1. Report Industry Investment Rating No information provided in the content. 2. Core Viewpoints of the Report - This week, nickel prices showed strong performance with average trading volume. Although there was some replenishment of imported supplies, overall supply remained tight. In the industrial chain, ore prices remained stable, while ferronickel prices increased steadily, keeping the cost line firm. Stainless steel inventory decreased slightly, and it is expected that the "Golden September and Silver October" period will boost consumption and reduce inventory. New energy vehicle production and sales data were good, but the installed capacity of ternary batteries decreased year - on - year, limiting overall demand growth. The medium - to - long - term oversupply situation remains unchanged [8]. - The main contract of Shanghai nickel will oscillate in a narrow range with cost support at the bottom. The main contract of stainless steel will oscillate widely around the 20 - day moving average [9][10]. 3. Summary by Relevant Catalogs 3.1 Viewpoints and Strategies - **Shanghai Nickel Viewpoint**: Nickel prices were strong this week with average trading. Overall supply was tight despite some imported supplies. Ore prices were stable, ferronickel prices rose, and stainless steel inventory decreased. New energy vehicle data was good, but ternary battery installed capacity declined year - on - year. The long - term oversupply persists [8]. - **Operation Strategies**: The main contract of Shanghai nickel will oscillate in a narrow range with cost support. The main contract of stainless steel will oscillate widely around the 20 - day moving average [9][10]. 3.2 Fundamental Analysis 3.2.1 Industrial Chain Weekly Price Changes - Red soil nickel ore prices remained unchanged. The price of battery - grade nickel sulfate increased by 0.92%, while the plating - grade remained the same. Low - grade ferronickel prices were flat, and high - grade ferronickel prices increased by 1.07%. Shanghai electrolytic nickel, Russian nickel, and Jinchuan's ex - factory price all increased. The price of 304 stainless steel increased by 0.18% [13][14]. 3.2.2 Nickel Ore Market Conditions - Nickel ore prices and freight rates remained the same as last week. As of August 28, 2025, the total nickel ore inventory at 14 Chinese ports was 12.5982 million wet tons, a 4.48% increase. In July 2025, nickel ore imports were 5.0058 million tons, a 15.16% increase month - on - month and 43.63% year - on - year. Ore prices were stable, and the supply from Indonesia was sufficient [17]. 3.2.3 Electrolytic Nickel Market Conditions - Nickel prices were strong with average spot trading. Although there was some arrival of imported nickel, overall supply was still tight. In the long - term, supply and demand will both increase, but the oversupply situation will not change. In July 2025, China's refined nickel production was 36,151 tons, a 4.74% increase month - on - month and 24.57% year - on - year. In July 2025, imports were 38,164.223 tons, a 124.36% increase month - on - month and 798.94% year - on - year. Exports were 15,545.572 tons, a 53.27% increase month - on - month and 3.43% year - on - year. LME and SHFE inventories decreased [22][26][40]. 3.2.4 Ferronickel Market Conditions - Ferronickel prices increased steadily. In July 2025, China's ferronickel production was 22,900 tons of metal, a 1.69% decrease month - on - month and 10.63% year - on - year. In July 2025, imports were 836,000 tons, a 19.7% decrease month - on - month and 1.8% increase year - on - year. The inventory in July was 224,800 physical tons, equivalent to 21,800 tons of nickel [44][47][50]. 3.2.5 Stainless Steel Market Conditions - The price of 304 stainless steel increased by 25 yuan/ton this week. In July, stainless steel crude steel production was 3.2108 million tons, with the 300 - series production decreasing by 2.63% month - on - month. Imports were 73,000 tons, and exports were 416,300 tons. As of August 29, the national inventory was 1.083 million tons, a decrease of 8,800 tons [57][62][68]. 3.2.6 New Energy Vehicle Production and Sales - In July 2025, new energy vehicle production and sales were 1.243 million and 1.262 million units respectively, a 26.3% and 27.4% increase year - on - year. From January to July 2025, production and sales were 8.232 million and 8.22 million units respectively, a 39.2% and 38.5% increase year - on - year. In July, the production of power and other batteries was 133.8 GWh, a 3.6% increase month - on - month and 44.3% year - on - year. The installed capacity of power batteries was 55.9 GWh, a 4.0% decrease month - on - month and 34.3% year - on - year [73][74][78]. 3.3 Technical Analysis - From the daily K - line, prices fluctuated around the 20 - day moving average, with a decrease in positions and a reduction in short - selling pressure. The MACD showed a golden cross buy signal, and the KDJ was in an upward trend. Prices were still oscillating in a small range [81]. 3.4 Industrial Chain Combing Summary - The impact of different sectors on nickel prices: nickel ore was neutral; ferronickel was neutral; refined nickel was slightly bearish; stainless steel was neutral; and new energy was neutral [84]. - Unilateral trading strategies: the main contract of Shanghai nickel will oscillate in a narrow range with cost support, and the main contract of stainless steel will oscillate widely around the 20 - day moving average [86][87].

