PTA：供需预期偏弱且油价支撑有限 PTA偏弱震荡

Market Overview - On October 20, PTA futures experienced fluctuations and a downward trend, with a general atmosphere in the spot market being average. The trading range for spot prices expanded, primarily driven by traders, with sporadic offers from polyester factories. October cargo was traded at a discount of 80-90, with prices in the range of 4295-4340. November cargo was traded at a discount of 70, and late November at a discount of 65. Warehouse receipts were traded around a discount of 50, with the mainstream spot basis at a discount of 85 [1]. Profitability - As of October 20, the PTA spot processing fee was around 120 yuan/ton, while the processing fees for TA2512 and TA2601 futures were 253 yuan/ton and 278 yuan/ton, respectively [2]. Supply and Demand - Supply: As of October 17, PTA operating rates were at 76%, an increase of 0.6%. - Demand: Polyester operating rates remained stable at 91.4%. On October 20, the price of polyester filament saw a slight decline, with overall production and sales being average. The significant drop in oil prices was influenced by Trump's tariff policies, leading some filament factories to lower prices or increase discounts. Downstream knitting operations were performing reasonably well, with some downstream buyers purchasing raw materials as needed. Currently, POY has some profitability, while FDY fine denier remains at a loss. With factory inventories continuing to rise, filament prices are expected to follow the downward trend of raw materials [3]. Market Outlook - With the recovery of some PTA plant operating rates and news of new installations coming online, the PTA spot basis has weakened significantly. However, as the basis approaches a no-risk arbitrage level and some major PTA suppliers reduce their operating rates, the downward space for the basis is limited. In terms of absolute prices, the weak supply and demand expectations for crude oil limit price drivers, along with the negative impact of fluctuating tariff policies. Therefore, short-term PTA price movements are expected to remain weak and fluctuate. The strategy suggests a wait-and-see approach, with attention on Brent crude oil support around 60 USD/barrel; a rolling reverse spread strategy is recommended [4].