Zhongyuan Expressway(SH:600020) Hua Yuan Zheng Quan·2025-06-26 06:18Investment Rating - The report assigns a "Buy" rating for the company, indicating a positive outlook based on its asset optimization and growth potential [4][6]. Core Views - The company is expected to benefit from a young asset structure and value reassessment driven by asset optimization. The focus on operational efficiency and network expansion is anticipated to enhance revenue and profitability [4][5][8]. Summary by Relevant Sections Financial Performance - The company forecasts revenue of RMB 6,825 million for 2025, with a slight decline of 2.06% year-on-year, followed by a recovery to RMB 7,017 million in 2026 and RMB 7,438 million in 2027. Net profit attributable to shareholders is projected to grow from RMB 1,002 million in 2025 to RMB 1,150 million in 2027, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.32% [4][6]. - The company’s earnings per share (EPS) is expected to increase from RMB 0.45 in 2025 to RMB 0.51 in 2027, with a price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio decreasing from 10.92x to 9.52x over the same period [4][6]. Business Structure - The company primarily operates toll roads, with toll revenue accounting for approximately 63.98% of total revenue in 2024. The construction service segment contributes 33.22%, while real estate sales account for only 1.25% [5][15]. - The company has a total of 808 kilometers of managed highways, with a weighted average remaining toll collection period of 17.04 years, providing ample time for traffic growth and revenue generation [5][42]. Dividend Policy - The company emphasizes shareholder returns, committing to a minimum cash dividend payout ratio of 40% of net profit from 2025 to 2027. The dividend payout ratio was 40.42% in 2023 and is expected to rise to 43.40% in 2024 [5][35]. Market Position - The company benefits from a strategic location in Henan Province, a key transportation hub in China, enhancing its operational advantages and potential for traffic growth [5][36]. - The company is part of the Henan Transportation Investment Group, which holds a significant share of the province's toll road assets, providing a strong backing for its operations and growth prospects [12][57].