Zhi Tong Cai Jing·2025-11-18 07:37Core Viewpoint - Morgan Stanley's report indicates that the stock price of SMIC (00981) significantly increased in Q3 due to its position as a leading wafer foundry in mainland China, supporting the domestic production of AI chips. However, the bank emphasizes the need for actual profit data to sustain valuation premiums, which is unlikely to be realized in the next 6 to 12 months [1] Financial Performance - The bank has raised its earnings per share (EPS) forecasts for 2026 and 2027 by 8% and 42% respectively, while increasing the target price from HKD 36 to HKD 57 [1] Margin Analysis - Despite strong demand for advanced process products and near-saturation capacity utilization, the company's gross margin remains at a low 20% level. The bank anticipates that significant improvements in gross margin will be difficult in the coming years due to rapidly rising depreciation costs [1] Yield and Pricing Pressure - The report notes that the yield rates for advanced process nodes are still relatively low, and although the proportion of related products continues to increase, the overall average selling price remains under pressure [1]