For lithium carbonate, the futures price pulled back amidst expectations of softening demand in Q1 2026 compared with the fourth quarter of 2025, with the expectation partly enhanced by several major LFP cathode plants announcing overhaul plans that would mostly last for one month. Nevertheless, players still hold bullish outlook for 2026 and the reduced LFP production will likely boost cathode processing charges, benefiting lithium prices in the long run.