Core Viewpoint - The limited marginal increase in supply, along with improved expectations for both export and domestic demand, is likely to drive a rebound in domestic rare earth prices. The global rare earth supply landscape is undergoing profound restructuring due to de-globalization, which may lead to a revaluation of domestic rare earth and magnetic material companies, as well as related overseas companies [1][2][3]. Group 1: Price Trends - In 2024, the average prices of rare earth materials such as praseodymium-neodymium oxide and terbium oxide are expected to decline by -26% and -37% respectively, with a gradual stabilization starting in Q2 2024 [2][6]. - The average price of neodymium-iron-boron (50H) is projected to decrease by -23% year-on-year in 2024, with a quarterly price trend showing a slight recovery in subsequent quarters [6][18]. - Domestic demand for rare earth materials is expected to remain strong, with significant growth in sectors such as new energy vehicles, industrial robots, and variable frequency air conditioners, which are projected to increase by 39%, 14%, and 18% respectively in 2024 [7][18]. Group 2: Supply and Demand Dynamics - The supply of rare earths is becoming increasingly controlled domestically, with a total mining and separation quota of 270,000 tons set for 2024, reflecting a 6% year-on-year increase [7][12]. - The global supply chain for rare earths is being reshaped, with countries like the US and EU accelerating local industry chain construction to ensure supply chain security and stability [2][82]. - The export of rare earth materials is expected to recover, particularly in the context of the "electrification of everything" trend, which is anticipated to drive demand for rare earth permanent magnets [3][18]. Group 3: Company Performance - Domestic rare earth companies are facing significant profit declines, with a projected 81% drop in net profit for four major upstream rare earth companies in 2024, while downstream permanent magnet companies are expected to see a 54% decline [2][18]. - The performance of US-based MP Materials and Australian Lynas is also declining, with MP Materials expected to report a net profit drop of 369% in 2024, while Lynas anticipates a 75% decrease in net profit [62][75]. - Despite the challenges, there are signs of gradual improvement in the financial performance of domestic rare earth and magnetic material companies starting in Q2 2024, as prices stabilize [18][37]. Group 4: Industry Trends - The domestic rare earth industry is characterized by six major trends, including improved supply control capabilities, price discrepancies between domestic and international markets, and ongoing overseas resource layout by companies like Shenghe Resources [89][90]. - The demand for rare earth permanent magnets is being driven by emerging applications in humanoid robots and low-altitude economy sectors, with significant growth expected in these areas [95][97]. - Research and development of heavy rare earth-free permanent magnet materials are accelerating, with companies achieving stable production of high-performance magnets without heavy rare earth elements [99][105].