Investment Rating - The report maintains a Neutral rating for Li Ning (2331 HK) with a target price adjusted to HKD 19.50, indicating a potential downside of 0.3% from the closing price of HKD 19.55 [2][5][8]. Core Insights - The fourth quarter saw a narrowing decline in retail sales, but recovery momentum remains uncertain. The overall operations are still in a bottoming phase, with management indicating that the previously provided guidance for slight revenue growth and high single-digit net profit margin for 2025 is expected to be achieved [3][8]. - The company is benefiting from effective cost control and government subsidies, which support the maintenance of profit forecasts for 2025-2027. The upcoming sports events in 2026 are expected to enhance brand marketing and market attention, potentially increasing long-term brand value [8]. - Offline channels continue to face pressure, with discount levels deepening to around 60%, reflecting competitive industry dynamics. The e-commerce channel's growth has weakened compared to previous quarters [8]. Financial Overview - Revenue projections for Li Ning are as follows: - 2023: RMB 27,598 million - 2024: RMB 28,676 million (7.0% YoY growth) - 2025E: RMB 28,929 million (3.9% YoY growth) - 2026E: RMB 30,286 million (0.9% YoY growth) - 2027E: RMB 31,206 million (4.7% YoY growth) [4][10]. - Net profit estimates are: - 2023: RMB 3,187 million - 2024: RMB 3,013 million - 2025E: RMB 2,664 million - 2026E: RMB 3,007 million - 2027E: RMB 3,370 million [4][19]. - The company’s earnings per share (EPS) are projected to be: - 2023: RMB 1.23 - 2024: RMB 1.17 - 2025E: RMB 1.03 - 2026E: RMB 1.17 - 2027E: RMB 1.31 [4][21]. Market Position and Strategy - As of the end of Q4 2025, the inventory turnover ratio has returned to a healthy level of 4-5 months, achieving the company's target. The total number of Li Ning stores (excluding Li Ning YOUNG) decreased by 41 to 6,091 [8]. - The company is actively optimizing its store network, with the first "Dragon Store" model launched in December [8].

Group 1 - Company Li Ning (02331.HK) has seen a stock price increase of over 4%, currently trading at 21.18 HKD, reflecting a rise of 3.82% [1] - The trading volume for Li Ning has reached 338 million HKD [1]

Core Viewpoint - Li Ning's stock has seen an increase of over 4%, currently trading at 21.18 HKD with a transaction volume of 338 million HKD, despite a slight decline in retail sales for Q4 2025 [1] Group 1: Sales Performance - Li Ning reported a low single-digit decline in retail sales for Q4 2025, excluding Li Ning YOUNG, indicating a year-on-year decrease [1] - Guosen Securities noted that the decline in Li Ning's bulk sales for Q4 was less severe compared to Q3, primarily due to a reduction in the decline of offline channels [1] - The inventory turnover ratio improved to 4-5 months, reflecting better inventory management [1] Group 2: Revenue and Profitability Outlook - Morgan Stanley forecasts moderate revenue growth for Li Ning in 2025, with net profit margins expected to stabilize at a high single-digit level, suggesting an upward adjustment in market consensus for last year's net profit [1] - According to浦银国际, strong market sentiment could lead to significant upward momentum in Li Ning's stock price if there is a clear trend of brand recovery and improvement in sales [1]

Core Viewpoint - Li Ning's stock has seen an increase of over 4%, currently trading at 21.18 HKD with a transaction volume of 338 million HKD, despite a reported decline in retail sales for Q4 2025 [1] Group 1: Sales Performance - Li Ning announced a low single-digit decline in retail sales for its sales points (excluding Li Ning YOUNG) across the platform for Q4 2025 [1] - Guosen Securities reported that the decline in Li Ning's bulk sales for Q4 was a low single-digit decrease, which is an improvement compared to Q3, primarily due to a reduction in the decline of offline channels [1] - The inventory turnover ratio improved to 4-5 months, indicating better inventory management [1] Group 2: Revenue and Profitability Outlook - Morgan Stanley forecasts a moderate revenue growth for Li Ning in 2025, with net profit margins expected to stabilize at a high single-digit level, suggesting an upward adjustment in market consensus for last year's net profit [1] - According to浦银国际, strong market sentiment could lead to significant upward momentum in Li Ning's stock price if there is a clear trend of brand recovery and improvement in sales [1]