Group 1: Report Title and Date - The report is titled "Guoxin Futures Non-ferrous (Nickel) Weekly Report" dated August 31, 2025 [3] Group 2: Core View - The report states that the market is at the bottom range and will continue to fluctuate. The US market anticipates Fed policy easing with over 80% probability of a September rate - cut. In China, macro - policies will continue to exert force. The refined nickel market has a supply surplus, the nickel ore market is calm with ample supply, the nickel sulfate price is weak, and the stainless - steel market has a slightly improved profit and demand expectation but weak reality and slow de - stocking. The expected operating range of the Shanghai nickel main contract is approximately 116,000 to 128,000 yuan/ton, and that of the stainless - steel main contract is about 12,600 to 13,500 yuan/ton [2][36] Group 3: Market Review - This part shows the trend of the main price contracts of the domestic and foreign nickel futures markets through a chart of nickel futures closing prices (main contract) from December 31, 2020, to June 30, 2025, with the price range from 0 to 300,000 yuan/ton [7][8] Group 4: Fundamental Analysis Upstream - It presents the China's nickel ore port inventory through a chart of China's imported nickel ore sand and concentrates from the Philippines on a monthly basis, with the inventory range from 0 to 6 million tons [12][13] Midstream - **Electrolytic nickel price**: A chart shows the price of electrolytic nickel (1, Ni99.90, domestic and imported) from December 31, 2020, to June 30, 2025, with the price range from 0 to 300,000 yuan/ton [15][16] - **Nickel sulfate price**: A chart shows the average price of nickel sulfate in China from December 31, 2020, to June 30, 2025, with the price range from 0 to 70,000 yuan/ton [17][18] - **Ferronickel import volume and price**: Charts show China's monthly ferronickel import volume (ranging from 0 to 1 million tons) and the Fubao price of 8 - 12% ferronickel (ranging from 0 to 1,800 yuan/nickel) from December 31, 2020, to June 30, 2025 [19][20] Downstream - **Stainless - steel price**: A chart shows the closing price of stainless - steel futures (continuous) from 0 to 25,000 yuan/ton [21][22] - **Stainless - steel futures positions**: A chart shows the stainless - steel futures positions from 0 to 400,000 lots [23][24] - **Wuxi stainless - steel inventory**: Charts show the Wuxi stainless - steel inventory and Wuxi 300 - series stainless - steel inventory, both ranging from 0 to 800,000 tons [25][26] - **Power and energy - storage battery production**: Charts show the monthly production of power and energy - storage batteries (ternary materials) and the total monthly production of power and energy - storage batteries in China, both ranging from 0 to 140,000 MWh [28][29] - **New - energy vehicle production**: A chart shows the monthly production of new - energy vehicles in China, ranging from 0 to 140,000 vehicles [30][31] Group 5: Future Outlook - In the US, on August 29, Fed Governor Waller supported a 25 - basis - point rate cut in the September meeting and expected further cuts in the next 3 - 6 months. In China, the Politburo meeting on July 30 stated that macro - policies should continue to exert force. The Shanghai nickel market showed a fluctuating upward trend this week. The refined nickel market has a supply surplus, the nickel ore market is calm with ample supply, the nickel sulfate price is weak, and the stainless - steel market has a slightly improved profit and demand expectation but weak reality and slow de - stocking. The expected operating range of the Shanghai nickel main contract is approximately 116,000 to 128,000 yuan/ton, and that of the stainless - steel main contract is about 12,600 to 13,500 yuan/ton [36]

1. Report Industry Investment Ratings No investment ratings are provided in the reports. 2. Core Views Copper - The copper market presents a state of "weak reality + stable expectation." The weak reality lies in the expected decline in demand in the second half of the year, while the stable expectation is that the improvement of interest - rate cut expectations and the intensification of domestic stimulus policies will boost the price. In the absence of a clear recession expectation in the US, copper prices will at least remain volatile, and entering a new upward cycle requires the resonance of the commodity and financial attributes of copper. The reference range for the main contract is 78,000 - 80,000 yuan/ton [1]. Aluminum - **Alumina**: The market is in an overall supply - surplus pattern. Although cost support and some factory overhauls exist, the short - term weakness is hard to change. The reference range for the main contract is 3,000 - 3,300 yuan/ton. Mid - term, one can consider short - selling on rallies [3]. - **Electrolytic Aluminum**: In the short term, the market sentiment is cautiously optimistic. However, supply pressure remains, and cost support is weakening. The short - term is expected to oscillate in the range of 20,400 - 21,000 yuan/ton. If demand does not improve and capital sentiment cools, the price may fall after rising [3]. Aluminum Alloy - The fundamentals are showing marginal improvement. The supply of scrap aluminum is tightening, and costs are under pressure. Demand in the communication die - casting sector is picking up, while that in the automotive sector is still weak. Spot prices are expected to remain relatively firm, and the price difference between aluminum alloy and aluminum is expected to narrow. The reference range for the main contract is 20,000 - 20,600 yuan/ton [4]. Zinc - The supply is loose, and the demand is weak, which is not sufficient to boost the continuous upward movement of zinc prices. However, the depletion of overseas inventories provides price support. The short - term may still be dominated by oscillations. The reference range for the main contract is 21,500 - 23,000 yuan/ton [6]. Tin - Affected by national policies, the market has positive expectations for domestic AI demand, which boosts the upward movement of tin prices. If the supply of tin ore from Myanmar recovers smoothly, short - selling on rallies is the main strategy; if the recovery is less than expected, tin prices are expected to remain high and volatile [8]. Nickel - The macro - sentiment is stabilizing, and costs provide certain support. The supply - demand fundamentals have not changed significantly. The short - term is expected to be adjusted within a range, and the reference range for the main contract is 118,000 - 126,000 yuan/ton [10]. Stainless Steel - The cost support remains, but the market sentiment is still cautious due to weak spot demand. The short - term is expected to oscillate within a range, and the reference range for the main contract is 12,600 - 13,400 yuan/ton [12]. Lithium Carbonate - The market sentiment is weak, and the fundamentals are in a tight balance. Supply contraction expectations are gradually being realized, and demand is showing a positive trend. The short - term price has limited downward space, and upward breakthroughs require new drivers. The main contract price is expected to be in the range of 70,000 - 82,000 yuan/ton [16]. 3. Summaries by Relevant Catalogs Copper Price and Basis - SMM 1 electrolytic copper price dropped by 0.45% to 79,190 yuan/ton, and its premium increased by 35 yuan/ton to 205 yuan/ton. The import profit and loss increased by 168.48 yuan/ton to 337 yuan/ton [1]. Monthly Data - In July, the electrolytic copper production was 117.43 million tons, a month - on - month increase of 3.47%. The electrolytic copper import volume was 29.69 million tons, a month - on - month decrease of 1.20% [1]. Aluminum Price and Basis - SMM A00 aluminum price dropped by 0.53% to 20,730 yuan/ton, and its premium decreased by 20 yuan/ton. Alumina prices in various regions generally declined [3]. Monthly Data - In July, the alumina production was 765.02 million tons, a month - on - month increase of 5.40%. The electrolytic aluminum production was 372.14 million tons, a month - on - month increase of 3.11% [3]. Aluminum Alloy Price and Basis - SMM aluminum alloy ADC12 prices in most regions remained unchanged, while the price in the southwest region dropped by 0.48% to 20,700 yuan/ton. The refined - scrap price difference in various regions decreased [4]. Monthly Data - In July, the production of recycled aluminum alloy ingots was 62.50 million tons, a month - on - month increase of 1.63%. The production of primary aluminum alloy ingots was 26.60 million tons, a month - on - month increase of 4.31% [4]. Zinc Price and Basis - SMM 0 zinc ingot price dropped by 0.63% to 22,130 yuan/ton, and its premium increased by 15 yuan/ton. The import loss decreased by 145.76 yuan/ton to 1,664 yuan/ton [6]. Monthly Data - In July, the refined zinc production was 60.28 million tons, a month - on - month increase of 3.03%. The refined zinc import volume was 1.79 million tons, a month - on - month decrease of 50.35% [6]. Tin Price and Basis - SMM 1 tin price dropped by 0.07% to 271,800 yuan/ton, and the LME 0 - 3 premium dropped by 4.62% to 165 dollars/ton. The import loss increased by 7.11% to 19,581 yuan/ton [8]. Monthly Data - In July, the tin ore import was 10,278 tons, a month - on - month decrease of 13.71%. The SMM refined tin production was 15,940 tons, a month - on - month increase of 15.42% [8]. Nickel Price and Basis - SMM 1 electrolytic nickel price dropped by 1.14% to 121,750 yuan/ton, and the LME 0 - 3 dropped by 4 dollars/ton to - 189 dollars/ton. The import profit and loss increased by 490 yuan/ton to - 1,430 yuan/ton [10]. Monthly Data - The Chinese refined nickel production decreased by 10.04% to 31,800 tons, while the refined nickel import volume increased by 116.90% to 19,157 tons [10]. Stainless Steel Price and Basis - The prices of 304/2B stainless steel coils in Wuxi and Foshan remained unchanged. The prices of most raw materials remained stable, while the price of 304 waste stainless steel in Wenzhou dropped by 0.52% to 9,650 yuan/ton [12]. Monthly Data - The production of 300 - series stainless steel crude steel in China (43 enterprises) was 171.33 million tons, a month - on - month decrease of 3.83%. The stainless steel import volume decreased by 33.30% to 7.30 million tons, and the export volume increased by 6.74% to 41.63 million tons [12]. Lithium Carbonate Price and Basis - SMM battery - grade lithium carbonate average price dropped by 1.96% to 80,000 yuan/ton, and the industrial - grade lithium carbonate average price dropped by 2.02% to 77,700 yuan/ton [16]. Monthly Data - In July, the lithium carbonate production was 81,530 tons, a month - on - month increase of 4.41%. The battery - grade lithium carbonate production was 61,320 tons, a month - on - month increase of 6.40% [16].

