Core Viewpoint - CICC has downgraded the net profit forecasts for Kunlun Energy for 2025 and 2026 by 9.9% and 10.1% to CNY 6.019 billion and CNY 6.205 billion respectively, due to uncertainties in the distribution and trading segment's profitability [1] Group 1: Financial Performance - The company's 1H25 performance was below expectations, with revenue of CNY 97.54 billion (YoY +5%) and net profit attributable to shareholders of CNY 3.16 billion (YoY -4%), primarily due to a reduction in subsidies leading to a 49% YoY decrease in other income [2] - Natural gas sales volume increased by 10% YoY to 29.1 billion cubic meters, with distribution and trading gas volume up 22.6% YoY to 12.4 billion cubic meters [2] - Retail natural gas volume grew by 2.2% YoY to 16.7 billion cubic meters, with an average retail gas price difference of CNY 0.44 per cubic meter, down CNY 0.01 YoY [2] Group 2: Operational Guidance - The company adjusted several operational guidance metrics for 2025, including retail gas volume growth to +5% YoY (previously +8% YoY) and LNG processing volume to +0-2% YoY (previously +7% YoY), reflecting weak downstream gas demand [3] - The company maintained its target for new user additions at 600,000 to 700,000 for the year and an average LNG receiving station load factor of 85-90% [3] Group 3: Profitability and Dividend Policy - The profitability of the distribution and trading business faces downward pressure, primarily due to weaker LNG spot prices impacting natural gas sales profitability [4] - Despite a slight decline in performance, the company maintained a modest increase in dividends, with potential for a long-term increase in the payout ratio to 55-60% due to strong cash flow and cash reserves [5]
中金:维持昆仑能源(00135)跑赢行业评级 降目标价至8港元