观点小结 | 镍 | 定性 | 解析 | | --- | --- | --- | | 核心观点 | 震荡 | 上周印尼对镍工业园区港口物流的合规问题审查令供应扰动风险进一步上升，而主产区正值雨季，红土镍矿易发生液化，原料供应稳定性面临考 验。与供应端扰动频发相对应的是，镍产品12月净进口量大幅增加，而下游需求偏弱使得库存矛盾仍在进一步累积，镍价暂以震荡盘整为主，后 | | | | 续随着镍矿供应趋紧、供需格局预期得到改善，镍价仍有上行驱动。 | | 镍矿价格 | 偏多 | 截至1月26日，菲律宾红土镍矿0.9%、1.5%、1.8%CIF价格环比上周分别+1、+4、+0至30、59、78.5美元/湿吨。 | | 印尼内贸镍矿 | 偏多 | 截至1月26日，印尼Ni1.2%、Ni1.6%内贸镍矿到厂价环比上周分别+0、+3.1至21.5、55美元/湿吨。 | | 海运费 | 偏空 | 上周菲律宾-天津港、菲律宾-连云港海运费环比分别-0.25、-0.25至8.25、7.25美元/湿吨。 | | 精炼镍产量 | 偏空 | 截至2025年12月，中国电解镍月度产量环比+0.56万吨至3.14万吨，环比+21.7%，同 ...

1. Report Industry Investment Rating No information provided in the content. 2. Core Viewpoints of the Report - In the short - to medium - term, before the New Year's Day, funds take profits, causing base metals to rise and then fall. However, the logic of weak US dollar expectation and supply disruption concerns remains unchanged. After copper, aluminum, and tin stop falling, low - buying and long - position opportunities can be considered. In the long - term, there are still expectations of potential incremental stimulus policies in China, and supply disruption issues for copper, aluminum, and tin still exist, with expectations of tightening supply and demand, so the price trends of copper, aluminum, and tin are optimistic [1]. - Different metals have different price trends: copper prices are expected to be strong due to strong supply contraction expectations; alumina prices are under pressure with weak cost support; aluminum prices are expected to be oscillating and strong due to positive macro expectations; aluminum alloy prices are expected to be oscillating and strong with cost support; zinc prices will oscillate with non - ferrous metals due to the divergence of domestic and foreign inventory trends; lead prices may weaken in supply and demand despite rebounding with non - ferrous metals; nickel prices will oscillate due to Indonesian policy expectations; stainless steel prices will oscillate as nickel iron prices rise; tin prices will oscillate at a high level due to the resilience of rigid demand [2]. 3. Summary by Relevant Catalogs 3.1行情观点 3.1.1 Copper - Information: China's copper smelters set the 2026 copper concentrate long - term processing fee benchmark at $0/ton and $0/pound. In November 2025, China's electrolytic copper production increased month - on - month and year - on - year, and the cumulative increase from January to November was 11.76%. On December 29, the spot price of 1 electrolytic copper was at a discount to the contract [7]. - Logic: The US economy is resilient, and the Fed's interest - rate cut and balance - sheet expansion support copper prices. Copper mine supply disruptions increase, and the long - term processing fee hits a record low. Chinese copper smelters plan to reduce production, strengthening the supply contraction expectation. Demand is weak in the off - season, and LME's position limit reduces the risk of a short squeeze [7]. - Outlook: Copper prices are expected to be oscillating and strong [7]. 3.1.2 Alumina - Information: On December 29, the northern spot comprehensive price of alumina rose, and the national weighted index also increased. The alumina warehouse receipt decreased [7][8]. - Logic: Macro sentiment amplifies price fluctuations. High - cost production capacity fluctuates, but the supply contraction is insufficient, and the inventory is still accumulating. Raw material prices are weak, and the cost support is general. The warehouse receipt is being destocked, but there is pressure on the upper side of the price [8]. - Outlook: Alumina prices are expected to oscillate [8]. 3.1.3 Aluminum - Information: On December 29, the average price of SMM AOO aluminum increased, and the inventory of aluminum ingots and aluminum rods rose. In November 2025, China's unforged aluminum and aluminum product exports decreased year - on - year but increased month - on - month. South32 raised the offer price of aluminum ingot premiums to Japan [9]. - Logic: The macro outlook is positive. Domestic production capacity is high, while overseas power shortages may tighten supply in the long term. High aluminum prices suppress demand, and inventory accumulates [9][10]. - Outlook: In the short - term, aluminum prices are expected to be oscillating and strong. In the medium - term, the price center may rise [10]. 3.1.4 Aluminum Alloy - Information: On December 29, the price of Baotai ADC12 increased, and the warehouse receipt increased. An Indonesian electrolytic aluminum project started trial production [11]. - Logic: The supply of scrap aluminum is tight, providing strong cost support. The weekly operating rate increased, but there are still risks of production cuts in the medium - term. Demand may weaken marginally after the end of the automotive seasonal sales rush [11]. - Outlook: In the short - and medium - term, aluminum alloy prices are expected to be oscillating and strong [11]. 3.1.5 Zinc - Information: On December 29, the spot prices of zinc in different regions had different premiums to the main contract. As of December 29, SMM's seven - region zinc ingot inventory decreased. In November 2025, China's zinc concentrate imports increased [12][13]. - Logic: The macro outlook is positive. Short - term zinc ore supply is tight, and smelter profits decline, reducing zinc ingot production. Domestic consumption is in the off - season, and demand is average. In the short - term, zinc ingot exports will continue, and social inventory may decline. In the long - term, supply may increase while demand growth is limited [13]. - Outlook: In the short - term, zinc prices will oscillate at a high level. In the long - term, there is a possibility of price decline [13]. 3.1.6 Lead - Information: On December 29, the price of waste electric vehicle batteries increased, and the price of lead ingots also rose. The social inventory of lead ingots decreased, and the futures warehouse receipt increased slightly [14]. - Logic: The spot premium decreased, and the original - recycled price difference increased. The price of waste batteries rose, expanding the smelting profit of recycled lead, and production is expected to increase. Demand from electric bicycles weakens, and the battery factory's operating rate declines marginally [14][15]. - Outlook: Lead prices are expected to oscillate [15]. 