Investment Rating - The investment rating for Midea Group Co Ltd. is Overweight, indicating that the stock's total return is expected to exceed the average total return of the analyst's industry coverage universe over the next 12-18 months [3][15]. Core Views - The report maintains 2025 forecasts largely unchanged due to consistent guidance, with slight reductions in 2026 revenue and net profit estimates by 1% to account for a higher base from trade-in subsidies amid macro uncertainties [2]. - The price target for Midea Group is set at Rmb95.00, with the stock currently priced at Rmb73.62, indicating a potential upside of approximately 29.04% [3][10]. - Midea's diversification into the B2B channel is expected to drive earnings growth alongside its home appliances business, supported by a consumer trade-in program that may enhance domestic sales [13]. Financial Estimates - The fiscal year ending estimates for Midea Group are as follows: - 2025e Sales/Revenue: Rmb452,452 million - 2025e Net Income: Rmb44,233 million - 2025e EPS: Rmb6.3 [20]. - Key earnings inputs for 2025 include: - AC volume growth: 7.0% - AC ASP growth: 2.0% - Air conditioners gross margin: 26.0% [18]. Valuation Metrics - The valuation for home appliances is based on a 2025e P/E of 15x, reflecting high earnings visibility and potential growth in the To-business segment [7]. - The report indicates that Midea is trading at a 30% discount to the consumer average, suggesting that the valuation gap should narrow due to reduced cyclicality and improved earnings visibility [14]. Market Trends - Midea is well-positioned to benefit from industry trends such as market consolidation, increased small appliance purchases, and growing online penetration [13]. - The report highlights potential upside from the To-B channel growth and overseas business expansion, alongside stimulus effects [6].

Investment Rating - The report downgrades the investment rating for Hua Hong Semiconductor Ltd from Overweight to Equal-weight [1][6][27] Core Insights - The rising depreciation burden and intense pricing competition in the 8-inch wafer market are expected to lead to gross margin erosion in 2025 and 2026, indicating that the stock appears fairly valued [1][6][38] - The company guided for 2Q25 revenue of US$550-570 million, with a gross margin forecast of 7-9%, reflecting a decline due to increased depreciation costs and the ramp-up of the new 12-inch fab [3][13] - The pricing environment for 8-inch wafers remains soft, which is likely to hinder gross margin recovery for Hua Hong [4][38] Summary by Sections Financial Performance - 1Q25 revenue was US$541 million, showing a 0.3% increase quarter-over-quarter but an 18% decrease year-over-year, with a gross margin of 9.2%, down 2.2 percentage points from the previous quarter [2][11] - The company reported a net income of US$4 million in 1Q25, a significant decline compared to the previous year [11] Guidance and Projections - For 2Q25, the company expects revenue to be between US$550-570 million, with a gross margin of 7-9%, indicating a continued decline in profitability [3][13] - The report revises the 2025 EPS estimate down by 14% but raises the 2026 and 2027 EPS forecasts by 5% and 6%, respectively, due to anticipated capacity and shipment growth trends [23][24] Market Dynamics - The report highlights that the 12-inch wafer demand remains strong, which may gradually drive up prices, while the 8-inch wafer market faces pricing pressure due to increased competition [4][38] - The acquisition of HLMC is noted, with plans for integration by 2026, focusing on overlapping mature-node business [5][38] Valuation - The price target for Hua Hong is raised to HK$34.00 from HK$32.00, reflecting changes in the EPS estimates for 2025-2027 [25][27] - The stock is currently trading at 1.2 times the estimated book value per share for 2025, which is considered fair compared to historical averages [27][39]

5 May 2025 | 5:01PM HKT China semis AI / Smart driving to outgrow Smartphone / Mature nodes; Downgrading Hwatsing and Maxscend to Neutral We are positive on China Semis, given; (1) generative AI support for China Semis' development across IP, design, foundry, advanced packaging, and SPE. We upgraded SMIC to Buy in Feb (report link), VeriSilicon and AMEC to Buy in Mar (report link), and Cambricon to Buy in Apr (report link); and, (2) autonomous driving due to BYD's smart EV and Robotaxi development trend. We ...