Group 1: Outdoor Apparel Industry - The outdoor footwear and apparel industry has maintained rapid growth since 2021, with a CAGR of 25.3% for outdoor apparel and 18.4% for outdoor footwear, projected to grow by 24.5% and 16.3% year-on-year in 2025 respectively [24][26] - Online sales of outdoor footwear are growing faster than apparel, with outdoor footwear online sales growth maintaining over 40%, while certain apparel categories like jackets and sun-protective clothing are experiencing slower growth [24][26] - Key outdoor brands such as Kailas and Berghaus are showing strong momentum, while brands like The North Face are underperforming; the market is becoming more diversified with new brands emerging [25][26] Group 2: AI Application in Computing Industry - Major international companies are focusing on AI application in vertical scenarios, with OpenAI and Anthropic launching healthcare-focused AI models, enhancing compliance and professional services [28] - Domestic companies are also advancing in AI applications, with Alibaba upgrading health services and Tencent providing comprehensive support for mini-programs, indicating a strong push towards AI integration [28] - The market for AI applications is expected to see significant growth, with predictions indicating that the GEO market will reach $24 billion globally by 2026, driven by high consumer trust in AI applications in China [30][32] Group 3: Public Utilities Industry - The public utilities sector, including electricity, gas, and water, is characterized by its "essential" nature, with stable long-term growth prospects [32] - The transition to low-carbon energy sources is accelerating, with the share of clean energy consumption expected to reach 28.6% of total energy consumption by 2024, up 2.2 percentage points year-on-year [32][33] - There is a growing trend of overseas funds over-allocating to the public utilities sector, with significant increases in holdings by institutional investors in this industry [33]

Investment Rating - The report recommends a "Buy" rating for several companies including Shenzhou International, Huayi Group, Anta Sports, and Li Ning, with respective 2026 PE ratios of 12x and 15x for Shenzhou International and Huayi Group [2][9][26]. Core Insights - The textile and apparel industry is experiencing a mixed performance, with some companies showing resilience while others face challenges due to fluctuating orders and profit margins [1][3]. - The report anticipates a cautious improvement in downstream orders for 2026, supported by healthy inventory levels and strong sales performance from certain brands [2][20]. - The sportswear segment is expected to outperform the broader apparel market, driven by strong inventory management and long-term growth potential [3][26]. Summary by Sections Recent Revenue Performance - Several apparel manufacturers reported their 2025 revenue, with Feng Tai Enterprises, Ru Hong, and Yu Yuan Group showing year-on-year changes of -4.5%, +3.2%, and +0.5% respectively for the full year [1][12]. - In December 2025, Feng Tai Enterprises, Ru Hong, and Yu Yuan Group reported monthly revenues down by -0.6%, -3.6%, and -3.7% respectively [1][12]. Industry Outlook - The report indicates a weakening industry sentiment since H2 2025, with Southeast Asia's export performance continuing to surpass that of China [2][17]. - For 2026, the report expects cautious improvements in orders, with a focus on core brand performance and inventory management [20]. Investment Recommendations - Recommended stocks include Shenzhou International and Huayi Group, with Shenzhou International expected to achieve a 10% revenue growth in 2025 and Huayi Group's profits anticipated to recover gradually [2][25]. - Other companies to watch include Wei Xing Co., Kai Run Co., and Jing Yuan International, which are expected to benefit from the anticipated recovery in orders [2][26]. Market Performance - The textile and apparel sector has underperformed compared to the broader market, with the Shanghai and Shenzhen 300 index down by 0.57% while the textile manufacturing sector fell by 0.77% [30].

Group 1 - The core viewpoint of the articles indicates that Li Ning's overall retail revenue for Q4 2025 has experienced a slight decline, with offline and e-commerce channels showing mixed performance [1][2] - As of the end of Q4 2025, the number of Li Ning's main brand stores decreased to 6,091, reflecting a net reduction of 41 stores from the previous quarter and 26 stores from the end of the previous year [1] - The company has seen a deepening of discounts due to unfavorable winter sales and increased promotions for autumn and winter apparel, while inventory levels have improved, achieving a healthier sell-through ratio [1] Group 2 - In terms of product categories, the running segment has shown a mid-single-digit growth year-on-year, while categories such as basketball and sports lifestyle continue to experience negative growth [2] - Li Ning has opened its first outdoor store and "Dragon Store," targeting the light outdoor market and aiming to attract new customer segments, with a focus on urban commuting and leisure activities [2] - The company has adjusted its profit forecasts for 2025-2027, increasing the expected net profit figures due to anticipated government subsidies and cost-cutting measures, maintaining a "buy" rating [3]