Report Industry Investment Rating No relevant content provided. Core Viewpoints - The market risk preference remains high despite the poor domestic economic and financial data. In August, there may be a small accumulation of inventory under the full - supply pattern, but the market may focus more on the tight - balance pattern after the off - season [1]. - For aluminum, supply increases slightly, demand is in the seasonal off - season in August with a possible slight improvement in the middle and late stages. There is an expected small inventory accumulation in August. Attention should be paid to demand in the short - term and potential arbitrage opportunities in the low - inventory situation [2]. - Zinc prices fluctuate widely. Supply increases, demand is seasonally weak but has some resilience. Domestic social inventory rises, and overseas LME inventory decreases rapidly. Short - term prices may rebound, and a wait - and - see approach is recommended, while a short - position configuration is suggested in the medium - to - long - term. Positive arbitrage opportunities can be considered [5]. - For nickel, supply remains at a high level, demand is weak, and inventory remains stable. Opportunities for narrowing the nickel - stainless steel price ratio can be continuously monitored [6]. - Stainless steel has a weak fundamental situation. Some steel mills cut production passively, demand is mainly for rigid needs, costs remain stable, and inventory decreases slightly. Attention should be paid to policy trends [6]. - Lead prices fluctuate. Supply has issues such as low scrap battery supply and low profit - driven low production. Demand shows a "not - prosperous peak season" situation. Inventory is expected to remain at a high level, and prices are expected to remain in a low - level oscillation next week [8]. - Tin prices fluctuate widely. Supply is affected by factors such as low processing fees and potential production resumptions. Demand has a peak - season expectation in the terminal electronics sector but a strong expectation of a decline in photovoltaic growth. A wait - and - see approach is recommended in the short - term, and long - position holding near the cost line is suggested in the medium - to - long - term [11]. - The production of industrial silicon resumes at a slow pace. The current supply - demand balance shows a small inventory reduction. In the short - term, the supply - demand situation may remain tight, while in the medium - to - long - term, prices are expected to oscillate at the cycle bottom [14]. - Carbonate lithium prices fluctuate on the futures market due to supply - side disturbances. Spot trading is active during the peak season. The core contradiction lies in the long - term over - supply situation and short - term supply - side compliance disturbances. The price has large upward and downward elasticities [16]. Summary by Metal Copper - **Price and Inventory Changes**: From August 22 to 28, the spot price of Shanghai copper increased by 50, the warehouse receipt decreased by 55, and the inventory of the Shanghai Futures Exchange increased by 1850 [1]. - **Fundamentals**: The market risk preference continues to rise. The downstream orders are supported at around 7.8. The copper rod production rate shows resilience at the end of the off - season, and the substitution effect between refined and scrap copper is obvious. The scrap copper market is disturbed by policies, and there may be a small inventory accumulation in August [1]. Aluminum - **Price and Inventory Changes**: From August 22 to 28, the Shanghai aluminum ingot price decreased by 110, the domestic alumina price decreased by 7, and the import alumina price decreased by 50. The inventory remained unchanged [1]. - **Supply and Demand**: Supply increases slightly, demand is in the seasonal off - season in August with a possible slight improvement in the middle and late stages. The export of aluminum products improves, but photovoltaic demand and overseas demand decline. There is an expected small inventory accumulation in August [2]. Zinc - **Price and Inventory Changes**: From August 22 to 28, the Shanghai zinc ingot price decreased by 140, the domestic social inventory remained unchanged, and the overseas LME inventory decreased by 2025 [5]. - **Supply and Demand**: Supply increases as the smelting increment is further realized in August and the zinc ore import in July reaches a three - year high. Demand is seasonally weak but has some resilience. Domestic social inventory rises, and overseas LME inventory decreases rapidly [5]. - **Strategy**: Short - term prices may rebound, and a wait - and - see approach is recommended. A short - position configuration is suggested in the medium - to - long - term. Positive arbitrage opportunities can be considered [5]. Nickel - **Price and Inventory Changes**: From August 22 to 28, the Shanghai nickel spot price decreased by 1450, and the inventory of LME increased by 456 [6]. - **Supply and Demand**: Supply remains at a high level, demand is weak, and inventory remains stable [6]. - **Strategy**: Opportunities for narrowing the nickel - stainless steel price ratio can be continuously monitored [6]. Stainless Steel - **Price and Inventory Changes**: From August 22 to 28, the prices of 304 cold - rolled coils and other products remained mostly unchanged, and the inventory in Xifu decreased slightly [6]. - **Supply and Demand**: Some steel mills cut production passively, demand is mainly for rigid needs, costs remain stable, and inventory decreases slightly [6]. - **Strategy**: Attention should be paid to policy trends [6]. Lead - **Price and Inventory Changes**: From August 22 to 28, the spot premium increased by 10, the domestic social inventory remained unchanged, and the overseas LME inventory decreased by 4975 [8]. - **Supply and Demand**: Supply has issues such as low scrap battery supply and low profit - driven low production. Demand shows a "not - prosperous peak season" situation. Inventory is expected to remain at a high level [8]. - **Strategy**: Lead prices are expected to remain in a low - level oscillation next week [8]. Tin - **Price and Inventory Changes**: From August 22 to 28, the spot import profit decreased by 1094.76, and the inventory of LME decreased by 30 [11]. - **Supply and Demand**: Supply is affected by factors such as low processing fees and potential production resumptions. Demand has a peak - season expectation in the terminal electronics sector but a strong expectation of a decline in photovoltaic growth [11]. - **Strategy**: A wait - and - see approach is recommended in the short - term, and long - position holding near the cost line is suggested in the medium - to - long - term [11]. Industrial Silicon - **Price and Inventory Changes**: From August 22 to 28, the 421 Yunnan basis decreased by 45, and the warehouse receipt decreased by 53 [14]. - **Supply and Demand**: The production resumes at a slow pace. The current supply - demand balance shows a small inventory reduction. The supply - demand situation may remain tight in the short - term, while prices are expected to oscillate at the cycle bottom in the medium - to - long - term [14]. Carbonate Lithium - **Price and Inventory Changes**: From August 22 to 28, the SMM electric carbonate price decreased by 1600, and the warehouse receipt increased by 1480 [16]. - **Supply and Demand**: The futures market fluctuates due to supply - side disturbances. Spot trading is active during the peak season. The core contradiction lies in the long - term over - supply situation and short - term supply - side compliance disturbances [16].

