【SMM Analysis】Spot Lithium Carbonate Prices Temporarily Stabilized, Market Activity Weakened but Still Supported by Rigid Demand

This week, the price center of spot lithium carbonate transaction prices remained stable WoW, showing a sideways movement within the week. Today, the SMM lithium carbonate index price was 74,383 yuan/mt, with the average price of battery-grade lithium carbonate at 74,300 yuan/mt and industrial-grade lithium carbonate at 72,350 yuan/mt.

From this week's market transactions, the majority of deals were between traders and downstream material plants. Upstream lithium chemical plants continued to stand firm on quotes, with a relatively weak willingness to sell. Traders, in order to clear some old inventory, promoted transactions with downstream material plants at relatively low price points. Overall, although there was no significant downward trend in spot lithium carbonate prices this week, market transactions weakened WoW. However, due to some material plants having certain just-in-time procurement needs, the spot market remained relatively active this week. In terms of weekly lithium carbonate production, output has decreased for three consecutive weeks. Due to the continuous price decline, the production enthusiasm of some upstream lithium chemical plants has weakened, and it is expected that lithium carbonate output in April may see limited or no increase.

From the supply and demand perspective, the surplus situation of lithium carbonate is difficult to reverse. Coupled with the current loosening and downward trend in ore prices, it is difficult to provide strong support for the cost side of lithium carbonate. It is expected that spot lithium carbonate prices will still have some downside room in the future.