CHALCO(601600) 汇丰·2025-04-30 02:08Investment Rating - The report maintains a "Buy" rating for Aluminum Corp of China (Chalco) H/A shares, with target prices adjusted to HKD6.10 for H-shares and RMB9.80 for A-shares, implying upside potentials of approximately 42% and 48% respectively [5][40]. Core Insights - Chalco reported a net profit after tax (NPAT) of approximately RMB3.5 billion in 1Q25, reflecting a 5% quarter-on-quarter increase and a 59% year-on-year increase, attributed to better-than-expected sales volume and average selling prices (ASP) for aluminum and alumina [1][9]. - The company expects capital expenditures of RMB14.8 billion in 2025, focusing on wind power projects and new alumina production sites, while aiming to increase green power usage from 47% in 2024 to 55% in 2025 [2][9]. - Despite solid fundamentals for aluminum, earnings are expected to decline by approximately 12% in 2025 due to lower alumina prices, with the alumina price already below breakeven levels [3][9]. Financial Performance - In 1Q25, Chalco's sales volumes for self-produced aluminum decreased by 5% quarter-on-quarter, while alumina sales increased by 6% quarter-on-quarter. However, revenue and gross profits fell by 12% and 29% quarter-on-quarter respectively due to a significant drop in alumina prices [1][31]. - The company recorded a decrease in selling, general and administrative (SG&A) expenses by 6% year-on-year and 66% quarter-on-quarter, indicating effective cost control [1][31]. - Investment income rose by RMB0.37 billion in 1Q25, driven by higher alumina prices year-on-year and gains from hedging [36]. Production and Operational Strategy - Chalco's aluminum production operating rate reached 95% in China, supported by demand from electric vehicles, batteries, and solar products [3][9]. - The company plans to relocate alumina production from inland to coastal provinces to reduce transportation costs and expects to close down 1-2 million tons of alumina production in 2025 [2][34]. - Chalco aims to optimize its alumina capacity of 25 million tons by utilizing lower-cost imported bauxite, which may lead to some impairment losses [34]. Market Outlook - The report anticipates steady aluminum prices in 2025, supported by robust demand from the "New Three" sectors, while alumina prices are expected to have limited downside due to their current low levels [3][9]. - The coal price and electricity costs remained weak in 1Q25, which may benefit Chalco's operational costs [3][9].