Zhong Guo Neng Yuan Wang·2026-01-12 02:53Core Viewpoint - The coal industry is entering a new upward cycle, with fundamental and policy factors aligning, making it an opportune time to invest in coal stocks [5] Price Trends - As of January 10, the market price for Qinhuangdao port thermal coal (Q5500) is 696 RMB/ton, an increase of 17 RMB/ton week-on-week [2] - The price for Shanxi-produced coking coal at Jingtang port remains stable at 1650 RMB/ton as of January 9 [3] - International thermal coal prices show mixed trends, with Newcastle NEWC5500 at 71.8 USD/ton (up 0.3 USD) and ARA6000 at 95.3 USD/ton (down 1.8 USD) [2] Supply and Demand Dynamics - The utilization rate for thermal coal mines is 90.3%, up 8.2 percentage points week-on-week, while coking coal mine utilization is at 85.34%, up 5.7 percentage points [3] - Coastal provinces show an increase in daily coal consumption by 29.90 thousand tons/day (+15.11%), while inland provinces see a decrease of 7.40 thousand tons/day (-1.81%) [4][5] - Chemical coal consumption has increased by 8.36 thousand tons/day (+1.13%) [4] Inventory Levels - As of January 8, coal inventory in coastal provinces decreased by 111.60 million tons (-3.17%), while inland provinces saw a larger drop of 409.00 million tons (-4.15%) [4] Investment Strategy - The coal sector is characterized by high performance, cash flow, and dividends, with a recommendation to invest in quality coal companies [7] - Companies such as China Shenhua, Shaanxi Coal, and others are highlighted for their stable operations and strong performance [7] - The coal market is expected to remain tight in the next 3-5 years, with a focus on the potential for price increases and valuation recovery [6][7]