HTSC·2026-01-19 03:10Investment Rating - The report maintains an "Overweight" rating for the petrochemical and basic chemical sectors [5] Core Insights - The bulk chemical industry is at a dual cycle inflection point, with profitability expected to recover as domestic and international demand improves in 2026 [1][3] - After a prolonged period of low profitability, the industry is entering a phase of reduced capacity expansion and inventory adjustments, with limited new capacity expected in 2026-2027 [2][3] - The dividend payout ratio for Chinese bulk chemical companies is anticipated to trend upwards due to decreased capital expenditure intensity compared to the 2015-2025 period [4] Summary by Sections Industry Overview - The bulk chemical industry has experienced a significant downturn in profitability since 2023, with a notable oversupply leading to continued low earnings through the second half of 2025 [2] - The industry is expected to enter a recovery phase in 2026 as demand begins to rebound [1][3] Capacity and Inventory Cycles - The current inventory cycle is at a turning point, with passive inventory replenishment observed since the second quarter of 2025, influenced by external demand factors [3] - The report indicates that the capacity expansion in the bulk chemical sector will be orderly during the "14th Five-Year Plan" period, with limited new capacity additions expected [2] Dividend and Capital Expenditure Trends - The report highlights that the capital expenditure intensity for the bulk chemical sector is likely to decrease significantly, leading to an increase in dividend payout ratios for companies in this space [4] - Recommended companies include Xinhengcheng, Wanhua Chemical, Hengli Petrochemical, and Sinopec A/H, which are expected to benefit from these trends [4][8]