Core Insights - The report indicates that the bond market is experiencing increased volatility, with interest rates retreating from their peak levels. The 10-year government bond yield closed at 1.7059%, down 2.7 basis points from the previous week, reflecting a recovery to levels seen on July 22 [3][7][8] - The report identifies three main pricing clues affecting interest rate adjustments: the increase in external risk premiums, the adjustment of "anti-involution" and "re-inflation" expectations, and the potential for adjustments in data trading [15][20][26] Group 1: Interest Rate Trends - The report confirms that the previous interest rate bottom has been established, and it is unlikely that rates will fall below previous lows. The rapid decline in interest rates this week indicates a shift in market focus from the "interest rate peak" to the potential for downward movement [4][28] - The 10-year interest rate has been validated at the critical psychological level of 1.75%, suggesting that rates above this level are likely to attract configuration forces [12][28] Group 2: External Environment and Economic Indicators - The uncertainty surrounding US-China tariff prospects has increased, with the likelihood of significant tariff hikes being low. Recent developments indicate that punitive tariffs of 40% on ASEAN countries are unlikely to lead to substantial increases in tariffs [2][28] - The report notes that despite adjustments in "re-inflation" expectations, risk appetite remains strong, with commodity prices still significantly higher than in June. The South China Industrial Products Index was reported at 3680.1, reflecting an 8.7% increase from the June low [22][29] Group 3: Data Trading Adjustments - The report highlights that the basic pressure on the bond market may weaken, but the possibility of a significant economic downturn is low. Recent PMI data indicates a decline in manufacturing, construction, and service sectors, suggesting a potential slowdown in economic momentum [26][27] - The report emphasizes that the adjustments in the three pricing clues have led to a rapid decline in interest rates, but after the initial emotional response, the likelihood of returning to previous lows is minimal [28]

Core Insights - The construction industry is expected to outperform the market in the second half of 2025, driven by improvements in asset quality and a potential recovery in demand [1][4] - Downstream demand remains weak, leading to accelerated balance sheet contraction among construction companies [1][4] - Infrastructure investment is anticipated to become a key driver for expanding domestic demand and stabilizing growth [3][4] Summary by Sections Industry Performance - In the first half of 2025, the total contract amount for new projects in the construction industry reached 25 trillion yuan, a year-on-year increase of 22.5%, although still significantly lower than levels in 2022-2023 [1][30] - The industry is experiencing a decline in new orders and revenue, but signs of a profitability turning point are emerging as some local construction companies accelerate the collection of receivables and repay existing debts [1][4] Inventory Cycle Perspective - The construction industry is nearing the end of a "passive inventory replenishment" phase, characterized by a lagged response of inventory fluctuations to changes in downstream demand [2][77] - Since 2021, the industry has entered a phase of passive inventory accumulation due to prolonged project repayment cycles and a concentration of PPP projects transitioning to operational phases [2][82] Infrastructure Investment - Infrastructure investment is seen as a critical measure to expand domestic demand and stabilize economic growth, especially in light of pressures on price indicators and the need for effective investment [3][4] - The government is expected to increase fiscal support for infrastructure projects, particularly in areas related to public welfare and energy security [3][4] Investment Recommendations - The report maintains a positive outlook for the construction sector in the second half of 2025, suggesting that asset quality improvements will align with demand recovery [4] - Recommended stocks include Yaxiang Integration, Zhongyan Dadi, China Railway Construction, and others, which are expected to benefit from the anticipated recovery in infrastructure investment [4][8]

Core Viewpoint - The recent market volatility is driven by intense corrections in speculation, raising questions about whether the current supply-side policy-driven rally has ended or is merely a "backward catch" opportunity [3][8]. Policy Analysis - The government has emphasized the need to combat deflation through supply-side policies, such as halting the addition of excess capacity and promoting domestic consumption. The scope of supply rationalization measures has expanded to include metals, petrochemicals, and industries like lithium and coal, which have reported supply disruptions [3][9]. - Historical responses to deflation have varied, with the current situation being unique due to the predominance of advanced capacity and the fragmented industrial landscape, alongside high government debt limiting fiscal space [3][9][10]. Commodity-Specific Insights - Lithium prices have rebounded but remain below marginal cash costs of $11,500/ton, with approximately 45% of global capacity unable to cover cash costs at a price of $9,000/ton. This suggests limited downside potential for prices [4][13]. - Recent compliance checks in the lithium sector may lead to short-term supply disruptions, with around 20,000 tons of lithium capacity facing compliance risks, potentially resulting in significant inventory depletion and price rebounds [14]. - In the coal sector, production inspections are focused on preventing overproduction, with expectations of moderate impacts. However, recent price declines may limit further downside [5][15]. Agricultural Sector Developments - The hog farming industry is actively responding to regulatory controls by reducing breeding sow inventories and adjusting market weights, which may support near-term price stability and long-term valuation increases [6][16]. Market Trends and Expectations - The bond market reflects expectations of prolonged deflation, with government policies aimed at supply-side constraints potentially boosting industrial prices and improving upstream profits. This may reduce the urgency for monetary easing [6][17]. - The recent surge in government infrastructure investment, such as the $1.2 trillion Tibet dam project, has also contributed to supply concerns and influenced market dynamics [6][17].