3.1.7 Nickel - Information: On December 29, the Shanghai nickel warehouse receipt increased, and the LME nickel inventory decreased. The average price of high - nickel pig iron rose. Indonesia plans to revise the nickel ore RKAB and the mineral benchmark price calculation formula [15][16][17]. - Logic: Domestic nickel production decreased in November, but Indonesian production increased, and overall supply pressure remains. Demand is in the off - season, and the market is weak. If Indonesia's RKAB plan is implemented, the supply - demand balance will improve [18]. - Outlook: Nickel prices are expected to oscillate, and attention should be paid to policy implementation [18]. 3.1.8 Stainless Steel - Information: The stainless steel futures warehouse receipt decreased. The average price of high - nickel pig iron rose. Some Indonesian nickel mines face fines [19]. - Logic: Nickel iron prices rise, providing cost support. Stainless steel production is expected to decline in December. Inventory may accumulate in the off - season, and the warehouse receipt is at a low level [20]. - Outlook: Stainless steel prices are expected to oscillate, and attention should be paid to Indonesian policy changes [21]. 3.1.9 Tin - Information: On December 29, the LME tin warehouse receipt increased, and the Shanghai tin warehouse receipt decreased. The spot price of tin ingots rose [21]. - Logic: Tin supply is a major concern. Chinese imports from Myanmar increase, but there are still risks. Indonesian supply may be restricted in Q1 2026. African production is limited. Demand is expected to increase due to the global economic environment and the growth of related industries [21]. - Outlook: Tin prices are expected to be oscillating and strong [21]. 3.2行情监测 - Copper: No specific monitoring information provided [24]. - Alumina: No specific monitoring information provided [39]. - Aluminum: No specific monitoring information provided [52]. - Aluminum Alloy: No specific monitoring information provided [65]. - Zinc: No specific monitoring information provided [76]. - Lead: No specific monitoring information provided [89]. - Nickel: No specific monitoring information provided [103]. - Stainless Steel: No specific monitoring information provided [119]. - Tin: No specific monitoring information provided [129]. 3.3中信期货商品指数 - On December 29, 2025, the comprehensive index was 2339.89, down 0.59%; the commodity 20 index was 2687.93, down 0.42%; the industrial products index was 2258.87, down 0.70%. The non - ferrous metals index was 2676.44, with a daily decline of 0.01%, a 5 - day increase of 3.18%, a 1 - month increase of 6.45%, and a year - to - date increase of 15.95% [147][149].

Summary of Key Points from the Conference Call Industry Overview - The report focuses on the **European Steel Industry**, highlighting significant policy shifts and market dynamics affecting both **Carbon Steel** and **Stainless Steel** sectors [6][7][8]. Core Insights and Arguments Policy Changes - The **EU's proposal** to halve import quotas and double safeguard duties to 50% represents a strong protectionist stance, introducing additional import frictions due to the **Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM)** [6][7]. - Current **HRC price gains** are primarily policy-driven, while end-user consumption remains weak in construction and manufacturing sectors [6]. Carbon Steel Sector - **Bull Case**: Preference for **voestalpine** due to its local-for-local strategy, superior margins, and exposure to Railway Systems, which provides earnings resilience [7]. - **ArcelorMittal** is noted for having the greatest operating leverage to policy tightening, benefiting from lower utilization rates and the ability to grow volumes [9]. - **Least Preferred**: **Salzgitter** and **thyssenkrupp** due to their higher cash needs and extensive decarbonization spending programs [9]. Stainless Steel Sector - New safeguards and the rollout of CBAM are expected to reduce import penetration by approximately **20%**, supporting pricing from current depressed levels [8]. - **Acerinox** is favored for its resilient earnings profile and growth prospects through US expansion and high-margin alloys business [10]. - **Aperam** is recognized for its diversified business model and operating leverage to any European recovery [10]. Financial Performance and Valuation - **ArcelorMittal** shares have significantly re-rated this year, with a target price of **€33.70** [9]. - **voestalpine** maintains relatively resilient EBITDA/t during the downturn, with manageable decarbonization risks [9]. - **thyssenkrupp** shares have doubled year-to-date, driven by optimism around German defense and infrastructure revenue, but face execution risks in unlocking value [9]. Market Dynamics - The report indicates that **construction** and **automotive** sectors are key demand drivers for steel [19][20]. - **European steel production** is projected to be influenced by ongoing economic conditions and policy changes, with a focus on sustainability and decarbonization efforts [17][19]. Additional Insights - The **EU steel import quotas** for various products indicate a high utilization rate for imports from Turkey, India, and South Korea, while the UK and Serbia show lower utilization [88]. - The **stainless steel trade flows** reveal significant imports from Taiwan, India, and South Korea, indicating a diversified supply chain [91]. Conclusion - The European steel industry is navigating a complex landscape shaped by policy changes, market dynamics, and evolving demand from key sectors. Companies like **voestalpine** and **Acerinox** are positioned favorably, while others face challenges related to cash flow and execution risks. The focus on sustainability and decarbonization will continue to influence investment strategies and market performance in the coming years [6][7][8][9][10].

