SMM Daily Review: Lithium Carbonate Spot Prices Consolidated Upward on August 21

Published: Aug 21, 2026 15:52

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Today, SMM battery-grade lithium carbonate spot prices consolidated upward from the previous trading day. The lithium carbonate 2701 contract opened higher at 152,400 yuan/mt, briefly dipped to a session low of 151,200 yuan/mt shortly after the open, then bulls actively stepped in, leading prices to consolidate and rebound. During the morning session, prices climbed steadily, breaking through 156,000 yuan/mt. Around midday, prices consolidated in the 157,000–158,500 yuan/mt range on a strong footing. In the afternoon, bulls pushed again, with prices climbing and then shooting up to a session high of 159,400 yuan/mt before pulling back slightly to settle near 158,700 yuan/mt. The contract eventually closed up 4.12% at 158,700 yuan/mt, with open interest increasing by 31,875 lots.

On the spot market, downstream players bought the dip, and some material plants began stockpiling for later. As prices consolidated upward, buying sentiment grew increasingly cautious. Upstream lithium chemical plants undergoing maintenance continued to prioritize long-term contract supply, while some sold part of spot orders at relatively high levels. Overall, market inquiries and actual transactions were mediocre.

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