GOLDEN SUN SECURITIES·2026-01-21 09:19Investment Rating - The report maintains a "Buy" rating for Li Ning Company [6] Core Views - The signing of the Chinese Olympic Committee in the first half of 2025 marks the beginning of a new product and marketing cycle for Li Ning, with potential for brand strength recovery and performance improvement [1][14] - Despite short-term pressures from fluctuating consumer environments, the company is positioned for a potential upward trend in stock price if revenue or profit improves in the medium to long term [1][4] Company Overview - Li Ning's revenue and net profit for the first half of 2025 are projected at 14.8 billion and 1.7 billion yuan, respectively, reflecting a year-on-year change of +3.3% and -11% [1][15] - The company has faced challenges since 2022, with a decline in brand revenue in the third and fourth quarters of 2025 [1][15] - The current channel structure is primarily wholesale, with revenue contributions of 46% from wholesale, 23% from direct sales, and 29% from e-commerce as of the first half of 2025 [15] Industry Trends - The demand for sports footwear and apparel among residents is resilient, with a projected market size of 260.2 billion yuan by 2024 and a CAGR of 9% from 2025 to 2029 [2] - The diversification and specialization of sports participation are becoming more pronounced, with increased demand for professional products driven by rising participation in running and social sports [2] Competitive Strength - The Olympic cycle is expected to enhance Li Ning's brand power and strengthen sponsorship in niche categories [2][3] - The company is focusing on professional running shoes and outdoor products, which are anticipated to contribute to revenue growth [3][4] Product Insights - In the first half of 2025, the revenue breakdown by category is as follows: running (34%), basketball (17%), training (16%), and sports lifestyle (29%), with running and training categories showing a growth of 15% each [3][15] - Li Ning is emphasizing the development of running shoes and enhancing the technological attributes of its training series [3] Channel Insights - As of the first half of 2025, Li Ning operates 4,821 franchise stores and 1,278 direct stores, with plans to open new store types focusing on Olympic and outdoor series products [3] - E-commerce revenue grew by 7% year-on-year to 4.3 billion yuan, accounting for 29% of total revenue, indicating a stable growth strategy in this channel [3] Profit Forecast and Investment Recommendations - The projected net profits for Li Ning from 2025 to 2027 are 2.742 billion, 2.901 billion, and 3.302 billion yuan, with growth rates of -9%, +5.8%, and +13.8%, respectively [4][5] - The current market capitalization corresponds to a PE ratio of 17 times for 2026, suggesting potential for valuation improvement as the company's Olympic marketing strategy and product optimization continue [4]