Summary of Key Points from the Conference Call Industry Overview - The report focuses on the **European Steel Industry**, highlighting significant policy shifts and market dynamics as of November 2025 [6][7][8]. Core Insights - **Policy Changes**: The EU has proposed to halve import quotas and double safeguard duties to 50%, marking a strong protectionist stance. This may lead to additional policy tailwinds with the upcoming CBAM review [6][7]. - **Market Conditions**: Hot Rolled Coil (HRC) price gains have been primarily policy-driven, while end-user consumption remains weak in construction and manufacturing sectors [6][7]. Company Analysis Carbon Steel - **Preferred Companies**: - **ArcelorMittal**: Offers the greatest operating leverage to policy tightening due to lower utilization rates, allowing for volume growth and import displacement [9]. - **voestalpine**: Maintains resilient EBITDA/t during downturns and has manageable decarbonization risks, enhancing free cash flow [9]. - **Least Preferred**: - **Salzgitter**: Faces intensified cash spending on decarbonization initiatives, with current valuations lacking a safety margin [9]. - **thyssenkrupp**: Trading at a premium to its sum-of-the-parts valuation, with execution risks in portfolio simplification [9]. Stainless Steel - **Preferred Companies**: - **Acerinox**: Strong near-term earnings profile due to US exposure and high-margin alloys business, with attractive growth prospects from US expansion [10]. - **Aperam**: Diversified business model but faces challenges from weak European demand [10]. - **Least Preferred**: - **Outokumpu**: Lacks exposure beyond stainless steel, leading to lagging earnings momentum [10]. Demand Drivers - Key demand drivers for steel include **construction** and **automotive** sectors, with significant contributions from various regions [19][20]. - **Automotive Demand**: New vehicle registrations in Western Europe, the US, and China are tracked, indicating varying trends across these markets [27][28][29]. Supply Dynamics - **Production Trends**: Global steel production is shifting towards Asia, with significant output from China, the EU, and the US [17][66][67]. - **Inventory Levels**: Steel inventories across the value chain are monitored, with implications for pricing and supply stability [70][71]. Trade Flows - **Import Quotas**: The report details EU steel and stainless steel quotas by product, indicating utilization rates and import sources [88][91]. - **Net Trade Flows**: China remains a significant player in steel exports, with detailed statistics on monthly exports to the EU [76][77]. Economic Indicators - **Steel Pricing**: Historical pricing trends for EU and China HRC are analyzed, with implications for gross profit margins [97][98]. - **EBITDA Trends**: The report discusses EBITDA per tonne projections and historical performance, providing insights into profitability trends in the steel sector [115][116]. Conclusion - The European steel industry is navigating a complex landscape shaped by policy changes, market dynamics, and shifting demand patterns. Key players like ArcelorMittal and voestalpine are positioned favorably, while others face challenges that could impact their valuations and operational resilience [6][9][10].

