Shares of Ganfeng Lithium Group Co., Ltd. (HKEX: 01772) fell more than 4% in trading. At the time of writing, the stock was down 4.22% to HK$39.96, with a trading turnover of HK$353 million.

The decline follows the company's announcement of preliminary results. Ganfeng Lithium expects to report a net profit between RMB 3.65 billion and RMB 4.6 billion for the first half of the year, marking a turnaround from a loss in the same period last year. The company attributed the improvement to a significant increase in the selling prices of its lithium salt products and a notable rise in production and sales volume for its battery segment, driven by sustained growth in energy storage demand.

Key Points on Quarterly Performance

A notable detail from the announcement is the company's estimated second-quarter net profit attributable to shareholders, which is projected to be in the range of RMB 1.81 billion to RMB 2.76 billion. This represents a sequential change from the first quarter, fluctuating between a decrease of 1% and an increase of 50%, indicating substantial volatility.

Market and Analyst Commentary

Market analysis points to expectations of a marginally looser supply putting pressure on lithium prices. Factors contributing to this view include the anticipated resumption of production at lithium mines in Jiangxi and the arrival of lithium concentrate shipments from Zimbabwe, both expected in July. However, the current reality remains one of tight supply for lithium concentrate. Some lithium salt producers have reduced output due to raw material shortages and maintenance activities, leading to declines in spodumene and lepidolite production, with weekly output maintaining a downward trend. Concurrently, inventory levels continue to decrease, with some spot market sellers holding back supply to support prices.