Core Viewpoint - UBS initiates coverage on Leshushit (02698) with a "Buy" rating and a target price of HKD 41, highlighting the company's unique positioning to capture long-term structural growth in African health product consumption [1] Group 1: Company Positioning - Leshushit is positioned to benefit from favorable demographic trends, low category penetration rates, and decades of economic and consumption growth potential in Africa [1] - As a regional leader, the company leverages scale, localized manufacturing, distribution, and execution capabilities to create a durable competitive moat [1] Group 2: Financial Projections - UBS expects Leshushit to maintain a 15% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) in sales from 2026 to 2028 while sustaining resilient profit margins [1] - The firm views an 18x price-to-earnings ratio corresponding to a 15% CAGR in earnings per share from 2026 to 2028 as an attractive risk-return profile with long-term profit growth potential [1] Group 3: Cost Efficiency and Market Expansion - The profit margin structure is projected to remain stable from 2026 to 2028, driven by localized manufacturing and scale advantages that enhance cost efficiency [1] - Potential favorable foreign exchange dynamics are expected to support average selling prices, while stable raw material price outlooks will reduce input cost volatility [1] - The expansion into Latin America is anticipated to bring profit margin upside, as retail average selling prices in Latin America are higher than in Africa, enabling structural improvements in profitability through geographic diversification [1]

Core Viewpoint - The "Annual Outstanding CFO" award recognizes financial leaders who have made significant contributions and demonstrated exceptional leadership within their companies [4] Group 1: Award Announcement - The "Annual Outstanding CFO" award ceremony will take place during the "Technology Empowerment · Capital Breakthrough" sharing session on December 22, featuring a list of notable companies [1] - Ten individuals from various companies have been awarded the "Annual Outstanding CFO" title, including representatives from Baize Medical, Le Comfort, Quantum Song, Meitu, SF Express, Sikao Education, Four Rings Pharmaceutical, Hong Kong and China Gas, New World Development, and Starry Commercial [1] Group 2: Evaluation Criteria - The selection process for the award involved multiple indicators such as strategic contribution, capital market operations, and corporate value creation, utilizing a rigorous evaluation procedure and quantitative data analysis [4] - The award aims to create a reference list of the most valuable listed companies and unicorns in the investment community, covering all listed companies on major exchanges including the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, Shanghai Stock Exchange, Shenzhen Stock Exchange, New York Stock Exchange, and NASDAQ [4]

Core Viewpoint - The Chinese automotive market in 2025 is characterized by a stark contrast between industry consolidation and the influx of new entrants, with established companies facing bankruptcy while new players, such as Weiqiao Group, are entering the electric vehicle sector [5][10]. Industry Overview - The automotive industry is undergoing significant changes, with notable bankruptcies including Hozon Auto and GAC Fiat, indicating a harsh market environment [5]. - New entrants like Chasing Technology and Weiqiao Group are emerging, driven by government support and the need for diversification from traditional sectors [5][10]. Weiqiao Group's Background - Weiqiao Group, originally established in 1951, has diversified into various sectors including textiles and aluminum, and has been recognized as a global leader in aluminum production [7][8]. - The company has faced challenges in its core textile and aluminum businesses, prompting a strategic shift towards the electric vehicle market [10][13]. Strategic Shift to Electric Vehicles - The decline in the textile industry, with a reported 24.8% drop in profits for major textile enterprises in 2022, has pressured Weiqiao Group to seek new growth avenues [10]. - Environmental regulations have severely impacted the aluminum sector, leading to significant production cuts and financial strain [10][13]. - Weiqiao Group's entry into the electric vehicle market is seen as a response to these challenges, with government backing aimed at establishing a vehicle production base in Shandong [13][14]. Leadership and Vision - Zhang Bo, the son of the founder, has taken over leadership and is focused on expanding the automotive segment while maintaining the core textile and aluminum businesses [17][20]. - Under Zhang Bo's leadership, Weiqiao Group has made significant investments in research and development for electric vehicles, collaborating with various institutions to enhance its technological capabilities [18][20]. Automotive Brand Development - Weiqiao Group has established four automotive brands through acquisitions and strategic partnerships, including 212, Jishi, Ruisheng, and Leichi, covering a wide range of market segments from commercial to passenger vehicles [21][30]. - The company has adopted a capital and industry integration approach, differentiating itself from competitors by leveraging its existing resources and expertise in aluminum production [30]. Market Position and Future Outlook - In 2024, Weiqiao Group reported a revenue of 558.5 billion yuan, a 7.4% increase year-on-year, with net profits soaring by 112% to 32.3 billion yuan, indicating a successful pivot towards electric vehicles [20]. - The automotive sector is positioned as a new growth driver for Weiqiao Group, although it also introduces new uncertainties and challenges [20][30].

