Report Title - Crude Oil Stops Falling and Rebounds, Styrene Temporarily Stabilizes - Styrene Weekly Report [1] Report Industry Investment Rating - Not provided in the report Core Viewpoints - There is an expectation of geopolitical escalation in Venezuela, causing crude oil prices to stop falling and rebound. The BZN spread of pure benzene has decreased, and the profit of non - integrated EB plants has increased, with the overall valuation being moderately low. The supply side of styrene faces significant pressure, while the demand side enters a seasonal peak season, leading to a brief rebound in the downstream 3S开工率. Port inventories are fluctuating at a high level. In the short term, geopolitical factors will push up the crude oil price center, and the seasonal peak season will interfere with the decline of styrene prices. When the seasonal off - season arrives at the end of the fourth quarter, the futures price may continue to decline under the background of weak supply and demand. It is recommended to wait and see [11][13]. Summary by Directory 1. Weekly Assessment and Strategy Recommendation - **Market Information** - Policy: There is an expectation of geopolitical escalation in Venezuela, causing crude oil prices to stop falling and rebound [11]. - Valuation: The weekly decline of styrene (futures > cost > spot), the basis weakens, the BZN spread decreases, and the profit of non - integrated EB plants increases [11]. - Cost: Last week, the spot price of pure benzene in East China decreased by - 3.08%, the price of the active futures contract of pure benzene decreased by - 0.16%, the pure benzene basis decreased by 166 yuan/ton, and the pure benzene operating rate fluctuated at a high level [11]. - Supply: The utilization rate of EB production capacity was 71.88%, a month - on - month decrease of - 2.35%, a year - on - year increase of 2.10%, and a decrease of - 8.20% compared with the five - year average. According to the production plan, the supply - demand pattern may change in the fourth quarter, and the pressure on the supply side may be slightly relieved. In September, the domestic import volume of pure benzene was 4.3507 million tons, a month - on - month decrease of - 1.39% and a year - on - year increase of 2.88%, mainly from the Middle East. The import volume of EB in September was 246,600 tons, a month - on - month decrease of - 8.39% and a year - on - year increase of 2.42%. Last week, the port inventory of pure benzene and the inventory of EB in Jiangsu ports continued to accumulate at a high level [11]. - Demand: The weighted operating rate of downstream 3S was 42.92%, a month - on - month increase of 11.38%; the operating rate of PS was 53.80%, a month - on - month decrease of - 1.47% and a year - on - year decrease of - 4.49%; the operating rate of EPS was 62.52%, a month - on - month increase of 53.47% and a year - on - year increase of 4.80%; the operating rate of ABS was 73.10%, a month - on - month increase of 0.83% and a year - on - year increase of 19.25%. With the arrival of the seasonal peak season, downstream demand has slightly improved [12]. - Inventory: The in - plant inventory of EB was 193,200 tons, a month - on - month de - stocking of - 0.11% and a year - on - year stocking of 17.59%; the inventory of EB in Jiangsu ports was 202,500 tons, a month - on - month stocking of 3.05% and a year - on - year stocking of 483.57%. Port inventories continued to accumulate at a high level [12]. - **Strategy Viewpoint** - Forecast for this week: The reference oscillation range for pure benzene (BZ2603) is (5800 - 6100); the reference oscillation range for styrene (EB2511) is (6800 - 7100). It is recommended to wait and see [13]. 2. Spot and Futures Market - The report presents multiple charts related to styrene, including spot price, futures active contract price, basis, open interest, trading volume, registered warehouse receipts, and spreads between different contracts from 2021 - 2025 [16][19][21] 3. Profit and Inventory - **Inventory** - The report shows charts of the inventory of pure benzene ports, styrene ports, and styrene factories from 2021 - 2025 [34][35][37] - **Profit** - The POSM profit of styrene has recovered from the historical low in the same period. The production process of styrene mainly includes ethylbenzene dehydrogenation (85%), PO/SM co - production (12%), and C8 extraction (3%). The