Core Viewpoint - The launch of pure benzene futures and options on July 8 marks a significant development in the aromatic industry chain, providing essential risk management tools for raw materials [1] Group 1: Market Dynamics - Pure benzene prices have shown extreme volatility, with an average price increase from 3,927 yuan/ton in 2020 to 8,446 yuan/ton in 2024, peaking over 10,000 yuan/ton in 2022 [2] - The price of pure benzene has fluctuated significantly, with a drop from 7,780 yuan/ton to 5,375 yuan/ton, representing a decline of 31% [2] - The volatility has led to substantial financial losses for companies, with one industry participant reporting losses exceeding 20 million yuan in a single week [2] Group 2: Risk Management and Pricing Mechanisms - The introduction of pure benzene futures is expected to enhance price discovery, risk management, and resource allocation within the industry [1] - Current pricing models for pure benzene include annual average contracts, spot market pricing, and styrene price differential pricing, with imports primarily referencing Korean offshore prices [3] - The establishment of standardized pure benzene futures contracts in China aims to create authoritative price signals, potentially increasing China's influence on international pricing [3] Group 3: Future Outlook - The futures and options market is anticipated to provide a more comprehensive risk management tool for industry players, reducing the occurrence of defaults in over-the-counter transactions [4] - Companies plan to adopt a hedging strategy based on monthly production and sales plans, transitioning from fixed-price contracts to a "futures price + premium/discount" model [4] - The goal is to enhance pricing transparency and facilitate a shift from fixed pricing to a futures-linked pricing mechanism, positioning China as a pricing center for pure benzene in Asia [4]