UDC(SZ:000036) Hua Xia Shi Bao·2025-12-27 10:33Core Viewpoint - Hualian Holdings plans to acquire overseas lithium mining assets for 1.235 billion yuan, aiming to diversify into lithium extraction from salt lakes, which has positively impacted its stock performance with multiple trading halts [1][3][4]. Group 1: Acquisition Details - The company intends to purchase 100% of Argentum Lithium S.A. to gain 80% interest in the Arizaro project, with a base price of $175 million, equivalent to 12.35 billion yuan [3][4]. - The Arizaro project is located in Argentina's Salta province and is part of the largest undeveloped salt lake in South America, covering approximately 1970 square kilometers [4][5]. - The project has a measured and indicated resource total of 469,000 tons of lithium, equivalent to 2,498,000 tons of lithium carbonate [1]. Group 2: Strategic Importance - This acquisition is part of Hualian Holdings' strategy to transition from real estate to new energy sectors, particularly lithium extraction, to enhance its market competitiveness and profitability [9][10]. - The company aims to create synergies with its existing businesses in lithium extraction and adsorbent production, thereby strengthening its position in the new energy supply chain [5][6]. Group 3: Financial Performance and Challenges - Hualian Holdings has faced declining revenues, with a 75.89% drop in revenue in 2023 compared to the previous year, prompting the need for diversification [8][9]. - The company reported a net profit of 0.82 billion yuan in 2023, down 81.27% year-on-year, indicating significant financial pressure [8]. - The acquisition will lead to substantial capital expenditures, potentially impacting cash flow during the project's construction phase [2][11]. Group 4: Market Risks and Future Outlook - The company acknowledges potential risks related to resource availability, capital expenditure pressures, and fluctuations in lithium carbonate prices, which could affect the investment's viability [11][12]. - Despite these risks, market analysts predict a favorable outlook for lithium demand driven by energy storage needs, suggesting a positive long-term market environment [12].