top ten styrene producers account for 44% of the total production capacity [41][43][46] 4. Cost Side - **Supply - Side Profit** - The profit of naphtha has rebounded significantly [53] - **Supply - Demand of Pure Benzene** - In 2025, pure benzene will continue to reduce inventory, and the supply - demand gap will increase quarter - on - quarter in the fourth quarter. The total planned production capacity of pure benzene in 2025 is 2.28 million tons, and the total planned production capacity of its downstream products is 3.11 million tons [57][58] - **Price Difference** - The US - South Korea price difference of pure benzene has fluctuated upwards [64] - **Downstream Factory Inventory** - The factory inventory of caprolactam has been fluctuating at a high level [91] 5. Supply Side - **Production Plan** - In 2025, the supply - demand gap of styrene will increase in the fourth quarter. The total planned production capacity of styrene in 2025 is 2.42 million tons, and the total planned production capacity of its downstream products is 4.198 million tons [105][107] - **Production and Import - Export** - The styrene production has declined from the high level in the same period. The report also shows charts of styrene's daily production, export volume, import volume, and weekly operating rate from 2021 - 2025 [113][117][115] 6. Demand Side - **Capacity Forecast** - The report presents the capacity, production, and growth rate charts of PS, EPS, and ABS from 2021 - 2025 [125] - **Operating Rate and Profit** - The operating rate of EPS has seasonally rebounded, the operating rate of ABS has rebounded from a low level, and the report also shows the production profit and inventory charts of PS, EPS, and ABS [128][136][138] - **Downstream Demand Structure** - PS accounts for 35% of the demand for styrene, mainly used in food packaging, daily necessities, and electronic casings; EPS accounts for 21%, mainly used in building insulation materials and shock - proof packaging; ABS accounts for 15%, mainly used in household appliance casings, auto parts, and toys [147] - **Downstream Product Sales** - The report shows the monthly sales volume, production volume, inventory, and year - on - year growth rate charts of household refrigerators and washing machines from 2021 - 2025 [148][152][157]

Core Viewpoint - The European Union (EU) has included Chinese companies in its latest sanctions against Russia, marking a significant escalation in geopolitical tensions and potentially harming its own economic interests [1][3][5]. Economic Impact - The EU's sanctions against Chinese firms could severely disrupt the supply chains that European industries, such as solar energy, automotive, and consumer electronics, heavily rely on, with 80% of solar components imported from China [3][5]. - Following the announcement of sanctions, Brent crude oil prices rose by 1.6%, and Shanghai crude oil futures increased by 2.3%, indicating immediate market reactions to the EU's decision [3][5]. - The projected trade volume between China and the EU for 2024 is €840 billion, highlighting the interdependence of both economies [3]. Political Dynamics - The sanctions have damaged the previously cooperative relationship between China and the EU, particularly in areas like climate change and global governance, leading to a breakdown of political trust [3][5]. - The EU's actions appear to be influenced by the United States, which has historically benefited from European sanctions against Russia, raising concerns about Europe's autonomy in foreign policy [5][8]. Energy Supply Chain - The sanctions on Chinese oil refineries could disrupt global energy supply chains, as these refineries are key suppliers of middle distillates, potentially leading to increased energy costs for European consumers [5][6]. - The EU's decision to sanction Chinese energy firms may exacerbate the ongoing energy crisis in Europe, with rising costs for heating and electricity expected as winter approaches [5][6]. Strategic Considerations - The EU's approach is seen as a gamble that could backfire, risking not only economic stability but also public support as citizens face rising costs and economic challenges [8]. - There is a growing sentiment that the EU is becoming increasingly dependent on the U.S. while distancing itself from China, which could have long-term implications for its strategic autonomy [8].