Core Insights - Ryerson Holding Corporation reported third quarter revenue of $1.16 billion, which is in line with guidance, with average selling prices increasing by 2.6% and tons shipped decreasing by 3.2% compared to the previous quarter [4][5][6] - The company experienced a net loss of $14.8 million, or a diluted loss per share of $0.46, compared to a net income of $1.9 million in the previous quarter [8][4] - Ryerson ended the quarter with total debt of $500 million and net debt of $470 million, reflecting a decrease from the previous quarter [4][8] Financial Highlights - Revenue for Q3 2025 was $1,161.5 million, a decrease of 0.7% from Q2 2025 but an increase of 3.1% year-over-year [3][4] - Tons shipped in Q3 2025 were 485,000, down 3.2% from Q2 2025 and unchanged from Q3 2024 [3][4] - Average selling price per ton increased to $2,395, up 2.6% from Q2 2025 and 3.1% year-over-year [3][4] - Gross margin contracted to 17.2%, down 70 basis points from Q2 2025 [6][3] Operational Insights - The company executed a self-help strategy to manage operations amid ongoing challenges, including weak demand and tariff pricing conditions [5][6] - Areas of weakness included OEM contract shipments and carbon steel margin compression, while strengths were noted in transactional sales growth [5][6] - Operating expenses decreased by 1.5% compared to Q2 2025, driven by lower variable expenses [7][3] Debt and Liquidity - Ryerson recorded a cash outflow from operating activities of $8.3 million in Q3 2025, compared to an inflow of $23.8 million in Q2 2025 [8][4] - The company’s global liquidity, including cash and available credit, was $521 million as of September 30, 2025, up from $485 million at the end of Q2 2025 [8][4] Shareholder Returns - A quarterly cash dividend of $0.1875 per share was declared, payable on December 18, 2025 [9][4] - No share repurchases occurred during the quarter, with $38.4 million remaining under the existing authorization [10][4] Merger Agreement - Ryerson entered into a definitive merger agreement to acquire Olympic Steel, with shares to be converted based on a fixed exchange ratio [11][12] - The completion of the acquisition is subject to customary closing conditions, including stockholder approvals [12][11] Outlook - For Q4 2025, Ryerson expects customer shipments to decrease by 5% to 7% quarter-over-quarter, with anticipated net sales between $1.07 billion and $1.11 billion [13][4] - Average selling prices are expected to remain flat to up 2%, with LIFO expenses projected between $10 million and $14 million [13][4]

Summary of Key Points from the Conference Call Industry Overview - The report focuses on the **European Steel Industry**, highlighting significant policy shifts and market dynamics as of October 2025 [6][7][8]. Core Insights and Arguments - **Policy Changes**: The EU's proposal to halve import quotas and double safeguard duties to 50% indicates a strong protectionist stance, which may lead to additional policy tailwinds from the upcoming CBAM review [6][7]. - **Market Conditions**: Hot-rolled coil (HRC) price gains are primarily policy-driven, while end-user consumption remains weak in construction and manufacturing sectors [6][7]. - **Carbon Steel Outlook**: - **Bull Case**: Preference for voestalpine due to local-for-local strategy, superior margins, and exposure to Railway Systems, which provides earnings resilience [7]. - **ArcelorMittal** is noted for its operating leverage to policy tightening, with lower utilization rates allowing for volume growth and import displacement [7]. - **Least Preferred**: Salzgitter and thyssenkrupp due to cash burn and execution risks [7]. - **Stainless Steel Market**: - Anticipated gradual repricing due to policy tightening and CBAM rollout, expected to reduce import penetration by approximately 20% [8]. - **Preferred Companies**: Acerinox for its U.S. footprint and high-alloy mix, and Aperam for its diversified business model [8][10]. - **Least Preferred**: Outokumpu due to lack of exposure beyond stainless steel [8]. Financial Performance and Valuation - **ArcelorMittal**: Despite a strong long-term investment case, the recent share re-rating is misaligned with earnings impacts from potential Ukraine rebuild, leading to a more balanced risk-reward profile [9]. - **voestalpine**: Maintains resilient EBITDA/t during downturns, with manageable decarbonization investments minimizing free cash flow burn [9]. - **thyssenkrupp**: Shares have doubled year-to-date, but the valuation appears to be at a 20-30% premium to its sum-of-the-parts (SotP) valuation, indicating execution risks [9]. - **Salzgitter**: Expected cash burn to intensify due to decarbonization spending, with current valuation levels not providing sufficient margin of safety [9]. Demand Drivers - Key demand drivers for steel include **construction** and **automotive** sectors, with significant contributions from building and infrastructure [20][21]. - **Automotive Demand**: New vehicle registrations in Western Europe and the U.S. are critical indicators of steel demand, with trends showing fluctuations in production and registrations [27][28][29]. Supply Dynamics - **Global Steel Production**: The center of gravity for steel production is shifting towards Asia, with significant contributions from China [18]. - **EU and U.S. Production**: Annualized steel production in the EU and U.S. is monitored, with trends indicating varying levels of output [65][66]. Trade Flows and Import Dynamics - **EU Steel Imports**: The report details the import quotas and utilization rates for various countries, highlighting Turkey, India, and South Korea as significant contributors [88][89]. - **Stainless Steel Trade**: The report outlines the trade flows for stainless steel, with India and Taiwan being major import sources for the EU [90][91]. Additional Insights - **Market Sentiment**: The overall sentiment in the steel market is cautious, with a focus on balancing supply and demand amid changing policy landscapes and economic conditions [6][7][8]. - **Investment Recommendations**: Analysts recommend a selective approach to investments in the steel sector, favoring companies with strong fundamentals and strategic positioning [7][9][10]. This summary encapsulates the critical aspects of the conference call, providing a comprehensive overview of the European steel industry's current state and future outlook.

