Key expectations M Idea Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC Michael T Gapen Chief US Economist Michael.Gapen@morganstanley.com +1 212 761-0571 Matthew Hornbach Strategist Matthew.Hornbach@morganstanley.com +1 212 761-1837 Jay Bacow Strategist Jay.Bacow@morganstanley.com +1 212 761-2647 Sam D Coffin Economist Sam.Coffin@morganstanley.com +1 212 761-4630 Diego Anzoategui Economist Diego.Anzoategui@morganstanley.com +1 212 761-8573 Lenoy Dujon US/Canada Economist Lenoy.Dujon@morganstanley.com +1 212 761-2779 Heather Berg ...

Investment Rating - The industry view for Semiconductor Production Equipment is rated as Attractive [6] Core Insights - Texas Instruments announced a historic investment of US$60 billion in semiconductor production in the US, specifically targeting fabs in Texas and Utah, in response to the US government's manufacturing repatriation policy [3][9] - NVIDIA will no longer include sales to China in its guidance due to US export restrictions, estimating a significant impact of US$2.5 billion from January to April and US$8 billion from May to July [4][9] - The ongoing US-China decoupling is expected to benefit certain Semiconductor Production Equipment stocks, particularly those with close ties to Texas Instruments, such as Disco and Screen HD [9][10] Summary by Sections Investment Announcements - Texas Instruments' investment is the largest in domestic legacy semiconductor production in history, emphasizing the shift towards US-based manufacturing [3][9] - NVIDIA's exclusion of China from sales forecasts reflects the impact of US regulations on semiconductor exports [4][9] Market Dynamics - The domestic production of AI chips in China is anticipated to increase capital intensity, particularly benefiting companies like Advantest and Tokyo Seimitsu due to rising demand for testing equipment [13] - Japanese equipment makers such as Disco and Tokyo Seimitsu are expected to gain from the increased semiconductor fab construction momentum in the US [10] Competitive Landscape - Some Japanese equipment manufacturers face no significant US competition, particularly in areas like cleaning equipment and thermal processing systems, which may insulate them from market share losses despite the US fab expansions [12] - The introduction of new semiconductor processes in the US could favor US-made equipment over Japanese counterparts due to local support advantages [11] Stock Ratings - The report includes specific stock ratings for companies in the Semiconductor Production Equipment sector, with Advantest, DISCO, and SCREEN Holdings rated as Overweight, while others like Nikon are rated Underweight [60]

Investment Rating - The report maintains an Overweight (OW) rating for various companies across the energy sub-sectors, indicating a positive outlook for investment opportunities in the sector [94][95]. Core Insights - The energy sector has performed in line with the broader market year-to-date, with rising geopolitical risks and stronger oil prices contributing to this performance [15][17]. - The report highlights a preference for natural gas exposure over oil, particularly in the Exploration & Production (E&P) segment, due to expected gas deficits and oversupply in the oil market [103][95]. - The refining and marketing sub-sector is expected to benefit from summer travel demand and tight product inventories, supporting margins [115][117]. Energy Performance & Valuation - Energy sub-sectors are near 10-year median EV/EBITDA multiples, with services stocks at the low end of historical ranges [17]. - The report forecasts a median free cash flow (FCF) yield of 11% at $65 WTI, with variations based on oil price scenarios [103][110]. Commodities and Macro Outlook - WTI oil prices have rallied approximately 25% since early May, driven by a tight crude market and geopolitical tensions [24][31]. - The report anticipates a surplus in the oil market in the second half of 2025, while a natural gas deficit is expected to re-emerge [103][42]. Sub-Sector Views Exploration & Production - The report emphasizes a defensive bias and preference for U.S. gas exposure over oil, with EQT identified as a top pick [95][111]. - Oil producers with a positive rate of change are favored, with Devon Energy (DVN) and Permian Resources (PR) highlighted for their strong performance [95][111]. Refining & Marketing - The summer travel season is expected to provide a demand boost, with product inventories remaining tight [115][117]. - Key stock plays include Valero Energy Corporation (VLO) and HF Sinclair Corp (DINO) due to their operational strengths [115][117]. Energy Services - The report suggests maintaining exposure to defensive and diverse characteristics, with Baker Hughes (BKR) and Schlumberger (SLB) as preferred stocks [95][130]. - The energy services sector is trading at historically low valuations compared to the S&P, indicating potential upside [124][132]. Midstream Energy - Midstream energy infrastructure is viewed as misvalued, with expectations for strong free cash flow and high dividend yields [136][142]. - Key stocks in this segment include Targa Resources Corp (TRGP), Oneok Inc. (OKE), and Energy Transfer LP (ET) [142].

