Core Viewpoint - The coal industry is experiencing a recovery phase driven by seasonal demand and supply-side policies that restrict overproduction, leading to a stabilization and potential increase in coal prices [1][6][10]. Group 1: Demand and Supply Dynamics - A significant drop in temperatures across northern regions has initiated the heating season, increasing coal demand from steel mills and thermal power plants [1]. - The coal price has been rising due to high demand and supply-side policies aimed at reducing overproduction, with the Qinhuangdao 5500 kcal thermal coal price increasing from 621 RMB/ton to 699 RMB/ton from June to September 2025, a rise of 12.6% [6][10]. - The coal market is expected to benefit from seasonal demand as heating needs rise, with predictions of a colder winter potentially boosting coal procurement [10][11]. Group 2: Company Performance - Major coal companies like China Shenhua and China Coal Energy have shown signs of improvement in their financial metrics, with China Shenhua's Q3 revenue decline narrowing to 12.56% year-on-year, compared to a 16.05% decline in the first half of the year [2][5]. - China Shenhua's coal business gross margin improved from 29.4% to 30.5% due to effective cost control, while China Coal Energy's net profit rebounded by 28.3% quarter-on-quarter despite a slight year-on-year decline [2][3]. - Yanzhou Coal Mining Company reported a 4.92% increase in coal production year-on-year for Q3 2025, indicating stable operational performance amidst industry challenges [9]. Group 3: Market Sentiment and Valuation - The coal sector has seen a significant influx of capital, with over 2 billion RMB net inflow into coal stocks in October, making it one of the hottest sectors in the secondary market [1]. - The average price-to-earnings (PE) ratio for the coal sector is currently at 14.82, indicating that the sector is undervalued compared to historical standards, suggesting potential for valuation recovery [12]. - High dividend payouts from major coal companies, such as China Shenhua's interim dividend of 0.98 RMB per share, reflect strong cash flow and commitment to shareholder returns, enhancing the sector's attractiveness [12].