Changjiang Securities·2025-05-05 23:31Investment Rating - The investment rating for the steel industry is Neutral, maintained [7] Core Insights - The steel prices have been fluctuating within a range since Q4 2024, supported by low inventory levels, while the dual coke prices have weakened rapidly under expectations of supply easing, which has been a key factor for steel companies' rebound [2][4] - The industry is experiencing a decline in revenue, with a projected year-on-year decrease of 10.0% in 2024 and 10.3% in Q1 2025, alongside a quarter-on-quarter decrease of 4.8% [2][4] - Cost pressures are easing, with costs expected to decrease by 8.7% year-on-year in 2024 and 12.1% year-on-year in Q1 2025, along with a quarter-on-quarter decrease of 6.1% [2][4] - Profitability is showing signs of recovery, with a rebound in net profit in Q1 2025, turning from losses in the previous year [2][4] - The return on equity (ROE) is projected to drop to -1.63% in 2024 but is expected to rebound to 2.12% in Q1 2025 [2][4] Summary by Sections Cost Pressure Easing and Profitability Improvement - The steel price decline is driven by weak demand and easing cost pressures, leading to a projected revenue decline of 10.0% in 2024 and 10.3% in Q1 2025 [2][4] - The cost of production is expected to decrease, with a year-on-year decline of 8.7% in 2024 and 12.1% in Q1 2025, alongside a quarter-on-quarter decrease of 6.1% [2][4] - The industry is experiencing a significant recovery in profitability, with a projected gross profit increase of 30% year-on-year in Q1 2025 [2][4] Investment Strategy - The report suggests focusing on undervalued leading companies in the steel sector, such as Baosteel and Nanjing Steel, which are expected to enhance shareholder returns [4] - It also highlights the potential of quality new materials in sectors like military and automotive, indicating a favorable investment environment as the industry transitions from valuation recovery to fundamental recovery [4]