Investment Rating - The report assigns an "Overweight" (OW) rating to Huaming Equipment with a price target of Rmb19.00 by December 2025 [3][19]. Core Insights - Huaming Equipment is recognized as an under-appreciated player in the global transformer market, currently trading at a valuation discount of over 10% compared to peers [2][4]. - The company has a strong market position with over 60% market share in tap changers for transformers in China and has made gradual gains globally, achieving over 15% market share [19]. - The report highlights the favorable competitive landscape for Huaming, with only two major overseas competitors and a gross margin exceeding 60% [4][19]. - Continued strength in transformer demand and positive export data from Asia are expected to bolster investor confidence in Huaming's overseas momentum [4][19]. Summary by Sections Recent Performance - Huaming has outperformed its peers and the index by over 10% in the past month, while peers have averaged a decline of 1% [2][4]. - The report notes that the earnings cutting cycle is likely over, supported by strong first-quarter results and the announcement of a share incentive scheme [4]. Market Dynamics - The transformer market is experiencing a supply tightness, benefiting companies like Huaming, which is positioned to capitalize on this trend [4]. - The report anticipates that Huaming's overseas revenue growth will accelerate, particularly with high voltage transformer capacity expansion expected to begin in 2026 [4][19]. Valuation - The price target of Rmb19.00 is based on a 21x 2025E-26E P/E ratio, which aligns with the average valuation of regional transformer companies [20]. - The report emphasizes that Huaming's valuation discount to peers is unjustified given its growth prospects and market position [4][19].

Investment Rating - The report does not explicitly provide an investment rating for the industry discussed Core Insights - China's interest in stablecoins is driven by concerns over US legislation that could reinforce dollar dominance, with the PBoC exploring Hong Kong as a testing ground for future payment alternatives [1][2] - The development of RMB stablecoins is seen as a potential building block for cross-border RMB settlement, but significant reforms are needed for true internationalization [10][12] Summary by Sections Stablecoins and RMB Internationalization - The US GENIUS Act's passage marks a pivotal moment for stablecoins, potentially transforming USD-pegged stablecoins into synthetic dollars, which could enhance demand for US Treasuries [2] - Stablecoins are viewed as distribution channels for existing currencies rather than new currencies, extending the US dollar's reach into crypto and emerging markets [3] PBoC's Strategy - The PBoC has shifted from banning cryptocurrencies to advocating for a multi-polar global currency system, emphasizing the need for efficient digital payment alternatives [4] - Digital RMB and stablecoins are proposed as viable options for cross-border transactions, addressing weaknesses in traditional payment systems [4] RMB Stablecoins: Opportunities and Challenges - Current cross-border digital RMB transactions are limited in scale, primarily utilizing Project mBridge, with only five central banks involved [5] - The potential for RMB stablecoins is hindered by domestic usage bans, capital controls, and the dominance of USD-pegged stablecoins [5] Hong Kong's Role - Hong Kong is the first jurisdiction to pass stablecoin legislation, effective August 1, 2025, which mandates 100% high-quality reserves for stablecoins [9] - The legislation aims to promote USD and HKD pegged stablecoins initially, with plans to introduce CNH pegged stablecoins later, leveraging Hong Kong's liquidity pool [9] Long-term Outlook for RMB Internationalization - Despite efforts to enhance cross-border settlement infrastructure, the RMB's share in global reserve currencies has declined from 2.8% in early 2022 to 2.2% by the end of 2024 [11][13] - Restoring global confidence in China's growth potential is crucial for increasing RMB usage, necessitating structural reforms in the economy [12]

