Investment Rating - The report does not explicitly provide an investment rating for the industry Core Insights - The labor market is perceived to be weak, with a consensus within the Federal Reserve that the overall unemployment rate may not fully reflect the actual situation, primarily due to a slowdown in labor supply [1] - The possibility of a 50 basis point rate cut in September is considered very low, as more evidence is needed to indicate an economic downturn [1][7] - The Federal Reserve's independence is safeguarded through its structure and culture, ensuring decisions are not influenced by political factors [9][10] Summary by Sections Federal Reserve Insights - The Federal Reserve's meeting process is rigorous, with members communicating extensively before meetings, leading to clear positions by the time of the meeting [5] - Recent weak employment data does not constitute a significant shock, but the upcoming August data is crucial for confirming the trend of a weak hiring market [1][6] - The current interest rate level (5.25%-5.5%) is considered restrictive, but there is still some room for potential rate cuts [1][7] Labor Market Analysis - The labor market is believed to be weaker than what the overall unemployment rate suggests, with hiring stagnating and a reduction in labor supply due to immigration policy impacts [3][6] - Economic growth is currently weak, around 1%, with factors such as government spending cuts and insufficient consumer demand contributing to this situation [6] Financial Industry Changes - The financial industry has seen significant changes, including a more mature capital market and an increase in the share of hedge funds and investment funds [2][12] - There is a notable decentralization in global financial markets, and internal collaboration within companies has significantly improved, leading to more integrated operations across departments [2][13]

Investment Rating - The report indicates a selective recovery in capital expenditures in Europe expected after 2026, driven by energy transition, security demands, and government support [1][2][4]. Core Insights - European capital expenditures as a percentage of sales reached a historical low in 2023, but are projected to rebound selectively post-2026 due to structural factors and government incentives [1][2][4]. - Global capital expenditure growth is expected to be slightly below 5% in 2025, up from 4% in 2024, with large project orders being delayed rather than canceled [1][6]. - Key growth areas identified include data centers, utilities, and defense sectors, driven by electrification, artificial intelligence, and government support [1][7][21]. Summary by Sections Current Investment Trends - European companies have historically focused on shareholder returns through dividends and buybacks, resulting in lower capital expenditures [2]. - Despite macroeconomic uncertainties, there is renewed investment demand in capital-intensive industries driven by themes such as energy transition and digitalization [3][4]. Sector Performance - The technology sector, particularly data centers and semiconductors, has maintained stable growth of over 15% in the past two years [8]. - Utilities, especially in the power grid sector, have shown mid to high single-digit growth, while mining capital expenditures are projected to grow at 7% [8][18]. Future Opportunities - Significant growth is anticipated in data centers, utilities, and defense sectors, with specific investment baskets available for targeted exposure [7][28][32]. - Companies like Schneider and Legrand are highlighted as key players in the data center market, while Atlas Copco is noted for its strong growth potential in the semiconductor sector [17][26]. Challenges and Market Dynamics - Traditional heavy industries and consumer-related sectors are experiencing weaker performance, with food and beverage industries showing below-average prospects [9]. - Tariff issues have impacted large project investment decisions, but resolving these could lead to a resurgence in capital expenditures in 2026 [13][34]. Investment Baskets and Strategies - Various investment baskets are recommended for capital expenditure beneficiaries, including those focused on defense, AI infrastructure, and broader capital spending themes [30][31][32]. - The report emphasizes the importance of focusing on thematic trends rather than individual company performance in the current economic environment [27].

Investment Rating - The report maintains a "Buy" rating on CATL's A-Shares and downgrades H-Shares to "Neutral" based on valuation [1][15]. Core Insights - CATL's 2Q25 earnings exceeded expectations, with revenue of Rmb94 billion, an 8% year-over-year growth, and a net profit of Rmb16.5 billion, up 34% year-over-year [1][17]. - The battery unit gross profit (GP) showed mixed results, with a blended unit GP of Rmb135/kWh, slightly lower than Rmb136/kWh in 1Q25, indicating domestic market pressures [2][17]. - The report anticipates that the domestic EV battery unit GP will bottom out in 2026, a shift from the previous expectation of 2025 [2][29]. Financial Performance - CATL's 2Q25 results included a sales volume of approximately 150 GWh, a 34% increase year-over-year, but 5% below expectations [1][17]. - The company's total gross profit for 2Q25 was Rmb24 billion, missing estimates by Rmb2.3 billion, but offset by stronger financial gains and operating expense savings [1][17]. - The report revises earnings forecasts for 2025-2027 down by 1%, 5%, and 3% respectively, primarily due to lower battery unit GP assumptions [15][29]. Market Position and Strategy - CATL's capital expenditure (CAPEX) is expected to rise from 13% in 2024 to 24% in 2025, supporting market share gains [15][29]. - The company is leading in R&D for all-solid-state battery products, with small-scale production expected by 2027, although commercialization is still a few years away [15][29]. - The report highlights the installation of new battery technologies, including fast-charging LFP batteries and sodium-ion batteries, in the upcoming quarters [15][29]. Valuation Metrics - The 12-month price target for CATL's A-Shares is set at Rmb328, reflecting an 18.4% upside from the current price of Rmb277.09 [1][15]. - For H-Shares, the price target is raised to HK$436, indicating a 2.2% upside from the current price of HK$426.60 [1][15]. - The report provides various financial ratios, including a projected P/E ratio of 17.4 for 2024 and a dividend yield of 2.9% [4][9].