Report Information - Report Title: Nickel and Stainless Steel Weekly Report: Still Lack of Drivers [1] - Report Date: August 26, 2025 [2] - Research Institute: Hongyuan Futures Research Institute [2] - Analyst: Wu Jinheng [2] 1. Report Industry Investment Rating No industry investment rating is provided in the report. 2. Report Core Views - For electrolytic nickel, the strategy is to wait and see, with an expected price range of 116,000 - 126,000 yuan/ton. Given high pure nickel production, loose supply - demand, and fluctuating Fed rate - cut expectations, nickel prices are expected to fluctuate within the range [3][89]. - For stainless steel, the strategy is also to wait and see, with an expected price range of 12,500 - 13,500 yuan/ton. Despite production recovery, average demand, and existing inventory pressure, strong cost support and the "anti - involution" sentiment suggest that stainless steel prices will fluctuate within the range [4][115]. 3. Summary by Relevant Catalogs 3.1 Nickel Market Review - Last week, SHFE nickel fluctuated downward, with a weekly decline of 0.89%. Trading volume decreased to 407,500 lots (- 80,800), and open interest increased to 111,400 lots (+ 2,100). LME nickel fell 0.40% weekly, with trading volume rising to 29,200 lots (+ 800) [10]. - The basis was at a premium of 940 yuan/ton [12]. 3.2 Supply Side 3.2.1 Nickel Ore - Last week, prices of 0.9%, 1.5%, and 1.8% nickel ores remained flat, and the shipping price from the Philippines to China was unchanged [18]. - In June, Philippine nickel ore exports increased. In July, China's nickel ore imports reached 5.01 million tons, up 15.2% month - on - month and 43.6% year - on - year [22]. - Last week, nickel ore arrivals increased by 306,300 tons, and port inventories rose by 440,000 wet tons [24]. 3.2.2 Nickel Pig Iron - The price of 8 - 12% high - nickel pig iron rose by 4.5 yuan/nickel point, while the price of 1.5 - 1.7% nickel pig iron was flat. The negative premium of nickel pig iron to electrolytic nickel and scrap stainless steel narrowed [30]. - In July, China's nickel pig iron imports were 836,000 tons, down 19.7% month - on - month but up 1.8% year - on - year. August imports are expected to be flat [33]. - Nickel pig iron producers' losses widened, but the operating rate increased. In August, domestic production and operating rates declined, while those in Indonesia slightly increased. Nickel pig iron inventories slightly decreased [35][39][43]. 3.2.3 Electrolytic Nickel - In August, the operating rate and production schedule of refined nickel increased. The profitability of electrolytic nickel exports decreased. In July, both imports and exports of electrolytic nickel increased [47][51][54]. 3.3 Demand Side 3.3.1 Stainless Steel - In August, stainless steel production schedules increased, including those for 300 - series stainless steel. In July, exports rose 6.7% month - on - month and 1.4% year - on - year, while imports fell 33.3% month - on - month and 39.0% year - on - year. August imports and exports are expected to decline [59][63]. 3.3.2 New Energy - The price of pure nickel fell, while that of nickel sulfate rose, widening the premium of nickel sulfate to pure nickel. The proportion of pure nickel used in nickel sulfate production was minimal [68]. - In August, production schedules for ternary precursors and materials increased, while that for nickel sulfate decreased [72][74]. - In July, new energy vehicle production was 1.243 million units, down 2.0% month - on - month but up 26.3% year - on - year, and sales were 1.262 million units, down 5.1% month - on - month but up 27.4% year - on - year [80]. 3.4 Inventory Side - Last week, SHFE and LME nickel inventories decreased. Shanghai Free Trade Zone nickel inventories were flat, and the six - region social total inventory decreased by 1,019 tons [81][85]. 3.5 Electrowinning Nickel Cost - The cost of producing electrowinning nickel from externally sourced nickel sulfate and nickel matte increased, while that from externally sourced MHP decreased. MHP integrated production of electrowinning nickel had a significant cost advantage over high - matte integrated production [88]. 3.6 Stainless Steel Market - Last week, stainless steel futures fluctuated downward, with a weekly decline of 2.04%. The basis widened to 915 yuan/ton. Trading volume was 619,000 lots (- 178,900), and open interest was 144,500 lots (+ 10,200) [92]. - High - nickel pig iron and high - carbon ferrochrome prices rose, providing strong cost support. Losses for 200 - series and 300 - series stainless steel widened, while those for 400 - series stainless steel narrowed [95][100]. - Domestic stainless steel social inventories increased. 200 - series inventories decreased, while 300 - series and 400 - series inventories increased [113].

