Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the upcoming launch of platinum and palladium futures on the Shanghai Futures Exchange, providing an overview of the platinum and palladium industry, including their properties, applications, and market dynamics [4][12]. Group 1: Platinum and Palladium Overview - Platinum and palladium are part of the platinum group metals, with low abundance in the Earth's crust, primarily found in South Africa, Russia, and Zimbabwe [4][5]. - Both metals exhibit excellent catalytic properties due to their unique electronic structures, which allow them to lower activation energy in chemical reactions [4][9]. - Common forms of platinum and palladium in circulation include metal ingots and sheets, with a purity requirement of at least 99.95% for trading [12][13]. Group 2: Industry Chain Structure - The platinum and palladium industry chain consists of three main segments: upstream exploration and mining, midstream refining and processing, and downstream applications and recycling [14][16]. - The demand for palladium is heavily concentrated in the automotive sector, while platinum has a more diversified demand across various industries, including automotive, jewelry, and investment [16]. Group 3: Demand Dynamics - The automotive industry is the largest consumer of both metals, with projections indicating that by 2025, automotive demand will account for 41% of platinum and 82% of palladium consumption [16]. - In the jewelry sector, platinum is favored for its durability and aesthetic qualities, contributing significantly to its demand, while palladium's jewelry consumption is minimal [16]. - Industrial applications for platinum are broader due to its superior stability, with approximately 28% of platinum demand coming from this sector, compared to only 16% for palladium [16].