Investment Rating - The report assigns an "Overweight" rating for the metals industry [4]. Core Insights - The report emphasizes the importance of macroeconomic factors such as monetary policy, macro expectations, geopolitical dynamics, and supply disruptions in influencing metal prices [2]. - Precious metals are expected to see price increases due to geopolitical uncertainties, with central bank gold purchases continuing and inflation data not significantly impacting interest rate cuts [5]. - Copper prices are supported by rigid supply and strategic stockpiling, with demand from AI investments and infrastructure projects expected to drive growth [5]. - Aluminum prices are under pressure due to high inventories and seasonal supply exceeding demand, with expectations of price stabilization as downstream demand recovers [5]. - Energy metals like lithium are experiencing strong demand, with ongoing inventory reductions despite production increases [5]. - Rare earth prices are rising, reflecting their strategic value, and the report maintains a positive outlook on their investment potential [5]. Summary by Sections Precious Metals - Gold prices increased, with SHFE gold rising 3.29% to 1,147.90 CNY per gram and COMEX gold up 4.24% to 5,296.40 USD per ounce [7]. - Silver prices also rose, with SHFE silver increasing 16.34% to 23,019 CNY per kilogram [8]. - Central bank gold reserves in China increased to 7,419 million ounces, marking a continuous expansion over 15 months [7]. Copper - Copper prices saw a rise, with SHFE copper up 3.53% to 103,920 CNY per ton [9]. - Supply pressures are expected to materialize post-holiday, with market liquidity remaining ample [9]. Aluminum - Aluminum prices are under pressure, with SHFE aluminum rising 2.76% to 23,835 CNY per ton [9]. - The average processing rate for aluminum remains low, with inventories expected to increase [9]. Energy Metals - Lithium continues to see strong demand, with inventory reductions ongoing despite production increases [10]. - Cobalt prices remain high due to tight raw material supply, with companies extending their reach into downstream sectors [10]. Rare Earths - Prices for light and heavy rare earths have increased, reflecting their strategic importance [10].

Report Summary 1. Report Industry Investment Rating No investment rating information provided in the report. 2. Core Viewpoints of the Report - The medium - and long - term upward drivers of precious metals remain unchanged, and the precious metals sector has shown signs of recovery from the sharp decline at the end of January. It is recommended that investors maintain a bullish stance, but strictly control positions to avoid short - term volatility risks [4]. - The callback of precious metals has a reasonable basis, but the hawkish policy stance of the next Fed Chairman has no fundamental impact on the long - cycle bull market of gold. It is expected that gold will rise in the medium and long term, and silver, platinum, and palladium will be stronger than gold in the medium term. Investors are advised to go long after the downward momentum of the precious metals sector weakens, while being vigilant against the medium - term risk that the Fed's tightening of monetary policy may end the precious metals bull market [6]. 3. Summary of Each Section 3.1 Precious Metals Market Conditions and Outlook - **Intraday Market**: London gold fluctuated between $5150 - 5200 per ounce, waiting for clearer guidance. The People's Bank of China's reduction of the foreign exchange risk reserve ratio for forward foreign exchange sales by financial institutions supported the prices of domestic precious metals. Zimbabwe's ban on lithium ore exports pushed up the prices of industrial precious metals such as silver, platinum, and palladium [4]. - **Domestic Precious Metals Market Data**: The closing prices of the Shanghai Gold Index, Shanghai Silver Index, Guangzhou Platinum Index, and Guangzhou Palladium Index increased by 0.12%, 2.22%, 5.81%, and 3.85% respectively. The trading volume and open interest of each variety also changed to varying degrees [5]. - **Medium - term Market**: The determination of the next Fed Chairman reduced the market's demand for safe - haven assets. The callback of precious metals was reasonable, but it did not change the long - and medium - term upward trend. The hawkish policy stance was more favorable to silver, platinum, and palladium compared to gold. Since November 2025, a large amount of investment capital has entered the precious metals market, increasing price volatility. The annualized volatility of gold and silver reached 30% and 80%, respectively [6]. 3.2 Precious Metals Market - related Charts The report presents multiple charts, including the Shanghai and London gold and silver futures and spot indices, the basis of Shanghai futures indices against Shanghai Gold TD, the holdings of gold and silver ETFs, the gold - to - silver ratio, and the correlation between London gold and other assets, with data sources from Wind and the Research and Development Department of CCB Futures [8][10][16]. 3.3 Major Macroeconomic Events/Data - The US International Trade Commission will conduct an investigation to evaluate the economic impact of revoking China's Permanent Normal Trade Relations status, with the results to be announced by August 21st. It will also consider a scenario of gradually imposing partial tariffs on important national security products over five years if Congress revokes the status [17]. - Oman, as a mediator, stated that the US and Iran made significant progress in nuclear - dispute negotiations. Both sides plan to return to their capitals for consultations and resume negotiations soon, with technical - level discussions scheduled in Vienna next week [17]. - The number of initial jobless claims in the US last week increased slightly by 4,000 to 212,000. The labor market remains stable, and the unemployment rate in February is expected to remain unchanged. It is expected that the Fed will not cut interest rates before Chairman Powell's term ends in May [17].

