2023 Annual Results Presentation 18 March 2024 2023 Annual ResultsHighlights RMB 14,346 m 10.9% Group's revenue RMB 1,030 m 11.8% globally as at 31 December 2023 8,583 branded stores Core Xtep brand's revenue Profit attributable to ordinary equity holders of the Company Professional sports segment's revenue Athleisure segment's revenue (Mainland China) RMB 11,947 m RMB 796 m RMB 465 m HK 8.0 cents1 Full year payout ratio: 50.0% Final dividend per Share RMB 1,794 m 21.6% Group's inventories RMB 1,255 m 119.5 ...

Financial Performance - The group's revenue reached RMB 7,203 million, a 10.4% increase year-over-year[2] - Gross profit margin improved to 46.0%, up by 3.1 percentage points[3] - Profit attributable to ordinary equity holders of the company increased by 13.0% to RMB 752 million[4] - Interim dividend per share is HK15.6 cents, with a payout ratio of 50.0%[7] Brand Performance - Core Xtep brand revenue grew by 6.6% to RMB 5,789 million[9] - Professional sports segment revenue increased significantly by 72.2% to RMB 593 million[9] - Athleisure segment revenue increased by 9.7% to RMB 821 million[9] Balance Sheet Highlights - Net cash and cash equivalents increased by 51.7% to RMB 1,414 million[13] - Bank borrowings decreased by 22.6% to RMB 2,047 million[13] Sustainability - MSCI ESG rating upgraded to "A"[8] - Charity donations reached RMB 28.8 million[60]

Financial Performance - Group revenue reached RMB 13,577 million, a 6.5% increase year-over-year[2] - Profit attributable to ordinary equity holders of the Company increased by 20.2% to RMB 1,238 million[7] - Operating profit increased by 9.3% to RMB 1,966 million[7] - Gross profit margin increased by 1.4 percentage points to 43.2%[10] Segment Performance - Mass market revenue grew by 3.2% to RMB 12,327 million[66] - Professional sports segment revenue increased significantly by 57.2% to RMB 1,250 million[66] - Saucony's revenue exceeded RMB 1 billion, demonstrating sustained high growth[41] Retail and E-commerce - E-commerce fueled revenue growth by approximately 20%[40] - The company plans to reclaim distribution rights from approximately 400-500 Xtep branded stores in 2H2025 & 2026[61] Strategic Initiatives - The company will invest RMB 500 million in Capex in 2025-2026 to implement its DTC (Direct-to-Consumer) strategy[60] - The full year payout ratio (including special dividend) is 138.2%[7] - The company aims to enhance efficiency and build momentum by focusing on running and creating a professional image[57]

Core Insights - The apparel industry in China is experiencing a slowdown in growth, with retail sales of clothing reaching 1,071.62 billion yuan in 2024, reflecting a mere 0.1% increase year-on-year, a significant decline of 15.3% compared to 2023 [1] - Among 25 selected publicly listed companies in the apparel sector, only 7 reported increases in both revenue and net profit, while 10 companies experienced declines in both metrics [1][2] Revenue and Profit Overview - In 2024, 15 companies reported a decline in net profit, and 13 saw a decrease in revenue. Notably, 10 companies experienced declines in both revenue and net profit [2] - Companies with declining performance include: - Baoxini: Revenue of 5.153 billion yuan, down 1.91%; net profit of 495 million yuan, down 29.07% [2][3] - Hailan Home: Revenue of 20.957 billion yuan, down 2.65%; net profit of 2.159 billion yuan, down 26.88% [2][3] - Sanfu Outdoor: Revenue of 800 million yuan, down 5.45%; net profit loss of 21 million yuan, down 158.83% [2][3] - Anzheng Fashion: Revenue of 2.034 billion yuan, down 6.23%; net profit loss of 124 million yuan, down 365.03% [2][3] - Aimer: Revenue of 3.163 billion yuan, down 7.71%; net profit of 163 million yuan, down 46.56% [2][3] Losses and Underperformance - Six companies reported losses, including: - Ge Li Si: Loss of 310 million yuan [4][5] - Sanfu Outdoor: Loss of 21 million yuan [4][5] - Anzheng Fashion: Loss of 124 million yuan [4][5] - Xinhe Shares: Loss of 67 million yuan [4][5] - Meibang Clothing: Loss of 195 million yuan [4][5] - Annai: Loss of 115 million yuan [4][5] Performance Rankings - The top three companies in revenue growth are: - 361 Degrees: 19.6% growth [7] - Tanshan: 14.44% growth [7] - Anta Sports: 13.6% growth [7] - The bottom three in revenue growth are: - Meibang Clothing: -49.79% [7] - Annai: -20.7% [7] - Xinhe Shares: -20.1% [7] Net Profit Growth Rankings - The top three companies in net profit growth are: - Urban Beauty: 197% growth [9] - Anta Sports: 52.4% growth [9] - Tanshan: 48.5% growth [9] - The bottom three in net profit growth are: - Meibang Clothing: -715.45% [9] - Ge Li Si: -392.99% [9] - Anzheng Fashion: -365.03% [9]