Core Viewpoint - Investors should set reasonable return targets, appropriately assume risks, broaden investment scope, and extend investment horizons in a low-interest-rate environment [1] Group 1: Asset Allocation Principles - Holding risk assets can yield risk premiums, and diversification is the only free lunch in investing [1] - A reasonable allocation of alpha and beta is essential, and global allocation requires managing currency risks [1] Group 2: Future Investment Outlook - The current investment landscape is characterized by greater short-term clarity compared to long-term macro prospects, suggesting a maintenance of risk appetite [1] - Strategic management of macro risks is necessary to navigate macroeconomic fluctuations through active management [1] - Emphasizing disruptive trends, investors should focus on digital innovation, artificial intelligence, geopolitical shifts, and low-carbon transitions as structural changes [1]

Geopolitical Tensions - The U.S. is facing significant geopolitical challenges, particularly in Eastern Europe and the Middle East, which are straining its strategic resources and affecting its initiatives in the Asia-Pacific region [1] - The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, along with Iran's activities, poses potential risks for regional stability, further complicating U.S. foreign policy [1] Economic Indicators - Despite showing economic growth, there is increasing skepticism regarding U.S. economic data, as evidenced by the simultaneous rise in the dollar, U.S. stocks, and gold prices, indicating underlying systemic instability [1] - The total U.S. national debt has surpassed $38 trillion, with interest payments nearing annual military spending, raising concerns about the sustainability of this debt-driven model [1] U.S.-China Relations - U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen's visit to China in April 2024 highlighted concerns over China's subsidies in electric vehicles and solar panels, which the U.S. believes distort global market competition [1][2] - Secretary of State Antony Blinken's discussions in China included sensitive topics like the Taiwan Strait and energy procurement from Russia, indicating a shift towards more direct U.S. intervention in bilateral relations [2] Legislative Developments - The U.S. Congress is advancing legislation, such as the "Unlimited Act," which could impose economic sanctions on Chinese companies involved with Russian military industries, expanding the scope of previous sanctions [2][3] Financial Isolation Measures - Following Yellen's visit, the U.S. Treasury is planning to isolate Chinese firms linked to Russian military support from the global financial system, reflecting a more systematic approach to sanctions [3] - China's response includes a significant reduction in U.S. Treasury holdings, dropping to $730.7 billion, the lowest since 2009, as a precaution against potential asset freezes [3] Gold Reserves and Strategy - China has been increasing its gold reserves, reaching 2,303 tons by September 2025, with a notable acceleration in purchasing rates compared to previous years [5][7] - The shift in China's reserve management strategy includes moving away from dollar reliance towards local currency trade and direct gold procurement, enhancing supply chain resilience [7] Energy and Material Supply Chains - U.S. pressure extends to energy imports, with calls for China to cease purchasing oil and gas from Russia and Iran, reflecting a broader strategy to limit Chinese access to critical materials [9] - The financial sanctions against Russia are designed to disrupt the flow of funds between Chinese and Russian banks, although the impact on China is mitigated by the high percentage of trade conducted in local currencies [9] Military and Industrial Developments - China's military industrial sector has significantly increased its domestic supply chain capabilities, achieving a 90% localization rate for key components, which enhances resilience against external sanctions [11] - The electric vehicle sector has also seen a complete localization of production, with exports rising dramatically, providing a buffer against international pressures [11] Global Gold Market Dynamics - The global demand for gold has surged, with central banks purchasing a total of 415 tons in the first half of 2025, contributing to rising international gold prices [11] - China's strategic increase in gold reserves and purchases has influenced global market trends, contrasting sharply with the risks associated with U.S. Treasury securities [10][12] Economic Pressures on the U.S. - The U.S. faces mounting economic pressures, with a national debt of $38 trillion and annual interest payments exceeding $1.2 trillion, prompting a cycle of borrowing [13] - China's reduction of U.S. debt holdings and the shift towards gold purchasing are indicative of a broader strategy to enhance financial independence and mitigate risks associated with U.S. economic policies [13]

