GUOTAI HAITONG SECURITIES·2025-08-29 02:04Macroeconomic Insights - The average import tax rate in the U.S. increased by 6.6 percentage points compared to the end of 2024, which is lower than market expectations[5] - If the average import tax rate rises by 10% this year, it could push the PCE year-on-year growth rate to 3.1% and the core PCE to 3.4% under stable demand conditions[7] Consumer and Business Impact - As of June, U.S. businesses bore approximately 63% of the tariff costs, while consumers accounted for less than 40%[6] - The consumer price sensitivity may lead businesses to absorb a significant portion of tariff costs, affecting pricing strategies[6] Durable Goods and Construction Sector - Domestic demand for construction remains weak, with steel and glass prices declining, while cement prices have rebounded due to enhanced production management[9] - Retail sales of passenger vehicles increased, with a year-on-year growth of 8% in daily sales from August 11 to August 17[10] Insurance Sector Performance - The insurance industry reported a total premium income of CNY 420.85 billion from January to July 2025, reflecting a year-on-year growth of 6.8%[14] - Life insurance premiums reached CNY 258.61 billion in July, marking a significant year-on-year increase of 33.5%[15] Steel Industry Outlook - China's crude steel production from January to July 2025 was 594 million tons, a decrease of 3.1% year-on-year, indicating a contraction in production capacity[25] - The steel industry is expected to stabilize in 2025 due to a combination of demand recovery and supply-side reductions[27]