Core Insights - China has included nuclear fusion in its "14th Five-Year Plan" and future industrial priorities, while countries like the US, Japan, and the UK are accelerating implementation through legislation and funding support [1] - The global nuclear fusion industry is experiencing a significant increase in financing, with a projected total of $9.766 billion by mid-2025, marking the highest annual growth in three years [2] - The industry is transitioning from laboratory research to engineering implementation, with key components' domestic production driving the pace of development [3] Industry Trends - The global landscape for nuclear fusion is diversifying, with 50% of tokamak devices and various other approaches like stellarators and lasers being explored [2] - The core value of nuclear fusion devices is concentrated in four systems: magnets, blankets, vacuum chambers, and divertors, with the highest cost shares being 28%, 17%, 14%, and 8% respectively [3] Investment Recommendations - Key companies in the nuclear fusion supply chain include China National Nuclear Corporation (000777.SZ), Lansi Heavy Industry (603169.SH), Jingye Intelligent (688290.SH), and Western Superconducting (688122.SH), with a recommendation to also monitor Kexin Electromechanical (300092.SZ) [4]

Core Viewpoint - The article emphasizes that nuclear fusion is entering a critical phase of "engineering verification" and "demonstration reactor introduction," suggesting a focus on the key window for industrialization configuration [1]. Group 1: Global Nuclear Fusion Landscape - Nuclear fusion is recognized for its environmental friendliness, abundant resources, high energy density, and self-limiting reaction mechanisms, making it a key focus in future energy strategies globally [3][4]. - Major economies, including China, the US, Japan, and the UK, are accelerating the development of nuclear fusion through legislative support and funding, establishing a comprehensive support system from top-level design to industrial practice [3][9]. - By mid-2025, the cumulative financing for the global commercial nuclear fusion industry is expected to reach $9.766 billion, marking the highest annual increase in three years [3][12]. Group 2: Technological Advancements and Cost Structure - The core value of nuclear fusion devices, such as the ITER project, is concentrated in four major systems: magnets, blanket, vacuum chamber, and divertor, with the highest cost shares being 28%, 17%, 14%, and 8% respectively [3][39]. - The transition to high-temperature superconductors is crucial for enhancing fusion power density and reducing the overall size of fusion reactors, significantly impacting the commercialization process [19][22]. - The cost of nuclear fusion plants is a decisive factor for their penetration in future power systems, with potential construction costs ranging from $11,300/kW to $2,800/kW influencing their market share [22]. Group 3: International Collaboration and Domestic Development - The ITER project represents a significant international collaboration, with China contributing to key components and systems, highlighting the global effort in nuclear fusion research [25][29]. - The US National Ignition Facility (NIF) serves as a representative platform for inertial confinement fusion research, showcasing advancements in energy release and control [27][31]. - China's nuclear fusion technology roadmap aims to establish a fusion engineering test reactor by 2025 and a commercial demonstration plant by 2050, indicating a structured approach to domestic development [37][41].

Core Insights - The report from China Merchants Securities highlights the accelerated industrialization process of controllable nuclear fusion, transitioning from experimental validation to engineering demonstration, with a focus on material performance breakthroughs as a core bottleneck [1][2] - The overall domestic production rate of key nuclear fusion equipment exceeds 96%, with significant advancements in core components such as tungsten-based divertors and high-temperature superconducting materials [1] - The industry is entering a new phase characterized by "multiple routes racing + capital resonance," with a recommendation to focus on leading companies and suppliers of domestically replaced materials and core components [1] Group 1: Industrialization Progress - The urgency of global energy transition is propelling controllable nuclear fusion as a clean energy solution, moving towards engineering and commercialization [1] - The magnetic confinement tokamak route currently dominates the industrialization process, while inertial confinement and hybrid routes are also developing in parallel [1] - China is leveraging major scientific devices like EAST and BEST to achieve breakthroughs in key areas, with the BEST device expected to demonstrate fusion energy generation by 2027 [1] Group 2: Material Innovation - Material innovation is identified as the core bottleneck and breakthrough point for current industrialization, with extreme operational environments demanding near-limit performance from materials [2] - Key materials include high melting point and radiation-resistant materials for first walls/divertors, and the transition from low-temperature to high-temperature superconductors to enhance magnetic field strength [2] - Domestic companies have made significant progress in areas such as tungsten-copper divertors and superconducting wires, but challenges remain in material reliability verification and cost control [2] Group 3: Market Opportunities - The energy equipment sector is seeing significant growth, with leading enterprises establishing clear paths for core component R&D and industrialization [3] - Companies involved in superconductors, first walls, and divertor materials are expected to benefit significantly from this growth [3] - Military enterprises are extending their high-precision manufacturing capabilities into civilian sectors, with companies like Sui Chuang Electronics and Wangzi New Materials gaining early advantages in supporting roles [3] Group 4: Recommended Companies - Companies to focus on include Guoguang Electric, Hezhu Intelligent, Lianchuang Optoelectronics, Western Superconducting, Sui Chuang Electronics, Wangzi New Materials, Parker New Materials, Antai Technology, Yongding Co., Xuguang Electronics, Sui Rui New Materials, Zhongzhou Special Materials, and Jiuli Special Materials [4]

