DAILY: China's thermal coal market mood cools, Indonesian prices soften

China's spot thermal coal market remained subdued on May 20, with sentiment softening as some traders lowered offers in response to the prolonged trading stalemate. However, other participants continued to withhold cargoes and keep offers firm, expecting the forecast hot summer to boost demand in the near term.

On May 20, Mysteel assessed 5,500 kcal/kg, 5,000 kcal/kg, and 4,500 kcal/kg NAR thermal coal at Yuan 835/tonne ($122.8/t), Yuan 748/t, and Yuan 651/t, respectively, FOB northern ports with VAT, all unchanged since May 11. Market expectations were divided yesterday, as sluggish buying interest prompted some traders at northern ports