Core Viewpoint - The volatility of pulp prices in the current global economic environment poses significant operational risks for upstream and downstream enterprises, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that lack professional risk management teams and sufficient capital to engage in futures markets for risk management [1][2]. Group 1: Industry Background - China, as a major consumer of pulp, has a nearly 100% dependence on imported softwood pulp and over 50% dependence on hardwood pulp, leading to significant operational risks due to price volatility driven by foreign suppliers [2]. - The cost of raw materials accounts for 70% to 80% of the pricing for paper manufacturers, making them vulnerable to fluctuations in international pulp prices [2]. Group 2: Risk Management Solutions - A futures risk management company has engaged in basis trading by signing contracts with upstream suppliers to purchase large quantities of pulp and then retailing it to SMEs in the downstream pulp industry [3]. - By utilizing basis trading, upstream companies can lock in sales profits and mitigate the risk of price fluctuations [4]. - The risk management company establishes a stable inventory to ensure supply for downstream enterprises, allowing them to flexibly procure based on their production needs [5]. Group 3: Pricing Mechanisms - The company employs both front-point pricing and back-point pricing models in basis trading to accommodate different risk management needs of enterprises [6][7]. - For instance, a medium-sized paper manufacturer utilized a back-point pricing contract to manage procurement costs effectively, allowing for flexible payment and delivery based on market conditions [7][8]. Group 4: Benefits of Basis Trading - Basis trading allows enterprises to transfer price volatility risks to the risk management company, which then hedges these risks in the futures market [8]. - This trading model enhances the pricing power of downstream enterprises, making spot pricing more reflective of market supply and demand dynamics [10]. Group 5: Strengthening Supply Chains - The risk management company facilitates the establishment of stable supply chains by locking in procurement agreements with upstream suppliers and ensuring supply contracts with downstream clients [11]. - This dual approach helps SMEs mitigate risks associated with cash flow and inventory management, thereby enhancing their resilience against market fluctuations [11]. - Overall, the integration of basis trading and profit-locking tools allows for a more efficient allocation of resources and cost management across the industry chain [11].