Nan Fang Du Shi Bao·2025-11-28 09:20Core Viewpoint - Anta Sports is evaluating the possibility of acquiring the German sports brand Puma, which has led to a significant increase in Puma's stock price by over 18% in a single day, marking a recent high [1][3]. Group 1: Market Dynamics - The largest shareholder of Puma, the Artémis Group, has initiated a strategic review and is in preliminary discussions with several potential buyers, including Anta, Li Ning, and Asics [3][10]. - Asics has publicly denied any intention to acquire Puma, stating that there is no factual basis for such claims [3][12]. - Li Ning has also clarified that it has not engaged in any substantial negotiations regarding the acquisition of Puma [3][12]. Group 2: Puma's Financial Situation - Puma is facing operational challenges, with its Q3 2025 sales declining by 10.4% year-on-year to €1.956 billion, resulting in a net loss of €62.3 million [9]. - The company's gross margin has decreased by 260 basis points, and inventory has increased by 17.3% year-on-year [9]. - The Americas market experienced the largest sales decline at 15.2%, while the Asia-Pacific and Europe, Middle East, and Africa regions saw declines of 9.0% and 7.1%, respectively [9]. Group 3: Anta's Position - Anta is viewed as a strong contender for the acquisition due to its clear global strategy and successful past acquisitions, including the $5.2 billion purchase of Amer Sports in 2019 [11]. - The company has continued its global expansion, acquiring the German outdoor brand Jack Wolfskin for $290 million and investing in the South Korean fashion e-commerce platform Musinsa [11]. - Anta's financial health supports its potential acquisition activities, with a reported retail sales growth of 45%-50% across all brands [11].