Group 1: Low-altitude Economy - The low-altitude economy is expected to see significant development driven by large-scale infrastructure projects, with 2025 being a pivotal year for the transition from planning to industrial implementation [4] - The establishment of a nationwide low-altitude communication and navigation system is set to be completed by 2025, enhancing safety and operational capabilities in the low-altitude airspace [4] - The government's focus on developing new productive forces highlights the importance of the low-altitude economy in future economic strategies [4] Group 2: Deep Sea Technology - Deep sea technology has been elevated to a national strategic level, with significant market potential estimated in the trillions, covering areas such as deep-sea protection, detection, and resource development [5] - The government is expected to continue issuing supportive policies and financing for the deep sea technology sector, which is anticipated to accelerate its development [5] Group 3: Solar Thermal Power and Energy Storage - Solar thermal power generation is positioned as a stable and dispatchable energy source, with a projected cost reduction to 0.55 yuan per kilowatt-hour by 2025 [6] - The integration of molten salt energy storage systems is expected to enhance the efficiency and application of solar thermal power in various sectors [6] Group 4: Humanoid Robots - The aging population in China is driving the demand for humanoid robots, with projections indicating a labor supply gap of 6 million by 2025 and 20 million by 2030 [10] - The humanoid robot industry is expected to reach a market size of $32.4 billion globally and 75 billion yuan domestically by 2029 [10][12] - Recent policies in China are shifting focus from technology development to industrialization of humanoid robots, with several strategic plans being implemented [15] Group 5: Robotics Policies and Market Trends - China has introduced numerous policies to support the robotics industry, with a focus on enhancing manufacturing capabilities and promoting the integration of robotics in various sectors [15][19] - The market for humanoid robots is witnessing rapid commercialization, with several companies planning to deliver thousands of units in the coming years [18] Group 6: Commercial Space and Satellite Launches - The low-orbit satellite network is entering a dense phase, with a significant increase in satellite launches projected for the coming years [32] - The domestic satellite launch market is expected to grow from 12.4 billion yuan in 2020 to a substantial scale by 2030, driven by both state-owned and private enterprises [32]

Summary of Key Points from the Conference Call on Controlled Nuclear Fusion Industry Overview - The conference focused on the nuclear fusion industry, particularly highlighting China's advancements and strategic plans in this field [1][4][3]. Core Insights and Arguments 1. **China's Strategic Timeline**: China has set a clear timeline for nuclear fusion development, aiming for a burning plasma experiment by 2027, the first engineering test reactor by 2035, and the first commercial demonstration reactor by 2045, indicating strong commercialization intentions [1][4][3]. 2. **Global Distribution of Fusion Devices**: As of 2025, 59% of global fusion devices are operational or planned, with 10% under construction. The majority of funding (67%) comes from government sources, while 33% is from private capital [4][5]. 3. **Shift in International Cooperation**: The international collaboration model is evolving from project-driven initiatives like ITER to a more inclusive approach that emphasizes ecological co-construction and value sharing, encouraging diverse technological pathways [1][10]. 4. **Commercialization Momentum**: The nuclear fusion industry is transitioning from experimental setups to engineering applications, marking a significant milestone in commercialization, driven by policy, funding, and technological support [2][15]. 5. **Private Sector Investment Growth**: Private sector spending in nuclear fusion surged by 73% from $250 million in 2023 to $434 million in 2024, with expectations of continued growth of 20%-30% in 2025 [14]. Additional Important Insights 1. **Establishment of Collaboration Centers**: The establishment of the first global fusion research and training collaboration center in Sichuan by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) signifies China's proactive role in setting technical standards and promoting quality systems in the fusion industry [3][7]. 2. **Regional Development Disparities**: The U.S. is aggressively pursuing fusion technology, with several projects expected to achieve grid connection by 2030, while Europe and China have similar timelines for their respective projects [6][16]. 3. **Challenges in Commercialization**: Key challenges include the stability of high-temperature superconductors, waste management, radiation shielding, and ensuring competitive electricity generation costs. Full commercialization may take an additional 3 to 5 years or longer [21]. 4. **Technological Innovations**: Projects like MIT's Spark, which utilizes high-temperature superconductors, aim to achieve high magnetic field strengths and are positioned as compact tokamak devices, potentially leading the way in fusion technology [18][17]. This summary encapsulates the critical developments and strategic directions in the nuclear fusion industry, particularly focusing on China's initiatives and the global landscape of fusion technology.

