Core Viewpoint - Li Ning and other sportswear companies are reportedly interested in acquiring German competitor Puma, but Citigroup analyst Xiaopo Wei believes that due to Li Ning's "single brand, multi-category, diversified channel" strategy, the company is unlikely to pursue foreign brand acquisitions in the medium term [1] Company Analysis - Citigroup maintains its ranking of the Chinese sportswear industry, placing Anta first, followed by Tmall and then Li Ning, with all three stocks rated as "Buy" [1] - Asics, the Japanese sportswear company that owns the Onitsuka Tiger brand, has denied media reports regarding its interest in acquiring Puma, stating that there are no discussions or plans in this regard [1] Market Activity - Puma's major shareholder, the French Pinault family, is working with advisors to sell its 29% stake and is in contact with potential buyers [1] - Anta is reportedly one of the companies considering a potential bid for Puma and is working with advisors to evaluate the acquisition proposal; if Anta decides to proceed, it may collaborate with a private equity firm [1] - Li Ning is in discussions with banks regarding financing options and is conducting a preliminary assessment of Puma [1] - Asics may also have an interest in Puma [1]

Summary of Li Ning Company Conference Call Company Overview - **Company**: Li Ning Company - **Date**: November 27, 2025 Key Points Industry and Market Conditions - The retail environment remains challenging, particularly in offline channels, with no significant improvement noted in November compared to previous quarters [2][5][3] - The company is facing pressure on discount levels due to lower-than-expected consumer spending, leading to deeper discounts in Q4 compared to the previous year [6][3] Sales and Inventory Management - Li Ning has utilized the Double Eleven promotional event to reduce channel inventory, achieving a target inventory-to-sales ratio of 4-5 months by year-end [2][3] - Despite efforts, overall retail growth has declined in the second half of the year, with running categories performing well while basketball and lifestyle segments are under pressure [12][13] Future Store and Product Strategy - The company plans to maintain or slightly increase the number of stores next year, focusing on optimizing existing store structures and enhancing efficiency [7][11] - New product launches will include outdoor categories and Olympic-related products, alongside the introduction of a new running shoe technology called "Super Pump Capsule" [8][2] Marketing and Sponsorship - Following its partnership with the Olympic Committee, Li Ning will increase marketing efforts and expenditures, focusing on major events such as the Winter Olympics and Milan Fashion Week [10][23] - The marketing budget is expected to rise, with a more aggressive approach to sponsorship in sports like running, basketball, and badminton [10][24] Product Performance and Adjustments - The running and fitness categories are projected to perform well in 2025, with double-digit growth expected in the first half, despite a slowdown in the third quarter [13][12] - Basketball and lifestyle categories are anticipated to decline, with plans to adjust product designs and introduce street basketball shoes to improve performance [13][12] Organizational Changes - Li Ning has implemented a category manager system to optimize management processes and better meet consumer demands, focusing on comprehensive performance metrics [18][19] Outdoor and Specialty Products - The outdoor product line is positioned to meet everyday commuting and light outdoor needs, utilizing high-quality materials and technology [21][20] - The company has introduced a new line of trail running shoes under the "Dilu" brand, with ongoing technological upgrades [22][21] Future Plans and Market Expansion - Li Ning is exploring opportunities in the lower-tier markets, with a focus on increasing store density and offering cost-effective products [14][4] - The company is also developing plans for Olympic-themed stores, known as "Dragon Stores," which will feature a full range of Olympic products [15][16] Dividend Policy - Li Ning plans to maintain a dividend payout ratio of no less than 50% [17] Conclusion - Li Ning is navigating a challenging retail environment with strategic adjustments in inventory management, marketing, and product offerings. The focus on optimizing existing stores and expanding into lower-tier markets reflects a proactive approach to sustaining growth amidst market pressures [2][3][12]

Core Viewpoint - Puma, a struggling German sports brand, is attracting potential buyers such as Anta Sports, which has led to a significant increase in its stock price by 14% following the news of acquisition interest [1][4]. Group 1: Acquisition Interest - Anta Sports, Li Ning, and Asics are reportedly considering acquiring Puma, reflecting the ambition of Asian sports brands to expand internationally [5]. - Analysts suggest that for Anta, acquiring Puma could serve as a gateway to Western markets, although the additional value to its portfolio remains unclear [5]. - Li Ning has stated that it has not engaged in any substantial negotiations regarding the reported acquisition [5]. Group 2: Puma's Current Challenges - Puma is undergoing a "reset period" due to a sharp decline in sales post-pandemic, reduced brand appeal, and high inventory levels, amidst a competitive sportswear market and tariff impacts [4][6]. - The company's stock recently hit a 10-year low, with a year-to-date decline exceeding 50% [1][6]. - Puma's quarterly sales reported a double-digit decline, with challenges including weak brand momentum, U.S. tariffs, and high inventory levels [6]. Group 3: Financial Outlook - Puma has revised its 2025 sales guidance, now expecting a low double-digit percentage decline instead of previous growth expectations [6]. - The company anticipates an operating loss in 2025 due to tariff impacts, a significant reversal from earlier profit projections of €445 million to €525 million [6]. - New CEO Arthur Hoeld has initiated a turnaround plan that includes layoffs, product range reduction, and improved marketing operations [6].

