煤炭 价格寻底，布局右侧

Summary of Coal Industry Conference Call Industry Overview - The coal industry is currently experiencing a price bottoming phase, with a focus on positioning for future recovery [1] - The average production cost of thermal coal is projected to be 370 RMB/ton in 2024, which, while higher than historical lows, still has room for reduction [1][3] - Coking coal costs are expected to average 551 RMB/ton in 2024, also indicating potential for cost reduction [1][3] Key Insights and Arguments - Historical data shows that the average production cost of thermal coal has increased from 208 RMB/ton in 2016 to 370 RMB/ton in 2024, while coking coal costs rose from 300 RMB/ton to 551 RMB/ton during the same period [1][5] - The increase in costs is attributed to policy changes and rising expense standards, but there remains significant potential for cost control in the future [1][6] - Current port coal prices are at 611 RMB/ton, providing a profit margin of 91 RMB/ton when considering a production cost of 370 RMB/ton, and nearly 500 RMB/ton at a cost of 550 RMB/ton [1][9] - Recent increases in pithead coal prices in regions like Datong, Yulin, and Inner Mongolia indicate a gradual recovery in demand [1][10] Market Dynamics - The port coal price has remained stable at 611 RMB/ton for 11 consecutive days, while domestic coal prices have reached 1,270 RMB/ton [2] - The cost support logic is challenged by the presence of variable costs, suggesting that price support levels may trend downward in a weak demand environment [3][9] - The coal sector's stock prices have benefited from sector rotation, public fund allocations, and expectations of coal price rebounds [3][13] Future Outlook - The coal price rebound is anticipated, with potential price levels expected between 650 and 700 RMB/ton, influenced by weather conditions and hydropower output [12] - The current low inventory levels in downstream power plants are expected to drive increased replenishment efforts, supported by policy guidance [11][15] - The coal sector is projected to have significant upside potential, particularly for growth-oriented stocks that have not yet seen substantial price increases [14][15] Additional Considerations - The reliability of production cost data is emphasized, with audited financial reports from listed companies being more trustworthy than market rumors regarding cost percentiles [7][8] - The overall market sentiment is bolstered by the expectation of a demand recovery and the strategic positioning of major coal companies [16]