Core Viewpoint - The aluminum market is experiencing a strong support due to low inventory levels and seasonal demand, with expectations of a fluctuating but generally strong trend in aluminum prices moving forward [1][6]. Group 1: Aluminum Price Trends - The main contract for Shanghai aluminum futures reached a peak of 21,205 yuan/ton on October 10, marking a nearly 11-month high, but quickly retreated due to insufficient driving forces [1]. - The aluminum price is expected to maintain a fluctuating upward trend, with resistance at 21,130 yuan/ton and support at 20,650 yuan/ton [6]. Group 2: Production and Inventory - In September, China's electrolytic aluminum production was 3.6148 million tons, a year-on-year increase of 1.14% but a month-on-month decrease of 3.18% [3]. - The aluminum water ratio increased by 1.2 percentage points to 76.3%, leading to a decrease in cast ingot production by 8.67% to 857,000 tons [3]. - As of October 13, the electrolytic aluminum inventory in major markets was 642,000 tons, a slight increase from October 9 but down 4,000 tons year-on-year [4]. Group 3: Cost Dynamics - The average fully loaded cost of domestic electrolytic aluminum in September was 16,488 yuan/ton, down 1.37% month-on-month and 6.58% year-on-year [4]. - The total cost of electrolytic aluminum is expected to decline in October, with an estimated range of 15,800 to 16,200 yuan/ton [5]. Group 4: Automotive Industry Impact - The automotive market showed positive trends in September, with production and sales reaching 3.276 million and 3.226 million units, respectively, marking month-on-month increases of 16.4% and 12.9% [5]. - New energy vehicle sales accounted for 49.7% of total new car sales in September, indicating strong growth in this segment [5]. - The automotive sector is expected to continue growing, supported by favorable policies and increased supply of new products, despite external uncertainties [6].

Group 1 - The core viewpoint of the report is that despite concerns about aluminum demand in the second half of the year, strong capacity utilization in China, limited new supply, and low inventory will support robust aluminum prices [1] - Citigroup has raised the target price for China Hongqiao from HKD 21 to HKD 25.2, maintaining a "Buy" rating [1] - The report has also increased earnings forecasts for 2025 to 2027, reflecting higher alumina prices and lower cost projections [1]