Xin Lang Cai Jing·2025-07-08 14:39Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the recent trend of Chinese companies, including Stone Technology, seeking secondary listings in Hong Kong to enhance international market presence and address challenges in the domestic market [3][4]. Group 1: Company Developments - Stone Technology has submitted its listing application to the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, aiming to leverage international markets for growth [3]. - The company has seen a significant decline in stock price, dropping nearly 90% from its peak, with a market capitalization falling below 40 billion yuan [3][4]. - The company plans to use part of the funds raised from the IPO to expand international operations and enhance brand recognition [4]. Group 2: Market Performance - The Chinese vacuum cleaner market has seen a decline in sales from over 6 million units in 2020 to 4.58 million units in 2023, with a slight recovery in 2024 [4]. - Stone Technology has achieved a 16% market share in the global smart vacuum cleaner market, surpassing iRobot [4]. - In 2024, overseas revenue accounted for 53.46% of Stone Technology's total revenue, with a growth rate of 51.06%, significantly higher than the domestic market's 25.39% [4]. Group 3: Financial Performance - From 2020 to 2024, Stone Technology's revenue grew from 4.53 billion yuan to 11.94 billion yuan, with a compound annual growth rate of 27.43%, while net profit grew at a slower rate of 9.62% [8][10]. - The company's net profit margin decreased from 30.23% in 2020 to 16.55% in 2024, indicating challenges in maintaining profitability [9][10]. - The sales expense ratio increased from 13.69% to 24.84% from 2020 to 2024, reflecting higher marketing costs to gain market share [10][12]. Group 4: Competitive Landscape - The vacuum cleaner industry is becoming increasingly competitive, with many players entering the market, leading to product homogenization [14]. - Stone Technology's reliance on marketing over innovation raises concerns about its ability to establish a strong technological moat in a crowded market [14][15]. Group 5: Legal Challenges - Stone Technology is facing legal issues regarding patent disputes with a competitor, which have resulted in significant financial losses and operational disruptions [16]. - The company has missed key sales opportunities due to legal restrictions, impacting its market performance [16]. Group 6: Diversification Efforts - Stone Technology's attempt to diversify into the washing machine market has faced setbacks, including significant layoffs within the newly established division [18][20]. - The company's founder has also ventured into the automotive sector, raising concerns among investors about focus and resource allocation [22][24].