Orient Securities·2025-08-08 01:15Investment Rating - The report maintains a "Positive" investment rating for the steel industry, indicating a favorable outlook for mid-term investment opportunities [6]. Core Insights - The steel industry is expected to experience high-quality and high-return development, driven by the "anti-involution" policy, which is anticipated to catalyze production cuts and stabilize steel prices, thereby enhancing profit margins for steel companies [9][21]. - The supply-side structural issues are likely to reverse, leading to a balanced supply-demand scenario that can stabilize industry profits [9][23]. - A significant oversupply of iron ore is expected in the mid-term, with a projected increase in supply outpacing demand, which will likely lead to a decline in iron ore prices and subsequently enhance profitability for steel companies [9][19]. Summary by Sections Introduction - The "anti-involution" policy was officially introduced in July 2024, aiming to prevent vicious competition in the steel industry, which has been significantly affected by declining demand and overcapacity [13][21]. Supply-Side Structural Issues - The report highlights that the ultra-low emission transformation in the steel industry is nearing completion, with over 76% of total capacity having undergone some form of transformation by July 2025 [30][32]. - The report anticipates that the completion of these transformations will help eliminate the "bad money drives out good" phenomenon, leading to a more equitable competitive environment [33][41]. Iron Ore Supply and Demand - The report forecasts a strong oversupply of iron ore, with supply growth expected to exceed 5% annually until 2026, while demand is projected to grow only modestly [9][19]. - This oversupply is expected to lead to a significant decline in iron ore prices, which will enhance the profitability of steel manufacturers [9][19]. Dividend Potential - The report suggests that with reduced capital expenditures and stable profits, steel companies are likely to increase their dividend payouts, indicating a shift towards high-quality, high-return development in the industry [9][24]. Investment Recommendations - The report recommends focusing on steel companies with high gross profit elasticity, such as Shandong Steel and others, for short-term investments, while suggesting long-term investments in companies with stable dividend levels like Baosteel and Hualing Steel [9][24].