Summary of the Conference Call on the Baijiu Industry Industry Overview - The overall sales volume in the baijiu industry has declined, with distributors expecting a 20%-30% drop in sales during the upcoming double festival period. Sales volume decreased by 40%-50% in July and August [1][2] - High-end baijiu wholesale prices are weak, with Feitian Moutai priced around 1,780 RMB. Demand for baijiu in banquet scenarios remains stable, while mid-range products perform more consistently [1][4] Key Points and Arguments - **Sales Performance**: The baijiu industry is facing significant sales pressure, with actual sales declines exceeding previous market expectations. Most regions, except for Henan, are experiencing sales drops greater than anticipated [2] - **Inventory Levels**: From June to August, the average sales volume decreased by 50%, leading to a slight increase in inventory levels compared to last year. Most distributors have higher inventory levels than the same period last year [3] - **Price Trends**: High-end baijiu products like Feitian Moutai and Wuliangye are experiencing weak wholesale prices. Feitian Moutai's price is expected to fluctuate between 1,700 and 1,800 RMB during the double festival period [4][8] - **Company Performance Adjustments**: Guizhou Moutai has lowered its annual growth target but maintains a steady collection rate compared to last year. Wuliangye is also expected to adjust its growth target due to market conditions [6][9] Company-Specific Insights - **Guizhou Moutai**: The company is increasing promotional activities for its series of products and expects a slight downward adjustment in annual growth targets, which may benefit investors by releasing risks [8] - **Wuliangye**: The company is shifting its focus from absolute growth to long-term competitiveness, with a return rate of approximately 60%-70% [9][10] - **Luzhou Laojiao**: The company is implementing a price stabilization strategy and focusing on expanding its terminal market through targeted promotions [11] - **Shanxi Fenjiu**: The company is facing significant sales declines but is maintaining a stable price point due to good relationships with distributors [13] Investment Recommendations - The report suggests focusing on companies with potential for policy-driven growth and those that can adapt to market changes, such as Jiu Gui, She De, and Shui Jing Fang. Mid-range products like Gu Qing Gong and Ying Jia Gong are also highlighted for their recovery potential [5][7] - The overall sentiment is that the baijiu industry is currently at a low point, but there are opportunities for recovery and growth in specific segments and companies [27] Additional Considerations - The impact of external factors, such as government inspections and coal supply pressures, has affected consumption patterns in various regions [12][14] - The performance of next-tier baijiu products is weaker compared to high-end and mid-range products, indicating a need for careful monitoring of new product launches [21] This summary encapsulates the key insights and trends discussed in the conference call regarding the baijiu industry, highlighting both challenges and potential investment opportunities.

Group 1 - The 2025 12th Gujinggongjiu Autumn Brewing Cultural Week is taking place from September 19 to 23, featuring a dual-city event in "Bozhou Gujing Wine God Square" and "Hefei World Manufacturing Conference Special Session" [1] - Anhui Gujinggongjiu Co., Ltd. is a strategic partner for the event, showcasing its transformation towards "high-end, intelligent, and green" manufacturing at the Hefei World Manufacturing Conference [3] - The event includes immersive experiences for consumers, such as engaging with traditional brewing techniques and participating in interactive activities [3] Group 2 - The "Yearly Original Light Gu20: Meet Hefei" tasting night on September 20 offers consumers a city tour and an immersive experience of "urban culture" and "innovative cocktail mixing" [4] - The event features cultural exchanges and discussions on the development opportunities for Chinese liquor, with participation from representatives of the Chinese Liquor Association [4][5] - Gujing Health is launching a new market for health-oriented products, integrating instant health drinks and cultural liquor experiences, emphasizing the company's commitment to health and wellness [5]