Investment Rating - The report maintains a "Buy" recommendation for precious metals due to rising geopolitical tensions and increased demand for safe-haven assets [2]. Core Views - The report highlights that the escalation of the Middle East situation, particularly the military actions between the US and Iran, is expected to boost the performance of precious metals as investors seek refuge from market volatility [3]. - It emphasizes that Iran's significant share in global production of certain metals, such as strontium and direct reduced iron (DRI), could lead to price fluctuations in these commodities due to potential supply disruptions [4][6]. - The long-term outlook for precious metals remains positive, with expectations of a super cycle for gold driven by central bank purchases and sustained investment demand [3]. Summary by Sections Industrial Metals - The report notes that Iran's military conflict may impact its production capabilities, particularly in metals where it holds a high global market share, such as strontium (56% of global production) and DRI (24% of global production) [4][5]. - Copper and zinc are identified as critical metals with significant implications for global supply chains, especially in light of potential disruptions in the Middle East [6]. Precious Metals - The report anticipates that geopolitical tensions will enhance the appeal of gold and silver as inflation hedges, with gold prices expected to rise in response to increased demand [3]. - The report also discusses the potential for silver prices to be more volatile due to its dual role as an industrial and financial asset [3]. Aluminum Industry - The report indicates that the ongoing conflict may tighten the global aluminum supply, particularly if Iranian production is affected, which could lead to price increases [11][12]. - It highlights that the aluminum market is currently in a state of tight balance, with potential for price support due to supply constraints [11]. New Energy Metals - The report discusses Zimbabwe's ban on lithium exports, which is expected to tighten the global lithium market and support prices [15][16]. - It suggests that the rise of resource nationalism may lead to increased control over strategic metals, impacting their pricing and availability [15].

Investment Rating - The report maintains an "Accumulate" rating for the non-ferrous metals sector [1] Core Views - The non-ferrous metals sector saw a significant increase of 9.77% in the week from February 23 to February 27, outperforming the overall market [14] - The geopolitical risks in the Middle East have escalated, driving up safe-haven demand for precious metals [4][48] - Industrial metals are expected to see price increases as the traditional peak season approaches in March and April, with macro funds returning to the market [29] Summary by Sections Market Review - The Shanghai Composite Index rose by 1.98%, with the non-ferrous metals sector ranking second among 31 sectors, up 9.77% [14] - The small metals sector surged by 17.72%, while energy metals, new materials, precious metals, and industrial metals also saw increases of 9.32%, 9.26%, 8.32%, and 7.75% respectively [14] Industrial Metals - **Copper**: As of February 27, LME copper closed at $13,296 per ton, up 2.56% week-on-week, while SHFE copper was at ¥103,920 per ton, up 3.53% [33] - **Aluminum**: LME aluminum closed at $3,142 per ton, up 1.26%, and SHFE aluminum at ¥23,835 per ton, up 2.76% [37] - **Zinc**: LME zinc price was $3,308 per ton, down 2.20%, while SHFE zinc was ¥24,710 per ton, up 2.13% [41] - **Tin**: LME tin surged to $58,050 per ton, up 24.68%, and SHFE tin reached ¥453,240 per ton, up 24.04% [44] Precious Metals - **Gold**: COMEX gold closed at $5,296.40 per ounce, up 3.24%, and SHFE gold at ¥1,147.90 per gram, up 1.93% [49] - The geopolitical tensions have led to a spike in gold prices, with a peak of $5,500 per ounce observed in the dark market [4][48] Supply and Demand Dynamics - Copper supply is tightening as domestic smelters are expected to undergo maintenance starting in March, while demand is supported by rigid replenishment needs post-Spring Festival [33] - Aluminum supply is affected by overseas production cuts, with a theoretical operating capacity of 44.32 million tons in China [39] - The overall demand for aluminum is expected to rise as downstream production resumes [39] Economic Indicators - The U.S. January PPI year-on-year was recorded at 2.9%, above the expected 2.6%, indicating rising inflation concerns [4][29] - The Chicago PMI for February was reported at 57.7, exceeding expectations, which may influence future monetary policy [29]

