Zhi Tong Cai Jing·2026-01-22 08:52Core Viewpoint - Citigroup has raised the target valuation multiple for ASMPT (00522) from a projected price-to-earnings ratio of 28 times to 35 times, resulting in a target price increase from HKD 100 to HKD 125, maintaining a "Buy" rating. This reflects a strong revaluation in the industry and the market's perception of the potential value from the possible spin-off of its Surface Mount Technology (SMT) business [1] Group 1 - Capital expenditures are increasingly directed towards the Advanced Packaging (AP) sector, which is expected to drive profit growth for backend equipment suppliers [1] - The potential spin-off of ASMPT's SMT business will allow the company to focus on semiconductor equipment and advanced packaging, which Citigroup believes will unlock shareholder value [1] - Citigroup's sum-of-the-parts (SOTP) analysis estimates a per-share value that exceeds the target price for ASMPT, indicating confidence in the company's transformation into a semiconductor equipment firm and the potential for its stock price to break historical valuation ranges [1]