India: Domestic thermal coal prices hold steady w-o-w as demand remains subdued

Domestic thermal coal prices in India remained unchanged this week. BigMint's assessment showed 4500 GCV steady w-o-w at INR 4,800/t, while 5000 GCV held firm at INR 5,600/t, both exw-Bilaspur. Market sentiment was subdued amid weak demand, as some end-users hold sufficient inventories, while others have cut production or shut down plants entirely. The upcoming SECL coal auction, scheduled for 23 Jan, may further pressure prices.