Core Viewpoint - The 12th Gujinggongjiu Autumn Brewing Ceremony emphasizes the brand's commitment to traditional brewing techniques while creating a cultural consumption scene that strengthens emotional connections with consumers [2][4]. Cultural Foundation - Gujinggongjiu adheres to seasonal brewing methods, with September marking the optimal brewing period due to the fermentation of the mash [5]. - The Autumn Brewing Ceremony is rooted in deep cultural heritage, featuring traditional rituals such as honoring the wine god Cao Cao and expressing gratitude to employees' parents [5][7]. Breakthroughs - This year's ceremony upgraded from three locations to four, including Gujinggongjiu, Huangheloujiu, Mingguangjiuye, and Jiuyunjiuye, enhancing brand presence and standardizing craftsmanship [8][9]. - The event is integrated with the World Manufacturing Conference, expanding its influence and reinforcing Gujinggongjiu's cultural significance as a representative of high-quality Chinese manufacturing [9]. Emotional Connection - The Autumn Brewing Ceremony transforms a traditional brewing event into an engaging cultural consumption experience, fostering deep emotional ties between consumers and the brand [10]. - New products, such as the 2025 commemorative wine, were launched during the ceremony, enhancing the consumer experience and extending emotional connections through collectible items [10][12]. Daily Engagement - Gujinggongjiu recognizes the need for ongoing emotional connections beyond annual events, launching the "Gujing Light Care Society" to create a new consumption ecosystem focused on health and lifestyle [10][12]. - The introduction of lighter products like "Light Gu 20" caters to evolving consumer preferences, particularly among younger demographics, redefining the role of traditional liquor in modern consumption [12].

Core Insights - The report highlights the performance pressure in the liquor industry, particularly in the first half of 2025, with a focus on the upcoming festive season as a potential opportunity for investment [1][2][3] Performance Summary - In the first half of 2025, the liquor industry experienced a revenue decline of 0.8% year-on-year, totaling 241.42 billion yuan, with the second quarter seeing a more significant drop of 4.9% to 88.06 billion yuan due to policy impacts [9][10] - High-end liquor maintained growth with a revenue increase of 6.2% in the first half and 3.4% in the second quarter, while mid-tier and regional brands faced substantial declines, with some experiencing drops as severe as 31.1% [10][12] - The overall net profit for the liquor industry decreased by 1.18% in the first half and 7.5% in the second quarter, indicating a challenging environment for profitability [20][28] Short-term Strategy - The report suggests focusing on the upcoming festive season, with expectations of improved sales performance despite ongoing pressures [2][3] - It emphasizes the need for liquor companies to balance market share and structural upgrades while managing pricing and sales dynamics [2][3] Long-term Outlook - The liquor index shows a strong correlation with the Producer Price Index (PPI), with a potential turning point noted in August 2025, which could signal a recovery phase for the industry [2][3] - The report indicates that the liquor sector possesses high return on equity (ROE) and dividend characteristics, with valuations currently positioned in the mid-to-lower range of the industry [2][3] Investment Recommendations - The report recommends focusing on brands that are expected to perform well during the festive season, including high-end brands like Guizhou Moutai and Shanxi Fenjiu, as well as mid-tier brands like Zhenjiu Lidong and Luzhou Laojiao [3][4] - It suggests that the current market conditions may present a buying opportunity as the industry approaches a potential bottom in performance expectations [3][4]

Group 1 - The 12th Gujinggongjiu Autumn Brewing Ceremony was held in Anhui Bozhou, featuring traditional rituals and the launch of several commemorative liquor products [2] - The autumn brewing ceremony has been upgraded to "Autumn Brewing Cultural Week," establishing it as a unique brand event and cultural IP for Gujinggongjiu [3] - The Chinese liquor industry is undergoing significant adjustments, with a shift towards personalized and diversified consumption, leading to unprecedented challenges [3] Group 2 - Gujinggongjiu is building a new consumption ecosystem centered around "health, wellness, and mindfulness," while introducing the concept of light liquor [3][4] - The official launch of "Gujing Light Wellness Society" aims to create new consumption scenarios and transition from selling products to selling a lifestyle [4] - Gujinggongjiu is leveraging online marketing strategies, including the launch of Tmall Super Brand Day and the Mid-Autumn Festival shopping event, to enhance brand reach and sales conversion [4]

