Core Viewpoint - CICC has raised the net profit estimates for Nine Dragons Paper (02689) for FY26-27 by 32% and 39% to 3.6 billion and 4.0 billion HKD respectively, due to higher-than-expected self-produced pulp output and profit per ton [1] Group 1: Financial Performance - The company's net profit for 1HFY26 is expected to be between 2.15 billion and 2.25 billion HKD, with a core profit of 1.95 billion to 2.05 billion HKD, representing a year-on-year increase of 315%-337% [2] - The company is projected to achieve sales of approximately 12 million tons, with a net profit per ton of around 160 HKD, driven by lower self-produced pulp costs and higher output [2] Group 2: Market Trends - The market for corrugated paper is recovering steadily, with significant price increases expected in the second half of 2025 due to rising waste paper prices and the traditional peak season [3] - The company is positioned as the largest player in the corrugated paper market in China, holding about 25% market share, which enhances its earnings potential as the sector recovers [3] Group 3: Production Insights - The company plans to produce 3 million tons of pulp in FY25, with expectations of over 2 million tons in 1HFY26, which is a key driver for the anticipated strong performance [4] - The company’s self-produced pulp supply rate is nearly 100%, allowing it to achieve excess profits compared to peers, with expected average net profit per ton for white paper exceeding 300 HKD [4] Group 4: Financial Quality Outlook - The company is nearing the completion of its capital expenditure cycle, with planned spending of around 11 billion HKD for FY26, which is lower than previous years [5] - The company’s financial quality is expected to improve significantly in FY26, supported by enhanced profits and cash flow [5]
中金：维持玖龙纸业跑赢行业评级 上调目标价至9港元