Investment Rating - The industry investment rating is "Outperform the Market" (maintained) [1][56]. Core Viewpoints - Precious Metals - Gold: The geopolitical situation in the Middle East is escalating, leading to an increase in gold prices. As of February 27, the COMEX gold futures contract reached $5,296.4 per ounce, a 3.24% increase month-on-month. The SPDR Gold ETF saw a 2.1% increase to 1,101 tons. The joint military actions by the US and Israel against Iran have heightened market risk aversion, which is expected to drive gold prices higher in the short term. Long-term, unresolved US debt issues and weakening dollar credit are anticipated to support a continued upward trend in gold prices [4]. - Industrial Metals: Industrial metals are expected to open up upward price potential. Copper prices increased by 3.53% to 103,920 yuan per ton as of February 27. Domestic copper social inventory reached 531,700 tons, while LME copper inventory was at 253,700 tons. The global copper resource bottleneck is expected to persist, with AI opening up future demand growth. Short-term macro sentiment is likely to dominate, but copper prices are expected to remain strong [5][6]. - Aluminum: As of February 27, SHFE aluminum futures rose by 2.8% to 23,835 yuan per ton. Domestic aluminum social inventory reached 1,157,000 tons, with a month-on-month increase of 265,000 tons. The closure of 580,000 tons of capacity at the Mozal aluminum plant and high electricity prices in Europe are expected to tighten global aluminum supply. With improving macro sentiment, aluminum prices are expected to trend upward in the medium to long term [6]. - Tin: As of February 27, SHFE tin futures surged by 24% to 453,000 yuan per ton. Domestic social inventory stood at 13,109 tons, while LME tin inventory was at 7,550 tons. The development of AI technology is expected to increase demand for tin, which is seen as a "computing metal," leading to further demand elasticity [6]. Summary by Sections Precious Metals - Gold prices are expected to rise due to geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, with a current price of $5,296.4 per ounce and a 3.24% month-on-month increase. The SPDR Gold ETF holdings increased by 2.1% to 1,101 tons [4]. Industrial Metals - Copper: Prices increased by 3.53% to 103,920 yuan per ton, with domestic social inventory at 531,700 tons and LME inventory at 253,700 tons. The global copper resource bottleneck is expected to continue [6]. - Aluminum: Prices rose by 2.8% to 23,835 yuan per ton, with domestic social inventory at 1,157,000 tons. The closure of capacity and high electricity prices are expected to tighten supply [6]. - Tin: Prices surged by 24% to 453,000 yuan per ton, with domestic social inventory at 13,109 tons. Increased demand from AI technology is anticipated [6]. Investment Recommendations - The report suggests focusing on gold, copper, and aluminum sectors. For gold, the recommendation is to pay attention to Chifeng Jilong Gold Mining. For copper, the focus is on Luoyang Molybdenum. For aluminum, Tianshan Aluminum is highlighted as a potential investment [7][54].

