Core Viewpoint - The A-share market appears bullish on the surface, but underlying currents indicate significant divergence among investment styles and logic, leading to a "purging" of weaker stocks [1] Group 1: Market Dynamics - There is an unprecedented level of divergence between sectors, with high-valued tech stocks remaining strong while blue-chip and white-horse stocks decline sharply [1] - Approximately 70% of individual stocks are either stagnant or declining, highlighting a symbolic distinction between "old stocks" and "new stocks" [1] Group 2: Performance of Key Stocks - "Old stocks" such as liquor, real estate, coal, electricity, banks, and insurance are underperforming, while "new stocks" in AI, computing power, semiconductors, and robotics are thriving [3] - For instance, stocks like Midea Group and Kweichow Moutai have seen minimal gains or losses, while companies like Shenghong Technology and Dongxin Co. have experienced significant increases of 696.45% and 407.03%, respectively [3] Group 3: Industry Challenges - The liquor industry is facing a downturn, with a 0.9% decline in revenue to 239.7 billion yuan in the first half of the year, and a 5% drop in the second quarter due to a "ban on alcohol" [6][7] - Only 6 out of 23 listed liquor companies reported positive revenue and net profit growth, indicating a severe contraction in the sector [6] Group 4: Investment Trends - Investors are increasingly shifting focus from traditional sectors to technology, with notable figures like Lin Yuan publicly acknowledging investments in AI and semiconductor companies [8][9] - The current bull market is characterized by a lack of fundamentals, with capital flows driven more by narrative and "mind monopoly" rather than earnings per share (EPS) [9] Group 5: Future Outlook - The AI and semiconductor sectors are seen as having the potential for strong customer loyalty and ecological monopolies, similar to established brands in the liquor industry [12] - However, there are concerns about the sustainability of current valuations, as many companies in these sectors may not survive the inevitable market corrections [16]

Core Viewpoint - The liquor industry is currently undergoing a destocking cycle, facing multiple pressures from pricing, demand, and policy, prompting companies to actively respond to market conditions [1] Industry Summary - The Shanghai Composite Index closed at 3821.83 points, down 0.18% on September 23 [1] - The liquor sector index closed at 2263.61 points, down 1.15%, with 20 liquor stocks declining [1] - Major liquor companies experienced the following stock price changes: - Kweichow Moutai: closed at 1447.42 CNY/share, down 0.41% [1] - Wuliangye: closed at 122.19 CNY/share, down 0.25% [1] - Shanxi Fenjiu: closed at 193.81 CNY/share, down 1.12% [1] - Luzhou Laojiao: closed at 132.61 CNY/share, down 0.73% [1] - Yanghe Brewery: closed at 69.32 CNY/share, down 0.66% [1] Company Response - Huaxin Securities indicates that liquor companies are actively addressing challenges related to channels, organization, and sales in response to the pressures from the destocking cycle [1]

Core Viewpoint - The Chinese liquor industry is facing significant challenges, with a notable decline in performance among many companies, particularly in the white liquor segment, as evidenced by recent financial reports and changing consumer preferences [1][3][12]. Group 1: Financial Performance - Among 20 listed liquor companies, only 6, including Moutai, Wuliangye, and Fenjiu, reported growth, while 15 experienced declines, with some showing significant drops in net profit [1]. - Moutai, the industry leader, has seen its growth rate fall to single digits for the first time in nearly a decade, with the price of its 53-degree Feitian Moutai dropping nearly one-third in the past year and close to 50% over the last two years [1]. Group 2: Inventory and Production Trends - The overall liquor production has been declining for eight consecutive years, dropping from 13.58 million tons in 2016 to 4.14 million tons in 2024, a decrease of over 60% [2]. - The inventory of 20 A-share liquor companies is close to 4 million tons in 2024, indicating that even without production for four years, there would still be sufficient supply in the market [2]. Group 3: Consumer Behavior and Market Dynamics - Young consumers show low acceptance of white liquor, with a survey indicating that only 19% of individuals aged 20 to 35 prefer white liquor, compared to other alcoholic beverages [12]. - The number of large-scale white liquor enterprises in China is projected to decrease to 887 by mid-2025, down by over 100 from the previous year [3]. Group 4: Historical Context and Policy Impact - The white liquor industry has undergone significant changes since the 1989 market liberalization, with various marketing strategies leading to rapid growth until recent policy changes and market dynamics began to impact consumption [7][8]. - The introduction of regulations in 2012 aimed at curbing public spending has drastically reduced the share of government-related consumption in the white liquor market, leading to a significant drop in stock prices and sales [8][9]. Group 5: Industry Adaptation and Future Outlook - In response to changing consumer preferences, liquor companies are launching new products, including low-alcohol and cross-category beverages, to attract younger consumers [12]. - The international market remains a potential growth area, with Chinese liquor exports reaching 8.31 million liters in the first half of 2025, representing only 0.04% of domestic production [12].