Core Viewpoint - Li Ning's Q4 2025 operational performance shows a decline in revenue, with offline sales under pressure and e-commerce sales remaining flat, indicating challenges in the current consumer environment [1] Group 1: Revenue Performance - In Q4 2025, Li Ning's overall revenue decreased by a low single-digit percentage year-on-year, with offline channel revenue declining in the same range and e-commerce revenue remaining flat [1] - The wholesale business saw a year-on-year revenue decline in the mid-single digits, with 4,853 wholesale stores at the end of Q4 2025, a net increase of 33 stores since the beginning of the year [1] - Direct sales revenue also declined in the low single digits year-on-year, with 1,238 direct stores at the end of Q4 2025, reflecting a net closure of 59 stores since the start of the year [1] Group 2: E-commerce and Inventory - E-commerce revenue remained flat in Q4 2025, with expectations of better growth from platforms like Douyin, while the overall e-commerce sales environment showed short-term fluctuations [1] - The inventory turnover ratio is expected to be between 4 and 5 by the end of Q4 2025, indicating a healthy level after a previous higher ratio due to pre-holiday stocking [2] Group 3: Future Outlook - For 2025, the company forecasts a net profit attributable to shareholders of 2.742 billion yuan, with a projected revenue slight increase and a 9% year-on-year decline in net profit [2] - In 2026, Li Ning plans to enhance brand exposure through events like the Milan Fashion Week and increase sponsorship for Olympic-related activities, expecting a revenue growth of 6.5% and a net profit increase of 5.8% to 2.901 billion yuan [3] - The company aims to improve operational efficiency and explore new store formats, with a long-term profit forecast of 2.742 billion yuan for 2025, 2.901 billion yuan for 2026, and 3.200 billion yuan for 2027 [3]

Core Viewpoint - Li Ning's retail sales for Q4 2025 showed a slight year-on-year decline, but the rate of decline has narrowed compared to previous quarters. The company is managing inventory and risks effectively in a challenging retail environment, with confidence in revenue and profit margin guidance for 2025 [1][2]. Sales Performance - Overall retail sales (excluding Li Ning YOUNG) experienced a low single-digit year-on-year decline, with expectations for better performance in October due to the National Day and Mid-Autumn Festival, but a weakening outlook for November and December due to consumer environment and warm winter [1]. - Offline sales in Q4 2025 saw a mid single-digit year-on-year decline, with direct sales channels declining in low single digits and wholesale channels declining in mid single digits [2]. Channel Analysis - Direct sales outperformed wholesale, largely due to outlet promotions contributing nearly half of the direct sales business, allowing for better optimization of autumn and winter apparel [2]. - Online sales remained flat year-on-year, with expectations of double-digit growth on Douyin, single-digit growth on JD, while Tmall and official website faced downward pressure [2]. Store Expansion and Channel Structure - As of Q4 2025, Li Ning had 6,091 stores (excluding Li Ning YOUNG), with a net closure of 41 stores in the quarter and 26 for the year. The company continues to expand its children's clothing stores, with 1,518 stores and a net increase of 38 in the quarter [2]. - The company is actively opening new store formats, including dragon stores and outdoor stores, with plans to open over ten pop-up stores in the next 1-2 months [2]. Discount and Inventory Management - Overall discounts in Q4 2025 deepened in low single digits year-on-year and quarter-on-quarter, with offline discounts slightly deeper than 65% due to warm winter temperatures prompting increased clearance of winter apparel [2]. - Despite deeper discounts, the company has managed to maintain a healthy inventory turnover ratio, with the inventory turnover period returning to a healthy range of 4-5 months [2]. Profit Forecast and Valuation - The company expects improved profitability due to refined management, although marketing expenditures may increase in 2026 due to the Olympic year, potentially suppressing short-term profits. Adjusted net profit forecasts for 2025, 2026, and 2027 are 2.7 billion, 2.77 billion, and 3.17 billion yuan respectively [3]. - The target price is maintained at 22.76 HKD, with a PE ratio of 19.0x for 2026, reflecting confidence in the company's strategic investments for long-term growth [3].

Core Viewpoint - The company reported a low single-digit decline in retail sales for the fourth quarter ending December 31, 2025, with offline channels experiencing a mid single-digit decline and e-commerce remaining flat [1][2][3] Retail Performance - As of December 31, 2025, the total number of sales points in China was 6,091, a net decrease of 41 from the previous quarter, with retail business decreasing by 59 and wholesale business increasing by 33 [1] - The decline in sales was primarily due to offline channels, although the rate of decline has narrowed compared to the previous quarter [2][3] Sales and Discounts - The fourth quarter saw a low single-digit decline in sales, which improved compared to the mid single-digit decline in the third quarter, with e-commerce performing better than offline channels [3] - Discounts deepened in the fourth quarter, with the absolute level slightly above 60%, particularly in December due to increased promotional efforts for autumn and winter apparel [4] Inventory Management - The inventory turnover ratio improved to a healthier level of 4-5 months, down from 5-6 months in the previous quarter, indicating effective inventory management [4] - Direct sales channels showed better inventory turnover compared to wholesale channels [4] New Product Launches - The company launched a series of new products in the fourth quarter, including innovative running shoes designed for rainy weather and new basketball models [4] - The introduction of new store formats, such as outdoor specialty stores and "dragon stores," is expected to contribute to long-term sales growth [4][5] Financial Forecast - The company has adjusted its profit forecasts upward, expecting net profits of 26.2 billion, 28.0 billion, and 32.9 billion yuan for 2025-2027, reflecting a year-on-year change of -13.1%, +7.0%, and +17.3% respectively [5][6] - The target price has been raised to 22.1-23.3 HKD, corresponding to a PE ratio of 19-20 times for 2026, maintaining an "outperform" rating [5][6]