降本增效或成主旋律，筹码持续出清，曙光渐现

Investment Rating - The report maintains a "Buy" rating for key coal companies such as China Shenhua, Shaanxi Coal, and Xinji Energy, while recommending "Overweight" for Pingmei Shenma and Huayang [7][8]. Core Insights - The coal mining industry is focusing on cost reduction and efficiency improvement amidst declining coal prices, with companies managing costs to stabilize profits [2][3]. - The report highlights that the current coal prices are at a bottom level, suggesting that there is no need for pessimism, and the industry may benefit from China's policies aimed at stabilizing growth and expanding domestic demand [2][3]. - The report emphasizes the importance of understanding the fundamental attributes of the industry and maintaining confidence and determination [3]. Summary by Sections Market Overview - The CITIC Coal Index was reported at 3,215.97 points, down 0.76%, underperforming the CSI 300 Index by 1.14 percentage points, ranking 27th among CITIC sectors [2][78]. - Active funds reduced their holdings in the coal sector to 0.44% by the end of Q1 2025, a decrease of 0.38 percentage points from Q4 2024, marking the lowest level since 2021 [2]. Coal Price Trends - As of April 25, 2025, the price of Qinhuangdao Q5500 thermal coal was around 665 CNY/ton, a decrease of 9 CNY/ton week-on-week [34]. - The report indicates that the current market is experiencing a third round of price bottoming, driven by weak demand and high port inventories [2][34]. Key Company Performance - Yancoal's Q1 2025 comprehensive coal cost was reported at 318 CNY/ton, down 12.9% year-on-year, while China Coal Energy's cost was 270 CNY/ton, down 7.3% year-on-year [5]. - The report recommends focusing on companies with strong performance indicators, such as Xinji Energy and Shaanxi Coal, which are expected to perform well in the current market environment [7]. Supply and Demand Dynamics - The report notes that the supply of thermal coal is currently stable, with minor fluctuations, while demand remains weak, primarily driven by non-electric end-users [10][29]. - The report also highlights that the coking coal market is experiencing a weak and stable trend, with prices under pressure due to cautious market sentiment [37]. Future Outlook - The report suggests that the coal industry is expected to maintain a stable supply-demand balance, with potential for high-quality development amid ongoing structural reforms [36]. - It emphasizes the importance of monitoring key factors such as iron and steel production rates and macroeconomic policies that could influence coal demand in the future [51][55].