Macro Strategy - The chemical sector is experiencing a favorable supply and demand dynamic, with the current "anti-involution" trend enhancing market conditions. The outlook remains optimistic due to dual catalysts: improving fundamentals and new industry layouts leading to valuation increases [1][22] - Over half of the existing convertible bonds in the chemical sector are issued at the peak of the cycle, entering redemption periods amid an upward cycle, prompting more proactive debt conversion measures [1][22] - The majority of chemical convertible bonds are small-cap, which, combined with their near-term characteristics, amplifies the asymmetry of returns [1][22] Currency Exchange - The RMB's central parity has shown a gradual appreciation trend, with the exchange rate potentially challenging the 7.15 range against the USD. The expected range for August is between 7.10 and 7.15 [1][24] - The RMB's appreciation is supported by optimistic expectations from US-China trade negotiations and a strong domestic stock market, despite a weaker immediate exchange rate [1][24] Industry Analysis - The "anti-involution" policy aims to address three main objectives: short-term regulation of price wars, medium-term capacity reduction, and long-term price recovery, particularly in the Producer Price Index (PPI) [2][25] - The PPI is expected to recover to around 1.9% by September next year, following a 10-month period of negative growth after the last supply-side reform [2][26] - The current approach to capacity reduction is shifting towards policy-guided methods rather than direct shutdowns, reflecting the need for a balanced economic impact [2][26] Sector Recommendations - The report suggests focusing on sectors that have not yet experienced significant price increases, such as photovoltaic, coal, and chemical industries, which may see short-term demand improvements [5] - The technology sector, particularly robotics, is highlighted as having potential catalysts for growth, despite previous underperformance [5] Company Insights - Xidi Microelectronics is positioned as a leading player in the analog chip sector, with a projected revenue growth of 32.1% year-on-year for the first three quarters of 2024, driven by its diverse product lines [11] - Minshida's revenue is expected to grow by 27.91% year-on-year, with a focus on high-value products in the growing fields of new energy vehicles and renewable energy [12] - Gaomei's second-quarter performance is anticipated to turn profitable, benefiting from supply-side changes and price increases in the photovoltaic sector [13][14]

Summary of Conference Call Industry or Company Involved - Focus on the Chinese economy and its macroeconomic policies, particularly regarding supply-side reforms and the concept of "anti-involution" [1][2][4][5][6][19][21] Core Points and Arguments 1. **Supply-Side Reform and Anti-Involution**: The discussion centers around the ongoing supply-side reforms in China, particularly the government's initiative to combat "involution" and promote structural adjustments in various industries [1][5][19][21] 2. **Market Sentiment and Liquidity**: Recent discussions with private and public investors indicate a warming sentiment in the stock market, with some investors perceiving signs of a bull market, although the fundamental economic situation remains challenging [4][6][19] 3. **Policy Expectations**: The expectation for the second half of the year is that policies will focus on structural adjustments and gradual support, with a recognition that initial measures may only address surface issues rather than deeper structural problems [5][21] 4. **Economic Data Trends**: There is an anticipation of economic activity peaking in the first half of the year, followed by a potential decline in the latter half, influenced by previous policy measures and external factors [5][21] 5. **Impact of U.S.-China Relations**: Ongoing negotiations between the U.S. and China are expected to continue without significant breakthroughs, with tariffs likely remaining at current levels for an extended period [12][13][15][18] 6. **Real Estate Market Dynamics**: The real estate sector is under scrutiny, with expectations for policies to support it, but challenges remain due to mismatches in supply and demand across different cities [25][26] 7. **Social Security and Welfare Reforms**: There are indications of gradual reforms in the social security system, including potential nationwide birth subsidies and free preschool education, aimed at enhancing consumer spending and social welfare [27][28][29] 8. **Inflation and Economic Growth**: The discussion highlights the potential for inflationary pressures in certain sectors, but overall demand remains weak, complicating the path to sustainable economic growth [35][36] Other Important but Possibly Overlooked Content 1. **Historical Context**: The current reform efforts are compared to previous supply-side reforms from 2015 to 2018, with an emphasis on the need for a more profound structural change rather than just addressing superficial issues [22][24][31] 2. **Market Reactions**: There is a caution against overly optimistic market expectations, particularly regarding the speed and effectiveness of policy implementations [45][56] 3. **Investment Opportunities**: The call suggests that while the immediate outlook may be cautious, there are potential long-term investment opportunities arising from structural changes in various industries, particularly those that have previously undergone supply-side reforms [40][44][55]