Investment Rating - The report maintains a "Buy" recommendation for the precious metals sector due to rising geopolitical tensions and increased demand for safe-haven assets [2]. Core Views - The report highlights that the escalation of the Middle East conflict, particularly the military actions between the U.S. and Iran, is expected to boost the performance of precious metals as investors seek refuge from market volatility [3]. - It emphasizes that Iran's significant share in global production of certain metals, such as strontium and direct reduced iron (DRI), could lead to price fluctuations in these commodities due to potential supply disruptions [4][6]. - The long-term outlook for precious metals remains positive, with expectations of a super cycle for gold driven by central bank purchases and sustained investment demand [3]. Summary by Sections Industrial Metals - The report notes that Iran accounts for approximately 56% of global strontium production, 24% of DRI production, and has significant copper and zinc reserves, which could be impacted by the ongoing conflict [4][5]. - It suggests that the geopolitical situation may exacerbate supply shortages for copper and other critical metals, urging investors to monitor these developments closely [6]. Aluminum Sector - The report discusses the potential tightening of the global aluminum supply due to the conflict, particularly if Iranian production is affected, which could impact around 600,000 tons of aluminum supply [12][14]. - It indicates that the aluminum market is currently stable, but geopolitical risks could lead to price volatility [11]. New Energy Metals - The report highlights Zimbabwe's ban on lithium exports, which is expected to tighten the global lithium market and support prices, as Zimbabwe is a key supplier [15][16]. - It suggests that the rise of resource nationalism may lead to increased control over strategic metals, impacting pricing dynamics in the market [15]. Stock Recommendations - The report recommends specific stocks in the precious metals sector, including Zhongjin Gold and Chifeng Jilong Gold Mining, as well as companies in the copper and aluminum sectors such as Zijin Mining and China Hongqiao Group [13].

Investment Rating - The report maintains a "Buy" rating for several companies in the non-ferrous metals sector, including companies like Zijin Mining, Shandong Gold, and China Hongqiao [11]. Core Views - The geopolitical tensions, particularly between the US and Iran, are expected to boost the safe-haven appeal of precious metals like gold and silver [2]. - Despite inventory accumulation in copper, prices remain strong due to ongoing demand and strategic reserve considerations from both China and the US [3]. - The aluminum market is anticipated to experience price fluctuations as the consumption season approaches, supported by macroeconomic factors [4]. - Nickel prices are on an upward trend due to supply constraints and increased inquiries from steel mills [5]. - Tin prices are expected to remain strong amid renewed concerns over supply disruptions from Myanmar [8]. - Lithium prices are rising due to export bans from Zimbabwe, which may tighten supply in the coming months [9]. - Cobalt prices are showing strength as demand recovers with the resumption of production [10]. Summary by Sections Precious Metals - Geopolitical tensions are driving up demand for gold and silver as safe-haven assets, with specific companies recommended for investment [2]. Industrial Metals - **Copper**: Despite a significant increase in global copper inventories, prices remain resilient due to strategic reserve initiatives and expectations of domestic demand recovery [3]. - **Aluminum**: The market is expected to see price volatility as downstream production resumes post-holiday, with macroeconomic conditions remaining favorable [4]. - **Nickel**: Prices have increased by 4.7% to 141,560 CNY/ton, driven by supply constraints and demand from steel manufacturers [5]. - **Tin**: Prices are expected to experience strong fluctuations due to supply concerns stemming from Myanmar's political situation [8]. Energy Metals - **Lithium**: Prices have surged, with battery-grade lithium carbonate reaching 174,000 CNY/ton, influenced by export restrictions from Zimbabwe [9]. - **Cobalt**: The price of cobalt has risen by 3.4% to 440,000 CNY/ton, supported by recovering demand as production resumes [10]. Key Companies - Recommended companies for investment include Zijin Mining, Shandong Gold, and China Hongqiao, among others, reflecting strong growth potential in the non-ferrous metals sector [11].

