SMM Analysis: Negative Electrode Material Prices Steady Amid Cost Fluctuations and Rising Downstream Demand

SMM Analysis: Costs Remained Stable and Fluctuated, Negative Electrode Material Prices Held Steady This Week

This week, the price of artificial graphite remained stable WoW. Cost side, influenced by the supply-demand relationship, the price of low-sulphur petroleum coke increased by 0.4%, while the price of oil-based needle coke decreased by 0.8%, and the outsourcing price of graphitisation remained rigid. Supply and demand side, the production of downstream battery cell manufacturers increased, leading to a rise in the purchase volume of the main material, artificial graphite negative electrode. Negative electrode enterprises accordingly raised their operating rates to meet market demand. In summary, although downstream demand increased and theoretical costs decreased, the sentiment to drive down prices among downstream battery cell enterprises gradually emerged. However, given the lag in the production of artificial graphite negative electrodes, the raw materials currently used in production were mostly purchased at high prices earlier. Therefore, the price of artificial graphite negative electrodes remained in a state of negotiation this week. Against the backdrop of no significant boost in market demand, the price of natural graphite negative electrodes remained stable WoW.