Core Insights - The meeting between Ukrainian President Zelensky and German Chancellor Merz has brought global attention back to Ukraine's energy crisis, which is critical as winter approaches [1] - Ukraine's energy infrastructure has been severely damaged due to the ongoing conflict, with 60% of natural gas production and electricity facilities destroyed, leading to a gas shortfall of 4.4 billion cubic meters this winter [1] - The humanitarian impact is dire, with reports indicating a 31% increase in civilian casualties in the first nine months of 2025 compared to the previous year [2] Group 1: Ukraine's Energy Crisis - Ukraine's energy crisis is exacerbated by the destruction of energy facilities, with significant financial requirements for repairs estimated at €758 million [1] - The government is delaying the start of the heating season to conserve natural gas and is accelerating the development of renewable energy, aiming for a 27% share in the energy mix by 2030 [5][6] - Ukrainian citizens are facing severe hardships, including lack of heating and water supply due to power outages [2] Group 2: International Response - Germany has committed to providing air defense support and leading efforts in energy equipment and financial aid to help Ukraine rebuild its energy system [4] - Discussions are ongoing regarding the use of frozen Russian assets to aid Ukraine, with Germany's support deemed crucial [4] - However, Germany faces its own energy crisis and internal divisions regarding the extent of support for Ukraine, balancing national energy security with international obligations [4] Group 3: Broader Implications - The energy crisis in Ukraine is not just a national issue but a global concern, affecting energy security and international relations [6] - The EU is encouraged to enhance support for Ukraine's energy system reconstruction through funding, technology, and equipment [6] - A call for Russia to cease attacks on Ukrainian energy infrastructure and engage in peaceful negotiations is emphasized, highlighting the need for a collaborative international approach to resolve the crisis [6][7]

Report Information - Report Type: Black Metal Weekly Report [1] - Date: October 24, 2025 [2] - Research Team: Black Variety Research Team, including researchers Zhai Hepan, Nie Jiayi, and Feng Zeren [4] Investment Strategies Single - Side Strategies - **RB2601 and HC2601**: The rebound rhythm is undetermined. The latest prices are 3046 and 3250 respectively. Geopolitical easing and the improvement of steel terminal demand bring a steel price rebound, but it should be viewed with caution. The recovery path of steel mill profits will determine the price rebound rhythm. If it is through raw material price cuts, the negative feedback will be greater and the steel price increase process will be more tortuous; if it is through a significant improvement in terminal demand, the steel price increase will be smoother [6][7][8] - **J2601**: The latest price is 1757.5. After a phased correction, it may continue to strengthen. Recent coke production of independent coking enterprises and steel production enterprises has declined, coke inventory in ports and independent coking enterprises is generally low, and there is a demand for a second - round price increase in coke spot, but the acceptance process of steel mills is slow [6][9] - **JM2601**: The latest price is 1248.5. After a phased correction, it may continue to strengthen. Cold weather in most of the north, stricter coal mine safety production inspections, and a decline in Mongolian coal customs clearance have led to higher coal prices. The coking coal port inventory is at a low level, and although coking coal imports have recovered, there is still a year - on - year decline of more than 6% from January to September [6][9] Spread Arbitrage Strategies - **I2601**: The latest price is 771. It is expected to operate weakly. The five major steel products' production has recovered and the apparent demand has continued to rise, while the daily average pig iron output has declined for four consecutive weeks, falling below 2.4 million tons. Steel mill profits have been continuously narrowing, suppressing production enthusiasm and affecting raw material demand [6] Core Views - The steel price rebound due to geopolitical easing and improved terminal demand should be treated with caution, and the recovery path of steel mill profits is crucial [7][8] - Coke and coking coal futures are likely to continue to strengthen after a phased correction, supported by news and the spot market [9][10] - The iron ore price is under pressure in the short term due to compressed steel mill profits and weakening demand [11][12] Summary by Directory Steel Fundamental Analysis - **Price**: In the week of October 24, the prices of major rebar and hot - rolled coil spot markets rebounded with varying increases. The price of 20mm grade - 3 rebar in major markets increased by 0 - 40 yuan/ton week - on - week, and the price of 4.75mm hot - rolled coil in major markets increased by 10 - 50 yuan/ton week - on - week [13] - **Blast Furnace and Crude Steel**: The blast furnace capacity utilization rate of 247 steel mills nationwide has declined for 4 consecutive weeks since the high in late July (down 0.39 percentage points to 89.94% week - on - week). The average daily crude steel output of key large and medium - sized enterprises in early October has significantly rebounded from the low in early January [13] - **Pig Iron and Electric Furnace**: The national daily average pig iron output has declined for 4 consecutive weeks since