Investment Rating - The report upgrades the Brent crude oil price forecast for the remainder of 2025 to $66 per barrel, with expectations of further price increases due to rising price premiums and shifting market risk concerns towards supply disruptions [1][2]. Core Insights - The cautious outlook for oil prices in 2026 is based on anticipated oversupply of approximately 1.7 million barrels per day due to the ramp-up of non-OPEC projects and the development of U.S. shale oil [1][2]. - The refining industry is currently in an upward cycle, driven by supply factors, with a projected net increase in global refining capacity of only 0.2 million barrels per day in 2025 and 0.4 million barrels per day in 2026 [8]. Summary by Sections Oil Price Forecast - The Brent crude oil price is expected to rise to $66 per barrel for the remainder of 2025, supported by low global inventory levels, particularly in OECD countries, and concerns over supply disruptions [2][3]. - A cautious forecast for 2026 predicts a decline to around $50 per barrel due to oversupply from non-OPEC projects [1][2]. Refining Industry Dynamics - The refining sector is experiencing high profit margins, particularly in diesel, driven by low inventory levels and the permanent closure of several refineries [7][8]. - The global refining system is under pressure due to a tight supply-demand balance, with significant growth expected in the demand for middle distillates like diesel and jet fuel [8]. Geopolitical and Supply Risks - Current market risks include supply disruptions and geopolitical instability, with a recommendation for conservative yet flexible trading strategies, such as purchasing call options and utilizing spot and forward contracts for hedging [5][6]. - The impact of Iranian oil production on market prices is significant, with potential price spikes if production increases dramatically [6]. OPEC and Non-OPEC Supply - The report highlights the uncertainty surrounding OPEC's spare capacity, which supports forward oil prices, and the potential for oversupply if new projects come online as planned [3][4]. - The refining industry is expected to benefit from the complexities of companies like Reliance Industries, which can leverage OPEC supply increases while also growing in other sectors [8].

Investment Rating - The report does not explicitly provide an investment rating for the industry Core Insights - The report emphasizes a preference for short dollar and long gold positions as a hedge against concerns regarding Fed independence and potential tariff shocks [2] - It highlights the economic implications of potential tariff scenarios in the US, predicting an increase in the effective tariff rate (ETR) by 17 percentage points by 2027, which could lead to a cumulative boost in core PCE prices by about 1.7% over the next 2-3 years [26][28] - The report notes that the MAS is expected to reduce the slope of the SGD NEER to flat at the upcoming meeting on July 30, reflecting a softer inflation outlook and downside risks to growth [20][21] Summary by Sections Global Views - The report discusses the expectation of a return to Fed easing, which is anticipated to lower US Treasury yields and the dollar while boosting global equities and gold [2] Asia FX Views - The report provides insights into various Asian currencies, indicating low activity flows primarily driven by profit-taking and unwinding positions, particularly in USD/TWD and USD/HKD [17] - It mentions that the market for USD/KRW is expected to face unpriced risks to the upside due to impending tariffs [18] MAS Meeting Insights - The report anticipates that the MAS will adjust its monetary policy stance to a flat slope, reflecting a cautious outlook on inflation and growth [20][21] Economic Implications of Tariffs - The report outlines the expected rise in the US effective tariff rate and its potential impact on inflation, projecting core PCE inflation rates for December 2025, 2026, and 2027 [26][28] Thailand Central Bank Leadership - The report notes the appointment of Vitai as the new Governor of the Bank of Thailand, who is expected to advocate for more aggressive monetary easing to support the economy [31][33]