Group 1: Report Industry Investment Rating - Not provided in the content Group 2: Core Views of the Report - For copper, maintain a callback buying strategy, considering the continuous tightness in the mining end and the growth in infrastructure and power demand in Southeast Asia and the Middle East. Pay attention to the support around $10,300 for LME copper, and consider selling put options below $10,000 or gradually building virtual inventories [1] - For aluminum, the short - term fundamentals are acceptable, and it is advisable to hold at low prices in the long term [1] - For zinc, due to the poor domestic fundamentals but potential export opportunities, and increased macro uncertainties, it is recommended to wait and see. Consider gradually taking profits on domestic - foreign positive spreads and pay attention to reverse spreads in the far - month contracts. Also, pay attention to the positive spread opportunity between December and February contracts [2] - For nickel, the short - term real - world fundamentals are weak, but with potential policy - supported price increases from Indonesia [3][4] - For stainless steel, the fundamentals remain weak, with increased short - term trade friction uncertainties and potential price - support policies from Indonesia [9] - For lead, the price is expected to maintain a high - level oscillation between 17,000 and 17,400 next week, with a potential weakening trend in the future [12] - For tin, follow the macro sentiment in the short term, wait and see, and consider holding at low prices near the cost line in the medium - to - long term [15] - For industrial silicon, the supply - demand is balanced in Q4, and the price is expected to oscillate at the cycle bottom based on the seasonal marginal cost in the long term [16] - For lithium carbonate, the price has high elasticity after supply - side disturbances are realized and strong downward support before such disturbances [16] Group 3: Summary by Metal Copper - Price data shows changes in various indicators from September 29 to October 13, such as a 55 increase in spot premium and a 2926 increase in SHFE warehouse receipts [1] - Macro - level: Trump's tariff announcement led to a 4.5% drop in LME copper on Friday. The impact may be less than the Qingming Festival disturbance. There is still room for negotiation, and the progress of the South Korea negotiation should be monitored [1] - Fundamental: Smelting production cuts exceeded expectations, and there was medium - level inventory accumulation this week. After the price drop on Friday, the volume of pricing and receiving goods is expected to increase next week, leading to inventory reduction. Pay attention to the stability of copper cable production [1] Aluminum - Price data shows changes in aluminum prices, alumina prices, and inventory from September 29 to October 13, such as a 190 decrease in the Shanghai aluminum ingot price [1] - Fundamental: The operating capacity is increasing slightly. The production of photovoltaic modules has stabilized, and the proportion of molten aluminum has rebounded in September. There is seasonal inventory accumulation due to the holiday effect. The global economic recovery and Fed's rate - cut expectations coexist with Sino - US trade uncertainties, causing a divergence in domestic and foreign market trends [1] Zinc - Price data shows changes in zinc prices, inventory, and other indicators from September 29 to October 13, such as a 100 decrease in the Shanghai zinc ingot price [2] - Supply: Domestic TC is decreasing, and imported TC is increasing. Domestic mines will be tighter from Q4 to Q1 next year, while overseas mines had an unexpected increase in Q2. The smelting end is slightly recovering in October [2] - Demand: Domestic demand is seasonally weak, and overseas demand in Europe is average. Some overseas smelters face production difficulties due to processing fees [2] - Strategy: The domestic fundamentals are poor, but the export window may open. Due to increased macro uncertainties, it is recommended to wait and see [2] Nickel - Price data shows changes in nickel - related prices from September 29 to October 13, such as a 1300 decrease in the SHFE nickel spot price [3] - Fundamental: Pure nickel production remains high. Demand is weak, and inventory is stable domestically but increasing overseas. The short - term fundamentals are weak [3][4] - News: The protests in Indonesia have subsided, but there are still disturbances in the mining end, and the policy side has a motivation to support prices [4] Stainless Steel - Price data shows a decrease in stainless - steel prices from September 29 to October 13, such as a 50 decrease in the 304 cold - rolled coil price [9] - Fundamental: Steel mills' production in October is slightly increasing. Demand is mainly for rigid needs. Costs are stable, and inventory has increased during the holiday [9] - Policy: There is potential price - support from Indonesian policies, and trade friction uncertainties have increased [9] Lead - Price data shows changes in lead - related prices and inventory from September 29 to October 13, such as a 9293 decrease in the SHFE inventory [12] - Supply: The scrap volume is weak year - on - year. The profit of recycled lead has recovered, and the production is expected to increase by 30,000 tons in October. The primary lead production may decrease partially, and the recycled lead production will increase, with a total increase of 20,000 - 30,000 tons [12] - Demand: The battery production rate increased this week, but the finished - product inventory is high. After the National Day holiday, the demand may weaken [12] - Price forecast: The price is expected to oscillate between 17,000 and 17,400 next week and may weaken in the future [12] Tin - Price data shows changes in tin - related indicators from September 29 to October 13, such as a 4990 decrease in the tin position [15] - Supply: The processing fee of tin ore is low, and some domestic smelters have cut production. Overseas supply is expected to recover in October, and Indonesian exports have resumed [15] - Demand: The solder market has slightly recovered during the peak season. Domestic inventory has decreased slightly, and overseas