Core Insights - The concept of nuclear fusion is gaining traction in the stock market, with several stocks in the sector doubling in price since the beginning of the year, with the highest increase reaching 271.94% [2][5] - Recent developments in nuclear fusion engineering and commercialization have heightened market interest, particularly following progress on the BEST nuclear fusion device in Hefei [2][5] - Despite the excitement, industry insiders caution that current projects are primarily experimental and not yet commercially viable, indicating that significant advancements are still needed before practical applications can be realized [2][5] Market Performance - As of October 10, the nuclear fusion sector has seen an overall increase of 60.62% this year, with net inflows of 2.041 billion yuan, ranking it among the top sectors in the A-share market [5][6] - Individual stocks have shown remarkable performance, with Zhongzhou Special Materials rising by 271.94%, Hezhong Intelligent by 247.15%, and Yongding Co. by 200.39% [5][6] Technological Developments - The nuclear fusion technology aims to replicate the sun's energy production through extreme conditions, primarily using magnetic confinement methods like the Tokamak [7] - Significant breakthroughs have been achieved in China's nuclear fusion research, including the successful operation of the China Circulation No. 3 device, which reached temperatures exceeding 100 million degrees Celsius [7][8] Investment and Funding - Major state-owned enterprises and private capital are increasingly investing in nuclear fusion projects, with plans for new experimental facilities and significant funding commitments exceeding 10 billion yuan [8][9] - The construction of the BEST device is progressing, with key components being installed, marking a significant step towards demonstrating fusion energy generation [8][9] Industry Outlook - The nuclear fusion sector is expected to continue attracting investment due to the growing demand for clean and renewable energy sources, particularly in the context of increasing energy needs driven by advancements in artificial intelligence [6][8] - The current phase of nuclear fusion development is characterized by experimental setups, with substantial investments required for future commercial viability [9]

Core Viewpoint - The nuclear fusion sector is experiencing significant stock market activity, with several companies seeing their stock prices double or more due to increasing expectations around nuclear fusion commercialization and engineering advancements [2][4]. Group 1: Stock Market Performance - As of October 10, 2023, the nuclear fusion sector has seen an overall increase of 60.62% since the beginning of the year, with a net inflow of 2.041 billion yuan [4]. - Individual stocks have shown remarkable gains, with Zhongzhou Special Materials up 271.94%, Hezhong Intelligent up 247.15%, and Yongding Co. up 200.39% [4]. - On October 9, 2023, the Wande Nuclear Fusion Index rose by 7.82%, while the Nuclear Power Index increased by 6.46%, indicating strong market interest [3]. Group 2: Project Developments - The BEST nuclear fusion device in Hefei is progressing, contributing to heightened market enthusiasm [2]. - The construction of the BEST device's key vacuum component has been successfully installed, marking a significant milestone [6]. - The Chinese Academy of Sciences and other institutions are leading nuclear fusion technology advancements, with the China Circulation No. 3 device achieving significant temperature breakthroughs [5][6]. Group 3: Industry Insights - Current nuclear fusion projects are primarily experimental, focusing on validating the feasibility of fusion power generation rather than commercial applications [3]. - The demand for energy, particularly from AI technologies, is driving interest in nuclear fusion as a future energy source [4]. - The cost structure of nuclear fusion reactors is heavily influenced by components such as building structures, magnets, and vacuum chambers, with magnets representing the largest value segment [7].

Investment Rating - The report maintains a "Positive" investment rating for the construction and engineering sector [8]. Core Insights - The nuclear power and fusion sectors are experiencing multiple catalysts that have driven recent market gains, with a focus on companies like China Nuclear Engineering and Liebherr for investment opportunities [11]. - Significant developments in nuclear fusion technology include the successful performance testing of the TF magnet by Commonwealth Fusion Systems, which received an $8 million grant from the U.S. Department of Energy, marking a milestone in fusion development [11]. - The demand for electricity is expected to rise due to advancements in AI technology, positioning nuclear power as a stable energy source to meet this growing demand [11]. - China Nuclear Engineering has signed new contracts worth 55.144 billion yuan in nuclear power projects for 2024, reflecting a year-on-year growth of 43.61% [11]. - Liebherr, a high-tech enterprise, has secured a contract worth 226 million yuan for modular construction in nuclear power projects, showcasing the application of modular technology in the industry [11]. Summary by Sections Market Performance - The report highlights a significant increase in Hong Kong nuclear power stocks, with China Nuclear International rising by 22.4% and China General Nuclear Power Mining increasing by 7.82% [6]. Future Outlook - The upcoming 30th IAEA Fusion Energy Conference in Chengdu aims to promote global collaboration in fusion energy research and development [11].

