SITC(HK:01308) Ge Long Hui·2025-06-05 17:55Core Viewpoint - The company anticipates stable cargo volume growth in the Asian region, driven by tariff policy changes and industry restructuring, which will enhance long-term potential for cargo flow [1][3]. Group 1: Tariff Policy and Market Dynamics - Since April, tariff policies have fluctuated, but cargo volume in the Asian region has shown resilience, with expectations of stable performance in April and May [1]. - The easing of tariffs between China and the U.S. in mid-May led to a surge in shipping demand, resulting in a significant increase in freight rates for routes to the U.S. [2]. - In May, the Shanghai Export Container Freight Index (SCFI) rose by 18.4% month-on-month, with specific routes to the U.S. experiencing increases of 47.6% and 30.1% for West and East Coast respectively [2]. Group 2: Regional Market Performance - The Southeast Asian market has benefited from industry restructuring, with cargo volume rebounding after initial disruptions, showing a week-on-week increase since April 10 [1]. - The average container freight index for Southeast Asia showed a month-on-month increase of 6.9% in April and a decrease of 6.1% in May, with year-on-year increases of 60.1% and 2.3% respectively [1]. Group 3: Shipping Capacity and Rental Trends - There is a tightening of capacity for small and medium-sized container ships, leading to rising rental prices, with a year-on-year increase of 78.9% for 1,000 TEU container ships in the first four months of 2025 [2]. - As of May, new container ship orders accounted for 29.4% of existing capacity, with a low order ratio for small and medium-sized vessels [2]. Group 4: Future Outlook - The company expects continued high demand and rising freight rates in June, supported by seasonal factors and tariff easing [3]. - Long-term growth is anticipated due to the company's focus on the Asian market and the flexibility of small vessel operations, enhancing competitive strength [3]. - Net profit forecasts for the company are set at $1.09 billion, $910 million, and $1.1 billion for 2025, 2026, and 2027 respectively, with a target price of 28.0 HKD based on a PE ratio of 8.9x for 2025 [3].