卷螺差的底层逻辑与驱动因素

Group 1 - The core logic of the price difference between hot-rolled and rebar steel (卷螺差) is rooted in the production cost differences, with current production cost differences ranging from 80 to 120 CNY per ton [1] - The price center of the price difference has been continuously rising from 2019 to 2024, reflecting the economic transformation in China, with a consistent upward trend in the price difference amid the decline in real estate and rapid expansion in manufacturing [2] - The concentration of the price difference has been increasing, indicating reduced volatility, particularly evident in 2023 and 2024, primarily due to the declining demand elasticity for rebar amid the ongoing downturn in the real estate sector [2] Group 2 - Supply-side factors significantly influence the price difference, with policy impacts on production being notable, especially in 2021 when production limits in Hebei led to a rapid contraction of the price difference [4] - Seasonal demand and the rapid resumption of electric furnace production are likely to lead to an expansion of the price difference in February and March, as rebar demand is more affected by the Spring Festival compared to manufacturing sectors [8] - The price difference has shown significant fluctuations over the years, with the maximum difference reaching 523 CNY per ton in 2021 and a minimum of -178 CNY in 2019, indicating a wide range of market dynamics [3] Group 3 - The strategy for 2025 suggests a focus on buying at the lower end of the production cost range due to overcapacity and the dynamic distribution of iron water between hot-rolled and rebar steel driven by profit changes [11][14] - Economic transformation is driving demand differentiation, with high-end manufacturing upgrades boosting plate demand while the ongoing decline in real estate continues to suppress construction material demand [14] - Export pressures are anticipated in the short term, but long-term demand may remain high due to China's cost advantages in steel production, despite potential impacts from anti-dumping measures and tariffs [14]