a compound annual growth rate of 16% [3]. - Energy storage battery shipments are expected to reach 500 GWh and 650 GWh in 2025 and 2026, respectively, translating to aluminum demand of 250,000 tons and 325,000 tons [3]. Group 4: Supply Constraints - The supply side is tightening, with international companies like Century Aluminum (CENX.US), South32 (SOUHY.US), and Rio Tinto (RIO.US) facing production cuts or closures due to various electricity issues, highlighting challenges in global supply [3]. - Based on the assessment of supply-demand balance and expanding cost advantages, Bank of America believes that the cyclicality of low-cost integrated producers like China Hongqiao will diminish, leading to a potential revaluation [4].