Core Viewpoint - The "Annual Outstanding Investment Value IPO" awards recognize new listed companies that excel in core business, performance growth, and shareholder value creation, highlighting their significant growth potential and competitive advantages in their respective industries [4]. Group 1: Award Recipients - Eight companies received the "Annual Outstanding Investment Value IPO" award, including Different Group (06090.HK), Cao Cao Travel (02643.HK), Dipo Technology (01384.HK), Geek+ (02590.HK), Leshu (02698.HK), Tudatong (02665.HK), Xuan Bamboo Biotechnology-B (02575.HK), and Yingshi Innovation (688775.SH) [1]. - The ranking of the award recipients is not in any particular order and is based on the first letter of the company names [1]. Group 2: Evaluation Criteria - The evaluation for the awards was conducted through quantitative data analysis and an expert review panel [4]. - The awards aim to create a reference value for listed companies and unicorn companies within the investment community, emphasizing a global perspective with a focus on China [4]. Group 3: Coverage of the Awards - The "Golden Award" listing company evaluation covers all listed companies and unicorns on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, Shanghai Stock Exchange, Shenzhen Stock Exchange, New York Stock Exchange, American Stock Exchange, and NASDAQ [4].

Core Viewpoint - The Chinese automotive market in 2025 is characterized by a stark contrast between industry consolidation and the influx of new entrants, with companies like Weiqiao Group making significant moves into the electric vehicle sector amid challenges in their traditional businesses [4][5]. Group 1: Industry Challenges and New Entrants - Several established automotive companies, including Hozon Auto and GAC Fiat, have declared bankruptcy, indicating a harsh industry shakeout [5]. - New players, such as Chasing Technology and Weiqiao Group, are entering the market, driven by government support and the need for diversification from struggling core businesses [5][9]. Group 2: Weiqiao Group's Background and Strategy - Weiqiao Group, originally established in 1951, has diversified into various sectors, including textiles and aluminum, and has been listed among the Fortune Global 500 for 13 consecutive years [7]. - The company faced significant challenges in its textile and aluminum businesses, with textile profits dropping by 24.8% in 2022 and a major environmental crackdown affecting aluminum production [9][10]. - Following these setbacks, Weiqiao Group shifted its focus to the electric vehicle sector, motivated by favorable government policies and the need for new growth avenues [12][19]. Group 3: Leadership and Vision - Zhang Bo, the son of the founder, took over leadership in 2018 and has been pivotal in steering the company towards the automotive industry, emphasizing the importance of aligning new ventures with the company's core competencies [16][22]. - Under Zhang Bo's leadership, Weiqiao Group has made strategic partnerships and investments in the electric vehicle space, including collaborations with research institutions and other automotive companies [17][22]. Group 4: Automotive Brand Development - Weiqiao Group has established four automotive brands: 212, Jishi, Ruisheng, and Leichi, covering a wide range of market segments from commercial to passenger vehicles [32]. - The company has adopted a strategy of acquiring existing automotive assets and brands rather than starting from scratch, which allows for quicker market entry and leveraging existing capabilities [33]. - The 212 brand has been particularly notable, with a range of models priced between 139,900 to 188,800 yuan, although it has faced challenges such as product quality issues and trademark disputes [23][32]. Group 5: Future Outlook - Weiqiao Group's automotive ventures are seen as a new hope for the company, with significant revenue growth reported in 2024, but they also introduce new uncertainties and risks [22][32].