Group 1 - Anta Sports is reportedly one of the potential bidders for the acquisition of German sports brand Puma, possibly in partnership with a private equity fund, similar to its previous acquisition of Amer Sports [1] - Other potential bidders include Li Ning, Asics, Authentic Brands Group, and private equity firm CVC, with Li Ning already discussing financing options with banks [1][2] - The news of the acquisition has led to a significant increase in Puma's stock price, which rose nearly 20% in a single day, marking one of the largest single-day increases since 2001 [2] Group 2 - Puma's largest shareholder, Artemis SAS, is considering selling its stake due to debt pressures faced by both Artemis SAS and its parent company, Kering [2][3] - Despite interest in selling, the sale process has not gone smoothly, with the Pinault family reportedly not receiving satisfactory offers and considering canceling the sale [3] - Puma's Q3 2025 financial results showed a 10.4% decline in sales to €1.9557 billion, primarily due to strategic adjustments, and a net loss of €62.3 million [3] Group 3 - Puma's new CEO, Arthur Holden, emphasized the brand's potential and outlined a clear goal to rank among the top three global sports brands while achieving sustainable profits [3] - The company is facing ongoing challenges, including weak brand momentum, changes in channel structure, tariff pressures in the U.S., and high inventory levels [3] Group 4 - Puma has been leveraging collaborations with influencers and pop culture to revitalize its brand, including partnerships with fitness influencer Pamela and K-pop star Rosé [4] - The company is refocusing on core performance categories such as football, running, and training, and has appointed a Chief Brand Officer to enhance product focus and brand management [4] Group 5 - Puma has been investing in the HYROX fitness competition, which has seen rapid growth in events and participants, with plans to host over 100 events by the 2025/26 season [5] - The brand aims to enhance its influence in the Chinese market through initiatives like the "Puma Break 60" plan, which supports participants in completing the competition within 60 minutes [5] - Puma's continued investment in comprehensive fitness events aligns with a broader industry trend of returning to professional sports from a focus on fashion [5]

Core Viewpoint - Recent market rumors suggest that Anta Sports is considering a bid for Puma, potentially in collaboration with a private equity firm, with other potential bidders including Li Ning and Japan's Asics [1] Group 1: Anta Sports - Anta Sports is reportedly contemplating a bid for Puma, which could involve a partnership with a private equity firm [1] - The company has not made any official comments regarding the market rumors [2] Group 2: Li Ning Company - Li Ning Company has stated its commitment to a "single brand, multiple categories, and multiple channels" core development strategy, focusing on the growth and development of the Li Ning brand [2] - The company has not engaged in any substantial negotiations or evaluations regarding the rumored transaction [2]

Investment Rating - The investment rating for Li Ning is "Buy" with a target price of HK$18.10, representing an expected share price return of 3.1% and an expected total return of 6.0% [3][5]. Core Insights - Li Ning's retail sales growth during the 11.11 Festival was in line with management's expectations, and the company has maintained its 2025 full-year guidance of year-on-year flattish sales with high single-digit net profit margin [1][2]. - The company aims to balance channel inventory control and retail discounting, with a target to reduce the channel-inventory-to-retail-sales ratio to 4-5x by the end of Q4 2025, likely closer to 4x [1][2]. - Management remains pragmatic about the business outlook for 2026, focusing on growing running and fitness categories, enhancing sports-casual products, and increasing footwear sales mix to over 60% from the current 50% [2]. - Li Ning has launched COC-themed products in Q4 2025, divided into three categories: Award Ceremony Outfit, Gold Label, and mass-market products, with expectations for stronger growth in COC products in 2026-2027 [2]. Summary by Sections Retail Sales and Guidance - Retail sales growth during the 11.11 Festival was in line with expectations, maintaining 2025E guidance of flattish sales and high single-digit net profit margin [1][2]. Inventory Management - The company is focused on controlling channel inventories and retail discounts, aiming for a channel-inventory-to-retail-sales ratio of 4-5x by the end of Q4 2025 [1][2]. Product Strategy - Li Ning is enhancing its focus on running and fitness categories, sports-casual products, and footwear, with a target to increase footwear sales mix to over 60% [2]. COC Product Launches - The company has launched COC-themed products in Q4 2025, with expectations for growth in 2026-2027, supported by branding campaigns around the Milan Winter Olympics 2026 [2].

