Soochow Securities·2025-09-01 06:49Investment Rating - The report maintains an "Overweight" rating for the gas industry [1]. Core Insights - The report highlights a slight increase in raw gas demand leading to a minor rise in US gas prices, while European storage advancements have contributed to a decrease in gas prices [4][9]. - The overall supply-demand dynamics indicate a modest increase in raw gas demand, with US natural gas market prices rising by 3.3% week-on-week as of August 27, 2025 [16]. - The report emphasizes the ongoing integration of Jiufeng Energy and the gradual implementation of pricing reforms across the country, which are expected to enhance profitability and valuation recovery for city gas companies [35]. Price Tracking - As of August 29, 2025, the week-on-week changes in gas prices are as follows: US HH +3.3%, European TTF -6.6%, East Asia JKM -2.9%, China LNG ex-factory price 0%, and China LNG CIF price -6.2% [9][14]. - The average total supply of natural gas in the US increased by 0.1% week-on-week to 1,127 billion cubic feet per day, while total demand decreased by 3.5% to 1,025 billion cubic feet per day [16]. Supply and Demand Analysis - The report notes that the storage pace in Europe is slower than expected, leading to a week-on-week decrease in European gas prices by 6.6% [17]. - In China, the apparent consumption of natural gas from January to July 2025 increased by 0.3% year-on-year to 246.1 billion cubic meters, attributed to warmer winter conditions affecting heating gas demand [22][27]. Pricing Progress - The report states that 65% of cities have implemented residential pricing reforms, with an average price increase of 0.21 yuan per cubic meter [35]. - The introduction of a new pricing mechanism for provincial natural gas pipeline transportation is expected to lower costs for downstream users and promote industry growth [35]. Investment Recommendations - The report recommends focusing on companies that can optimize costs and benefit from the ongoing pricing reforms, particularly highlighting New Energy, China Gas, and Kunlun Energy as key investment opportunities [4][35]. - It also suggests monitoring companies with quality long-term contracts and flexible scheduling capabilities, such as Jiufeng Energy and Xin'ao [4].