智通财经网·2025-09-01 07:08Core Viewpoint - The steel industry is rated as "overweight" by Guotai Junan, with expectations of faster supply contraction and industry progress if supply policies are implemented [1]. Demand and Supply Analysis - Demand for steel has increased, with apparent consumption of five major steel products reaching 8.5777 million tons, a week-on-week increase of 4.78 thousand tons. Inventory levels remain low at 14.6788 million tons, despite a week-on-week increase of 26.84 thousand tons [1]. - The operating rate of blast furnaces in 247 steel mills is at 83.2%, a slight decrease of 0.16 percentage points week-on-week, indicating a potential shift in demand as the season changes [1]. - The construction sector's demand for steel is expected to stabilize, while demand from infrastructure and manufacturing is anticipated to grow steadily [3]. Profitability Trends - The average gross profit for rebar has decreased to 231.5 CNY/ton, down 12.2 CNY/ton week-on-week, while hot-rolled coil gross profit has dropped to 171.5 CNY/ton, a decrease of 30.2 CNY/ton [2]. - The profitability rate of 247 steel companies is at 63.64%, reflecting a week-on-week decline of 1.3% [2]. Supply Outlook - The steel industry has been experiencing losses since Q3 2022, with over 30% of steel companies still in the red. However, market-driven supply adjustments are beginning to emerge [3]. - The Ministry of Industry and Information Technology is expected to release a plan to stabilize growth in key industries, which may accelerate supply contraction in the steel sector [3]. Recommendations - Companies with leading technology and product structures such as Baosteel, and those with continuous product upgrades like Hualing Steel and Shougang, are recommended. Low-cost and flexible steel companies such as Fangda Special Steel and New Steel are also highlighted [4]. - Companies with low valuations and high dividends, such as CITIC Special Steel and Yongjin Co., are noted for their competitive advantages [4]. - Upstream resource companies with long-term advantages, including Hebei Steel Resources and Erdos, are recommended due to the anticipated recovery in demand [4].