Investment Rating - The report maintains a "Buy" rating for several companies in the non-ferrous metals sector, including companies like Zijin Mining, Shandong Gold, and China Hongqiao [11]. Core Insights - The geopolitical tensions, particularly between the US and Iran, are driving increased demand for precious metals as a safe haven, suggesting a strong long-term investment value in this sector [2]. - Despite a significant increase in copper inventories, the price remains strong due to ongoing demand and strategic reserve initiatives from both China and the US [3]. - The aluminum market is expected to experience short-term fluctuations, but overall demand is anticipated to recover as downstream production resumes [4]. - Nickel prices are on an upward trend due to supply constraints and increased inquiries from steel mills, indicating a positive outlook for the nickel market [5]. - Tin prices are expected to remain strong due to ongoing supply concerns from Myanmar and cautious purchasing behavior from downstream enterprises [8]. - Lithium prices are rising sharply due to export bans from Zimbabwe, which may tighten supply in the coming months [9]. - Cobalt prices are also showing strength as demand from precursor companies increases, with expectations of a stable recovery in the market [10]. Summary by Sections Precious Metals - The report highlights the benefits of precious metals in times of geopolitical uncertainty, recommending companies such as Xinyi Silver and Zijin Mining for investment [2]. Industrial Metals - **Copper**: The report notes a 32,200-ton increase in global copper inventories but emphasizes that prices remain resilient due to strategic reserve initiatives and ongoing demand [3]. - **Aluminum**: The aluminum market is experiencing a significant inventory build-up, but demand is expected to recover as production resumes post-holiday [4]. - **Nickel**: Nickel prices have increased by 4.7% to 141,560 CNY/ton, driven by supply constraints and demand from steel mills [5]. - **Tin**: The report indicates that tin prices may experience strong fluctuations due to supply concerns from Myanmar [8]. Energy Metals - **Lithium**: Lithium prices have surged, with battery-grade lithium carbonate reaching 174,000 CNY/ton, driven by supply disruptions from Zimbabwe [9]. - **Cobalt**: Cobalt prices have increased by 3.4% to 440,000 CNY/ton, with demand from precursor companies showing signs of recovery [10].

Group 1 - The report highlights concerns regarding the escalation of conflicts in the Middle East, which may impact market sentiment and risk appetite, particularly due to uncertainties surrounding U.S. tariffs and geopolitical tensions [4][7] - It is anticipated that the A-share market will experience a return to fundamental trends as the spring rally concludes and the earnings disclosure season approaches, with a wide fluctuation expected until the end of April [4][7] - The report suggests that the recent geopolitical tensions have already been priced into global commodity and equity markets, indicating that the current Middle East conflict may only affect short-term market sentiment without altering the overall market direction [4][7] Group 2 - Investment opportunities are identified in sectors such as energy, oil transportation, precious metals, and military industries, driven by the geopolitical conflict [4][14] - The "HALO trading" strategy is highlighted as beneficial for sectors like utilities, transportation infrastructure, and metals, as investors seek hard assets that are less likely to be replaced by technology [11][17] - The report emphasizes the importance of monitoring the upcoming National People's Congress for economic policy directions, which are expected to maintain a "double easing" stance to support economic recovery [8][9] Group 3 - The report notes that the A-share index has shown a positive trend, with the Shanghai Composite Index rising by 1.98% and the Shenzhen Component Index by 2.80% in the previous week [16] - It mentions that the average daily trading volume in the two markets was approximately 24,227.7 billion yuan, indicating robust market activity [16] - The report also discusses the performance of various sectors, with steel, non-ferrous metals, and basic chemicals showing significant gains [16][19]

Geopolitical Impact - The recent escalation in the Middle East is expected to drive up oil and precious metal prices due to heightened geopolitical tensions[2] - The closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which accounts for approximately 20% of global oil transportation, poses significant risks to oil supply[4] Oil Price Projections - Brent crude oil prices are projected to exceed $80 per barrel as military actions disrupt Iranian production and shipping routes[7] - In extreme scenarios, oil prices may challenge the highs seen during the onset of the Russia-Ukraine conflict in March 2022[7] Precious Metals Outlook - Increased risk aversion from geopolitical developments is likely to push gold prices higher, although rising oil prices may complicate this trend by increasing U.S. inflation expectations[7] - The ability of gold to surpass previous highs remains uncertain and will depend on the interplay of inflation and interest rate expectations[7] Commodity Market Opportunities - The global fiscal and monetary easing, ongoing supply chain issues, and a weak U.S. dollar are expected to create favorable conditions for commodity investments in 2026[8] - Precious metals and non-ferrous metals are anticipated to maintain strong performance, while opportunities in oil and related chemicals are also noteworthy[16] Economic Context - Major economies, including China, the U.S., and Europe, are expected to continue fiscal expansion in 2026, which historically correlates with commodity price increases[8] - The U.S. dollar index fell over 9% in 2025, and its continued weakness in 2026 is expected to support dollar-denominated commodity prices[13]