Group 1 - The core viewpoint of the article highlights Zhang Kun's contrarian investment strategy in the liquor sector, particularly focusing on leading brands while divesting from weaker ones [2] - In Q2 2025, Zhang Kun significantly increased holdings in top liquor stocks such as Wuliangye, Luzhou Laojiao, Kweichow Moutai, and Shanxi Fenjiu, while reducing exposure to Yanghe Distillery, indicating a preference for strong market leaders [2] - The investment strategy reflects a structural judgment on the liquor industry, emphasizing that only companies with strong pricing power can navigate through economic cycles [2] Group 2 - Zhang Kun articulated his investment philosophy in the quarterly report, which includes three supporting pillars: breaking the linear pessimism mindset, recognizing China's economic potential, and prioritizing the importance of timing over prediction [3] - He argues that the current downturn in real estate is a cyclical bottom rather than a long-term trend, as evidenced by a 2.9% decline in property sales and a 10.7% drop in development investment from January to May [3] - The belief in China's economic resilience underpins the decision to increase holdings in consumer sectors during a downturn, with a long-term view that GDP growth targets are achievable by 2035 [3] Group 3 - Despite the aggressive strategy, the funds managed by Zhang Kun underperformed, with the E Fund Blue Chip Select returning -7.15%, lagging the benchmark by 9.07 percentage points, leading to a decrease in management scale from 608.22 billion to 550.47 billion [4] - The commitment to the liquor sector is seen as a "faith anchor" for Zhang Kun's investment approach, as many investors view these brands as representatives of the consumer sector [4] - A shift towards technology investments could risk undermining investor confidence and lead to a significant reduction in fund size and management fees, making the decision to adjust holdings a critical strategic choice [4]

Investment Rating - The report maintains a "Recommended" rating for the food and beverage industry [1] Core Insights - The report highlights that the sales of liquor are expected to face pressure during the upcoming Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day, but there are opportunities for bottom recovery in the sector [5] - The overall performance of the food and beverage sector has lagged behind the Shanghai Composite Index, with a decline of 1.48% over the past two weeks [14] - The report emphasizes the importance of monitoring the recovery of the liquor market and suggests that the worst phase for the industry has passed [5] Summary by Sections Recent Trends - In August, the retail sales of tobacco and liquor fell by 2.3% year-on-year, while restaurant income increased by 2.1%, indicating a gradual recovery in dining consumption [5] - The price of Feitian liquor has shown weakness, with a decline in wholesale prices [5] Market Performance - The food and beverage sector's performance over the last month was 1.3%, 4.6% over three months, and 20.8% over the past year, compared to the Shanghai Composite Index's performance of 6.6%, 17.1%, and 40.9% respectively [3] Key Recommendations - The report recommends several liquor companies for investment, including Luzhou Laojiao, Shanxi Fenjiu, and Kweichow Moutai, among others [5][25] - For consumer goods, it suggests focusing on companies like Bai Run Co., Wei Long, and Salted Fish [8][25] Valuation Insights - As of September 19, 2025, the dynamic price-to-earnings (PE) ratio for the food and beverage sector is 21.1x, indicating a relatively low valuation compared to other sectors [22] - The report notes that the liquor sub-sector has the highest valuation at 50.42x [22] Focused Companies and Earnings Forecast - The report provides a detailed earnings forecast for key companies, including Kweichow Moutai with an expected EPS of 74.19 yuan for 2025 and a PE ratio of 19.79 [28]