Summary of Leshu Group's Conference Call Company Overview - Leshu Group holds a leading position in the diaper and sanitary napkin market in Africa, with significant market shares in countries like Ghana, Cameroon, and Kenya. The company has established 18 sales branches in 12 countries, covering over 30 countries and serving more than 25 million customers, showcasing a strong first-mover advantage [2][3][4]. Core Business Insights - The group has built an efficient and robust global supply chain with 44 production lines across eight African countries. The design capacity for diapers exceeds 5.5 billion yuan, while sanitary napkins exceed 2.5 billion yuan. Local manufacturing shortens sales cycles, and global centralized procurement ensures stable raw material supply [2][3][4]. - Leshu Group collaborates with international consulting firms to establish a digital management system, enhancing decision-making efficiency [2][3]. - The company's ESG strategy drives four strategic directions, with a localization employee training strategy resulting in 90.5% of employees being locally hired, promoting win-win cooperation [2][5]. Market Dynamics - Emerging markets like Africa exhibit strong economic vitality and growth potential, with a youthful population and rising consumer power. Africa accounts for approximately 37% to 38% of the world's annual newborns, creating a substantial market opportunity [6]. - High import tariffs (around 25%) in Africa encourage local production, while supportive government policies in countries like Ghana boost demand for sanitary products [6][10]. Competitive Advantages - Leshu Group's core advantages include: 1. First-mover advantage in the sanitary products market in Africa, establishing strong manufacturing barriers [7]. 2. An efficient global supply chain centered on international manufacturing [7]. 3. A localization strategy that emphasizes local employee training [7]. - These advantages enable the company to effectively respond to challenges in emerging markets and maintain a competitive edge [8]. Financial Performance - The company experienced rapid business growth in 2023, with a revenue increase of 19% year-on-year for the first half of 2025, driven by core regional focus, cost control, tariff advantages, and new factory openings. The gross profit margin remains stable between 33% and 35.5% [4][19][20]. Future Growth Potential - The sanitary napkin market in Africa is projected to grow significantly, with the female population expected to reach 1.2 to 1.3 billion by 2050. The usage rate of sanitary napkins among African women is anticipated to rise to two-thirds, compared to current usage rates in China [9]. - Leshu Group plans to expand its product categories beyond diapers and sanitary napkins, exploring related food sectors and considering greenfield investments or acquisitions [29]. Challenges and Strategies - Entering the African market presents challenges such as time barriers and insufficient market knowledge. The company emphasizes the importance of local experience for effective decision-making [10][11]. - Leshu Group's digital operations enhance competitiveness through partnerships with leading firms like IBM and Deloitte, achieving comprehensive digital management across various functions [13]. Regional Focus: Ghana - Ghana is a strategic market for Leshu Group, characterized by a stable political environment and significant economic growth. The government has implemented policies that support economic development, making it an attractive investment destination [45][46]. - The company has established a strong presence in Ghana, with a diversified product strategy catering to different consumer needs and leveraging local market dynamics [55][56]. Conclusion - Leshu Group is well-positioned for continued growth in emerging markets, particularly in Africa, through its robust supply chain, localized strategies, and commitment to digital transformation. The company aims to maintain its leadership in the sanitary products sector while exploring new growth opportunities in related markets.

Investment Highlights - Company is initiating coverage on Leshushi (02698) with an "outperform" rating and a target price of HKD 40.00, corresponding to a 24x P/E for 2026 [1] - Leshushi is a leading player in the African hygiene products market, benefiting from a localized approach that capitalizes on growth opportunities in emerging markets [1] Market Potential - The hygiene product consumption space in emerging markets is vast, with Africa, Latin America, and Central Asia projected to have CAGRs of 7.9%, 3.0%, and 4.8% respectively from 2025 to 2029, the highest globally [2] - Leshushi is expected to hold market shares of 20.3% in diapers and 15.6% in sanitary napkins in Africa by 2024, with potential for further expansion [1][2] Business Model - Leshushi has established a deeply localized business model that includes strong local manufacturing capabilities, cost advantages, and a differentiated product offering tailored to local needs [2] - The company has developed a comprehensive distribution network that covers over 80% of the population in core markets, supported by a mature global management structure with 90% local employees [2] Growth Strategy - The company aims to expand its market share in Africa while leveraging its experience to enter Latin America and Central Asia, thus unlocking further growth potential [2] - In addition to its core diaper category, Leshushi is rapidly growing its sanitary napkin segment and plans to expand into other complementary product categories such as pull-ups and wet wipes [2] Financial Projections - Earnings per share (EPS) are projected to be USD 0.19 and USD 0.22 for 2025 and 2026 respectively, with a CAGR of 21.1% from 2024 to 2026 [2] - The current stock price corresponds to P/E ratios of 23x and 19x for 2025 and 2026, respectively, indicating a 24% upside potential based on the target price [2]