the high in late July (down 1.05 million tons or 0.44% to 2.399 million tons week - on - week). The capacity utilization rate of 87 independent electric arc furnace steel mills has declined after rising for 2 consecutive weeks (down 0.90 percentage points to 52.30% week - on - week) [17] - **Five - Major Steel Products**: The weekly production of rebar and hot - rolled coil of major steel mills nationwide has rebounded. The inventory of rebar and hot - rolled coil of major steel mills has declined [17] - **Social Inventory**: The social inventory of rebar in 35 cities has declined for 2 consecutive weeks, reaching a new low since the end of August. The social inventory of hot - rolled coil in 33 cities has declined from the high since early March [21] - **Downstream Demand**: From January to September, the national real estate development investment decreased by 13.9% year - on - year (the decline widened by 1.0 percentage point compared with January - August). The national automobile production increased by 10.9% year - on - year (the increase widened by 0.4 percentage point compared with January - August) [21] - **Apparent Consumption and Disk Profit**: The apparent consumption of rebar and hot - rolled coil has increased for 2 consecutive weeks. The disk profit of the rebar 2601 contract has shown a continuous 3 - week increase in the loss amplitude [25] - **Spot Rebar Gross Profit per Ton**: The gross profit per ton of long - process steel mill rebar calculated by the main spot price has shown a continuous 4 - week increase in the loss amplitude. The gross profit per ton of short - process steel mill rebar (at flat electricity price) has stabilized after a 6 - week decline [29] Conclusions and Suggestions - **Rebar and Hot - Rolled Coil**: The recovery path of steel mill profits will determine the price rebound rhythm. The steel price rebound should be viewed with caution [31] - **Basis**: The rebar basis has narrowed, and it is expected to fluctuate between 110 and 190 yuan/ton in the future. The hot - rolled coil basis has slightly narrowed, and it is expected to fluctuate between 30 and 90 yuan/ton in the future [33][35] Coke and Coking Coal Fundamental Analysis - **Price**: In the week of October 24, the prices of major coke spot markets have been relatively stable for 3 consecutive weeks, and the prices of major coking coal markets have mainly continued to rise [36] - **Production and Capacity Utilization**: The daily average coke output of 230 independent coking plants nationwide has declined for 6 consecutive weeks. The capacity utilization rate of 230 independent coking plants has declined for 6 consecutive weeks. The daily average coke output of 247 steel enterprises has rebounded from the low in mid - September [36] - **Inventory and Coking Plant Profit**: The coke port inventory has increased for 3 consecutive weeks. The coke inventory of 247 steel enterprises has declined significantly for 3 consecutive weeks. The coke inventory of 230 independent coking plants has declined for 2 consecutive weeks. The average profit per ton of independent coking enterprises has shown a continuous 2 - week loss, and the loss amplitude has increased in the recent week [39] - **Sample Mine Production, Operating Rate, and Inventory**: The daily average clean coal output of 523 sample mines has declined. The operating rate of 523 sample mines has declined. The clean coal and raw coal inventories of 523 sample mines have declined after rising for 2 consecutive weeks [39] - **Coking Coal Import and Inventory**: From January to September, China's coking coal imports decreased by 6.1% year - on - year. The port coking coal inventory has increased. The coking coal inventory of 230 independent coking plants has increased significantly for 2 consecutive weeks, and the coking coal inventory of 247 steel enterprises has declined [44] - **Raw Coal and Coke Production**: From January to September, China's raw coal production increased by 2.72% year - on - year, and the coke production increased by 3.50% year - on - year [44] Conclusions and Suggestions - Coke and coking coal may have a phased correction, but the overall strengthening trend is difficult to change. Attention should be paid to the progress of Sino - US trade negotiations and the sustainability of the increase in downstream steel prices driven by costs [48][49] Iron Ore Fundamental Analysis - **Price and Spread**: As of October 23, the 62% Platts iron ore index has slightly declined. As of October 24, the price of 61.5% PB fines at Qingdao Port has slightly rebounded. The spreads between high - grade, low - grade ores and PB fines have changed [50] - **Inventory and Unloading Volume**: In the week of October 24, the iron ore inventory at 45 ports has continued to increase, and the daily average unloading volume at 45 ports has continued to decline. The inventory of imported ore for steel mills has decreased, and the sintered powder ore inventory of 64 sample steel mills has declined [55] - **Shipping and Arrival**: In the week of October 17, the iron ore shipping volume from Australia and Brazil has increased, and the arrival volume at 45 ports has decreased significantly. It is expected that the arrival volume will gradually increase in the near future [58] - **Domestic Ore Production