LME inventory is oscillating at a low level [15] - Strategy: Follow the macro sentiment in the short term, wait and see, and consider holding at low prices near the cost line in the medium - to - long term [15] Industrial Silicon - Price data shows changes in industrial - silicon - related basis and warehouse receipts from September 29 to October 13, such as a 120 decrease in the 421 Yunnan basis [16] - Supply: A leading enterprise in Xinjiang has resumed production, and the production in Sichuan and Yunnan is stable. There is a strong expectation of production cuts in November [16] - Outlook: The supply - demand is balanced in Q4, and the price is expected to oscillate at the cycle bottom based on the seasonal marginal cost in the long term [16] Lithium Carbonate - Price data shows changes in lithium - carbonate prices, basis, and warehouse receipts from September 29 to October 13, such as a 450 decrease in the SMM electric - grade lithium carbonate price [16] - Supply: Overseas mines are reluctant to lower prices, and traders are reluctant to sell. Salt plants are less willing to accept high - priced lithium ore [16] - Demand: The pre - holiday inventory - building has almost ended. The spot basis is weak, and most transactions are at a discount [16] - Outlook: The price has high elasticity after supply - side disturbances are realized and strong downward support before such disturbances [16]

Group 1: Report Industry Investment Rating - No industry investment rating information is provided in the report. Group 2: Core Views of the Report - The copper fundamentals show resilience, with downstream开工 rising and weakening scrap substitution. Consider mid - term long positions below 79,000 - 79,500 yuan or selling put options below 78,000 yuan [1]. - For aluminum, the short - term fundamentals are okay, with inventory expected to decline in September. Hold on dips in a low - inventory situation and pay attention to far - month inter - month and internal - external reverse arbitrage [2]. - Zinc prices are moving down in a volatile way. The current internal - weak and external - strong pattern may further differentiate. Hold short positions and partially take profit on internal - external positive arbitrage [6]. - Nickel has weak short - term fundamentals, with high - level production and weak demand. The geopolitical risk in Indonesia has eased, but there are price - supporting policies [7]. - Stainless steel has weak fundamentals. Steel mills are expected to resume production slightly, with mainly rigid demand. The short - term macro - situation follows the anti - involution expectation [7]. - Lead prices rose due to macro factors. Supply is tight, while demand has a slight improvement, but inventory is at a high level. The price is expected to fluctuate greatly in the range of 16,800 - 17,200 yuan next week [9]. - Tin prices are in wide - range fluctuations. The domestic and overseas supply is expected to improve marginally. The short - term fundamentals are weak in both supply and demand. Suggest short - term waiting and light - position short selling above 275,000 yuan/ton [12]. - Industrial silicon is in a tight - balance state in September and October, affected by the resumption rhythm of Southwest and Hesheng. In the long - term, prices are expected to fluctuate at the cycle bottom [16]. - Carbonate lithium prices are moving strongly in a volatile way. With supply - side disturbances and seasonal demand, the price has high elasticity after the supply - side hype and strong downward support before that [18]. Group 3: Summary by Metal Copper - **Price and Market Data**: This week, copper prices fluctuated widely around 80,000 yuan. The downstream开工 rate increased, and the scrap substitution effect weakened. The internal - external positive arbitrage has space [1]. - **Strategy**: Consider mid - term long positions below 79,000 - 79,500 yuan or selling put options below 78,000 yuan [1]. Aluminum - **Price and Market Data**: Aluminum prices declined slightly. The downstream开工 improved, and the inventory is expected to decline in September [1][2]. - **Strategy**: Hold on dips in a low - inventory situation and pay attention to far - month inter - month and internal - external reverse arbitrage [2]. Zinc - **Price and Market Data**: Zinc prices moved down in a volatile way. Supply from overseas mines increased, and domestic demand is seasonally weak. The LME inventory is at a low level [6]. - **Strategy**: Hold short positions and partially take profit on internal - external positive arbitrage [6]. Nickel - **Price and Market Data**: Nickel prices declined slightly. Supply is at a high level, and demand is weak. The geopolitical risk in Indonesia has eased [7]. - **Strategy**: No specific strategy is mentioned other than the analysis of fundamentals [7]. Stainless Steel - **Price and Market Data**: Stainless steel prices were relatively stable. Steel mills are expected to resume production slightly, with mainly rigid demand [7]. - **Strategy**: No specific strategy is mentioned other than the analysis of fundamentals [7]. Lead - **Price and Market Data**: Lead prices rose due to macro factors. Supply is tight, and demand has a slight improvement, but inventory is at a high level [9]. - **Strategy**: The price is expected to fluctuate greatly in the range of 16,800 - 17,200 yuan next week [9]. Tin - **Price and Market Data**: Tin prices fluctuated widely. Domestic and overseas supply is expected to improve marginally, and demand is mainly rigid [12]. - **Strategy**: Suggest short - term waiting and light - position short selling above 275,000 yuan/ton [12]. Industrial Silicon - **Price and Market Data**: Industrial silicon is in a tight - balance state in September and October, affected by the resumption rhythm of Southwest and Hesheng [16]. - **Strategy**: In the long - term, prices are expected to fluctuate at the cycle bottom [16]. Carbonate Lithium - **Price and Market Data**: Carbonate lithium prices are moving strongly in a volatile way. Supply - side disturbances and seasonal demand affect the market [18]. - **Strategy**: The price has high elasticity after the supply - side hype and strong downward support before that [18].