Investment Rating - The investment rating for the company is "Buy" and is maintained [8]. Core Insights - The retail performance of the main brand remains stable, with a year-on-year revenue growth in the mid-single digits for Q1 2025, primarily driven by footwear sales. The discount rate is between 70-75%, and the inventory turnover ratio is approximately 4 months. The subsidiary brand, Saucony, has shown a robust revenue growth of over 40% year-on-year [6][8]. - Continuous product launches and optimization of the product matrix are evident, with the introduction of the 360X 2.0 carbon plate running shoes and the flagship cushioning running shoes, enhancing the running shoe lineup [8]. - Looking ahead, the company is gradually implementing a Direct-to-Consumer (DTC) channel strategy, which is expected to drive revenue and profit growth. The projected net profits for 2025-2027 are estimated at 1.41 billion, 1.60 billion, and 1.82 billion respectively, with corresponding price-to-earnings ratios of 9, 8, and 7 times [8][10]. Summary by Sections Retail Performance - The main brand's Q1 revenue growth is in the mid-single digits year-on-year, with a discount range of 70-75% and an inventory turnover of about 4 months. Saucony's revenue growth exceeds 40% year-on-year [2][6][8]. Product Development - New products are being launched, including the 360X 2.0 carbon plate running shoes and the flagship cushioning running shoes, which enhance the overall product matrix [8]. Future Outlook - The company is focusing on DTC strategies, with expectations for revenue and profit growth. The projected net profits for 2025-2027 are 1.41 billion, 1.60 billion, and 1.82 billion, with P/E ratios of 9, 8, and 7 respectively [8][10].

Core Viewpoint - Cathay Securities maintains a positive outlook on Xtep International's (01368) competitive strength in the main brand running shoes sector, with a target price of HKD 6.45 for 2025, reflecting a lower-than-industry-average PE of 12X [1] Group 1: Financial Performance - The main brand's Q1 revenue showed single-digit growth year-on-year, with discounts remaining stable at 7-7.5%, and an inventory-to-sales ratio of approximately 4 months, indicating a healthy balance [2] - Xtep's Q1 functional running shoes sales demonstrated double-digit growth, showcasing the company's competitive edge in the running shoe market [3] Group 2: Brand Development and Strategy - The DTC (Direct-to-Consumer) reform is progressing as planned, with expectations to recover 400-500 stores by 2026, which may have a slight short-term impact on 2025 profits but is expected to enhance operational efficiency and customer experience in the long term [3] - Saucony's Q1 revenue increased by over 40% year-on-year, with a growth guidance of 30-40% for 2025, and plans to open 30 new stores, primarily in high-tier markets [4]

Core Viewpoint - Despite stable growth in revenue and profit margins, the valuation of Xtep International (01368) remains stagnant, raising questions about potential investment opportunities and risks in the market [1][12]. Financial Performance - In Q1 2025, Xtep's main brand achieved mid-single-digit year-on-year growth in retail sales, while its second growth brand, Saucony, saw over 40% year-on-year growth [1]. - Over the past five years, Xtep's revenue and net profit have compounded at rates of 13.53% and 24.64%, respectively [1]. - The company has maintained a consistent dividend policy, with a proposed final dividend of HKD 0.095 per share for 2024, leading to a total dividend of HKD 0.156 per share, a year-on-year increase of 221.7% [1]. Profitability Metrics - Xtep's gross margin improved from 38.9% to 43.2%, and net margin increased from 7.2% to 9.1% over the past five years [1][3]. - Return on equity (ROE) nearly doubled from 7.3% to 14.1% during the same period [1][3]. Cost Management - The overall expense ratio has remained stable, with advertising and promotion costs increasing but offset by optimized employee costs [2]. - In 2024, the combined advertising, employee, and R&D expense ratios were 26.3%, a slight increase of approximately 0.7 percentage points from 2020 [2]. Cash Flow and Debt - Xtep has strong cash flow, with an average net cash flow from operating activities exceeding RMB 1.2 billion over the past two years [5]. - As of December 2024, cash equivalents totaled RMB 2.98 billion, with short-term and long-term interest-bearing debts of RMB 1.16 billion and RMB 0.867 billion, respectively [5]. Brand Performance - Xtep operates two main brands: the mass-market brand Xtep and the high-end professional sports brand Saucony, with over 6,382 stores as of 2024 [7]. - The mass-market brand contributes over 90% of revenue, while Saucony's revenue share has increased significantly, with a compound annual growth rate of 104.3% from 2020 to 2024 [7][8]. Market Position and Valuation - Xtep's profitability is lower compared to peers, with accounts receivable as a percentage of revenue at 33.9%, significantly higher than competitors like Anta and Li Ning [5][6]. - Despite a lack of standout performance compared to industry leaders, Xtep's dual-brand strategy and consistent dividend payouts suggest limited downside in valuation [12]. Analyst Sentiment - Investment banks generally have a positive outlook on Xtep, with target prices above the current market price, indicating potential for future growth [11].