Investment Rating - The report maintains an 'In-Line' industry view for the steel sector, indicating a balanced risk-reward profile [7]. Core Insights - Carbon steel prices are experiencing softening momentum, with continued downside risks expected in the near term due to unclear demand recovery [6]. - Stainless steel demand is anticipated to remain lackluster, trailing carbon steel recovery, with no inflection expected in 2025 [8]. - The sector is currently trading at a ~34% discount to its historical average on EV/normalized EBITDA, but consensus earnings downgrades for 2025 are anticipated [9]. Carbon Steel Summary - The report highlights that EU HRC spreads have risen above historical averages due to supportive trade policies and prospects for defense/infrastructure spending [6]. - ArcelorMittal and voestalpine are identified as the most preferred companies in carbon steel, with voestalpine showing resilience in EBITDA/t during the downturn [10]. - Thyssenkrupp shares have seen significant re-rating, but the report suggests that the current valuation may not reflect the underlying business's cash needs and earnings potential [10]. Stainless Steel Summary - Acerinox is favored in the stainless steel segment due to its resilient earnings profile and exposure to the US/alloys market [11]. - The report notes that Aperam's diversified business model may not be enough to counteract the weak demand in Europe, impacting near-term earnings momentum [11]. - The overall stainless steel market is expected to face challenges due to global growth concerns and below-average spreads in the EU/US [8]. Demand Drivers - Key demand drivers for steel include construction and automotive sectors, with significant contributions from building & infrastructure and mechanical equipment [21][22]. - The report emphasizes that the automotive sector's performance is crucial for steel demand, particularly in Western Europe and the US [27][30]. Supply and Trade Dynamics - The report discusses the steel supply landscape, noting that major producers in the EU and China are adjusting production levels in response to demand fluctuations [65][68]. - It highlights the net trade flows of steel, with China being a significant exporter, impacting the EU market dynamics [80][81]. Valuation and Performance - The report provides a snapshot of equity performance, indicating that steel equities have re-rated sharply, with some companies trading at premiums to their sum-of-the-parts valuations [10][12]. - The overall steel sector's performance is compared against indices like MSCI Europe and STOXX Europe, showing varied performance across different companies [13][16].

Investment Rating - The investment rating for Sunny Optical is Equal-weight [6] Core Insights - Vehicle-related businesses are identified as the key growth driver, while smartphone-related businesses are focusing on margin improvement [1] - Vehicle lens demand is projected to increase from 317 million units in 2024 to 552 million units by 2030, representing a 10% CAGR [1] - Smart lamp shipments are expected to achieve a 55% CAGR from 2025 to 2030, while AR-HUD shipments are anticipated to grow at a 38% CAGR from 2023 to 2030 [2] - LiDAR shipments are also projected to reach a CAGR of 55% from 2023 to 2030 [2] - The smartphone camera module market size is expected to grow from RMB 240 billion in 2024 to RMB 293 billion in 2028, driven by high-end products [2] - The margin recovery for smartphone business lines is likely to continue due to new product innovations and vertical integration [3] - The company is actively investing in R&D to gain a competitive edge in XR and robotic businesses [4] Summary by Sections Vehicle Lens Market - The global vehicle lens market is expected to grow significantly, with demand projected to rise from 317 million units in 2024 to 552 million units by 2030, indicating a 10% CAGR [1][9] Smart Lamp and AR-HUD - Smart lamp shipments are forecasted to grow at a 55% CAGR from 2025 to 2030, while AR-HUD shipments are expected to achieve a 38% CAGR from 2023 to 2030 [2] Smartphone Camera Module - The smartphone camera module market is projected to expand from RMB 240 billion in 2024 to RMB 293 billion in 2028, supported by growth in high-end products [2] Margin Recovery - The recovery of margins in smartphone business lines is anticipated to continue, driven by innovations and vertical integration [3] R&D Investments - The company is making proactive R&D investments to establish a competitive advantage in XR and robotic sectors [4]

