Core Insights - The report indicates a slight decline in thermal coal prices, with Qinhuangdao Q5500 thermal coal closing at 701 CNY/ton as of September 26, and a weekly high of 706 CNY/ton. The transition period between summer and autumn, along with pre-National Day stockpiling demand, is expected to boost non-electric coal demand in the upcoming months [1][2] - Coking coal prices have rebounded significantly, with the main coking coal price at Jing Tang Port reaching 1750 CNY/ton, up from a low of 1230 CNY/ton in early July. Coking coal futures have also seen a notable increase from 719 CNY to 1197 CNY, marking a cumulative rise of 66.48% [1][2][3] Thermal Coal Analysis - Thermal coal is categorized as a policy-driven commodity, and prices are anticipated to rebound towards long-term contract prices. The current price has surpassed the second target price, which aligns with local state-owned enterprise contract prices around 700 CNY. The expectation is for the spot price to reach a third target price of approximately 750 CNY by 2025, with a potential peak at around 860 CNY [3] - The recent price adjustments are attributed to seasonal transitions affecting coal consumption, but the upcoming non-electric coal demand is expected to drive prices upward, particularly in the chemical sector [3] Coking Coal Analysis - Coking coal prices are influenced more by supply and demand fundamentals. The price ratio between coking coal and thermal coal is noted to be 2.4 times, with target prices for coking coal set at 1608 CNY, 1680 CNY, 1800 CNY, and 2064 CNY corresponding to thermal coal's price targets [3] Investment Logic - The investment rationale is based on the cyclical nature and dividend potential of coal stocks. Both thermal and coking coal prices are currently at historical lows, providing room for upward movement. The supply-side policies aimed at reducing overproduction and the anticipated recovery in non-electric coal demand during the "golden September and silver October" period are expected to improve the coal supply-demand balance [5] - Despite a significant decline in industry profits, many coal companies maintain high dividend yields, with six listed coal companies announcing interim dividend plans totaling 24.13 billion CNY, reflecting a strong commitment to shareholder returns [5] Stock Selection - Four main lines of coal stock selection are proposed: 1. Cyclical logic: Jin Kong Coal Industry and Yanzhou Coal Mining for thermal coal; Pingmei Shenma and Huabei Mining for metallurgical coal 2. Dividend logic: China Shenhua and Zhongmei Energy for dividend potential 3. Diversified aluminum elasticity: Shenhuo Co. and Electric Investment Energy 4. Growth logic: Xinjie Energy and Guanghui Energy [5]