and Operation**: From January to September 2025, China's domestic iron ore production decreased by 2.55% year - on - year. As of October 24, the capacity utilization rate of 186 domestic mining enterprises has declined [62] - **Port Transaction Volume and Pig Iron Cost**: As of October 23, the 5 - day moving average of the iron ore transaction volume at major ports has declined. In the week of October 24, the average tax - free pig iron cost of 64 sample steel mills has continued to rise [64] - **Daily Average Pig Iron Output, Blast Furnace Operating Rate, and Capacity Utilization**: As of October 24, the daily average pig iron output of 247 sample steel mills has declined, the blast furnace iron - making capacity utilization rate has declined, the blast furnace operating rate has increased, and the profitability rate of 247 steel enterprises has declined [67] - **Five - Major Steel Products Production and Inventory**: In the week of October 24, the actual weekly production of the five major steel products has rebounded, the apparent demand has increased, and the inventory has declined [70] - **Transportation Cost**: As of October 22, the main iron ore freight prices have mainly increased. As of October 23, the Baltic Dry Index (BDI) and the Capesize Freight Index (BCI) have increased [76] Conclusions and Suggestions - **Iron Ore**: Due to compressed steel mill profits, iron ore demand is under pressure, and the iron ore price is likely to be weak in the short term. Attention should be paid to the Sino - US negotiation results [80] - **Basis**: As of October 24, the basis between the Qingdao Port iron ore spot price (after moisture adjustment) and the iron ore futures main contract has widened. It is expected to narrow in the future, fluctuating between 30 and 90 yuan/ton [81]

Group 1 - The EU has included Chinese energy companies in its sanctions list against Russia for the first time, naming 12 companies, including a major refinery that processes Russian oil, indicating a strategic move against both Russia and China [1][3][5] - The sanctions aim to disrupt the energy cooperation between China and Russia, as the targeted companies account for 3% of China's total refining capacity and play a crucial role in importing and processing Russian oil [5][9] - The EU's actions are seen as an attempt to redefine global energy and political dynamics, with the European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen labeling China as the "primary competitor" and pushing for a transition to clean energy to reduce dependency on China [3][7][9] Group 2 - China's Ministry of Commerce has responded strongly to the EU's sanctions, stating that they violate international law and threaten global energy security, and has indicated potential countermeasures, particularly concerning rare earth exports [9][11] - The sanctions may inadvertently harm the EU's own supply chains, as Brent crude oil prices have surged to $95 per barrel, prompting Chinese companies to shift production capacity to Southeast Asia and the Middle East [15][16] - The geopolitical landscape is shifting, with Russia continuing to support China by increasing oil imports, which could account for 12% of the EU's targeted oil exports, highlighting the deepening energy ties between China and Russia [9][11][18]

Core Points - The EU, under the rotating presidency of Denmark, announced the 19th round of sanctions against Russia, unexpectedly including four Chinese oil companies in the sanctions list, raising concerns about the EU's approach to China [1][9] - The rapid shift from cooperative dialogue to sanctions within 24 hours has shocked observers, highlighting the EU's unpredictable stance [1][9] Group 1: EU-China Economic Relations - The recent video call between Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao and EU Trade Commissioner Valdis Dombrovskis was characterized by a harmonious atmosphere, discussing sensitive topics such as rare earth export controls, electric vehicle trade disputes, and the ASML semiconductor controversy [3][5][7] - The EU expressed a strong desire for cooperation, with Dombrovskis inviting Chinese officials to Brussels for further discussions, indicating a willingness to find constructive solutions [3][7] Group 2: Sanctions and Implications - The new sanctions include a ban on Russian liquefied natural gas imports and the addition of 117 Russian "shadow fleet" vessels to a blacklist, marking a significant escalation in the EU's sanctions strategy [9][11] - This round of sanctions is notable for being the first time the EU has included Chinese companies in sanctions related to Russia, with accusations that these companies are involved in oil trade processing that helps Russia evade existing restrictions [9][11] Group 3: Geopolitical Dynamics - The EU's dual approach of seeking economic cooperation while simultaneously applying pressure through sanctions reflects its struggle to balance pragmatic economic interests with geopolitical strategies [13][14] - China's immediate response to the sanctions included a formal protest against unilateral measures, emphasizing that normal trade relations with Russia should not be disrupted [14][16] - The potential tightening of China's rare earth supply could significantly impact European manufacturing, particularly in the electric vehicle and wind power sectors, complicating the EU's supply chain dynamics [16]

