Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the increasing exchange rate risks faced by companies engaged in cross-border e-commerce, particularly in emerging markets like Africa, due to significant currency fluctuations and the need for effective hedging strategies [1][2][8]. Group 1: Exchange Rate Risks in Cross-Border E-commerce - Companies are experiencing substantial profit losses due to currency depreciation, with some African currencies dropping over 5% in just a few days, leading to a profit reduction of over 70% for exporters [1][2]. - The traditional USD-centered global trade settlement system is shifting towards a more diversified model involving local currencies, complicating the exchange rate risk landscape for Chinese companies [1][8]. - A significant portion of cross-border e-commerce transactions now involves local currencies, increasing the complexity of exchange rate risks for Chinese exporters [1][8]. Group 2: Hedging Strategies - Companies are adopting forward foreign exchange swap transactions to lock in exchange rates and mitigate risks associated with currency fluctuations [1][6]. - The hedging strategies include locking in exchange rates for local currencies against USD and subsequently against RMB, which helps stabilize profits despite currency volatility [6][8]. - The effectiveness of these hedging strategies is contingent on accurately predicting currency trends, as misjudgments can lead to losses [6][8]. Group 3: Industry Trends and Challenges - The demand for foreign exchange risk management tools is increasing, with over 1.1 trillion USD utilized in foreign exchange derivatives for risk management in the first three quarters of the previous year [17]. - Financial institutions are enhancing their offerings of foreign exchange risk management products, including forward contracts and options, to support companies in managing their exposure [17][18]. - There is a growing recognition among companies of the need for a "neutral" approach to exchange rate risk management, focusing on cost and profit stabilization rather than speculative gains [17][22]. Group 4: Operational Pain Points - Companies face operational challenges in executing foreign exchange transactions due to lengthy processes involving multiple banks, which can take several days and expose them to currency fluctuations [3][6]. - Many companies lack clarity on which foreign exchange hedging tools are suitable for their specific needs, leading to ineffective risk management practices [18][19]. - Financial institutions are working to address these operational pain points by providing tailored solutions and educating companies on effective hedging strategies [18][23].

Market Performance - The shipping index continued its strong performance, rising over 11% during the morning session [1] - The main shipping contract saw a significant increase, reaching a peak of 1548 points, following a previous day of limit-up trading [6] - Chemical products such as styrene and synthetic rubber also experienced gains, with increases of over 2% [1] Commodity Inventory - Domestic commercial inventory of three major oils reached 1.82 million tons, with a week-on-week increase of 40,000 tons [3] - The inventory of soybean and soybean meal also saw a slight increase, with major oil factories reporting a soybean inventory of 5.89 million tons, up 660,000 tons week-on-week [4] Industry Developments - The photovoltaic silicon material sector saw a significant rise, with rumors of major manufacturers proposing production cuts to stabilize prices [3] - There is speculation that leading silicon material manufacturers are planning to acquire remaining production capacity, although the feasibility of these plans remains uncertain [3] Economic Indicators - The U.S. budget surplus for April was reported at $258.4 billion, an increase from $209.5 billion year-on-year, with customs tariff revenue reaching a historic high [8] - The recent U.S.-China trade negotiations have led to the cancellation of 91% of additional tariffs, boosting market sentiment and leading to a rebound in U.S. stocks [8]