HTSC·2025-11-19 03:05Investment Rating - The report maintains a "Buy" rating for the company with a target price of $14.13, down from a previous value of $14.74, reflecting a price-to-earnings (PE) ratio of 7.5 times the adjusted net profit for 2026 [7][17]. Core Insights - The company's 3Q revenue decreased by 4.8% year-over-year to $442 million, aligning with consensus expectations, while adjusted net profit fell by 20% to $111 million, also meeting forecasts. Management expenses decreased due to a one-time bad debt recovery, but a loss is expected in 4Q [1][5]. - The company is focusing on enhancing AI capabilities, with significant growth in monthly active users (MAU) and daily active users (DAU) driven by new features and improved advertising integration [2][4]. - Advertising revenue in 3Q declined by 6% to $375 million, slightly below expectations, with notable growth in e-commerce and local life sectors, while the automotive sector may face challenges due to reduced subsidies [3][4]. Summary by Sections Financial Performance - 3Q revenue was $442 million, down 4.8% year-over-year, while adjusted net profit was $111 million, down 20% [1][12]. - Advertising revenue decreased by 6% to $375 million, with VAS revenue increasing by 1.6% to $67 million [3][12]. - The company expects a slight improvement in advertising revenue growth due to upcoming major events in 2026 [1][5]. User Engagement and AI Integration - The company reported 70 million MAU and significant growth in DAU and search volume, with AI features enhancing user interaction [2][4]. - The integration of AI in advertising processes has led to a 30% consumption rate of AI-generated materials in information flow bidding ads by the end of October [2]. Profitability and Forecasts - Adjusted net profit forecasts for 2025-2027 have been revised to $450 million, $449 million, and $491 million, respectively, reflecting a decrease in expected sales expenses [5][13]. - The report anticipates challenges in the automotive and 3C sectors due to weakening subsidies, impacting revenue growth [5][13]. Valuation - The target price of $14.13 corresponds to a PE ratio of 7.5 times the adjusted net profit for 2026, which is significantly lower than the average PE of 24 times for comparable global companies, attributed to liquidity issues and slower revenue growth [17][18].