Investment Rating - The report indicates a positive outlook for the semiconductor industry, particularly in the silicon wafer and silicon carbide sectors, driven by strong demand from electric vehicles and artificial intelligence applications [1][2]. Core Insights - The price of silicon wafers in China has been declining, with a forecast for stabilization by 2027 due to capacity expansion [1]. - The market for silicon carbide is significantly influenced by the electric vehicle sector, with penetration rates expected to reach 28% in 2025 and 40% in 2026 [1][7]. - The Chinese silicon wafer market is dominated by five companies, holding a 57% global market share, with significant improvements in technology quality [1][5]. - Geopolitical factors are impacting the semiconductor industry, necessitating careful consideration of tariffs and policies [1][14]. Summary by Sections Silicon Wafer Market - In 2024, the price of silicon wafers in China decreased by 17%, with further declines of 8% in 2025 and an expected 5% in 2026 [4]. - The market is expected to stabilize in 2027 as production capacity continues to expand [4]. Silicon Carbide Market - The price of silicon carbide fell by 16% in 2024 and is projected to decrease by 17% in 2025, driven by strong demand from the electric vehicle market [5][6]. - Local manufacturers are significantly increasing their output, contributing to the optimistic market outlook for silicon carbide substrate manufacturers [8]. Key Companies to Watch - Notable companies include Nora (silicon carbide and nitride equipment supplier), Xingyi and Sankexing (leaders in AI server orders), and SICC (local silicon carbide substrate leader) [2][15]. - Infineon is highlighted for its strong performance in silicon carbide strategy, with capabilities in IGBT and silicon wafer production, as well as involvement in AI power chips [1][16]. Geopolitical Considerations - The semiconductor industry faces pressures from geopolitical factors, including tariffs and trade policies, which could affect pricing and market dynamics [1][14]. - Investors are advised to weigh these geopolitical influences carefully when considering investments in the sector [14].

Investment Rating - The report initiates coverage on DiDi Global Inc. with a "Buy" rating and a 12-month price target of US$7.20, indicating a 35% upside potential [1][27][34]. Core Insights - DiDi is positioned to capitalize on the growing global mobility market, particularly in autonomous driving and shared mobility, with a strong valuation compared to peers [1][27]. - The company is expected to achieve significant revenue and EPS growth, with projected CAGRs of 8% and 44% respectively from 2024 to 2027 [2][28]. - DiDi's market leadership in China, with a 70% market share, and its expansion into international markets, particularly in Latin America, are key growth drivers [27][31]. Summary by Sections 1. Domestic Mobility Growth - DiDi operates within a growing RMB 744 billion shared mobility total addressable market (TAM) in China, with expectations for continued growth in ride-hailing services [28][31]. - The company aims to improve profit margins by reducing user subsidies and leveraging operational efficiencies, with a target GTV margin of 6-7% by 2030-35 [31][32]. 2. Robotaxi Opportunity - The report views robotaxis as a significant growth opportunity rather than a threat, projecting that DiDi will capture a substantial share of the robotaxi market by 2030 and 2035 [34][35]. - DiDi's autonomous fleet is expected to contribute significantly to its overall trip volume and profit margins in the coming years [34][35]. 3. International Business Expansion - DiDi has established a strong presence in Latin America, particularly in Brazil and Mexico, with significant user bases and transaction volumes [28][31]. - The company is also diversifying into food delivery services, leveraging its existing rider network to compete effectively in the region [31][32]. 4. Valuation and Fundamentals - DiDi's current valuation at 14X domestic 2026E P/E is considered attractive compared to its peers, with potential for re-rating based on strong growth fundamentals [2][32]. - The report highlights that DiDi's discounted valuation is influenced by non-fundamental factors, including liquidity concerns and competitive pressures in the food delivery market [32][34].

Investment Rating - The report maintains a "Buy" rating for JD, Kuaishou, PDD, and Alibaba, while also recommending Meituan due to its significant market share despite profit declines [7][10][9]. Core Insights - The eCommerce landscape in China is experiencing heightened competition, particularly in food delivery and on-demand services, leading to revised earnings estimates for Alibaba and JD, with cuts ranging from -1% to -10% for 2025E-27E [1]. - June online retail goods GMV increased by 5% year-over-year, showing a moderation from 8% in May, with overall retail sales growing by 4.8% in June [2][28]. - The report anticipates profit declines across transaction platforms in the second half of 2025, with a potential inflection point for eCommerce share prices expected in the latter half of 2025 [7]. Summary by Sections eCommerce Tracker - Daily order volumes in the food delivery and on-demand retail industry peaked at approximately 250 million on July 12, with Meituan capturing significant market share through discounts [1]. - Alibaba is leveraging synergies between Taobao Instant Commerce and Ele.me, achieving over 80 million daily orders through its fulfillment network [1]. Market Performance - The national online retail goods GMV for June was reported at a 5% increase year-over-year, with a sequential moderation from 8% in May [2]. - The overall retail sales growth in June was 4.8% year-over-year, with notable strength in home appliances at 32% growth [28]. Parcel Volume Growth - The average daily parcel volume in July to date is approximately 531 million, maintaining a year-over-year growth rate of 15% [6][27]. - The report maintains a 2025E industry online GMV growth estimate at 6%, while adjusting the parcel volume growth estimate down to 17% from 19% [6]. Stock Implications - The report highlights a preference for sectors such as games, mobility, and internet verticals over eCommerce due to stronger near-term earnings setups [7]. - JD's market has largely priced in expected profit declines, while PDD is favored for its non-participation in the food delivery battle [9][10].

