贝壳：To ride on the policy tailwind in 4Q

Investment Rating - The report maintains a "BUY" rating for Ke Holdings (BEKE US) with a target price raised to US$23.30 from US$21.50, indicating a potential upside of 15.2% from the current price of US$20.23 [3]. Core Insights - Ke Holdings reported a revenue increase of 27% year-over-year (YoY) to RMB22.6 billion for Q3 2024, although this was slightly below consensus estimates due to mixed performance in existing home transactions [1]. - The company is expected to benefit from favorable policies in Q4 2024, with guidance indicating over 40% YoY growth in both existing and new home transaction volumes [1]. - The report highlights the company's proactive expansion strategy, which has led to an increase in fixed costs but is expected to enhance long-term value through improved employee compensation and social responsibility initiatives [1]. Financial Performance Summary - Revenue for FY24E is projected at RMB91.0 billion, with a YoY growth of 17.1%, and net profit is expected to be RMB5.19 billion [2]. - Non-GAAP net profit for Q3 2024 was RMB1.8 billion, with a margin of 7.9%, aligning with estimates [1]. - The company anticipates a non-GAAP net profit of RMB2.2 billion for Q4 2024, reflecting a margin of 7.7% [1]. Business Segment Performance - Existing home transaction (EHT) gross transaction value (GTV) rose 9% YoY but fell 17% quarter-over-quarter (QoQ), while new home transaction (NHT) GTV increased by 18.5% YoY, outperforming the industry [1]. - The report notes a divergence in performance between EHT and NHT businesses, with EHT facing challenges due to low transaction sentiment [1]. Future Outlook - The report projects continued growth in both EHT and NHT segments, driven by recent policy support and market share gains [1]. - The company plans to invest RMB1.2 billion over the next 3-4 years in staff welfare and social insurance for agents, which is expected to enhance its long-term value [1].