Investment Rating - The report assigns a "Buy" rating for China Feihe (06186.HK) for the first time [1]. Core Views - The company is positioned as a leading domestic infant formula producer, with a significant turnaround in performance expected in 2024 due to channel reforms and a focus on high-end products [8]. - The company has a strong cash position and plans to increase its dividend payout ratio to 76% in 2024, highlighting its commitment to shareholder returns [8]. - The infant formula industry is anticipated to rebound, driven by a recovery in birth rates and a sustained trend towards premiumization [8]. Summary by Sections 1. High Dividend and Performance Turnaround - China Feihe is one of the earliest milk powder companies in China, focusing on infant formula and maintaining a leading market share [14]. - The company has experienced a significant decline in performance from 2021 to 2023 but is expected to show improvements in 2024, with revenue and net profit projected to grow by 6.2% and 5.3% respectively [20][19]. - The company’s dividend payout ratio has increased from 40.2% in 2019 to 76% in 2024, indicating a strong focus on returning value to shareholders [32]. 2. Strategic Focus on Premium Products and Channel Management - The company has shifted its focus to high-end products, with the ultra-premium "Xing Fei Fan" series accounting for 75% of its infant formula revenue in 2024, up from 22% in 2016 [8][36]. - Marketing strategies include high-profile promotions and enhanced consumer engagement, leading to a strong brand presence in the market [49]. - The company has improved its channel management, particularly in the maternal and infant sectors, and has expanded its online presence post-pandemic [8]. 3. Industry Demand Recovery and Market Position - The infant formula market in China is expected to see a marginal recovery, with a projected decline of only 1.2% in 2025, influenced by a rebound in birth rates [8]. - China Feihe holds a 17.5% market share in the infant formula sector, indicating room for growth compared to international competitors [8]. - The company is enhancing its channel control and product offerings, particularly with the "Xing Fei Fan" series, which is expected to drive revenue growth and improve profit margins [8]. 4. Financial Forecast and Valuation - Revenue forecasts for China Feihe are projected at 221.7 billion, 236.3 billion, and 251.7 billion yuan for 2025, 2026, and 2027 respectively, with corresponding net profits of 38.7 billion, 43.0 billion, and 47.3 billion yuan [1]. - The company’s price-to-earnings ratio is expected to decrease from 13x in 2025 to 10x in 2027, indicating a potentially undervalued stock compared to peers [8].
中国飞鹤：千帆过尽，鹤鸣九皋