库存压力较大 玻璃上行空间受限

Core Viewpoint - The glass market is experiencing stable spot prices, but the overall supply-demand balance remains loose, indicating a potential downward price trend in the long term [1][2]. Supply Summary - As of now, there are 284 float glass production lines in the country, with 216 lines in operation, and a daily melting capacity of 154,555 tons, which is a decrease of 1,600 tons from the previous period. The industry's capacity utilization rate stands at 79.41% [1]. - There is an expectation of cold repairs for production lines in December, which may reduce short-term supply pressure and lead to a rebound in futures prices. Additionally, unexpected cold repairs in Hubei have raised concerns about sustained supply contraction, prompting short sellers to exit, resulting in a rapid rebound in futures prices [1]. Demand Summary - According to institutional research, downstream processing plants report overall weak demand this year, with a decline in glass orders and limited engineering orders. However, home decoration and export orders are performing relatively well, despite an overall decrease in total orders. Many companies are facing operational difficulties, with only large enterprises maintaining slim profits while most are in a loss-making state [1]. - The poor performance of the real estate market, reflected in declining new construction, construction area, and completion area data, directly contributes to weak glass demand. Although there are expectations for policies like urban renewal and ensuring project delivery, the impact on glass demand is expected to take time, leading to a cautious outlook on future demand [1]. Inventory Summary - High inventory levels are a key factor hindering the stabilization and rebound of glass futures prices. Current inventory levels at float glass factories are significantly higher than the same period last year, with midstream inventories in major production areas also remaining elevated. Therefore, without a noticeable improvement in demand, the substantial inventory pressure will continue to suppress glass prices [2]. - In summary, while short-term supply contraction may positively influence glass prices, the overall supply-demand balance remains loose, limiting upward price potential. Key variables to monitor in the medium to long term include whether real estate completion data stabilizes and the speed of capacity clearance. If industry losses continue to expand, leading to more production line cold repairs, a fundamental shift in the supply-demand balance may occur. Until then, glass futures prices are likely to maintain a weak pattern of "range oscillation with a downward shift" [2].