Core Viewpoint - CICC initiates coverage on Leshushi (02698) with an "outperform" rating and a target price of HKD 40.00, implying a 24% upside based on a 24x P/E for 2026, while the current stock price reflects 23x and 19x P/E for 2025 and 2026 respectively, indicating market undervaluation of the company's localized advantages and growth potential in emerging markets [1][2] Group 1 - Leshushi is a leading player in the African hygiene products market, benefiting from a deep localization strategy that aligns with local market needs, thus capitalizing on growth opportunities in emerging markets [2][3] - The company is projected to have a market share of 20.3% in the African diaper market and 15.6% in the sanitary napkin market by 2024, with expectations of further widening its competitive advantage [3][4] Group 2 - Leshushi's deep localization strategy encompasses four dimensions: manufacturing, branding, distribution, and management, which collectively create a strong competitive moat [4] - The company plans to expand its market share in Africa while leveraging its experience to enter Latin America and Central Asia, thus unlocking further growth potential [5] - In addition to its core diaper category, Leshushi is rapidly growing its sanitary napkin segment and aims to expand into other complementary product categories such as pull-ups and wet wipes [5]

Core Viewpoint - CICC initiates coverage on Leshushi (02698) with an "outperform" rating and a target price of HKD 40.00, implying a 24% upside based on a 24x P/E for 2026 [1] Group 1: Company Overview - Leshushi is a leading player in the African hygiene products market, benefiting from a localized business model that aligns with local market needs, thus enjoying growth in emerging markets [2] - The company is expected to achieve EPS of USD 0.19 and USD 0.22 for 2025 and 2026 respectively, with a CAGR of 21.1% from 2024 to 2026 [1] Group 2: Market Potential - The hygiene product market in Africa, Latin America, and Central Asia is projected to grow significantly, with CAGR estimates of 7.9%, 3.0%, and 4.8% respectively from 2025 to 2029, making it the fastest-growing globally [3] - Leshushi is expected to capture 20.3% and 15.6% of the diaper and sanitary napkin markets in Africa by 2024, with its leading position likely to strengthen [3] Group 3: Competitive Advantages - The company has established a robust localized operational model, which includes strong local manufacturing capabilities, tailored branding strategies, extensive distribution networks, and a predominantly local workforce [4] - Leshushi's distribution network covers over 80% of the population in core markets, enhancing its competitive edge [4] Group 4: Growth Strategies - The company plans to expand its market share in Africa while leveraging its experience to enter Latin America and Central Asia, thereby unlocking further growth opportunities [5] - In addition to diapers, Leshushi is rapidly growing its sanitary napkin segment and aims to expand into other complementary product categories such as pull-ups and wet wipes [5]

Core Viewpoint - Cathay Securities initiates coverage on Leshushi (02698) with a "Buy" rating, highlighting the company's rapid growth in overseas markets and its position as a leader in the African hygiene products industry, which is expected to continue delivering high performance [1] Group 1: Company Overview - Leshushi is the leading player in the African hygiene products market, with key products including baby diapers, sanitary napkins, baby pull-ups, and wet wipes. In 2024, the revenue share for baby diapers and sanitary napkins is projected to be 75% and 17%, respectively [1] - The company has been operating since 2009 as a division of the Senda Group and is set to officially list on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange on November 10, 2025 [1] Group 2: Market Potential - The African hygiene products market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 7.9% from 2024 to 2029, making it the fastest-growing market globally. The market for baby diapers and sanitary napkins in Africa is highly concentrated, with Leshushi holding a market share of 17.2% and 11.9% by sales value, and leading in sales volume with 20.3% and 15.6% [2] Group 3: Competitive Advantages - Leshushi has a comprehensive brand portfolio covering all price segments, with high brand recognition and repurchase rates in the baby diaper and sanitary napkin categories. The brand awareness for Softcare/Maya/Cuettie in baby products is 89.0% with a repurchase rate of 95.7%, while for Softcare/Veesper/Clincleer in sanitary products, brand awareness is 95.4% with a repurchase rate of 92.0% [3] - The company has established a sales network across over 30 African countries, reaching more than 80% of the local population [3] - Leshushi ranks first in production capacity in both the African baby diaper and sanitary napkin markets, achieving 100% local supply [3] Group 4: Future Outlook - On the revenue side, the demand in emerging markets presents significant growth potential, and as an industry leader, Leshushi is expected to further increase its market share. The company also has room for improvement in production capacity utilization, with funds raised earmarked for capacity expansion [4] - On the profit side, the company's gross margin is projected to improve in 2023 and 2024, with brand upgrades and structural optimization expected to enhance profitability, offsetting potential adverse fluctuations in raw material costs [4]