Core Viewpoint - The non-ferrous metals sector has shown strong performance this year, with the index rising over 70% year-to-date, but there is increasing internal differentiation among sub-sectors, particularly in precious metals like gold and silver, which are experiencing high-level fluctuations [1] Group 1: Market Performance - As of October 23, the non-ferrous metals (CITIC) index has gained over 70% this year, attracting market attention [1] - The performance of precious metals has been under pressure due to geopolitical changes and profit-taking, while industrial and rare metals show relative resilience [1] - The market trend can be divided into three phases: initial strength in precious metals due to risk aversion from tariffs, followed by valuation recovery in industrial and rare metals, and finally a divergence in driving logic among the sub-sectors [1] Group 2: Sub-sector Analysis - Precious metals (gold, silver) are linked to global political and economic situations and tend to strengthen during periods of uncertainty [1] - Industrial metals (copper, lead, zinc, aluminum) are driven by cyclical factors and primarily influenced by unexpected changes in supply and demand [1] - Rare metals (such as rare earths) are critical for high-end manufacturing, facing short-term supply-demand mismatches but benefiting from technological advancements in the long term [1] Group 3: Future Outlook - The analysis indicates that gold's recent fluctuations are due to easing geopolitical tensions and profit-taking, but it still holds asset allocation value in the medium to long term [2] - Silver has faced a pullback after a previous surge, with its future performance remaining uncertain and closely tied to geopolitical and Federal Reserve developments [2] - Copper is currently in a "double weakness" situation regarding supply and demand, with production disruptions and global economic slowdown affecting its outlook [2] - Rare earths are expected to perform strongly, particularly in the context of U.S.-China trade policies and export control expectations [2] Group 4: Investment Strategy - The non-ferrous metals sector may still present structural investment opportunities, but differentiation among varieties will continue [2] - Investors are advised to closely monitor geopolitical developments, Federal Reserve policies, and changes in supply-demand fundamentals to identify investment opportunities in specific sub-sectors [2]

Report Industry Investment Ratings - No specific industry investment ratings are provided in the text. Core Views of the Report - The short - term outlook for the stock index is expected to be volatile. As the negative factors of trade frictions gradually ease, the stock index is expected to return to the upward channel. Even if short - term macro uncertainties increase, the adjustment space of the stock index is expected to be limited. The strategy is to go long on the stock index when opportunities arise [1]. - Different commodities have different trends. Some are expected to be volatile, some are expected to be strong, and some are influenced by multiple factors such as supply - demand, policies, and geopolitical situations [1]. Summary by Industry Macro - finance - **Stock Index**: Short - term volatility, expected to return to the upward channel later, with limited adjustment space. Strategy: go long when opportunities arise [1]. - **Treasury Bonds**: Volatile. Asset shortage and weak economy are favorable for bond futures, but the central bank's short - term interest rate risk warning suppresses the upward space [1]. - **Gold**: Short - term wide - range volatility. Geopolitical uncertainties and potential Fed rate cuts support the price, but the new round of Sino - US consultations limit the rise [1]. - **Silver**: Volatile in the short - term, and the physical situation in London needs to be monitored [1]. Non - ferrous Metals - **Copper**: Short - term price fluctuations are intensified, but with continuous supply disturbances and an increasing Fed rate - cut expectation, it is expected to be strong [1]. - **Alumina**: With production still profitable, domestic alumina production capacity continues to be released, and production and inventory are increasing. The spot price is under pressure, and cost support needs attention [1]. - **Zinc**: After a short - term rebound, the export window closes again. It is expected to fluctuate within a range, and changes in domestic and foreign inventories need attention [1]. - **Nickel**: Short - term volatility is mainly influenced by the macro situation and may be strong, but high inventory still suppresses the price. Suggestion: short - term low - buying within the range, and there is still pressure from long - term excess of primary nickel [1]. - **Stainless Steel**: The macro situation improves, and the trade friction eases. The stainless steel futures may rebound in the short - term. It is recommended to operate in the short - term and wait for short - selling opportunities at high prices [1]. - **Tin**: Although the short - term impact of the Indonesian ore ban is not significant, the supply risk is high, and there is demand support. It is recommended to pay