Investment Rating - Industry View: In-Line [5] Core Insights - Li Auto's May market share increased by 0.6 percentage points month-over-month (MoM) to 4.6%, but year-to-date (YTD) share decreased by 0.4 percentage points year-over-year (YoY) to 4.1% [5][8] - XPeng's market share fell by 0.7 percentage points MoM to 2.8%, while YTD share rose by 2.3 percentage points YoY to 3.5% [8] - NIO's market share decreased by 0.2 percentage points MoM to 2.6%, with a YTD increase of 0.2 percentage points YoY to 2.3% [8] - ZEEKR's market share rose by 0.3 percentage points MoM to 1.7%, but YTD share fell by 0.4 percentage points YoY to 1.6% [8] - BYD's market share dropped by 0.6 percentage points MoM to 26.5%, with a significant YTD decline of 5.0 percentage points YoY to 26.9% [8] Summary by Company Li Auto - May market share: up 0.6 percentage points MoM to 4.6%; YTD share down 0.4 percentage points YoY to 4.1% [5][8] XPeng - May market share: down 0.7 percentage points MoM to 2.8%; YTD share up 2.3 percentage points YoY to 3.5% [8] NIO - May market share: down 0.2 percentage points MoM to 2.6%; YTD share up 0.2 percentage points YoY to 2.3% [8] ZEEKR - May market share: up 0.3 percentage points MoM to 1.7%; YTD share down 0.4 percentage points YoY to 1.6% [8] BYD - May market share: down 0.6 percentage points MoM to 26.5%; YTD share down 5.0 percentage points YoY to 26.9% [8] Tesla - EV market share rose by 0.7 percentage points MoM in May to 4.0%; YTD share down 2.0 percentage points YoY to 4.9% [3]

Investment Rating - The report maintains a base case view that oil prices will drift lower, with forecasts of US$66 per barrel for 2025 and US$58 per barrel for 2026 [3][18]. Core Insights - The recent spike in crude oil prices, rising over 15% to approximately US$75 per barrel, is attributed to geopolitical tensions, particularly fears of conflict between Israel and Iran [2]. - The report suggests that the inflationary impact of a sustained US$10 per barrel increase in oil prices will be limited across Asia, with an average CPI impact of 0.2 percentage points [5][12]. - The analysis indicates that the impact on GDP growth from rising oil prices is marginal, estimated at an average drag of 0.1 percentage points [16]. - Major energy importers in Asia, such as Thailand and Korea, are expected to bear the brunt of higher oil prices, with trade balances negatively affected [17][21]. Summary by Sections Oil Price Impact - A sustained increase in oil prices could lead to a surge in prices to US$120-130 per barrel in extreme geopolitical scenarios [3]. - The report highlights that the initial inflationary impact from a US$10 per barrel increase is manageable, with economies like the Philippines and Thailand experiencing more noticeable effects due to efficient pass-through mechanisms [5][6]. Inflation and Monetary Policy - The report concludes that the current oil price increase will not significantly disrupt the rate cut cycle in Asia, as inflation is expected to remain within target ranges for most economies [18][20]. - For economies like Korea, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Singapore, oil prices in the range of US$75-90 per barrel could complicate monetary policy responses [12][20]. Trade Balance and External Accounts - The report notes that the impact on trade balances varies across the region, with major energy importers facing a higher burden from increased oil prices [16][21]. - The report emphasizes that the current external accounts are stronger compared to previous periods of energy price shocks, which should help mitigate some negative effects [17].

Investment Rating - The investment rating for Kuaishou Technology is Equal-weight [6] Core Insights - The competition in the AI video generation sector has intensified with the launch of ByteDance's Seedance 1.0 pro, which has achieved the top ranking in both text-to-video and image-to-video categories, outperforming competitors like Google's Veo 3.0 and Kuaishou's Kling 2.0 [2][3] - The pricing of Seedance 1.0 pro is competitive at Rmb3.67 for a 5-second video, which is 60-70% lower than similar market offerings, and it generates videos relatively quickly at approximately 40 seconds for a 5-second output [2][3] - The report suggests that while the recent releases from ByteDance and Minimax could significantly increase competition, it is premature to determine the long-term market leader in AI video generation [3] - Kuaishou's Kling model has shown strong financial performance year-to-date, which has positively influenced its share price, but there is a caution against overvaluing Kling before the competitive landscape stabilizes [3] Summary by Sections Industry Overview - The AI video generation market is experiencing heightened competition with new entrants and advancements in technology [1][3] Company Performance - Kuaishou Technology's Kling model is expected to exceed revenue guidance, reflecting strong market demand [4] - Financial projections for Kuaishou indicate a revenue increase from Rmb127 billion in 2024 to Rmb165 billion by 2027, with EBITDA growing from Rmb20 billion to Rmb37 billion in the same period [6] Valuation Metrics - The price target for Kuaishou Technology is set at HK$60.00, with a slight upside of 1% from the current price of HK$59.40 [6] - Key financial metrics include a projected P/E ratio of 11.2 for 2025 and an EV/EBITDA ratio of 7.1 for the same year [6]