Core Viewpoint - The overall market experienced a decline, with the Shanghai Composite Index dropping by 1.23% to 3781.61 points, and the liquor sector also faced a downturn, closing down 1.82% at 2248.33 points [1] Industry Summary - The liquor sector saw a decline with 20 stocks falling, including major players such as Kweichow Moutai, which closed at 1441.90 CNY per share, down 0.79%, and Wuliangye, which closed at 121.77 CNY per share, down 0.60% [1] - Other notable declines included Shanxi Fenjiu at 193.45 CNY per share, down 1.30%, Luzhou Laojiao at 132.18 CNY per share, down 1.05%, and Yanghe Brewery at 69.09 CNY per share, down 0.99% [1] Future Trends - According to Huashang Securities, the future development trend of the liquor industry is leaning towards lower alcohol content as the consumer base evolves. The industry is shifting towards "quality enhancement, brand influence, cultural expression, and value creation" [1] - Younger consumers are increasingly favoring personalized, lower-alcohol, and enjoyable drinking experiences, as well as "light social" drinking scenarios [1]

Core Viewpoint - The Chinese liquor industry, particularly the baijiu sector, is experiencing a significant downturn characterized by declining prices, increased inventory, and shifting consumer preferences, indicating a deep adjustment phase rather than a temporary fluctuation [4][15][22]. Industry Overview - The baijiu industry is facing a dual decline in both volume and price, with a reported production volume of 191.59 million kiloliters in the first half of 2025, a year-on-year decrease of 5.8% [5]. - Approximately 60% of liquor companies are experiencing price inversion, where actual market prices fall below manufacturer guidance, particularly affecting the 800-1500 yuan price range [5]. - The average inventory turnover days for the industry reached 900 days in the first half of 2025, a 10% increase year-on-year, indicating a significant slowdown in sales [11]. Company Performance - Major companies like Moutai and Wuliangye are showing signs of slowing growth, with Moutai's revenue growth target for 2025 set at 9%, the lowest since 2016 [17]. - Wuliangye's revenue for the first half of 2025 was 527.71 billion yuan, with a year-on-year growth of only 4.19% [17]. - Liquor companies are increasingly resorting to price cuts to manage high inventory levels, creating a downward pressure on prices [12]. Consumer Trends - The primary consumer demographic for baijiu is undergoing a generational shift, with younger consumers (born after 1995) showing diverse preferences for alcoholic beverages, including wine and craft beer [24]. - Health consciousness among younger consumers is changing drinking habits, leading to a decline in traditional drinking culture [25]. - The rise of new sales channels, such as e-commerce and community group buying, is disrupting traditional distribution models and further compressing profit margins for liquor companies [25]. Market Opportunities - Despite the challenges, there are emerging structural opportunities in the market, particularly in the lower price segments (100-300 yuan) where demand is shifting [26]. - The focus on family and friend gatherings as primary consumption scenarios is creating new opportunities for products that cater to these social settings [33]. - Companies that can adapt to these changes by enhancing their product offerings and marketing strategies are likely to survive and thrive in the long term [26].

Core Insights - The article emphasizes that Wuliangye is not just a liquor but a combination of technology, culture, and a narrative of a national brand, showcasing the essence of Chinese winemaking and agricultural civilization [3][12][19] Group 1: Wuliangye's Unique Production Process - Wuliangye is made from five grains: sorghum (36%), rice (22%), glutinous rice (18%), wheat (16%), and corn (8%), each contributing unique chemical components and flavor characteristics [7][8] - The production process is described as a complex transformation of ordinary grains into a fragrant liquor, highlighting the integration of various techniques and natural laws [4][10] - The fermentation process benefits from a diverse microbial ecosystem, which enhances the aroma and taste of the liquor [7][10] Group 2: Cultural Significance and Philosophy - Wuliangye embodies the Chinese philosophy of "harmony and beauty," reflecting the balance of flavors and the cultural heritage of agricultural civilization [8][9][12] - The liquor's formulation represents a philosophical practice of "five flavors harmonizing," showcasing the cultural gene of "diversity and cooperation" in Chinese tradition [9][12] - The brand is seen as a living testament to the agricultural civilization, merging traditional wisdom with modern innovation [16][18] Group 3: Brand Value and Global Positioning - Wuliangye's brand value is rooted in its quality and its role as a cultural carrier, balancing commonality and individuality to meet diverse consumer needs [15][19] - The company aims to elevate Wuliangye from a national to a global brand, promoting the standardization and internationalization of Chinese liquor [15][19] - The liquor serves as a "civilization messenger," reflecting a globalized philosophy of harmonious coexistence and cultural exchange [16][19]

