东海期货：铁矿石继续下跌空间有限

Core Viewpoint - After the recent price adjustment, iron ore valuations are at a neutral to low level, and with the expected recovery of steel mills and macro policy support, further downside is limited. However, the market is expected to enter a phase of oversupply, leading to a downward shift in price levels throughout the year [1][8]. Group 1: Price Trends and Market Dynamics - Since the end of January, iron ore prices have declined due to two main reasons: changes in market expectations regarding interest rate cuts and liquidity, and cautious raw material restocking by steel mills, with iron ore inventories down by 5.2968 million tons year-on-year across 247 steel mills [2]. - As of February 11, the main iron ore futures contract closed at 762.5 yuan/ton, indicating limited further downside in the current price position [1][2]. Group 2: Production and Supply Factors - Despite a recent incident affecting production, the average daily pig iron output across 247 steel mills has remained stable between 2.27 million and 2.29 million tons. Steel mills are likely to increase production in the traditional demand season of March-April to meet annual production targets [3]. - The first quarter is typically a supply off-season for iron ore, with historical data showing a decrease in shipments by 9.5 to 10 million tons compared to the previous quarter. However, high shipment levels were maintained in January due to fewer extreme weather events [5]. Group 3: Policy and Economic Outlook - There are expectations for further macroeconomic policy support, particularly in light of the emphasis on expanding domestic demand in upcoming economic meetings. The People's Bank of China has already implemented measures to lower structural monetary policy rates [6]. - The anticipated recovery in manufacturing demand, coupled with resilient export performance, is expected to boost iron ore demand [6]. Group 4: Valuation and Future Projections - Current iron ore prices are around 100 USD/ton, which is near a five-year low. The profit margins for steel mills have improved, indicating that iron ore valuations are at a neutral to low level [7]. - In the medium to long term, the market is expected to transition into a phase of oversupply, with significant increases in supply projected from emerging mines and major producers. The expected increase in iron ore supply for 2026 is estimated to be between 40 to 45 million tons [8].