Summary of Key Points from the Conference Call Industry Overview - The report discusses the concept of "anti-involution" in the context of China's economic landscape, particularly focusing on the supply-side challenges that are more complex compared to the previous cycle from 2015 to 2018 [2][3]. Core Insights and Arguments 1. **Policy Signals**: There is a notable increase in policy signals regarding "anti-involution," with comparisons made to the supply-side reform 1.0 period. The current challenges differ significantly from those faced between 2015 and 2018 due to changes in industry competition and macroeconomic conditions [2][3]. 2. **Structural Reforms Needed**: To achieve lasting results in anti-involution, there is a consensus on the necessity for deeper structural reforms, including adjustments to local incentive mechanisms and tax reforms aimed at rebalancing towards consumption [3][10]. 3. **Recent Government Actions**: - On July 16, the State Council emphasized a combination of short-term and long-term measures to regulate competition in the new energy vehicle sector. - On July 18, the State Administration for Market Regulation held discussions with major food delivery platforms. - The Ministry of Industry and Information Technology announced supply-side reforms in ten key industries, including non-ferrous metals and petrochemicals [7]. 4. **Market Signals Ignored**: The report highlights that part of the competition's involution is due to ignored market signals, leading to continued capacity expansion despite falling prices [10]. 5. **Historical Context**: The report draws parallels between the current economic situation and past experiences, noting that anti-involution will not be a quick fix. The GDP deflator index has been negative for nine consecutive quarters since Q2 2023, indicating entrenched deflationary pressures [11]. 6. **Capacity Utilization and Industry Dynamics**: The report notes that the current overcapacity is largely in emerging industries, with 50-90% of capacity owned by the private sector, making administrative capacity reduction more challenging compared to the previous cycle [11][19]. 7. **Potential for Mergers and Acquisitions**: There is an expectation for large enterprises in the polysilicon industry to form acquisition funds to consolidate smaller firms, although execution remains uncertain due to declining demand and high inventory levels [12]. 8. **Gradual Progress Expected**: The report suggests that while some upstream industries may see moderate consolidation, the urgency for adjustment is lower compared to previous reforms [17][20]. 9. **Reform Timing and Delays**: The implementation of formal plans for capacity reduction may experience delays of 3-8 months, reflecting the complexities of the current economic environment compared to the 2015-2018 period [20]. Other Important Insights - **Demand Recovery Limitations**: The report indicates that the cyclical growth may fluctuate at lower levels due to debt and demographic challenges, with limited upside for demand recovery without decisive stimulus measures [18]. - **Need for Comprehensive Policy Mix**: The optimal policy combination would involve more aggressive demand rebalancing measures alongside faster structural reforms to achieve sustainable re-inflation [24]. - **Caution Against Overly Aggressive Measures**: The report warns that overly aggressive capacity reduction without sufficient demand support could lead to deeper deflation after a brief improvement in prices [24]. This summary encapsulates the key points discussed in the conference call, providing insights into the current state of the industry and the anticipated direction of policy and economic reforms in China.

July 23, 2025 05:22 AM GMT Morgan Stanley Asia (Singapore) Pte. 甘永康 亚洲经济学家 Derrick.Kam@morganstanley.com 亚洲经济研究 | Asia Pacific M Idea 观点：中国：反内卷⸺通缩 解药？ 鉴于强烈的政策导向，未来几个月可能会加大应对产能过剩 挑战的政策力度。然而，我们认为仅解决供给因素可能不足 以应对通缩挑战⸺需求条件更为重要。 要点 在本报告中，我们讨论了中国通缩挑战的根源和解决方案，包括我们对反内卷计 划应对通缩挑战的有效性的看法。 This translated report is made available for convenience only and is based on the original research report published in English. In the event of any discrepancy between the translation and the original research report, the content in ...