1. Report Industry Investment Ratings No information about industry investment ratings is provided in the reports. 2. Core Views of the Reports Copper - The "stagflation-like" environment restricts the upside of copper prices, but the dovish Fed statement on August 22 boosted market expectations of a September rate cut, thus lifting copper prices. The inflation pressure may not prevent the restart of rate cuts, but the actual rate cut幅度 is uncertain. The key lies in whether the inflation caused by tariffs is a one-time shock. - Fundamentally, the supply-demand contradiction of copper remains the main line, with a tight supply situation. The copper price is expected to be range-bound in the short term, with the main contract reference range of 78,500 - 80,500 yuan/ton [1]. Aluminum - The alumina market is facing a game between short-term supply disruptions and long-term overcapacity. The price of the main contract is expected to be in the range of 3,000 - 3,300 yuan/ton this week, and short positions can be considered at high prices. - The aluminum market is under pressure from the supply-demand structure, and the inventory is expected to accumulate. The short-term aluminum price is expected to be volatile, with the main contract reference range of 20,000 - 21,000 yuan/ton [4]. Aluminum Alloy - The fundamentals of the aluminum alloy market are showing marginal improvement, and the social inventory has decreased. The supply of scrap aluminum is tight, which supports the cost. The demand for communication die-casting has increased, while the automotive sector is still weak. The spot price is expected to remain relatively firm, and the price difference between aluminum alloy and aluminum is expected to converge. The main contract is expected to run in the range of 19,600 - 20,400 yuan/ton [7]. Zinc - The supply of zinc is loose, and the demand is weak, which limits the continuous upward movement of zinc prices. However, the decline in overseas inventories provides support for prices. The short-term zinc price is expected to be volatile and stronger due to improved rate cut expectations, with the main contract reference range of 22,000 - 23,000 yuan/ton [9]. Tin - The Fed's dovish signal has pushed up tin prices. The supply of tin ore remains tight, and the demand is expected to be weak. If the supply recovers smoothly, a short-selling strategy can be considered; if the supply recovery is less than expected, the tin price is expected to remain high and volatile [12]. Nickel - The macro sentiment has improved, and the cost provides some support. The supply is expected to be loose, but the pace is slow. The short-term nickel price is expected to be range-adjusted, with the main contract reference range of 118,000 - 126,000 yuan/ton [14]. Stainless Steel - The cost of stainless steel provides support, but the weak spot demand restricts the market. The short-term price is expected to be range-bound, with the main contract reference range of 12,600 - 13,400 yuan/ton [16]. Lithium Carbonate - The lithium carbonate market is currently in a tight balance. The supply contraction expectation is gradually being realized, and the demand is showing a steady and optimistic trend. The short-term price is expected to fluctuate widely around 80,000 yuan/ton [18]. 3. Summary by Relevant Catalogs Copper Price and Basis - SMM 1 electrolytic copper price increased by 0.72% to 79,395 yuan/ton. - The import profit and loss was -49 yuan/ton, a decrease of 202.58 yuan/ton from the previous day [1]. Fundamental Data - In July, the electrolytic copper production was 117.43 million tons, a month-on-month increase of 3.47%. - The domestic social inventory decreased by 8.00% to 12.30 million tons [1]. Aluminum Price and Spread - SMM A00 aluminum price increased by 0.34% to 20,780 yuan/ton. - The import profit and loss was -1,354 yuan/ton, a decrease of 127.8 yuan/ton from the previous day [4]. Fundamental Data - In July, the alumina production was 765.02 million tons, a month-on-month increase of 5.40%. - The LME inventory decreased by 0.17% to 47.9 million tons [4]. Aluminum Alloy Price and Spread - SMM ADC12 aluminum alloy price increased by 0.49% to 20,550 yuan/ton. - The 2511 - 2512 month - to - month spread decreased by 40 yuan/ton to -20 yuan/ton [7]. Fundamental Data - In July, the regenerated aluminum alloy ingot production was 62.50 million tons, a month-on-month increase of 1.63%. - The regenerated aluminum alloy social inventory decreased by 0.28% to 3.51 million tons [7]. Zinc Price and Spread - SMM 0 zinc ingot price increased by 0.50% to 22,310 yuan/ton. - The import profit and loss was -1,766 yuan/ton, a decrease of 89.74 yuan/ton from the previous day [9]. Fundamental Data - In July, the refined zinc production was 60.28 million tons, a month-on-month increase of 3.03%. - The Chinese zinc ingot seven - region social inventory increased by 2.29% to 13.85 million tons [9]. Tin Spot Price and Basis - SMM 1 tin price increased by 1.39% to 269,700 yuan/ton. - The LME 0 - 3 spread increased by 52 dollars/ton to 50 dollars/ton [12]. Fundamental Data - In July, the tin ore import was 10,278 tons, a month-on-month decrease of 13.71%. - The SHFE tin inventory decreased by 3.86% to 7,491 tons [12]. Nickel Price and Basis - SMM 1 electrolytic nickel price increased by 0.58% to 121,250 yuan/ton. - The futures import profit and loss was -1,920 yuan/ton, a decrease of 677 yuan/ton from the previous day [14]. Fundamental Data - The Chinese refined nickel product production decreased by 10.04% to 31,800 tons. - The SHFE nickel inventory increased by 2.93% to 26,962 tons [14]. Stainless Steel Price and Spread - The 304/2B (Wuxi Hongwang 2.0 coil) price increased by 0.77% to 13,100 yuan/ton. - The 2510 - 2511 month - to - month spread increased by 15 yuan/ton to -60 yuan/ton [16]. Fundamental Data - The Chinese 300 - series stainless steel crude steel production (43 enterprises) decreased by 3.83% to 171.33 million tons. - The 300 - series social inventory (Wuxi + Foshan) increased by 1.61% to 50.45 million tons [16]. Lithium Carbonate Price and Spread - SMM battery - grade lithium carbonate average price decreased by 1.67% to 82,500 yuan/ton. - The 2509 - 2511 month - to - month spread decreased by 20 yuan/ton to 200 yuan/ton [18]. Fundamental Data - In July, the lithium carbonate production was 81,530 tons, a month-on-month increase of 4.41%. - The lithium carbonate total inventory decreased by 2.01% to 97,846 tons [18].

Report Industry Investment Rating No relevant content provided. Core Viewpoints of the Report - The expectation of the Fed's interest rate cut has strengthened, and non - ferrous metals as a whole are fluctuating strongly. [1] - Different non - ferrous metal varieties have different trends. Copper is expected to be volatile with potential upward space; aluminum is in an upward trend with shock adjustments; zinc is oscillating within a range; and other metals also have their own characteristics and corresponding investment suggestions. [3][4] Summary by Related Catalogs Main Variety Views Copper - The copper price remained horizontal this week, and the price fluctuation further converged. Powell's dovish speech will boost the copper price. The domestic anti - involution policy continues to deepen, and the relevant varieties are supported. - The domestic copper inventory increased slightly this week but remained at a low level overall. The LME copper inventory increased, the Shanghai - London ratio stopped falling and stabilized, and the copper import profit turned positive. - The downstream consumption has not reached an inflection point, the spot premium has declined, but the decline in copper price has promoted the downstream enterprises' demand for replenishing inventory at low prices. - The copper price is still prone to fluctuations. Considering the subsequent peak - season demand and the high - maintenance expectation in September and October, the market will remain strong. The short - term operating range of Shanghai copper is 78,500 - 79,500 yuan/ton. [3] Aluminum - The mainstream transaction price of Guinea's bulk ore increased by $0.4 per dry ton to $74.5 per dry ton. The rainy season in Guinea has affected the mining and transportation of bauxite, and the bauxite shipment volume has shown a downward trend. - The operating capacity of alumina decreased by 250,000 tons to 95.7 million tons week - on - week, and the