Core Insights - The liquor market is experiencing increased activity as the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day approach, with a notable acceleration in the sales of white liquor, although prices are declining [1][21] - High-end liquor products are seeing a price drop, while low-end products remain stable, prompting distributors to launch various promotional activities to clear inventory [1][21] Price Trends - In Guangzhou, 15 products have seen a decline in retail prices, including high-end brands like Moutai and Wuliangye, with price reductions ranging from several to dozens of yuan [2][3] - Moutai's average price is approximately 2065 yuan, down about 40 yuan from the previous period, while Wuliangye's price decreased by 11 yuan to around 910 yuan [2][3] - In Shenzhen, Moutai's average retail price is 2102.91 yuan, with significant price variations between online and offline channels [9][11] Sales Dynamics - Distributors report a noticeable shrinkage in demand compared to last year, leading to aggressive pricing strategies to stimulate sales [5][21] - High-end products are experiencing increased sales, while low-alcohol products are gaining popularity, indicating a shift in consumer preferences [21] Regional Insights - In Shenzhen, the price fluctuations have stabilized as demand increases, with expectations of a 20% rise in high-end product sales in September [10][21] - In Dongguan, the market shows a downward trend in mid-to-high-end product prices, with 14 out of 18 products experiencing price drops [17][19] Promotional Strategies - Liquor distributors are implementing various promotional strategies, such as discounts and bundled offers, to boost sales ahead of the festive season [3][21] - Some stores are offering promotions like "buy five boxes, get one free" to increase sales volume, contributing to the overall price decline [3][5]

Core Points - The event "Gu Jing Gong Jiu · Nian Fen Yuan Jiang Cup 2025 National Photography Art Competition" was held in Bozhou, Anhui on September 19, 2023, celebrating the winners of the photography contest [1] - The competition, part of the San Gong Festival activities, received over a thousand high-quality photography submissions covering various themes, including cultural documentation, natural landscapes, and urban development [2] - The event aims to showcase the progress of Chinese modernization and highlight the efforts of individuals across different sectors, presenting a vibrant and realistic image of contemporary China [2] Summary by Categories Event Overview - The award ceremony took place on September 19, 2023, in Bozhou, Anhui [1] - The competition was organized by the China News Photography Society and "Photography World," with a jury that awarded 3 first prizes, 6 second prizes, 9 third prizes, and 30 excellence awards [2] Participant Engagement - The competition attracted widespread attention and participation from photography enthusiasts since its launch on March 28, 2023 [2] - Winner Hu Pinghua expressed joy in receiving the award and emphasized the importance of capturing and promoting the beauty of life through photography [2] Thematic Focus - The submitted works illustrated a range of themes from cutting-edge technology to cultural heritage, depicting the dynamic journey and aspirations of modern China [2] - The event is sponsored by Gu Jing Gong Jiu · Nian Fen Yuan Jiang, aiming to present a multi-faceted view of a thriving and developing China [2]

Core Viewpoint - The Chinese liquor industry is approaching a critical seasonal test in Q3 2025, with cautious market sentiment prevailing. Goldman Sachs predicts that Q3 2025 may represent a low point in valuation for the industry, with some stocks already reflecting a "bottoming" expectation. Target prices for leading companies like Moutai and Wuliangye have been adjusted upwards [1][2]. Group 1: Market Conditions - The liquor industry is facing dual pressures from ongoing anti-extravagance policies and a reduction in the length of the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day holidays, leading to weakened retail momentum [2]. - Companies are focusing on inventory normalization through measures such as waiving prepayments and controlling shipment volumes, which may pressure short-term performance but help return inventory levels to normal [2]. - Despite a significant decline in wholesale prices for Moutai and Wuliangye, some retailers have slightly increased end prices in anticipation of brand-controlled inventory to support profits [2][3]. Group 2: Valuation and Stock Performance - The stock prices of liquor companies have risen by 24% since Q3, with a 17% increase in price-to-earnings ratios, indicating that the market has already absorbed the impact of policy changes [2]. - The average target price for liquor stocks has been raised by 6%, with mid-to-high-end liquor valuation multiples adjusted upwards by 13% to 19% [2]. - The high dividend yields of leading companies like Moutai and Wuliangye provide a valuation safety net, with potential price increases of 20% to 30% based on normalized earnings projections for 2027 [4]. Group 3: Company-Specific Adjustments - Moutai's target price has been adjusted from 1742 yuan to 1724 yuan, reflecting a 3% to 4% decrease in earnings expectations due to policy impacts [5]. - Wuliangye's target price has been raised from 139 yuan to 145 yuan, despite a 5% to 8% reduction in earnings expectations, as its valuation multiple has been increased from 17 times to 18.5 times [5]. - Other companies like Luzhou Laojiao and Gujing Gongjiu have also seen adjustments in their target prices and earnings expectations, reflecting varying degrees of resilience and market conditions [5]. Group 4: Investment Strategy - The current "low point" in Q3 is viewed as a critical phase for the industry, with inventory control measures potentially laying the groundwork for recovery in 2026 as policies ease [6]. - Investment recommendations focus on leading companies with strong dividend yields and brand strength, as well as those with significant valuation adjustments and earnings resilience [7].

