COSCO SHIP HOLD(601919) 高盛证券·2024-10-10 13:39Investment Rating - The report maintains a Neutral rating for COSCO SHIPPING Holdings (601919.SS) with a 12-month price target of Rmb13.80 for A-shares and HK$10.70 for H-shares [1][2][4] Core Views - COSCO SHIPPING Holdings reported a strong 9M24 net profit of Rmb38bn, up 73% YoY, accounting for 87% of the full-year Bloomberg consensus of Rmb43bn [1] - Q3 net profit surged 286% YoY and 110% QoQ to Rmb21.3bn, driven by higher contract rates for Europe routes due to rerouting amid the Red Sea disruption [1][3] - The company's new pricing strategy, which includes more floating adjustments on contract rates, contributed to the earnings beat [1][3] - The FY24 dividend yield of 8.8%/12.0% for A/H-shares is attractive, trading above its historical average [1] Financial Performance - Revenue for 12/24E is projected at Rmb230.3bn, with EBITDA expected to reach Rmb74.2bn [2] - EPS for 12/24E is forecasted at Rmb2.62, with a P/E ratio of 6.0x [2] - The company's net debt/EBITDA ratio is expected to improve to -1.5x by 12/24E [2] Industry and Market Context - The average SCFI (Shanghai Containerized Freight Index) for Europe and Med routes increased by 308% YoY and 86% from March-May, reflecting higher freight rates [1][3] - The Red Sea disruption has led to longer voyage times, delaying revenue recognition for Europe routes, with Q3 revenue reflecting freight rates from June to August [1][3] - Fuel costs, historically 15-20% of total opex, decreased by 2% QoQ in Q3, contributing to higher profits [3] Valuation and Risks - The 12-month price targets are based on 0.8x/1.1x FY25E target P/BV multiples, above historical averages, reflecting higher ROE expectations due to supply chain complexity [7] - Upside risks include unexpected events reducing effective capacity and potential special dividend payouts [7][8] - Downside risks include faster-than-expected new ship deliveries and weaker-than-expected global trade demand [7][8] Freight Rate Analysis - The SCFI Comprehensive index stood at 2,135 as of 27-Sep-24, with Europe and Med routes showing significant YoY increases of 279% and 242%, respectively [6] - US West Coast and East Coast freight rates also saw substantial YoY growth, at 265% and 140%, respectively [6]