3 6 Ke·2025-08-01 10:55Core Viewpoint - The acquisition of Cainiao Express by Shentong Express solidifies the oligopolistic structure of the domestic express delivery market, with the top seven companies controlling 90% of the market share [1] Group 1: Industry Consolidation - The acquisition of Cainiao Express for 362 million yuan by Shentong Express has led to a strong market reaction, with Shentong's stock hitting the limit up and a surge in institutional research [1] - Since 2020, leading express companies have been restructuring through mergers and acquisitions, marking a transition from a chaotic competitive landscape to a more consolidated "Seven Warring States" era [1][2] Group 2: Strategic Differentiation - Major express companies have engaged in significant mergers and acquisitions over the past five years, with notable transactions including Jitu's acquisitions of Best Express and Fengwang, and JD's acquisitions of Debon and Kuaixun [2] - The motivations behind these transactions include focusing on core businesses and expanding scale, with sellers aiming to streamline operations while buyers seek growth opportunities [2][4] Group 3: Financial Performance and Challenges - Data indicates that both Daniao and Fengwang have been struggling financially, with Daniao reporting a revenue of 12.35 billion yuan and a net profit of only 2.01 million yuan last year, while Fengwang faced a loss of 747 million yuan in 2022 [4] - The ongoing price war in the express delivery industry has led to significant pressure on profit margins, with average ticket prices dropping by 20%-30% since 2020, causing many franchise-based companies to face stagnation in revenue despite growth in volume [10][12] Group 4: Regulatory Environment - The regulatory body has intervened to curb the price war, with measures introduced in 2022 to prohibit below-cost pricing and market manipulation, resulting in a temporary rebound in ticket prices [10][12] - In 2025, the National Postal Administration reiterated its stance against "involutionary competition," signaling a strong push for industry consolidation through mergers and acquisitions [12] Group 5: Future Outlook - The wave of mergers and acquisitions in the express delivery industry is seen as a collective evolution following the end of the price war, with expectations of continued market reshuffling [13] - The industry may evolve into a domestic oligopoly with international ecological collaboration, as major players leverage their networks and technology assets to enhance competitiveness [13][16]