NHU(SZ:002001) HTSC·2025-10-29 05:10Investment Rating - The investment rating for the company is maintained at "Buy" with a target price of RMB 25.68 [1][4]. Core Views - The company's performance is supported by the strong profitability of methionine and steady growth in new materials and flavoring businesses. The third-quarter net profit exceeded expectations due to increased investment income [1][4]. - The company achieved a revenue of RMB 55.4 billion in Q3, a year-on-year decrease of 7%, while the net profit attributable to shareholders was RMB 17.2 billion, down 4% year-on-year [1][2]. - The gross margin for the first three quarters of 2025 increased by 6 percentage points to 46%, primarily due to the price increase of methionine and lower costs of propylene and methanol [2][4]. Summary by Sections Financial Performance - In the first three quarters of 2025, the company reported a revenue of RMB 166 billion, up 5% year-on-year, and a net profit of RMB 53.2 billion, up 33% year-on-year [1][2]. - The Q3 average market prices for vitamins A and E decreased significantly, while methionine prices increased by 2% year-on-year, contributing to improved profitability [2][3]. Market Outlook - The vitamin prices are at a five-year low, but the supply dynamics for methionine remain favorable, suggesting sustained high profitability. The company’s joint venture project for methionine is expected to ramp up production in Q4 [3][4]. - The company’s earnings are projected to continue growing, with net profit forecasts for 2025, 2026, and 2027 at RMB 66 billion, RMB 72 billion, and RMB 80 billion, respectively [4][10]. Valuation - The company is valued at a 12x PE ratio for 2025, with a target price adjustment from RMB 27.82 to RMB 25.68, reflecting the current market conditions [4][10]. - The estimated EPS for 2025 is RMB 2.14, with a projected ROE of 19.46% [10].