Core Viewpoint - Goldman Sachs sets a 12-month target price of HKD 52.6 for Tencent Music (01698) and maintains a "Buy" rating, highlighting strong financial performance and user growth [1][2]. Financial Performance - Tencent Music's gross margin reached a historical high of 43.6%, up 5 percentage points year-on-year and 1 percentage point quarter-on-quarter, exceeding Goldman Sachs' expectation of 42.9% [1][2]. - Operating profit margin increased by 8 percentage points year-on-year and 3.5 percentage points quarter-on-quarter, indicating robust operational efficiency [1]. - The company reported a quarterly net addition of 2 million subscription users, with average revenue per user (ARPU) showing quarter-on-quarter growth [1][3]. - Total operating expenses decreased by 7% year-on-year and 4% quarter-on-quarter, reaching the lowest level since Q2 2019, attributed to effective control over general and administrative expenses and R&D costs [1]. User Growth and Revenue - For Q4 2024, Tencent Music's revenue slightly exceeded expectations with an 8% year-on-year growth, driven by a 16% increase in online music service revenue and strong performance in social entertainment [2]. - The adjusted net profit grew by 45% year-on-year, surpassing market expectations by 18%, with growth accelerating compared to previous quarters [2]. Future Outlook - The target for Q1 2025 is to add over 2 million subscription users, with a focus on balancing user growth and ARPU [3]. - The gross margin is close to the company's mid-term target of 45%, with potential for further improvement through operational leverage and revenue share enhancement [3]. - The company aims to leverage artificial intelligence to personalize services and enhance user experiences [3]. Shareholder Returns - Tencent Music announced a dividend of USD 0.18 per American Depositary Share (ADS) for 2024, a 30% increase from the 2023 fiscal year, and approved a new stock buyback plan of up to USD 1 billion over 24 months starting March 2025 [4].
高盛：予腾讯音乐-SW(01698)目标价52.6港元 维持“买入”评级