Summary of the White Wine Industry Conference Call Industry Overview - The white wine market is experiencing a slow recovery, with channel payment sentiments not significantly improving, leading to weaker payment performance compared to actual sales [1][3] - The market is currently in a destocking phase, with large enterprises selling to distributors rather than returning payments to manufacturers, resulting in a pessimistic outlook for upstream production [1][6] Key Insights - **Consumer Demand**: - Demand is differentiated, with a focus on mass consumption below 300 yuan from late July to August, while September saw a shift towards business hospitality and gifting, heavily influenced by social customs and consumer sentiment [1][5] - Overall demand is suppressed, with expectations of a 20% year-on-year decline in sales during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day period [1][6] - **Pricing Trends**: - The wholesale price of Feitian Moutai has decreased to approximately 1,750 yuan due to increased supply from September quotas [1][8] - Other high-end brands like Wuliangye are facing greater price pressure, with continuous declines since June [4][10] - **Regional Performance**: - Demand varies significantly by region, with better performance in Zhejiang, southern Jiangsu, and Sichuan, while northern Jiangsu, Shandong, and some northwest areas are weaker due to stricter enforcement of alcohol bans [2][9] Financial Performance - Most white wine brands are still operating at a loss under the rebate mechanism, although brands with strong regional sales and brand recognition are performing relatively better [7][17] - The current market conditions are leading to a gradual decrease in sales feedback from downstream to upstream, indicating a larger drop in actual sales felt by producers [7] Market Challenges and Opportunities - The industry faces multiple challenges, including constrained consumption scenarios, low consumer sentiment, and significant destocking pressures [4][17] - However, there are opportunities for growth if the economic environment improves and consumer confidence is restored post-holiday season [17][19] Future Outlook - The short-term outlook for Feitian Moutai suggests continued slight price fluctuations, while Wuliangye may continue to face downward pressure without major market disruptions [12][16] - The overall sentiment towards the white wine sector remains cautious, but there is potential for improvement in market fundamentals, particularly after the National Day holiday [19][23] Investment Strategy - It is recommended to adopt a standard allocation strategy for the white wine sector, categorizing companies into three groups for investment: high-end brands like Moutai and Wuliangye, strong regional brands, and companies with potential for national expansion [20] Additional Notes - The recent reduction in holdings by the Huachuang Innovative Fund in Fenjiu is not expected to significantly impact its stock price due to the nature of the transaction [21][22]

Group 1 - The food and beverage sector is experiencing a pullback, with the Food ETF (515710) showing a significant decline of 1.43% at the close, and individual stocks like Dongpeng Beverage and Shede Liquor dropping over 3% [1][3] - Despite the recent downturn, the Food ETF has seen net inflows of 69.18 million yuan over the last five trading days, indicating continued investor interest [3][4] - The white liquor sector is under demand pressure, but there are signs of improvement in sales performance as the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day approach, suggesting a potential recovery in the market [3][5] Group 2 - The current valuation of the food and beverage sector is at a low point, with the food index's price-to-earnings ratio at 20.74, which is in the 7.06% percentile of the last decade, indicating a good time for long-term investment [4][5] - The government’s advocacy for reducing competition is expected to stabilize prices and support high-quality development, which may lead to a recovery in the liquor sector [5][6] - The white liquor sector is entering a peak season, with signs of improved sales and inventory reduction, suggesting that the bottoming out of the sector may present investment opportunities [6][7]