China Life-中国人寿：3Q NPAT boosted by net fair value gains; expect resilient full-year NBV upswing

Investment Rating - The report maintains a "BUY" rating for the company and raises the target price to HK $20.00 from HK$ 15.50, implying a 21.8% upside from the current price of HK $16.42 [1]. Core Insights - The company's 3Q net profit after tax (NPAT) increased significantly by 17.7% year-on-year to RMB66.2 billion, driven by net fair value gains, which surged 80 times year-on-year [1]. - The report revises FY24-26E EPS forecasts upward by 148%, 38%, and 31% to RMB4.45, RMB2.58, and RMB2.61 respectively, reflecting improved fundamentals and investment performance [1][3]. - The company is expected to achieve a 17% growth in new business value (NBV) for FY24, supported by margin expansions and a favorable product mix [1][3]. Summary by Sections Financial Performance - The company reported a total investment income (TII) of RMB261.4 billion in 9M24, a 152% increase year-on-year, with 3Q TII soaring 5.28 times year-on-year to RMB139.1 billion [1]. - In 9M24, NBV grew by 25.1% year-on-year, indicating strong growth momentum, particularly in 3Q24, where new business sales surged [1][3]. Valuation Metrics - The stock is currently trading at FY24E 0.41x P/EV and 0.91x P/BV, which are above the respective 3-year historical averages [1][4]. - The report indicates a fair value per share of HK$ 20.00 based on P/EV and P/B methodologies, reflecting a robust valuation outlook [4][13]. Growth Drivers - The company is expected to benefit from a favorable equity market environment, with a significant allocation to high-dividend yield stocks anticipated to smooth out profit volatility [1][10]. - The report highlights a stable agency force with improved productivity, contributing to the positive outlook for new business sales [1][3]. Future Outlook - Management anticipates a shift in product mix towards higher sum-assured whole life and participating products for FY25, which is expected to drive sales growth [1]. - The report projects continued margin expansion and a resilient NBV growth trajectory, supported by regulatory changes and improved underwriting product mix [1][3].