Understanding the Coal Industry: Demand Drivers and Business Cycles

This chapter provides an overview of the coal industry, discussing its recovery after the global financial crisis and the role of different countries in the global market. It highlights how the United States became a swing supplier to the world due to China's transition from a net exporter to a net importer of coal. The chapter also mentions the expansion of production by companies like BHP to maintain top-line revenue, the challenges faced by US operators due to Australian production ramping up, and the impact of debt payments on the industry.