Core Viewpoint - Li Ning's stock rose over 4%, reaching HKD 17.92 with a trading volume of HKD 322 million, reflecting positive market sentiment driven by brand strength initiatives and product launches [1] Group 1: Company Developments - Li Ning officially announced the release of the Wade's Way 12LUX x AAPE collaboration series, set to launch on November 22 [1] - The company is focusing on enhancing brand strength, which has injected optimism into the market according to Ping An International [1] - Dongwu Securities highlighted the release of the 2026 Milan Winter Olympics Chinese sports delegation award equipment at the end of October, emphasizing ongoing marketing activities related to the Olympics and technology [1] Group 2: Market Outlook - Analysts believe that Li Ning is on the right strategic path, with investments in brand strength and professional product development laying a foundation for future performance improvement [1] - The long-term market performance for brands is expected to recover, supported by Li Ning's efforts to solidify its professional image and leadership position [1]

Core Viewpoint - Li Ning's stock has risen over 4%, currently trading at 17.92 HKD with a transaction volume of 322 million HKD, reflecting positive market sentiment driven by brand strength initiatives and product development [1] Group 1: Company Developments - Li Ning officially announced the launch of the "Way of Wade 12 LUX x AAPE" collaboration series, set to be released on November 22 [1] - The company is focusing on enhancing brand strength, which is expected to inject optimism into the market [1] Group 2: Market Analysis - According to浦银国际, Li Ning is on the right strategic path, with investments in brand strength and professional product development laying a foundation for future performance improvement [1] - 东吴证券 highlighted that the company is actively conducting marketing activities related to the 2026 Milan Winter Olympics, reinforcing its professional brand image and leading position in the market [1]

Core Insights - Li Ning publicly unveiled its Super Capsule Technology at the 14th National Sports Science Conference, marking a significant breakthrough for its 2024 technology platform [1] - The technology utilizes advanced materials and a unique supramolecular polymer outer layer to create a capsule system that achieves energy storage and rapid rebound through a dual airbag effect [1] - Third-party tests indicate that the midsole material has a density of 0.1g/cm³, an energy return rate of 95%, and a rebound response time of 3 milliseconds, with only a 0.6% deformation rate after 100,000 fatigue tests, equivalent to five marathons [1] Technology Development - Li Ning has established a "Technology R&D + Sports Science Research" dual-engine technology platform, with its Sports Science Research Center founded in 2008 [1] - The center has developed a youth sports database and an Asian foot shape database with thousands of samples, collaborating with over 30 universities and research institutions, resulting in over 130 papers and 549 patents [1] - The Super Capsule Technology continues the path of technology platformization initiated in 2019, with the current platform comprising four major branches, covering over 60% of the company's footwear products [1] Strategic Focus - The General Manager of Li Ning's Footwear R&D Innovation System, Xu Jian Guang, emphasized that research and innovation are key driving forces for brand development and upgrades [1]

Investment Rating - The investment rating for the company is "Buy" and is maintained [5]. Core Views - The company is experiencing increased short-term operational pressure, with a decline in average transaction value across all channels in Q3 2025. However, the e-commerce channel has shown growth [3][7]. - The company is expected to face significant pressure on revenue and gross margin levels, with a need to balance expenses and growth to meet annual targets. The introduction of new products and marketing efforts are aimed at revitalizing brand momentum [7]. Summary by Sections Company Overview - The current stock price is HKD 17.10 as of November 7, 2025 [5]. Operational Performance - In Q3 2025, the overall transaction value declined, with a notable drop in both direct and wholesale channels, while the e-commerce channel saw an increase [3][7]. - Monthly retail performance continues to be under pressure across all product categories [7]. Inventory and Discounts - Inventory levels are expected to rise due to preemptive stocking for events like Double Eleven, but the inventory-to-sales ratio remains manageable. Discounting is anticipated to deepen, particularly in Q4 [7]. Financial Projections - The company is projected to achieve net profits of 2.589 billion, 2.773 billion, and 2.993 billion for the years 2025, 2026, and 2027 respectively, reflecting a year-on-year change of -14%, +7%, and +8% [9]. - The price-to-earnings ratio is expected to be 15.55, 14.52, and 13.45 for the years 2025, 2026, and 2027 respectively [9].