CATL(SZ:300750) Sou Hu Cai Jing·2025-05-12 07:57Core Viewpoint - CATL (Contemporary Amperex Technology Co., Limited) is set to launch its IPO on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange on May 20, 2025, marking a significant event in the market with strong backing from top-tier cornerstone investors, reflecting confidence in its leading position in the global new energy sector [1][3]. Group 1: IPO Details - CATL officially submitted its A1 application to the Hong Kong Stock Exchange on February 11, 2025, and received the overseas issuance listing approval from the China Securities Regulatory Commission on March 25, 2025, achieving the fastest record for overseas issuance approval in recent years [1]. - The cornerstone investors, including Sinopec, Kuwait Investment Authority (KIA), and Hillhouse Capital, have committed a total of HKD 20.371 billion, with a pricing range of HKD 263 per share, indicating strong market confidence in CATL's global leadership in the new energy sector [1][3]. Group 2: Market Position and Performance - In 2024, CATL maintained a global market share of 36.8% in power batteries, ranking first for eight consecutive years, and held a 40% share in energy storage battery shipments, also leading the market [4]. - The company's domestic power battery installation volume reached 246.01 GWh, with a market share of 45.08%, significantly outpacing its closest competitor, BYD, by 20 percentage points [4]. Group 3: Financial Performance - CATL reported a revenue of CNY 362 billion and a net profit of CNY 50.745 billion for the full year of 2024, reflecting a year-on-year growth of 15.01%. In Q1 2025, net profit increased by 32.85%, with a gross margin of 24.4% [8]. - As of September 2024, the company had cash reserves of CNY 281.8 billion, providing a strong financial foundation for global expansion [8]. Group 4: Business Strategy and Innovations - CATL's battery swapping business is seen as a core growth driver, with solutions for passenger and commercial vehicles already in place, and partnerships with major automakers to launch over 30 battery-swappable models [9]. - The company has made significant advancements in ultra-fast charging technology, with the introduction of the Shunxing PLUS battery capable of achieving 80% charge in just 10 minutes, addressing user range anxiety [13]. Group 5: Global Expansion and Sustainability - CATL has established 13 production bases globally, including in Germany and Hungary, with an annual production capacity of 646 GWh, and plans to allocate 90% of IPO proceeds to enhance local supply capabilities in Europe [14]. - The company leads the industry in carbon neutrality efforts, with 74.51% of its core operations powered by zero-carbon electricity and a high recycling rate for battery materials [14]. Group 6: Market Outlook - Despite strong fundamentals, there are differing opinions on CATL's valuation, with current A-share price earnings ratio around 16 times, lower than the previously predicted 50 times [14]. - The company is navigating potential challenges from competitors and geopolitical risks through strategic partnerships and joint ventures [15].