Group 1: Report Summary - Report Title: Nickel and Stainless Steel Daily Review 20250915: Limited Rebound Space [1] - Core Viewpoint: The Fed's increasing expectation of interest - rate cuts drives the rebound of non - ferrous metals, but nickel is restricted by weak fundamentals and inventory reduction pressure, with a limited rebound in nickel prices; stainless steel has a loose fundamental situation but cost - side support, and its price is expected to fluctuate within a range [1] Group 2: Nickel Market Data Futures Market - On September 12, 2025, the closing prices of Shanghai nickel futures' near - month, consecutive - one, consecutive - two, and consecutive - three contracts were 121,800 yuan/ton, 121,980 yuan/ton, 122,160 yuan/ton, and 122,300 yuan/ton respectively, with increases of 1,750 yuan, 1,360 yuan, 1,370 yuan, and 1,350 yuan compared to the previous day [2] - The trading volume of the active Shanghai nickel futures contract was 145,101 lots (+57,563), and the open interest was 72,640 lots (-9,051) [2] Spot Market - The average price of SMM 1 electrolytic nickel was 122,850 yuan/ton, an increase of 1,400 yuan compared to the previous day; the average price of nickel beans was 124,200 yuan/ton, with an increase of 1,350 yuan [2] Inventory - The inventory of Shanghai nickel futures was 22,111 tons; the total inventory of SMM Chinese port nickel ore was 874 (in 10,000 wet tons), a decrease compared to the previous day; the total SMM Shanghai bonded - area nickel inventory was 3,700 tons, a decrease compared to the previous day; the SMM pure nickel social inventory was 39,470 tons, an increase compared to the previous day [2] International Market - On September 12, 2025, the official spot price of LME 3 - month nickel was 15,275 US dollars/ton, the electronic - disk closing price was 15,150 US dollars/ton, and the on - site closing price was 15,150 US dollars/ton; the trading volume was 5,064 lots [2] Group 3: Stainless Steel Market Data Futures Market - On September 12, 2025, the closing prices of Shanghai stainless - steel futures' near - month, consecutive - one, consecutive - two, and consecutive - three contracts were 12,800 yuan/ton, 12,860 yuan/ton, 12,950 yuan/ton, and 12,985 yuan/ton respectively, with increases of 0 yuan, 65 yuan, 80 yuan, and 70 yuan compared to the previous day [2] - The trading volume of the active Shanghai stainless - steel futures contract was 153,413 lots, and the open interest was 126,286 lots (-2,058) [2] Spot Market - The average price of 304/2B coil - trimmed edge (Wuxi) was 13,700 yuan/ton, remaining unchanged compared to the previous day; the average price of 304/No.1 coil (Wuxi) was 12,725 yuan/ton, remaining unchanged [2] Inventory - The inventory of Shanghai stainless - steel futures was 9,6949 tons (-605); the 300 - series social inventory last week was 96,300 tons (-15,400) [2] Group 4: Industry News - On September 12, an Indonesian law - enforcement team seized a 148 - hectare nickel - mining area in Weda Bay and a 172.8 - hectare mining area of PT Tonia Mitra Sejahtera in Southeast Sulawesi Province due to the lack of proper forestry licenses [2] Group 5: Market Logic and Strategies Nickel - **Supply**: Nickel ore prices remained flat, last week's nickel - ore arrival volume decreased, and port inventory increased; nickel - iron plant loss margins narrowed, with increased domestic and Indonesian production in September, and nickel - iron destocking; domestic electrolytic - nickel production increased in September, and export profits expanded [2] - **Demand**: Ternary - material production decreased; stainless - steel plant production increased; alloy and electroplating demand was stable [2] - **Trading Strategy**: It is recommended to wait and see [2] Stainless Steel - **Supply**: Stainless - steel production increased in September [2] - **Demand**: Terminal demand was weak [2] - **Cost**: High - nickel pig - iron prices remained flat, and high - carbon ferrochrome prices rose [2] - **Trading Strategy**: It is recommended to wait and see [2]

Group 1: Report Investment Rating - No information provided on the industry investment rating Group 2: Core Views - Macro aspect: US non - farm employment data was significantly revised downward, with obvious signs of a weakening labor market. Inflation pressure eased, and the market's expectation of a Fed rate cut in September was almost fully priced in, with a more optimistic view on the subsequent rate - cut path. The ECB kept interest rates unchanged for two consecutive periods, and Lagarde sent hawkish signals, indicating that Europe's fight against inflation might be temporarily over, and trade friction risks should be watched out for [3]. - Fundamental aspect: The supply of nickel ore in Indonesia remained abundant. APNI slightly lowered the domestic trade benchmark price of Indonesian nickel ore by 0.75 percentage points, and the spot premium was stable. The price of ferronickel still had an upward trend, but steel mills' purchasing intensity was poor, and the upward process was slow. The pure nickel market was relatively quiet, with downstream buyers purchasing at low prices and strong market wait - and - see sentiment, and there was no obvious improvement in the fundamentals [3]. - Future outlook: With the warm macro - expectations and technical corrections, nickel prices are expected to rise. As the labor market weakens and inflation pressure eases, the market's expectation of a Fed rate cut in September continues to rise. Technically, the main contract has reached the lower limit of the range, showing bullish signals. The industrial side has no obvious driving force, and although there is an expectation of cost loosening, a significant decline is not likely. It is expected that nickel prices will fluctuate upward under the joint drive of macro and technical factors [3][11][12]. Group 3: Summary by Directory 1. Market Data Summary - SHFE nickel price on September 12, 2025, was 121,980 yuan/ton, up 670 yuan/ton from September 5. LME nickel price was 15,391 dollars/ton, up 156 dollars/ton. LME inventory increased by 9,666 tons to 225,084 tons, and SHFE inventory increased by 1,851 tons to 23,529 tons. The premium of Jinchuan nickel increased by 200 yuan/ton, while that of Russian nickel decreased by 100 yuan/ton. The average price of high - nickel pig iron remained unchanged at 961 yuan/nickel point, and stainless steel inventory decreased by 26,400 tons to 834,000 tons [4]. 