national alumina inventory increased by 48,000 tons to 3.423 million tons week - on - week. - The operating capacity of electrolytic aluminum increased steadily, with a week - on - week increase of 10,000 tons to 44.319 million tons. The domestic downstream processing leading enterprises' operating rate increased by 0.5% to 60% week - on - week. - The overall idea is to go long on dips. [3] Zinc - The zinc price was weakly volatile last week. The supply of zinc concentrates remained loose, and the domestic zinc ore processing fee remained flat last week, while the imported zinc ore processing fee continued to rise month - on - month. - The domestic off - season characteristics are obvious, and downstream enterprises maintain rigid demand procurement with a relatively limited quantity. - As of August 21, the total inventory of SMM's seven - place zinc ingots was 132,900 tons, an increase of 3,700 tons compared with August 14, and the inventory was close to the annual high. - It is expected that the Shanghai zinc will be weakly volatile, and the reference operating range of the main contract is 22,000 - 23,000 yuan/ton. [3] Other Metals - For lead, nickel, tin, industrial silicon, polycrystalline silicon, and lithium carbonate, each has its own supply, demand, and inventory situation, and corresponding investment suggestions are given, such as trading within the range, going long on dips, or short - term trading. [3][4] Macroeconomic Data This Week's Macroeconomic Data - The US July new - home starts increased by 5.2% month - on - month, with a forecast of - 1.8% and a previous value of 5.9%. - China's August five - year and one - year loan market quoted interest rates (LPR) remained unchanged at 3.5% and 3% respectively. - The eurozone's July core harmonized CPI year - on - year final value was 2.3%, in line with the forecast and the previous value. [14] Next Week's Macroeconomic Data Calendar - A series of economic data such as the US July Chicago Fed National Activity Index, the US August Conference Board Consumer Confidence Index, and China's July industrial enterprise profits above designated size will be released next week. [22] Market Trends and Key Data Tracking of Each Metal - Each metal has content on market trends (such as daily and monthly line charts) and key data tracking (such as inventory, spot premium, and forward curve). For example, copper has information on LME copper inventory, COMEX institutional positions, and Shanghai copper's inter - period spread curve; aluminum has data on electrolytic aluminum social inventory, alumina port inventory, etc. [26][45][63]

Report Summary 1. Report Industry Investment Ratings No investment ratings were provided in the reports. 2. Core Views - **Copper**: In the short term, copper prices are expected to trade in a range of 77,500 - 79,000 yuan/ton. The "stagflation - like" environment in the US restricts the upside of copper prices, but the supply - demand contradiction in the medium - long term provides support. The short - term trading focus is on the US inflation and employment data in August, which will affect the Fed's decision in September [1]. - **Aluminum**: The alumina market is expected to remain in a slight surplus, with the main contract price oscillating between 3,000 - 3,300 yuan/ton. It is advisable to short at high prices. For electrolytic aluminum, the short - term price is under pressure at high levels, with the main contract price between 20,000 - 21,000 yuan/ton, and the 21,000 yuan/ton level is a key resistance [3]. - **Aluminum Alloy**: The supply - demand of the aluminum alloy market remains weak, with the main contract price expected to oscillate between 19,600 - 20,400 yuan/ton. Attention should be paid to the supply and import of scrap aluminum [4]. - **Zinc**: Zinc prices are likely to oscillate in the short term, with the main contract price between 21,500 - 23,000 yuan/ton. The supply - demand fundamentals do not strongly support a continuous rise in zinc prices, but low inventories provide support [6]. - **Tin**: Tin prices will have a wide - range oscillation in the short term. If the supply from Myanmar recovers smoothly, a short - selling strategy is recommended; otherwise, tin prices are expected to remain high and oscillate [9]. - **Nickel**: The nickel market is expected to have an interval adjustment in the short term, with the main contract price between 118,000 - 126,000 yuan/ton. The macro situation is weakening, and the supply of nickel ore is expected to be loose [10]. - **Stainless Steel**: The stainless - steel market will oscillate in the short term, with the main contract price between 12,800 - 13,500 yuan/ton. The cost support is strengthening, but the spot demand is weak [11]. - **Lithium Carbonate**: Lithium carbonate prices are expected to have a wide - range oscillation, with the main contract price having strong support between 75,000 - 80,000 yuan/ton. Although the market sentiment is weak, the fundamentals are in a tight balance [12]. 3. Summary by Directory Copper - **Price and Basis**: SMM 1 electrolytic copper price dropped to 78,770 yuan/ton, a decrease of 0.42%. The SMM 1 electrolytic copper premium dropped to 190 yuan/ton. The refined - scrap copper price difference decreased by 10.08% to 944 yuan/ton [1]. - **Fundamentals**: In July, the electrolytic copper production was 117.43 million tons, a month - on - month increase of 3.47%. The domestic mainstream port copper concentrate inventory decreased by 10.01% week - on - week to 55.76 million tons [1]. Aluminum - **Price and Spreads**: SMM A00 aluminum price dropped to 20,520 yuan/ton, a decrease of 0.34%. The import profit and loss improved to - 1,154 yuan/ton [3]. - **Fundamentals**: In July, the alumina production was 765.02 million tons, a month - on - month increase of 5.40%. The electrolytic aluminum production was 372.14 million tons, a month - on - month increase of 3.11% [3]. Aluminum Alloy - **Price and Spreads**: The price of SMM aluminum alloy ADC12 remained unchanged at 20,350 yuan/ton. The month - to - month spread between 2511 - 2512 decreased to - 5 yuan/ton [4]. - **Fundamentals**: In July, the production of recycled aluminum alloy ingots was 62.50 million tons, a month - on - month increase of 1.63%. The production of primary aluminum alloy ingots was 26.60 million tons, a month - on - month increase of 4.31% [4]. Zinc - **Price and Spreads**: SMM 0 zinc ingot price dropped to 22,170 yuan/ton, a decrease of 0.14%. The import profit and loss improved to - 1,644 yuan/ton [6]. - **Fundamentals**: In July, the refined zinc production was 60.28 million tons, a month - on - month increase of 3.03%. The Chinese zinc ingot seven - region social inventory increased by 13.59% week - on - week to 13.54 million tons [6]. Tin - **Price and Spreads**: SMM 1 tin price rose to 267,500 yuan/ton, an increase of 0.49%. The import profit and loss decreased to - 19,038.82 yuan/ton [9]. - **Fundamentals**: In July, the domestic tin ore import decreased by 13.71% month - on - month. The SMM refined tin production was 15,940 tons, a month - on - month increase of 15.42% [9]. Nickel - **Price and Spreads**: SMM 1 electrolytic nickel price dropped to 120,900 yuan/ton, a decrease of 0.62%. The futures import profit and loss decreased to - 1,857 yuan/ton [10]. - **Fundamentals**: In July, the Chinese refined nickel production was 31,800 tons, a month - on - month decrease of 10.04%. The refined nickel import increased by 116.90% month - on - month to 19,157 tons [10]. Stainless Steel - **Price and Spreads**: The price of 304/2B (Wuxi Hongwang 2.0 coil) dropped to 13,050 yuan/ton, a decrease of 0.38%. The futures - spot price difference increased to 400 yuan/ton [11]. - **Fundamentals**: In July, the Chinese 300 - series stainless - steel crude steel production was 171.33 million tons, a month - on - month decrease of 3.83%. The 300 - series social inventory (Wuxi + Foshan) decreased by 1.00% week - on - week to 49.65 million tons [11]. Lithium Carbonate - **Price and Spreads**: The SMM battery - grade lithium carbonate average price remained unchanged at 85,700 yuan/ton. The month - to - month spread between 2509 - 2511 decreased to 40 yuan/ton [12]. - **Fundamentals**: In July, the lithium carbonate production was 93,958 tons, a month - on - month increase of 4.41%. The lithium carbonate total inventory decreased by 2.01% month - on - month to 97,846 tons [12].

