Lithium miners post big profits as battery storage demand surges

Chinese and Australian lithium producers have reported record profits as demand for the battery metal surges, thanks to the growth of energy storage facilities. Chinese companies Tianqi Lithium Corp. and Ganfeng Lithium Group Co. both saw their best net income in three years during the first half of the year. China's spot price for lithium jumped 22% over the same period, driven by the rise of data centers and renewable power.

Albemarle Corp., based in the US, reported that global lithium demand increased 45% through May compared to the previous year, outpacing supply growth. Australia's PLS Group, which posted a profit of A$526 million ($377 million) in the year ending June 30 after a loss the previous year, remains optimistic about prices in the coming months due to a forecast shortfall. Inventories of lithium held by industry players in China are dwindling, indicating a tight market.

Zijin Mining Group Co. stated in its earnings report that there is potential for prices to rise further in the short term. Tianqi officials warned of a tight market for the rest of 2026 due to increasing demand and "disruptive factors" affecting supply. Chile's SQM raised its production guidance for the year, while China's Chengxin Lithium Group Co. announced plans to invest over $476 million in building lithium-sulfate plants in Zimbabwe and Nigeria.

Despite the current price rally, UBS Group AG has downgraded its forecast for lithium prices by 5-35%, anticipating a surplus market next year. The analysts believe the tight fundamentals will drive a price rally in the latter half of the year, but they expect supply growth to outpace demand starting in 2027. Jefferies noted the increase in battery production scheduling as a sign of strong demand, but they are concerned about the time it takes for supply expansions and restarts to reach the market, particularly in 2027.