2024-10-17 13:03Investment Rating - The report maintains an "OUTPERFORM" rating for China Resources Gas with a target price of HK$37.94, up from the previous target [3][10]. Core Insights - The company has experienced steady growth in gas sales driven by residential and commercial users, with total retail gas sales volume increasing by 5.3% year-on-year to 20.9 billion cubic meters in the first half of 2024 [8][9]. - Revenue for the first half of 2024 reached HK$20.08 billion, a 7.7% increase from the previous year, while operating profit rose by 18.3% to HK$5.56 billion [7][9]. - The integrated energy business has shown comprehensive growth, enhancing revenue and profitability through diversification into kitchen appliances, insurance, and home products [9][10]. Financial Summary - The company reported a net profit of HK$3.46 billion for the first half of 2024, a decrease of 2.5% year-on-year, with gross margin at 18.6% and operating profit margin at 10.7% [7][8]. - For FY24-26, the main operating revenue is adjusted to HK$102.65 billion, HK$108.36 billion, and HK$114.39 billion, with corresponding net profits of HK$5.43 billion, HK$5.70 billion, and HK$5.98 billion [10]