Investment Rating - The report maintains a "Positive" outlook on the textile and apparel industry [2]. Core Insights - The textile and apparel sector outperformed the market, with the SW textile and apparel index rising by 1.6% from April 14-18, 2025, surpassing the SW All A index by 1.3 percentage points [6]. - Retail sales of clothing and textiles showed steady improvement, with a year-on-year growth of 3.4% in the first quarter of 2025, totaling 386.9 billion yuan [30]. - Textile exports rebounded significantly in March, with a year-on-year increase of 12.9%, driven by accelerated shipments of previously placed orders [10][37]. Summary by Sections Industry Performance - The SW textile and apparel index increased by 1.6%, outperforming the SW All A index by 1.3 percentage points during the specified period [6]. - The SW apparel and home textiles index rose by 1.4%, while the SW textile manufacturing index also increased by 1.6% [6]. Retail Sales - In March, clothing retail sales grew by 3.6% year-on-year, slightly up from 3.3% in January-February [13]. - The total retail sales of clothing, shoes, and textiles for the first three months reached 386.9 billion yuan, reflecting a 3.4% increase year-on-year [30]. Export Data - In the first quarter, China exported textiles and apparel worth 66.3 billion USD, a year-on-year increase of 0.6% [37]. - March saw textile and apparel exports amounting to 23.4 billion USD, marking a 12.9% year-on-year growth [37]. Cotton Prices - As of April 18, 2025, the national cotton price index was reported at 14,252 yuan per ton, with a weekly increase of 0.2% [40]. - The main contract for Zhengzhou cotton was priced at 12,885 yuan per ton, reflecting a 0.6% increase [40]. Market Trends - The report highlights the necessity for domestic demand to improve in 2025, especially in light of changing international trade dynamics [15]. - The focus on new outdoor activities, new business models, and supportive policies is emphasized as key growth areas [15]. Company Performance - 361 Degrees reported a 10-15% year-on-year growth in its main brand for the first quarter of 2025, with e-commerce sales increasing by 35-40% [28]. - Xtep International's main brand sales grew in the mid-single digits, with a significant increase of over 40% for the Saucony brand [28]. - The annual report for Baoshihua indicated a revenue of 5.15 billion yuan, down 1.9% year-on-year, with a net profit decline of 29.1% [28].

Investment Rating - The report maintains a "Buy" rating for the company [2][6][25] Core Views - The company's main brand shows steady growth, with a notable performance in professional sports, particularly in the children's segment, which is growing faster than the adult segment [6] - The company plans to optimize its multi-brand matrix by focusing on core running business and transitioning to a Direct-to-Consumer (DTC) model, which is expected to enhance its competitive position in the professional sports sector [6] - The company has healthy inventory levels and stable discount rates, maintaining its annual profit growth guidance of over 10% [6] Financial Data and Profit Forecast - Revenue projections for FY2023 to FY2027 are as follows: - FY2023: 143 billion RMB - FY2024: 136 billion RMB - FY2025E: 146 billion RMB - FY2026E: 158 billion RMB - FY2027E: 169 billion RMB - Net profit forecasts for the same period are: - FY2023: 10.3 billion RMB - FY2024: 12.4 billion RMB - FY2025E: 13.7 billion RMB - FY2026E: 15.0 billion RMB - FY2027E: 16.3 billion RMB - The company expects a gross margin improvement, with projections of 42% in FY2023, increasing to 45% by FY2027 [5][6][16]

Investment Rating - The report maintains a "Buy" rating for the company, expecting a relative return of over 20% within the next six months [6]. Core Insights - The company reported a mid-single-digit year-on-year growth in retail sales for its main brand in Q1 2025, with retail discounts ranging from 7% to 75% and channel inventory turnover of approximately four months. The subsidiary brand, Saucony, achieved over 40% year-on-year growth in retail sales [1]. - The company has been actively promoting public health and sports development since 2007, sponsoring 44 top marathon and road running events across China in 2024, including the prestigious Xiamen Marathon [2]. - The company aims to enhance its direct-to-consumer (DTC) business model to foster deeper and more personalized interactions with customers, thereby increasing brand loyalty and retention rates [3]. - Saucony has quickly become a prominent player in the running market, ranking among the top three in terms of wearing rates in Chinese marathons. The DTC strategy has driven over 100% compound annual growth in the professional sports segment's revenue from 2020 to 2024 [4]. Financial Projections - The company forecasts revenues of RMB 14.7 billion, RMB 15.8 billion, and RMB 17 billion for the years 2025 to 2027, with net profits of RMB 1.36 billion, RMB 1.52 billion, and RMB 1.69 billion respectively. Corresponding EPS is projected to be RMB 0.49, RMB 0.55, and RMB 0.61, with PE ratios of 9x, 8x, and 8x [5].