attention to long - buying opportunities at low prices in the long - term [1]. Black Metals - **Rebar and Hot - rolled Coil**: The industrial driving force is unclear, and the futures valuation is low. Directional trading is not recommended [1]. - **Iron Ore**: The near - month contract is restricted by production cuts, but the commodity sentiment is good, and the far - month contract still has upward potential [1]. - **Silicon Manganese**: Direct demand is good, but supply is high, and inventory is at a high level. The price is under pressure and volatile [1]. - **Silicon Iron**: Short - term production profit is poor, but cost support is strengthening, and direct demand is good. The price is expected to be volatile and the downward space is limited [1]. - **Soda Ash**: Follows the glass market, with a large supply - surplus pressure, and the price is under pressure [1]. - **Coking Coal and Coke**: After the price rebounded to fill the gap, it reached a relatively high level. It may challenge previous highs, but the breakthrough is difficult. It may be in a wide - range volatile market if there is no new policy on "anti - involution" [1]. Agricultural Products - **Palm Oil**: Indonesia's plan to regulate exports is favorable for the far - month contract. The near - month contract lacks new drivers, and it is advisable to wait for the production area to reduce production and destock [1]. - **Soybean Oil**: The pressure from US soybean prices and the support from domestic de - stocking expectations coexist. There is a lack of new drivers, and it is advisable to wait and see [1]. - **Canola Oil**: The negotiation on Canadian canola anti - dumping may bring negative news. The domestic canola is in short supply, and the inventory is decreasing. It is advisable to wait and see for single - side trading, and the inter - month positive spread is expected to rise [1]. - **Cotton**: There is uncertainty in new - year cotton demand. The downside space of the futures is limited, but the basis and the futures may be under pressure due to high production [1]. - **Sugar**: In the short - term, sugar prices are seasonally strong due to typhoon impacts and the gap between old and new crops. In the medium - term, the rebound space is limited after new sugar is listed [1]. - **Corn**: The current stage still focuses on the selling pressure in November. The C01 contract is expected to be in low - level volatility [1]. - **Methanol**: The MO1 contract is expected to be volatile. It is recommended to wait and see or go long in the short - term, and pay attention to Sino - US trade negotiations and South American weather [1]. - **Paper Pulp**: The trading logic is related to the old warehouse receipts of the 11 - contract. With weak downstream demand, it is recommended to do a 11 - 1 reverse spread [1]. - **Logs**: The log fundamentals have declined, and the spot price is firm. It is advisable to wait and see after a sharp decline in the futures [1]. - **Live Pigs**: The spot price has stabilized, but the futures still have a premium. It is necessary to wait for changes in the slaughter volume and weight, and the short - term trend is volatile [1]. Energy and Chemicals - **Fuel Oil**: Influenced by US sanctions on Russia, geopolitical tensions, and the US attitude towards China's tariffs [1]. - **Bitumen**: Short - term supply - demand contradictions are not prominent, following the trend of crude oil. The "14th Five - Year Plan" construction demand is likely to be disproven, and the supply of Ma Rui crude oil is sufficient [1]. - **SBS Rubber**: Supported by strong raw material costs, decreasing intermediate inventory, and a positive commodity market atmosphere [1]. - **BR Rubber**: The cost support is weak, and the supply of synthetic rubber is loose. Attention should be paid to inventory de - stocking [1]. - **PTA**: The price rebounds slightly due to factors such as a decline in domestic production caused by equipment inspections [1]. - **Ethylene Glycol**: The port inventory in East China is low, the cost support is strengthening, and the polyester market has not declined significantly [1]. - **Short - fiber**: Factory equipment is gradually resuming operation, the basis is strengthening, and the price follows the cost [1]. - **Styrene**: The Asian benzene price is weak, the arbitrage window to the US is closed, and domestic styrene plant inspections are increasing [1]. - **Urea**: The export sentiment eases, and domestic demand is insufficient. There is an upper limit to the price, but there is support from "anti - involution" and cost [1]. - **PE**: The price is volatile and slightly strong due to a slight downward adjustment in the crude oil price center, weakened inspection efforts, and slowly increasing downstream demand [1]. - **PP**: The inspection support is limited, the downstream improvement is less than expected, and the price is volatile and weak [1]. - **PVC**: The supply pressure is large, there are many near - month warehouse receipts, and the price is volatile and weak [1]. - **LPG**: There are problems such as planned alumina production in Guangxi, decreasing inspection concentration, and difficult digestion of warehouse receipts. The international oil and gas fundamentals are loose, and the domestic fundamentals are also loose [1].