Core Viewpoint - Fangzheng Securities initiates coverage on Global New Materials International (06616) with a "recommended" rating, projecting revenue of 910 million yuan in the first half of 2025, driven by a 34.5% increase in pearlescent pigment sales to 15,000 tons, following the acquisition of Merck's global surface solutions business in July 2025, which enhances the company's global R&D, production, and sales network [1][3]. Group 1: Financial Performance - In the first half of 2025, the company achieved operating revenue of 910 million yuan, a year-on-year increase of 17.7%, while net profit attributable to shareholders decreased by 41.9% to 62.2 million yuan [2]. - Pearlescent pigment products dominate the company's revenue, contributing 850 million yuan in the first half of 2025, a 21.4% increase year-on-year, accounting for 93% of total revenue [2]. - The sales volume of pearlescent pigment products reached 15,000 tons, reflecting a 34.5% year-on-year increase, while the gross margin slightly improved to 52.0% due to product structure enhancement and declining raw material costs [2]. Group 2: Strategic Acquisitions - The company announced plans to acquire Merck's global surface solutions business for 665 million euros (approximately 5.187 billion yuan), completing the acquisition by the end of July 2025, which is expected to accelerate internationalization and enhance global brand influence [3]. - This strategic integration will establish a global R&D and production network covering five major regions: China, Germany, South Korea, Japan, and the United States, and a sales network spanning over 150 countries and regions, strengthening the company's competitive position in the high-end pearlescent pigment sector [3]. Group 3: Capacity Expansion - The company is progressing with the second phase of its seven-color pearlescent project, which will add 30,000 tons of pearlescent materials, while the Tonglu project for 100,000 tons of surface performance materials is in the equipment installation phase, further solidifying the company's leading position in the global pearlescent materials market [4].