Minsheng Securities·2025-03-11 06:06Investment Rating - The report maintains a "Buy" rating for the companies involved, specifically recommending Northern Huachuang and Xinyuanwei, as well as other platform-oriented leading equipment manufacturers such as Tuojing Technology and Zhongwei Company [4]. Core Insights - The semiconductor equipment sector is entering an accelerated phase of mergers and acquisitions, driven by regulatory support and the need for domestic manufacturers to enhance their competitive edge through consolidation [2][3]. - Northern Huachuang's acquisition of a stake in Xinyuanwei is expected to strengthen its product line, as Xinyuanwei is a leading domestic player in the photolithography coating and developing segment, with a comprehensive product range that includes advanced packaging and cleaning equipment [1][2]. - Xinyuanwei is projected to achieve a revenue of 1.77 billion yuan and a net profit of 211 million yuan in 2024, while Northern Huachuang's revenue is expected to range between 27.6 billion yuan and 31.78 billion yuan in the same year [1][2]. Summary by Sections Mergers and Acquisitions - The report highlights that the semiconductor equipment sector is likely to see an increase in mergers and acquisitions, particularly after the regulatory changes that encourage technology companies to pursue controlling acquisitions [2]. - Historical examples from overseas, such as KLA and Lam Research, illustrate that mergers and acquisitions are a common strategy for growth in the equipment sector [2]. Company Performance Forecast - Northern Huachuang is expected to have an EPS of 10.44 yuan in 2024, with a PE ratio of 44, while Xinyuanwei is projected to have an EPS of 1.05 yuan and a PE ratio of 84 for the same year [4]. - Other companies mentioned, such as Tuojing Technology and Zhongwei Company, also have favorable EPS and PE projections, indicating a positive outlook for the sector [4].