Financial Data and Key Indicator Changes - Steel prices continue to decline, leading to a more pessimistic market sentiment, with many steel mills announcing production cuts to quickly digest old inventory [15][5] - Short-term losses for steel mills are difficult to reverse, and if plate inventory worsens, there may be room for production cuts at current iron water levels around 240 [15][5] - The overall valuation support for the black series is currently at around 90 USD for iron ore [15] Business Line Data and Key Indicator Changes - Steel production has seen a slight decrease due to increased maintenance of blast furnaces, but production is expected to recover as maintenance concludes and new furnaces come online [7] - The demand for steel is in the latter half of the off-season, with scrap steel production significantly reduced and iron water remaining high [8][6] Market Data and Key Indicator Changes - Domestic interest rate cuts have been less than market expectations, leading to a muted response in commodity prices [6] - The market is currently experiencing signs of recession both domestically and internationally, affecting overall demand [6] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focusing on managing costs and production levels in response to weak demand and declining prices [5][6] - There is an emphasis on monitoring government actions for effective turnaround signals, particularly regarding GDP targets and political meetings [5] Management Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed that the current operating environment is challenging, with weak demand limiting upward price movements [6] - Future support for the market is expected to come from government actions rather than market-driven factors [5] Other Important Information - The report highlights the need for caution regarding potential risks, including infrastructure investment and export volume increases, which could impact supply and demand dynamics [6][5] Q&A Session Summary Question: What are the expectations for steel prices in the near term? - Steel prices are expected to remain under pressure due to weak demand and high inventory levels, with a potential for further declines if production cuts are not implemented [6] Question: How is the company planning to address the current market challenges? - The company is focusing on cost management and production adjustments to navigate the current weak demand environment [5]
中信期货黑色建材延续跌势,钢厂挺价——日报
中信证券经纪(香港)·2024-07-25 07:13