Report Industry Investment Ratings No relevant content provided. Core Views of the Reports Copper - The "stagflation-like" environment of a weakening US economy and commodity inflation restricts the space for interest rate cuts, suppressing the upside of copper prices. The short - term focus is on interest rate cut expectations. In the fundamental aspect, as it approaches the traditional peak season, the spot premium is strong, and domestic social inventories are starting to decline. The "tight mine supply + resilient demand" provides price support. In the short - term, copper prices are expected to fluctuate within a range, with the main contract referring to 78,000 - 79,500 yuan/ton [1]. Aluminum - For alumina, short - term supply disruptions and long - term overcapacity coexist, and the price is expected to range between 3,000 - 3,300 yuan/ton. For electrolytic aluminum, macro factors provide some support, but the supply - demand structure is under pressure. The supply is stable with a slight increase, while the demand is in a seasonal off - peak period. The short - term price is expected to be under pressure at high levels, with the main contract referring to 20,000 - 21,000 yuan/ton [3]. Aluminum Alloy - The market is currently in a situation of weak supply and demand. As it enters the transition period from the off - peak to the peak season in mid - August, demand is expected to improve. If the import situation remains the same, the spot price may remain relatively firm, and the spread between aluminum alloy and aluminum is expected to narrow. The main contract is expected to run in the range of 19,600 - 20,400 yuan/ton [5]. Zinc - The upstream overseas zinc mines are in the up - cycle of production resumption, but the production growth rate of global mines in May and domestic mines in July is lower than expected. The supply at the smelting end is increasing, while the demand is in the seasonal off - peak period. Low global inventories support prices. In the short - term, zinc prices are expected to fluctuate, with the main contract referring to 22,000 - 23,000 yuan/ton [7][8]. Tin - The actual tin ore supply remains tight. If the supply recovery fails to meet expectations, tin prices are expected to continue to oscillate at high levels [9]. Nickel - The macro environment has increased expectations of more aggressive easing. The spot price is basically stable, and the supply of nickel ore is expected to be loose. The stainless steel demand is weak, and the new energy downstream has low acceptance of high - priced nickel sulfate. In the short - term, the nickel price is expected to adjust within a range, with the main contract referring to 118,000 - 126,000 yuan/ton [10]. Stainless Steel - The stainless steel market is oscillating weakly. The export pressure has been temporarily alleviated, and the nickel iron price is stable with a slight upward trend. The supply is expected to increase, but the terminal demand is weak. In the short - term, the price is expected to oscillate within a range, with the main contract referring to 12,800 - 13,500 yuan/ton [13]. Lithium Carbonate - The lithium carbonate futures market is slightly adjusted, and the fundamentals are in a tight balance. Supply is expected to contract in the short - term, while demand is showing a positive trend. The overall inventory has decreased slightly. The price is expected to remain strong in the short - term, with the main contract fluctuating in the range of 85,000 - 90,000 yuan/ton [15]. Summaries According to Relevant Catalogs Copper Price and Basis - SMM 1 electrolytic copper price is 79,100 yuan/ton, down 0.23% from the previous day. The SMM 1 electrolytic copper premium is 195 yuan/ton, down 30 yuan/ton from the previous day. Other copper prices and premiums also show corresponding changes [1]. Fundamental Data - In July, the electrolytic copper production was 1.1743 million tons, up 3.47% month - on - month; the import volume was 300,500 tons, up 18.74% month - on - month. The import copper concentrate index increased by 0.38 dollars/ton week - on - week, and the domestic mainstream port copper concentrate inventory decreased by 10.01% week - on - week [1]. Aluminum Price and Spread - SMM A00 aluminum price is 20,590 yuan/ton, up 0.19% from the previous day. The import loss is - 1,289 yuan/ton, an improvement of 113.2 yuan/ton from the previous day [3]. Fundamental Data - In July, the alumina production was 7.6502 million tons, up 5.40% month - on - month; the electrolytic aluminum production was 3.7214 million tons, up 3.11% month - on - month. The operating rates of various aluminum products have increased to varying degrees [3]. Aluminum Alloy Price and Spread - SMM aluminum alloy ADC12 price remains stable at 20,350 yuan/ton in most regions. The scrap - to - refined price difference in some regions has changed, such as a 9.38% decrease in the scrap - to - refined price difference of Foshan crushed raw aluminum [5]. Fundamental Data - In July, the production of recycled aluminum alloy ingots was 625,000 tons, up 1.63% month - on - month; the production of primary aluminum alloy ingots was 266,000 tons, up 4.31% month - on - month [5]. Zinc Price and Spread - SMM 0 zinc ingot price is 22,200 yuan/ton, down 0.45% from the previous day. The import loss is - 1,728 yuan/ton, an improvement of 62.92 yuan/ton from the previous day [7]. Fundamental Data - In July, the refined zinc production was 602,800 tons, up 3.03% month - on - month; in June, the import volume was 36,100 tons, up 34.97% month - on - month [7]. Tin Spot Price and Basis - SMM 1 tin price is 266,200 yuan/ton, down 0.22% from the previous day. The LME 0 - 3 premium is 89 dollars/ton, up 41.27% from the previous day [9]. Fundamental Data - In June, the tin ore import volume was 11,911 tons, down 11.44% month - on - month; the SMM refined tin production was 14,840 tons, down 6.94% month - on - month [9]. Nickel Price and Basis - SMM 1 electrolytic nickel price remains stable at 121,650 yuan/ton. The 1 Jinchuan nickel premium is 2,350 yuan/ton, up 6.82% from the previous day [10]. Supply - Demand and Inventory - China's refined nickel production in July was 31,800 tons, down 10.04% month - on - month; the import volume was 19,157 tons, up 116.90% month - on - month [10]. Stainless Steel Price and Basis - The price of 304/2B (Wuxi Hongwang 2.0 coil) is 13,100 yuan/ton, down 0.38% from the previous day. The forward - spot spread is 385 yuan/ton, up 24.19% from the previous day [13]. Fundamental Data - The production of 300 - series stainless steel crude steel in China (43 enterprises) in July was 1.7133 million tons, down 3.83% month - on - month; the import volume was 109,500 tons, down 12.48% month - on - month [13]. Lithium Carbonate Price and Basis - SMM battery - grade lithium carbonate average price is 85,700 yuan/ton, up 1.30% from the previous day. The SMM battery - grade lithium carbonate - industrial - grade lithium carbonate spread remains stable at 2,300 yuan/ton [15]. Fundamental Data - In July, the lithium carbonate production was 81,530 tons, up 4.41% month - on - month; the demand was 96,275 tons, up 2.62% month - on - month. The total inventory in July was 97,846 tons, down 2.01% month - on - month [15].