Investment Rating - The report indicates a strong positioning for the semiconductor sector, with Nvidia (NVDA) rated at 10 on a scale of 1-10, Microsoft (MSFT) at 9, and Meta (META) at 8.5, while Apple (AAPL) is rated at 4, indicating a significant underweight in the market [10][12][14][18]. Core Insights - The semiconductor sector is viewed as the cleanest expression of growing AI enthusiasm, with investor sentiment reaching new highs daily [2]. - Generalist inflows into the semiconductor group continue without signs of slowing, despite being well-held by various investor types [3]. - The internet sector is crowded, with notable year-to-date winners, but investors are now balancing high valuations against strong long-term narratives [4][5]. - The telecommunications/media sector has pockets of investor interest, with several companies like DIS and T showing increased long positions [6]. - Software sentiment is declining due to uncertainties surrounding the long-term impact of AI on enterprise/cloud software businesses [7]. - IT services and ad agencies are experiencing significant market negativity, with concerns about AI posing a cannibalistic threat [8]. Summary by Sector Semiconductors - The semiconductor sector is currently crowded with high investor interest, particularly in companies like NVDA, AVGO, TSM, and MU, which are among the most popular longs [19][20]. - The long/short ratio in this sector is at highs, consistent with positive market sentiment [19]. Internet - The internet sector has a high long/short ratio (~4.5x) but is in the middle of its recent range, indicating a balanced sentiment [24]. - Popular longs in this sector include META, SPOT, NFLX, and AMZN, while shorts include SNAP and LYFT [26]. Software - The software sector is experiencing a multi-year decrease in the long/short ratio, indicating negative sentiment [21][23]. - Popular longs include MSFT and ORCL, while shorts include ADBE and WDAY [23]. Telecommunications/Media - There is a notable increase in long positions in certain telecommunications/media stocks, despite the sector's historical negativity [6]. Overall Market Sentiment - The overall market sentiment is mixed, with strong enthusiasm in semiconductors and internet sectors, while software and IT services face challenges due to AI-related uncertainties [7][8].

Investment Rating - The report assigns a "Buy" rating to Anta Sports Products with a 12-month price target of HK$117, indicating an upside potential of 30.3% from the current price of HK$89.80 [16][18]. Core Insights - Anta's operational update for 2Q25 shows retail sales growth for its core brand at +LSD% year-over-year, while Fila and other brands performed better, with Fila growing at +MSD% and Descente and Kolon exceeding +40% and +70% respectively [1][12]. - The management expressed confidence in the recovery of the Anta brand in 2H25 following restructuring efforts in 2Q25, with a full-year growth target of HSD% for Anta core, MSD% for Fila, and over 30% for other brands [1][12]. - The report highlights the solid performance of Fila and smaller brands, which are expected to offset any potential weaknesses in the Anta brand, thus providing a positive outlook for the overall group [1][12]. Operational Updates - In 2Q25, Anta's core brand faced challenges due to management restructuring and weaker offline traffic, leading to a slower sales growth compared to previous quarters [7][8]. - The e-commerce channel showed growth at +LSD%, while offline sales also recorded similar growth rates, indicating a balanced performance across channels [7][8]. - The management has initiated a "Light-house Store Campaign" to enhance store performance in lower-tier cities, which involves optimizing underperforming stores and potentially closing some temporarily [8][12]. Brand Performance - Fila's retail sales grew by +MSD% year-over-year in 2Q25, with the core Fila brand achieving +HSD% growth, indicating strong brand momentum [11][12]. - Other brands like Descente and Kolon reported impressive growth rates, with Descente achieving over 40% and Kolon over 70% year-over-year [11][12]. - MAIA, still in its incubation stage, posted over 30% growth in 2Q25, driven by an expanding offline presence and innovative retail formats [12]. Margin and Cost Control - Management noted some headwinds on gross profit margins due to a shift towards online sales channels, which typically involve deeper discounts [13]. - Operating expenses for the Anta brand were well-controlled in 1H25, with expectations for increased marketing expenses in 2H25 due to planned events [13]. - The overall margin outlook remains positive, supported by stronger growth in smaller brands that typically carry higher operating profit margins [13].