Investment Rating - The report provides a positive outlook for the Hong Kong food and beverage sector, indicating potential investment opportunities in resilient companies within the industry [2][9]. Core Insights - The report outlines six phases of the Hang Seng Consumer Staples Index, highlighting the cyclical nature of the industry and the impact of external factors such as economic conditions and policy changes on consumer demand [3][4][28]. - The analysis emphasizes the importance of identifying resilient stocks in the food and beverage sector, particularly in the upstream farming and downstream dairy product industries, as they are expected to benefit from market dynamics and policy support [6][7][53]. Summary by Sections Phase Review of the Hang Seng Consumer Staples Index - Phase 1: Downward trend due to slowing GDP and reduced consumer demand, leading to a decline in the index [3]. - Phase 2: Strong recovery driven by global economic recovery and improved earnings of leading consumer staples companies [3]. - Phase 3: Period of volatility influenced by trade tensions and tightening global liquidity [3]. - Phase 4: Rapid increase in the index due to the rigid demand for essential consumption during the pandemic [3]. - Phase 5: Continuous decline influenced by repeated pandemic disruptions and rising raw material costs [4]. - Phase 6: Valuation recovery initiated by domestic consumption policies and inflow of long-term capital [4][28]. Investment Opportunities in the Food and Beverage Sector - Upstream farming opportunities are highlighted, with a focus on the dairy and beef sectors, where prices are expected to stabilize and rise due to supply constraints and recovering demand [6][44]. - Downstream dairy product opportunities are supported by recent policies aimed at boosting demand and improving market competition, which will benefit leading companies in the sector [7][53]. Investment Recommendations - Companies such as Yurun Agriculture (09858.HK) and Modern Farming (01117.HK) are recommended for their strong cash flow and potential to benefit from the anticipated recovery in raw milk prices [9][57]. - The report suggests that policy support will create upward momentum for companies like Mengniu Dairy (02319.HK) and H&H International Holdings (01112.HK), which are positioned to capitalize on market opportunities [10][57]. - The potential for industry restructuring and the emergence of leading companies is noted, particularly in the coconut water segment, with recommendations for IFBH (06603.HK) [11][58].