1. Report Industry Investment Ratings No industry investment ratings were provided in the reports. 2. Core Views of the Reports Copper - Macroscopically, the "stagflation - like" environment in the US restricts the space for interest - rate cuts, suppressing the upside potential of copper prices. The short - term focus is on the US inflation and employment data in August, which will influence the Fed's decision in September. - Fundamentally, as it approaches the traditional peak season, the spot premium is strong, and domestic social inventories are starting to decline. With "tight mine supply + resilient demand," there is support for prices. In the future, copper pricing will return to macro trading. The price is expected to range between 78,000 - 79,500 yuan/ton [1]. Aluminum - For alumina, short - term supply disruptions such as the crackdown on bauxite theft in Shanxi and the demonstration in Guinea have raised concerns, but mid - term production capacity is expected to increase, and the market will remain slightly oversupplied. The price of the main contract is expected to range between 3,000 - 3,300 yuan/ton. - For electrolytic aluminum, although there is some support from domestic consumption - stimulating policies and expectations of Fed rate cuts, the supply is stable with a slight increase, and demand is still in the off - season. The price of the main contract is expected to range between 20,000 - 21,000 yuan/ton, with a focus on the 21,000 yuan/ton resistance level [3]. Aluminum Alloy - The current market is in a situation of weak supply and demand. However, as it enters the transition period from the off - season to the peak season in mid - August, demand is expected to improve. If the import price ratio remains the same, the supply of imported aluminum alloy ingots and scrap will be limited. The price of the main contract is expected to range between 19,600 - 20,400 yuan/ton [5]. Zinc - The upstream overseas zinc mines are in an up - cycle of production resumption, but the production growth rate in May globally and in July domestically fell short of expectations. The smelter's production enthusiasm is high, and the supply of refined zinc increased in July. Demand is in the off - season, and the price is expected to range between 22,000 - 23,000 yuan/ton [7][8]. Tin - Supply of tin ore remains tight, and the resumption of production in Myanmar is expected to be delayed until the fourth quarter. Demand is weak after the end of the photovoltaic rush - installation period and the entry of the electronics industry into the off - season. If supply recovers smoothly, short - selling opportunities may arise; otherwise, the price will remain high and volatile [9]. Nickel - Macroscopically, the US inflation pressure has eased, and the market expects more aggressive easing policies. Industrially, the supply of nickel ore is expected to be loose, and the price of ferronickel is rising, but there is still an oversupply pressure. Stainless steel demand is weak, and the downstream of the new energy sector has a low acceptance of high - priced nickel sulfate. The price of the main contract is expected to range between 118,000 - 126,000 yuan/ton [10]. Stainless Steel - The stainless - steel market is weak, with low procurement enthusiasm from downstream enterprises. Although the export pressure has been alleviated, the terminal demand is still weak. The price of ferronickel is rising, and the supply of stainless steel is expected to increase in August. The price of the main contract is expected to range between 12,800 - 13,500 yuan/ton [13]. Lithium Carbonate - The fundamentals are in a tight balance. Supply is expected to contract in the short term, while demand is entering the peak season and is showing a positive trend. Although the actual demand has not significantly increased due to inventory pressure in the material industry chain, the overall market atmosphere is strong. The price of the main contract is expected to range between 85,000 - 90,000 yuan/ton [15]. 3. Summary by Relevant Catalogs Copper - **Price and Basis**: The prices of various types of copper decreased slightly, with the SMM 1 electrolytic copper at 79,100 yuan/ton, down 0.23%. The refined - scrap price difference increased by 3.59% to 1,020 yuan/ton. - **Monthly Spread**: The 2509 - 2510 spread decreased by 20 yuan/ton to 20 yuan/ton. - **Fundamental Data**: In July, electrolytic copper production was 117.43 million tons, up 3.47%, and imports were 30.05 million tons, up 18.74%. Domestic mainstream port copper concentrate inventories decreased by 10.01% [1]. Aluminum - **Price and Spread**: The SMM A00 aluminum price was 20,590 yuan/ton, up 0.19%. The import loss decreased by 113.2 yuan/ton to 1,289 yuan/ton. - **Monthly Spread**: The 2509 - 2510 spread decreased by 20 yuan/ton to 25 yuan/ton. - **Fundamental Data**: In July, alumina production was 765.02 million tons, up 5.40%, and electrolytic aluminum production was 372.14 million tons, up 3.11%. The social inventory of electrolytic aluminum increased by 3.41% [3]. Aluminum Alloy - **Price and Spread**: The SMM aluminum alloy ADC12 price remained unchanged at 20,350 yuan/ton. The 2511 - 2512 spread increased by 30 yuan/ton to 25 yuan/ton. - **Fundamental Data**: In July, the production of recycled aluminum alloy ingots was 62.50 million tons, up 1.63%, and the production of primary aluminum alloy ingots was 26.60 million tons, up 4.31%. The social inventory of recycled aluminum alloy ingots increased by 2.03% [5]. Zinc - **Price and Basis**: The SMM 0 zinc ingot price was 22,200 yuan/ton, down 0.45%. The import loss decreased by 62.92 yuan/ton to 1,728 yuan/ton. - **Monthly Spread**: The 2509 - 2510 spread increased by 35 yuan/ton to 15 yuan/ton. - **Fundamental Data**: In July, refined zinc production was 60.28 million tons, up 3.03%. The social inventory of zinc ingots in seven regions in China increased by 13.59% [7]. Tin - **Spot Price and Basis**: The SMM 1 tin price was 266,200 yuan/ton, down 0.22%. The LME 0 - 3 premium increased by 41.27% to 89.00 dollars/ton. - **Monthly Spread**: The 2509 - 2510 spread increased by 40 to - 230. - **Fundamental Data**: In June, tin ore imports decreased by 11.44% to 11,911 tons, and SMM refined tin production decreased by 6.94% to 14,840 tons [9]. Nickel - **Price and Basis**: The SMM 1 electrolytic nickel price remained unchanged at 121,650 yuan/ton. The 1 Jinchuan nickel premium increased by 6.82% to 2,350 yuan/ton. - **Supply and Inventory**: In July, China's refined nickel production decreased by 10.04% to 31,800 tons, while imports increased by 116.90% to 19,157 tons. SHFE inventory increased by 1.72% [10]. Stainless Steel - **Price and Basis**: The 304/2B (Wuxi Hongwang 2.0 coil) price was 13,100 yuan/ton, down 0.38%. The 2510 - 2511 spread decreased by 15 yuan/ton to - 70 yuan/ton. - **Fundamental Data**: In July, the production of 300 - series stainless - steel crude steel in China decreased by 3.83% to 171.33 million tons. The 300 - series social inventory in Wuxi and Foshan decreased by 1.00% [13]. Lithium Carbonate - **Price and Basis**: The SMM battery - grade lithium carbonate price was 85,700 yuan/ton, up 1.30%. The 2509 - 2511 spread increased by 40 yuan/ton to 60 yuan/ton. - **Fundamental Data**: In July, lithium carbonate production was 81,530 tons, up 4.41%, and demand was 96,275 tons, up 2.62%. The total inventory decreased by 2.01% [15].