Thermal coal prices ticked up in Yulin, Shaanxi, with a few miners raising prices twice in a single day. Prices for Shenmu slack coal (CV 6,100, S 0.3%) rose 10 yuan/t to 760 yuan/t with VAT. Sentiment improved amid price gains in up- and downstream sectors. Some previously hesitant traders have started inquiring and purchasing. But limited demand release and reduced truck arrivals at mines after price rises may curb further price hikes.