패권다툼과 에너지의 교체 [김학주의 경제 인사이트]

Global Trends & Future Energy: Hydrogen, Small Nuclear & Battery Technology

The world is navigating a complex landscape. After decades of globalization, we're facing structural slow growth driven by an aging global population and escalating geopolitical tensions. The US's deliberate high-interest rate policy and rapid shift towards green energy are strategically isolating countries heavily reliant on carbon fuels like China, Russia, and the Middle East.

The transition to renewable energy presents challenges, particularly regarding transmission infrastructure. This has spotlighted hydrogen energy and small modular reactors (SMRs) as promising solutions. 2024 is poised to be a pivotal year for the hydrogen economy, with significant developments expected.

This analysis explores the compelling factors driving the adoption of hydrogen and SMRs, examining related industries and key stakeholders. We also delve into who is actively investing in these technologies.

Furthermore, we investigate the resurgence of the battery industry in South Korea, analyzing why Japanese companies previously withdrew and outlining their current battery strategies. A key focus is understanding the growing need for direct battery design by manufacturers.

The rise of Chinese LFP batteries challenging South Korea's L-NMC dominance is also examined, along with the potential for China to create a highly competitive, "red ocean" in the global battery market.

김학주, Professor at Handong University and a visiting scholar at the University of Edinburgh Business School, brings extensive experience to this analysis. He holds a degree from Seokgang University and has a distinguished career in financial analysis, including roles as:

• Former Head of Research Center at Hyundai Securities (KB Securities)
• CIO at Woori Asset Management
• CIO and Vice President at Hangaram Investment Advisory
• Member of the Korea Exchange Listing Review Committee and Public Sector Pension Investment Review Committee

His expertise has been recognized through numerous awards, including:

• 2005 Maekyung Securities Award (Corporate Analysis)
• 2001-2007 Top Automotive Industry Analyst
• 2006-2008 "Asia Money" Korea's Top Analyst

Professor Kim actively shares his insights through the "김학주리서치" YouTube channel.

Key topics covered:

• Global Geopolitics & Energy Transition
• Hydrogen Economy Outlook
• Small Modular Reactors (SMRs)
• Renewable Energy Infrastructure
• Battery Industry Trends (Korea & China)
• LFP vs. L-NMC Batteries
• Direct Battery Design
• Energy Security
• Investment Opportunities in Clean Energy