Ge Long Hui·2025-07-30 02:39Core Viewpoint - SMIC is positioned as a leading domestic wafer foundry in China, with a focus on both advanced process technology and the expansion of mature processes, benefiting from local demand and geopolitical factors [1][2]. Financial Performance - In Q1 2025, SMIC achieved revenue of $2.247 billion, representing a year-over-year increase of 28.4% and a quarter-over-quarter increase of 1.8% [1]. - The net profit attributable to shareholders was $188 million, showing a significant year-over-year growth of 161.92% [1]. - The gross margin for Q1 2025 was 22.5%, remaining stable compared to the previous quarter and exceeding guidance [1]. Market Position and Strategy - The majority of SMIC's production capacity is focused on mature processes, with advanced processes (≤14nm) accounting for only 1.7% of total capacity, highlighting the strategic importance of advanced nodes for AI infrastructure [1]. - The company is benefiting from local demand for high-end chips, as domestic IC design firms prefer to collaborate with local foundries due to export controls affecting foreign competitors [2]. Product and Revenue Structure - In Q1 2025, 12-inch wafer manufacturing accounted for approximately 78.1% of revenue, while 8-inch wafers made up 21.9% [2]. - The shift towards higher-value products, particularly in advanced processes, is expected to enhance revenue structure and gross margin levels [2]. Industry Trends - The trend of localization in manufacturing is driving growth in mature processes, particularly in the automotive sector, as international suppliers seek partnerships with Chinese foundries [3]. - SMIC is projected to benefit from the "China for China" supply chain strategy, which is expected to accelerate the development of diverse platforms [3]. Future Projections - Revenue forecasts for SMIC are estimated at $9.451 billion, $10.86 billion, and $11.998 billion for the years 2025, 2026, and 2027, respectively, with net profits projected at $743 million, $948 million, and $1.069 billion [3]. - A target price of HKD 63.3 per share has been set based on a 3x PB valuation for 2025, reflecting the company's leading position in advanced process foundry services in mainland China [3].