今年港股规模最大IPO！21年的IPO执念，即将七战上岸，掌舵人已一头白发

Core Viewpoint - Chery Automobile is set to go public on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, marking its seventh attempt at an IPO after a long and challenging journey in the capital market. The focus will be on its performance in the transition to new energy vehicles and improving profitability [2][24]. Group 1: IPO Details - Chery plans to issue 297 million H-shares, with 10% allocated for Hong Kong and 90% for international sales, plus a 15% over-allotment option. The price range is set between HKD 27.75 and HKD 30.75 per share, with a total fundraising amount estimated between HKD 8.241 billion and HKD 9.132 billion [5][24]. - The expected market capitalization post-IPO will be between HKD 160 billion and HKD 177.3 billion (approximately RMB 146 billion), positioning Chery as the seventh largest car manufacturer by market value in China [5][24]. - Thirteen cornerstone investors have committed approximately USD 587 million to support the IPO, including notable firms like Hillhouse Capital and Ginkgo Asset Management [5][24]. Group 2: Business Performance and Growth - Chery's retail sales have seen significant growth, with a projected 2024 global sales volume of 2.6039 million units, representing a year-on-year increase of 38.4% [14]. - The company has maintained its position as the top exporter of Chinese passenger vehicles for 22 consecutive years, with overseas sales accounting for 44% of total sales in 2024 [14][20]. - Chery's revenue for 2024 is projected at RMB 269.897 billion, with a net profit of RMB 14.334 billion, supporting a favorable valuation [18]. Group 3: Challenges and Strategic Focus - Chery faces high asset-liability ratios, with figures reaching 89% in Q3 2024, necessitating capital from the IPO to optimize its financial structure and support its transition to new energy vehicles [16]. - The company has a low gross margin of 13.5% in 2024, with its new energy vehicle gross margin at only 5.7%, indicating a need for improvement in profitability [17][23]. - Chery's current model lineup is primarily focused on the mid-to-low-end market, which limits its brand premium and profit potential [17]. Group 4: Market Position and Future Outlook - The automotive industry is rapidly shifting towards new energy and smart technologies, and Chery's early entry into this field has not translated into competitive advantages, as it lags behind peers like BYD and Geely [17][23]. - The company must effectively utilize the funds raised from the IPO to enhance R&D, particularly in smart driving and high-end new energy vehicles, to solidify its long-term investment value [18][23]. - Chery's ability to maintain its export leadership and adapt to increasing competition from both domestic and international players will be crucial for its future success [20][23].