NIO INC.(9866HK)：COMPETITION LIKELY UNDERESTIMATED DESPITE 3Q BEAT

Core Viewpoint - NIO is projected to face net losses in FY26-27E despite a better-than-expected gross profit margin (GPM) in 3Q25, with doubts about achieving sustainable profitability compared to peers [1][2]. Financial Performance - NIO's 3Q25 revenue met prior forecasts, with GPM exceeding projections by approximately 3.2 percentage points, attributed to higher margins from models like ES6, EC6, ET5, and ET5T [2]. - The net loss for 3Q25 was RMB3.66 billion, which was about RMB890 million narrower than previous forecasts, aided by lower SG&A and R&D expenses totaling around RMB120 million less than estimates [2]. Sales Guidance and Projections - The sales guidance for 4Q25 is set at 120,000-125,000 units, lower than the previous target of 150,000 units announced during the 2Q25 earnings call [2]. - A breakeven in 4Q25 is deemed unlikely, with management showing increased caution compared to earlier projections [2]. - The estimated GPM for 4Q25 has been revised up to 17.1%, but a GAAP net loss of RMB1.6 billion and a non-GAAP net loss of RMB0.7 billion are still anticipated due to expected sales volume growth of over 40% [2]. Competitive Landscape - Management's assumption of achieving profitability in FY26E relies on a vehicle GPM of 20%, which is contingent on strong sales volume and competitive pricing in a highly competitive Chinese auto market [2]. - The current market dynamics suggest that maintaining high margins is challenging, as few automakers in China can sustain a GPM of 20% [2]. Valuation and Target Price - The HOLD rating is maintained, with target prices for ADR/H-share reduced from US$7.00/HK$55.00 to US$6.40/HK$50.00, reflecting a valuation of 0.8x the revised FY26E sales [2]. - Key risks to the rating and target price include fluctuations in sales volume and margins, as well as potential sector re-rating [2].