CKI HOLDINGS(HK:01038)2024-09-12 06:03Investment Rating - The report maintains an "Outperform" rating for CK Infrastructure Holdings [3][12]. Core Insights - The company completed its secondary listing on the London Stock Exchange and is accelerating its M&A activities, including the acquisition of Phoenix Energy and several renewable energy assets [11][12]. - The first half of 2024 saw a profit of HK$4.577 billion, a year-on-year increase of 1.46%, with significant contributions from joint ventures [9][10]. - The target price has been raised to HK$61.37, reflecting a PE ratio of 19 times for 2024, based on expected net profits of HK$8.458 billion, HK$8.764 billion, and HK$8.825 billion for 2024-2026 [12]. Financial Performance - Revenue for 2024 is projected at HK$7.537 billion, with a slight increase of 2% compared to the previous year [4][8]. - Net profit is expected to grow from HK$8.027 billion in 2023 to HK$8.458 billion in 2024, representing a 5% increase [4][8]. - The gross profit margin (GPM) is forecasted to remain stable around 88.8% for 2024 [4][8]. Segment Performance - The UK segment reported a profit of HK$1.865 billion, up 17% year-on-year, driven by lower financing costs [10]. - The Canadian segment experienced a profit decline of 25% to HK$301 million due to falling electricity prices [10]. - The Australian segment's profit increased by 5% to HK$864 million, while the New Zealand segment rose by 11% to HK$80 million [10]. M&A Activities - The company has accelerated its M&A activities, including the acquisition of a solar power station and multiple wind farm assets in the UK, with an estimated investment of HK$3.5 billion [11][12]. - The acquisition of Phoenix Energy, Northern Ireland's largest gas distribution network, was completed at a valuation of HK$7.4 billion [11].