Goldman Sachs·2026-02-12 09:40Investment Rating - The report maintains a "Buy" rating for SMIC (00981) with a target price of HKD 134, implying a projected P/E ratio of 71.6x for 2028. The target price for SMIC A-shares (688981.SH) is set at RMB 241.6, reflecting a 196% premium over the H-share valuation [1]. Core Insights - The report expresses a positive long-term outlook for SMIC, driven by increasing demand from domestic non-foundry customers and opportunities in AI [1]. - In Q4 of the previous year, SMIC's revenue increased by 4% quarter-on-quarter to USD 2.5 billion, exceeding both the bank's and market expectations by 3%, and surpassing management's guidance of 0% to 2% growth. The gross margin was 19%, aligning with management's guidance of 18% to 20% [1]. - Revenue growth was primarily attributed to a 1% increase in wafer shipments and average selling prices, while the gross margin decreased from 22% in the previous quarter due to higher depreciation and amortization expenses [1]. Management Guidance - For Q1 of this year, management expects revenue to remain flat quarter-on-quarter, which is in line with the bank's forecast of 2% growth and market expectations of flat revenue. The gross margin guidance for Q1 is maintained at 18% to 20%, slightly below the bank's expectation of 21.7% and market expectation of 20.9% [1]. - For the full year, management anticipates revenue growth to exceed the average level of comparable peers, with capital expenditures expected to remain flat year-on-year. The bank believes there is potential for upward revision in this guidance [1].