Investment Rating - The report maintains a "Positive" investment rating for the coal industry [11]. Core Insights - The report emphasizes that the systematic increase in coal costs over the past decade has solidified the safety margin for coal prices, with current cash cost support for port thermal coal prices at approximately 550 RMB/ton [3][9]. - It highlights that the coal price bottom is unlikely to return to the low levels seen in 2015, reinforcing the profitability and dividend safety margins for coal companies [3][9]. Summary by Sections Introduction - The report introduces the importance of cost research in establishing the safety margin for coal prices, indicating that a high cost-supported price bottom can enhance dividend value [6][20]. Overall Cost Trends - Over the past decade, coal company costs have increased by nearly 50%, with a CAGR of approximately 4% [6][24]. - The weighted average sales cost for coal in 2024 is projected to be 300 RMB/ton, down 2% year-on-year, while the complete cost is expected to be 380 RMB/ton, down 3% year-on-year [6][24]. Cost Structure - The cost structure for coal companies in 2024 is composed of labor costs (32%), other expenses (30%), raw materials (14%), depreciation (12%), safety costs (9%), and manufacturing costs (3%) [7][41]. - Labor costs, depreciation, and safety expenses have seen the most significant increases over the past decade, with labor costs rising by 28 RMB/ton [7][41]. Cost Curve Analysis - The cash cost curve for port thermal coal has shifted, with the 90th percentile cash cost now supporting prices around 550 RMB/ton [8][9]. - The complete cost curve for thermal coal has also increased, with the 90th percentile complete cost now between 370-423 RMB/ton [8][9]. Investment Recommendations - The report suggests that the systematic increase in costs has solidified the safety margin for coal prices, recommending several companies for investment based on their resilience and growth potential [9][11]. - Recommended companies include Yanzhou Coal Mining Company, Jinneng Holding, and China Shenhua Energy [9].