[SMM Analysis]SMM Daily Market Review: Lithium Carbonate Spot Prices Extended Losses on April 8 Amid Macro Pressure

The SMM battery-grade lithium carbonate index stood at 72,456 yuan/ton, reflecting a day-on-day decline of 242 yuan/ton. Market offers for battery-grade lithium carbonate were reported at 70,800–74,000 yuan/ton, with the average price settling at 72,400 yuan/ton, down 200 yuan/ton from the previous trading session. Industrial-grade lithium carbonate traded in the range of 69,950–70,950 yuan/ton, averaging 70,450 yuan/ton, also marking a 200 yuan/ton decrease.

Market Overview:
Lithium carbonate spot prices continued their downward trajectory, pressured by weakened macroeconomic sentiment, which exacerbated the bearish trend. While trading activity saw a marginal uptick, overall market participation remained subdued. Downstream cathode material producers maintained a cautious stance, adopting a wait-and-see approach amid expectations of further price corrections.

Supply-Demand Dynamics:
On the supply side, lithium salt producers retained a firm price-holding stance, leading to thin transaction volumes. However, given the persistent supply surplus, a significant market rebalancing appears unlikely in the near term. Analysts anticipate further downside potential for lithium carbonate spot prices, as the oversupply situation remains unresolved.

Outlook:
With the fundamental imbalance between supply and demand yet to ease, the lithium carbonate market is expected to face continued downward pressure in the short term. Market participants will closely monitor macroeconomic indicators and downstream demand signals for further directional cues.

(Source: SMM Market Data and Analysis)