Investment Rating - The report initiates coverage on Yuehai Investment with a "Buy" rating and sets a target price of HKD 9.10, corresponding to a 2025 target PE of 14.0 times [1][7]. Core Views - Yuehai Investment is a high-quality water utility platform controlled by Guangdong state-owned assets, with its core asset being the Dongshen Water Supply Project, which has undergone significant structural changes since 1997 [1]. - The company has a strong free cash flow and is expected to maintain high dividend returns following the divestment of Yuehai Land [1][19]. Summary by Sections Investment Highlights - The Dongshen Water Supply Project is a premium asset, accounting for nearly 80% of Hong Kong's freshwater supply, with a projected revenue of HKD 63.60 billion in 2024, representing 34% of total revenue [20]. - The company has turned positive in free cash flow since 2023, with projections of HKD 92.29 billion in 2024, and maintains a high dividend payout ratio of 65% [21]. - The divestment of Yuehai Land allows the company to focus on its core water business, enhancing stability and potentially increasing valuation [22]. Valuation and Financial Projections - The DCF valuation of the Dongshen Water Supply Project is estimated between HKD 450 billion and HKD 620 billion, with a stable profit contribution from other water resources and businesses [2][23]. - The forecasted net profit for 2025-2027 is HKD 42.18 billion, HKD 43.97 billion, and HKD 45.76 billion, with corresponding EPS of HKD 0.65, HKD 0.67, and HKD 0.70 [5][11]. Market Perspective - The report contrasts with market concerns regarding the uncertainty of the Dongshen project's operating rights renewal, water pricing, and transaction pricing, asserting that the renewal visibility is strong due to the project's historical significance [4][23]. - The report emphasizes that the water pricing will remain reasonable despite rising costs, as the Hong Kong Water Supplies Department aims to adjust water pricing cautiously [4][23].
粤海投资（00270）：稀缺对港供水资产，聚焦主业价值提升