Core Viewpoint - The Chinese liquor industry is at a crossroads in the first half of 2025, with leading companies showing solid financial performance, but the industry environment is changing, necessitating innovation and new development models for sustained competitiveness [2][3]. Group 1: Financial Performance - In the first half of 2025, leading liquor companies like Kweichow Moutai reported revenue of 91.094 billion yuan, a year-on-year increase of 9.16%, and a net profit of 45.403 billion yuan, up 8.89% [2]. - Among 22 listed liquor companies, 6 maintained growth in both revenue and net profit, including Kweichow Moutai, Wuliangye, Shanxi Fenjiu, and others [3]. - The total revenue of 22 listed liquor companies was approximately 242.4 billion yuan, with a total net profit of about 95.1 billion yuan [5]. Group 2: Industry Challenges - The industry is experiencing a period of "volume reduction, revenue stabilization, and profit decline," with many companies facing declining sales [3][6]. - The number of large-scale liquor enterprises decreased by over 100 year-on-year, with total sales revenue of 330.42 billion yuan and profits down by 10.93% [5]. - The market is seeing a concentration of market share towards leading companies, putting pressure on smaller enterprises [6]. Group 3: Innovation and Development - Companies are focusing on innovation to adapt to changing consumer preferences, with an emphasis on younger demographics and digitalization [4]. - R&D investments are increasing, with Wuliangye's R&D expenses reaching 210 million yuan, a year-on-year increase of 31.2% [3]. - The low-alcohol market is projected to exceed 74 billion yuan by 2025, with a compound annual growth rate of 25% [7]. Group 4: Market Trends - The trend towards low-alcohol products is gaining momentum, with companies like Wuliangye and Luzhou Laojiao launching successful low-alcohol products [7][8]. - Technological advancements are key to the success of low-alcohol products, with various companies developing innovative production techniques [8]. - The industry is shifting from channel competition to technology competition, as companies seek new growth paths [8].

Investment Rating - The report suggests a recommendation for strong brands such as Guizhou Moutai, Wuliangye, and Luzhou Laojiao, as well as Shanxi Fenjiu, which has a clear growth path in a counter-cyclical environment [5]. Core Insights - The industry is currently in a phase of accelerated bottoming, transitioning from "passive clearing" to "active adjustment" due to ongoing pressures from excess supply and demand scenarios [3][5]. - The first half of 2025 saw a negative growth in revenue and net profit for major liquor companies, marking the first negative growth in this cycle [15]. - The report highlights a structural opportunity during the volume adjustment period, with market pricing increasingly favoring dividend yield and market share [3][5]. Summary by Sections Industry Overview - The white liquor industry faced challenges in the first half of 2025, including slow macroeconomic recovery and strict alcohol prohibition policies, leading to a decline in consumption scenarios and continued pressure on demand [5]. - The overall revenue and net profit for 17 major liquor companies were 2368.3 billion and 944.6 billion respectively, with a year-on-year decline of 0.4% and 0.9% [15]. Performance Analysis - In Q2 2025, the revenue and net profit for the industry were 867.2 billion and 313.4 billion respectively, reflecting a year-on-year decline of 4.7% and 7.3%, marking the first negative growth in revenue during this cycle [15]. - High-end liquor maintained positive growth, while the mid-range and regional brands experienced declines [20][22]. Market Dynamics - The report indicates that the market is shifting focus from short-term recovery scenarios to verifying the bottom of demand trends through year-on-year comparisons [3]. - The report anticipates a recovery in the third quarter, driven by seasonal consumption events such as Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day, which may accelerate the bottoming process of the fundamentals [5]. Investment Recommendations - The report recommends focusing on brands with strong market positions and growth potential, including Guizhou Moutai, Wuliangye, Luzhou Laojiao, and regional leaders like Guyi Gongjiu and Jinhui Jiu [5].