2. Market Review - **Macro**: On September 9, the US non - farm benchmark correction data showed a significant weakening of the labor market, and inflation pressure eased. The market almost surely expected the Fed to start cutting rates in September, with some expecting a 50 - basis - point cut [5]. - **Nickel ore**: The FOB price of 1.5% laterite nickel ore in the Philippines and Indonesia remained stable. The APNI lowered the domestic trade benchmark price of Indonesian nickel ore by 0.75 percentage points. Nickel iron plants were cautious in purchasing due to cost pressure, and the nickel ore price did not weaken significantly, with the spot premium remaining flat. Attention should be paid to the impact of the RKAB approval in October in Indonesia [6]. - **Pure nickel**: In August, China's refined nickel production was 35,200 tons, a year - on - year increase of 20.55%. The monthly production capacity was about 53,699 tons, and the operating rate increased by 4.92 percentage points. In July, China's refined nickel imports increased significantly by about 703% year - on - year, mainly from Russia and Norway. The export scale in July increased by 1.73% year - on - year. As of September 4, the average monthly export profit of refined nickel had further declined. Overall, the supply of refined nickel was abundant, but the recent price increase of MHP and high - grade nickel matte in Indonesia might limit the further increase in supply [7][8]. - **Ferronickel**: The price of high - nickel pig iron increased from 945.5 yuan/nickel point to 953.5 yuan/nickel point. In August, China's nickel pig iron production was 25,280 metal tons, a month - on - month increase of 11.77%, and Indonesia's production was 137,900 nickel tons, a year - on - year and month - on - month increase of 13.67% and 2.6% respectively. As of August 31, the ferronickel inventory decreased significantly. Although the ferronickel price continued to rise, the high - grade nickel matte price also strengthened, and it was expected that Indonesia's ferronickel production would remain stable month - on - month. In July, China's ferronickel imports increased by 1.83% year - on - year, mainly from Indonesia, and imports from Colombia decreased while those from New Caledonia increased [8]. - **Stainless steel**: In August, the production plan of 300 - series stainless steel in China increased year - on - year and month - on - month. In September, steel mills' production plans increased significantly month - on - month, but the increase in 300 - series stainless steel was limited, and it was difficult to drive a significant increase in ferronickel consumption [9]. - **Nickel sulfate**: The prices of battery - grade and electroplating - grade nickel sulfate increased. In August, the metal output of nickel sulfate decreased year - on - year but increased month - on - month. The production of ternary materials increased both year - on - year and month - on - month. As of September 5, the downstream and upstream inventory days of nickel sulfate remained stable. Overall, the supply and demand of the nickel sulfate market were both strong, but the growth rate of nickel sulfate production was lower than that of ternary materials, and the demand outlook was not optimistic [9]. - **New energy**: From September 1 - 7, the retail sales of new - energy passenger vehicles in China decreased year - on - year and month - on - month. The decline was due to the high sales base in August 2024, the concentrated settlement of pre - ordered orders in early August 2025, and the new subsidy policy focusing more on quality rather than quantity, with limited subsidy amounts and quantities, making it difficult to drive significant consumption growth [9]. - **Inventory**: The current six - location social inventory of pure nickel was 41,055 tons, an increase of 1,125 tons from the previous period. SHFE inventory increased by 1,851 tons to 23,529 tons, and LME nickel inventory increased by 9,666 tons to 205,084 tons. The total inventory of the two major global exchanges increased by 11,517 tons to 248,613 tons [10]. 3. Industry News - Indonesia seized part of the world's largest nickel mine due to violations of forestry license regulations, which was expected to affect the monthly nickel ore output by about 600 metal tons [13]. - The energy and mineral resources department of Indonesia granted an operation license to PT Gag Nikel in Raja Ampat, West Papua [13]. - The Indonesian Nickel Miners Association (APNI) announced the domestic trade benchmark price of nickel ore in September (first phase), which decreased by about 0.75% compared with the reference price in August (second phase) [13]. - First Atlantic Nickel expanded the mineralization zone of natural nickel - iron ore in its Atlantic nickel project in Canada, which is expected to provide a cleaner and more efficient nickel source for the North American market [13]. 4. Related Charts - The report includes charts on the price trends of domestic and foreign nickel, spot premium trends, LME 0 - 3 nickel premium, domestic - to - foreign nickel ratio, nickel futures inventory, nickel ore port inventory, high - nickel iron price, 300 - series stainless steel price, and stainless steel inventory [15][17][19][22]