Group 1 - The report indicates that the recent adjustment in the bond market is driven by a strong rebound in commodity prices, which has led to a rise in market risk appetite and a corresponding increase in stock prices [3][7]. - The current commodity price rebound is characterized as a "lagging pricing" response to the previous mild expansion of the credit cycle, rather than the start of a new macroeconomic cycle [4][10]. - The report suggests that the market environment in the second half of the year may resemble that of 2019 and 2022, with a mild expansion of the credit cycle followed by a potential decline in social financing momentum [5][25]. Group 2 - The report emphasizes that the recent commodity price increases are more of a "catch-up" effect due to previous underpricing in relation to the credit cycle recovery, rather than an indication of a new macroeconomic expansion [11][18]. - It is noted that the leading commodities in the recent price surge were those that had previously underperformed, indicating a tendency towards "oversold recovery" [14][17]. - The analysis highlights that the current credit cycle is nearing its peak, and any adjustments in the bond market are expected to be less severe than those observed in the first half of the year [6][30].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the extreme volatility in the futures market, particularly referencing the "Double 11 Night Crash" in 2016, and highlights the current trends in various commodities driven by policy expectations and market narratives [2][4][5]. Group 1: Historical Context and Market Behavior - The "Double 11 Night Crash" in 2016 saw extreme fluctuations where commodities like cotton dropped from a limit-up of +7% to limit-down of -7% within minutes, showcasing the potential for rapid market shifts [2][3]. - The article emphasizes that the current market behavior reflects a similar pattern where narratives and policy expectations drive prices, often ignoring fundamental supply and demand realities [4][5][6]. Group 2: Current Market Trends - Recent trends indicate a significant increase in commodity prices, particularly in sectors like new energy and construction materials, with notable price increases such as 57% for polysilicon and 33.4% for coking coal since July [31][32]. - The article notes that the futures prices are rising faster than spot prices, leading to a narrowing basis, which could indicate a potential correction depending on downstream replenishment intentions [32][34]. Group 3: Supply Chain Dynamics - The supply chain dynamics are highlighted, particularly in the coking coal market, where the disconnect between upstream price increases and downstream demand could lead to market pressures [35][37]. - The article warns that high prices could suppress speculative demand and stimulate foreign production, creating resistance to further price increases [38]. Group 4: Policy Implications and Future Outlook - The article discusses the implications of government policies on supply-side reforms, suggesting that past experiences with supply-side reforms will influence current market expectations and behaviors [40][41]. - It raises concerns about the potential for demand-side pain in the current economic environment, contrasting it with previous supply-side reforms that had stronger demand support [44].

Summary of Conference Call Records Industry Overview - The conference call discusses the commodity market, particularly focusing on the photovoltaic (PV) industry, coal market, and related sectors such as glass and soda ash [1][10][23]. Key Points and Arguments Commodity Market Dynamics - The commodity market has reached a policy bottom, similar to the stock market situation in September 2024, but transitioning from deflation to re-inflation requires policy implementation and demand-side hedging tools [1][2][3]. - Short-term commodity prices may experience a pullback but are unlikely to hit new lows, indicating a gradual bottoming process [1][6]. - Current policies are comprehensive, targeting long-term loss-making industries, injecting confidence into the market [1][8]. Photovoltaic Industry Insights - The price of polysilicon has risen to approximately 45,000 yuan due to optimistic policies and a lack of negative feedback in the supply chain [1][10]. - The PV industry faces a mismatch between supply expansion and demand, with a need for around 70 billion yuan in support due to significant losses in 2024 [10]. - Government meetings have emphasized anti-involution policies, indicating a commitment to stabilize the industry and promote orderly production [10]. Coal Market Developments - The coking coal market has shifted from oversupply to balance due to event-driven factors and downstream inventory replenishment [1][14]. - Environmental restrictions in Tangshan have positively impacted the black industry chain, with leaders advocating for coal enterprise transformation [1][16]. - Current policies are aimed at controlling excess supply and improving the quality of production, which is expected to support future pricing [21][28]. Glass and Soda Ash Market Conditions - The glass industry is experiencing reduced policy constraints, while the soda ash sector is supported by supply-side reforms and rising energy costs [23][25]. - The soda ash market is characterized by strong pricing power due to rigid demand from the glass sector, despite potential oversupply issues [25]. Future Market Expectations - The overall sentiment in the commodity market is optimistic, with expectations of sustained price increases if supply-side policies are effectively implemented [7][19]. - The focus on safety and quality in coal production is expected to stabilize the market and prevent drastic price drops [28]. - The steel industry may face various policy changes, including capacity reduction and production optimization, which could significantly impact profitability [29][30]. Additional Important Insights - The need for effective demand-side hedging tools, such as fiscal stimulus and real estate support, is critical for stabilizing future expectations [4][5]. - The market is currently observing speculative demand, particularly in the glass and soda ash sectors, which may lead to volatility if not managed properly [25][26]. - The interplay between domestic and international policies will significantly influence future supply and valuation in the coal market [21][22]. This summary encapsulates the key discussions and insights from the conference call, highlighting the current state and future expectations of the commodity market and related industries.