Summary of Conference Call Notes Industry Overview - The focus of the conference call is on the **nuclear fusion sector**, which is viewed as a significant opportunity akin to previous technological advancements in AI and computing infrastructure [1][3][5] - The global nuclear fusion race is intensifying, with major players from various countries, including the EU, Japan, and the US, actively participating in the development of fusion energy [3][20][22] Key Points and Arguments - **Investment and Development Timeline**: - The goal for nuclear fusion power generation is set for the 2030s, with various countries aiming for commercial viability by 2030-2035 [3][5][20] - The investment required for different stages of nuclear fusion development is substantial, ranging from 15 billion to 80 billion for pilot and engineering reactors [5][7] - **Technological Advancements**: - Significant breakthroughs have been reported in nuclear fusion technology, with China achieving notable milestones, such as the successful assembly of fusion devices and advancements in experimental reactors [4][6][20] - The development of small modular reactors (SMRs) is highlighted as a flexible and scalable solution for energy needs [14][16] - **Market Dynamics**: - The nuclear fusion sector is experiencing increased interest and investment from major technology companies, indicating a shift towards commercialization and market competition [12][24] - The call emphasized the importance of domestic companies in China, which are positioned to benefit from the growing demand for nuclear fusion technology [22][26] - **Regulatory Environment**: - Recent regulatory changes in the US are expected to accelerate the approval process for new nuclear technologies, which could significantly impact the industry landscape [16][22] Additional Important Insights - **Global Competition**: - The competition among countries for nuclear fusion technology is fierce, with Japan and the EU also making significant strides in their respective projects [19][20] - The US is seen as lagging in terms of new reactor construction, but recent policy changes may provide a turning point for the industry [16][22] - **Investment Opportunities**: - The call identified several key companies in the nuclear fusion supply chain that are expected to benefit from the industry's growth, including those involved in critical components and technology [11][26] - The potential for increased funding and investment in the nuclear fusion sector is anticipated, with projections indicating a doubling of expenditures from 2023 to 2024 [24][25] - **Strategic Importance**: - Nuclear fusion is framed as a critical component of national energy strategies, with implications for energy security and technological leadership [22][23] This summary encapsulates the key discussions and insights from the conference call, highlighting the nuclear fusion industry's potential, challenges, and investment opportunities.

Summary of Fusion Industry Conference Call Industry Overview - The fusion industry is experiencing significant strategic development opportunities, with total approved investments reaching 111 billion RMB, indicating high policy emphasis and future growth expectations [1][10] - The industry is transitioning from research to practical applications, marking 2025 as the year of large-scale investments in fusion technology [2] Key Developments - The BEST device's assembly was completed two months ahead of schedule, marking a critical phase in the project, with total investment increasing from 4.5 billion RMB to 15 billion RMB [1][8] - Major domestic projects are progressing, such as the Chengdu Circulation No. 3 project achieving significant temperature parameters and the Jiangxi Star One hybrid reactor expected to exceed 20 billion RMB in total investment [3][14] Investment Trends - Capital expenditure in the fusion sector is expected to significantly increase, with average annual investments projected at approximately 18.5 billion RMB from 2025 to 2030, surpassing previous global cumulative investments [3][11] - The recent surge in fusion-related activities is attributed to multiple project launches and increased bidding activities, with significant investments in projects like the Hefei Sentoria engineering demonstration pile [9] Notable Projects and Companies - Key projects include the BEST device, which aims for operational readiness by 2027, and the Chengdu hybrid reactor project, which is set to see formal bidding information in 2025 [8][14] - Notable companies in the fusion supply chain include Guoguang Electric, Hezhong Intelligent, and Lianchuang Optoelectronics, which are involved in device operation planning and integrated equipment [6][12] Technological Advancements - The Shanghai Institute of Applied Physics has made breakthroughs in high-temperature superconducting magnet technology, achieving magnetic field strengths above 20 Tesla [17] - The Shanghai region is developing a cluster of superconducting material industries, with significant investments from local enterprises and government support [18] Government and Private Sector Involvement - Government support for fusion projects is substantial, with state-owned capital playing a significant role in funding initiatives like the Anhui Juyuan New Energy project [20] - Private enterprises, such as the New Energy Group and Shanghai Energy Point, are also making notable advancements in fusion technology, contributing to the overall growth of the sector [15][16] Conclusion - The fusion industry is on the cusp of a transformative phase, with substantial investments, technological advancements, and strong government support paving the way for future developments and potential commercialization of fusion energy solutions [2][11]