Zhi Tong Cai Jing·2025-08-13 09:35Core Viewpoint - Goldman Sachs reports that Master Kong Holdings (00322) has updated its full-year guidance, now expecting sales to be flat to low single-digit growth, down from low to mid-single-digit growth previously [1] Group 1: Financial Performance - The management anticipates a double-digit growth in recurring net profit, with a 12% increase in the first half of this year [1] - The latest projections for net profit in 2025 and 2026 are RMB 4.3 billion and RMB 4.6 billion, representing year-on-year growth of 15% and 9% respectively, with net profit margins improving to 5.2% and 15.8% [1] Group 2: Business Segments - The management expects the instant noodle business to return to positive growth in the second half of the year, aiming for overall positive growth for the year [1] - For beverages, the management anticipates positive growth in carbonated drinks, while the decline in non-carbonated drinks is expected to narrow [1] Group 3: Cost and Investment Strategy - The management forecasts a low double-digit increase in palm oil prices for the year, while costs for plastic (PET), sugar, and flour are expected to decrease by mid-single digits [1] - The group will continue to focus on light investments and streamline administrative expenses to enhance operating profit margins by 2026 [1] Group 4: Valuation and Ratings - The target price has been adjusted from HKD 14.6 to HKD 13.8, while maintaining a "Buy" rating [1] - Due to increased competition leading to a rise in sales management expense ratios, the recurring net profit forecasts for 2025 to 2027 have been revised down by 4% to 6% [1]