J P M O R G A N Asia Pacific Equity Research 27 April 2025 Futu Holdings Our thoughts on Ant Group set to take control of a retail broker in HK Futu's share price fell 6.4% on Friday (vs. KWEB index -0.2%), following the news that Ant Group is acquiring 50.55% stake in Bright Smart Securities (耀才 證券), a retail broker in HK (link). For details about Bright Smart Securities and comparison with Futu, please refer to Table 1Comparisn betwBrigh Smartnd Fuand Table 2Sumary ofkeprating dforFut andBright Smarecuits ...

Investment Rating - The investment rating for CGN Power Co., Ltd is Overweight [6][68]. Core Viewpoints - The approval of 10 new nuclear reactors in China aligns with expectations, supporting the goal of achieving a total nuclear capacity of 150GW by 2035 [3][4]. - CGN Power Co., Ltd owns four of the new reactor units, which will utilize Hualong No. 1 technology with a capacity of approximately 1.2GW each [2][4]. - China's nuclear capacity is projected to reach 110GW by 2030 and 200GW by 2040, making it the world leader in nuclear energy [4]. Summary by Sections Investment Overview - CGN Power Co., Ltd has a market capitalization of approximately RMB 122.42 billion and an enterprise value of RMB 313.49 billion [6]. - The price target for CGN Power is set at HK$2.81, with the current share price at HK$2.45 [6]. Industry Context - The construction of five new nuclear power projects, totaling 10 reactor units, has been approved, which is a slight decrease from the 11 units approved in 2024 [1][2]. - The trend of annual approvals of 8-10 units is expected to continue, facilitating China's nuclear capacity expansion [3]. Financial Metrics - The average daily trading value for CGN Power is approximately HK$228 million [6]. - The company is applying a P/E multiple of 13x on the estimated EPS for 2025, indicating a positive outlook based on accelerating project trends [10][11].

2Q25 Outlook: Finding Certainty In Uncertainty We expect tariff impact to weigh on the materials space in 2Q25. We prefer gold, cement, building materials and steel for 2Q25, and in 2H25 metals-related stocks may outperform when further stimulus comes through. April 22, 2025 09:00 PM GMT China Materials | Asia Pacific Demand showed signs of recovery in 1Q, outlook for 2Q is uncertain due to tariff concerns: Multiple signs show demand seems to have bottomed in China in 2024. 3M 2025 domestic excavator sales ...

Investment Rating - The report maintains an Overweight (OW) rating on Laopu Gold with a price target of HK$1,111.00 for December 2025, reflecting a significant upside potential from the current price of HK$804.00 [2][10][28]. Core Insights - Laopu Gold aims to become the No.1 gold brand globally, with plans to expand its boutique network significantly, targeting six to eight new boutiques in 2025, following seven new openings in 2024, bringing the total to 36 [1][10]. - The company has set a long-term sales target of Rmb1 billion per shopping mall, with expectations of achieving over Rmb300 million in 2024, driven by strong sales momentum and enhanced product offerings [1][10]. - Laopu Gold's market share in the heritage gold segment is currently at 2%, with expectations of substantial growth due to the fast-growing market and store expansion opportunities [10][28]. - The report highlights that over 60% of sales in 2024 are expected to come from new customers, indicating a low penetration rate among target customers [1][10]. - Despite potential negative impacts on gross profit margin (GPM) due to rising gold prices, the company plans to mitigate these through advance procurement and strategic price increases [1][10]. Summary by Sections Revenue and Earnings Estimates - Revenue estimates for 2025 have been increased from Rmb16,070 million to Rmb18,780 million, and for 2026 from Rmb22,288 million to Rmb26,172 million [3][9]. - The report anticipates a revenue growth of 59% and an EPS growth of 65% over the period from 2025 to 2027 [10][28]. Market Expansion and Product Innovation - Laopu Gold is focusing on expanding its presence in both domestic and international markets, with plans for boutiques in cities like Tokyo, Osaka, Kuala Lumpur, and Bangkok [1][10]. - The company is also emphasizing product innovation, with around 40% of its products expected to contribute to 70% of sales, indicating a strong focus on diversifying its product offerings [1][10]. Financial Metrics and Valuation - The report projects a gross margin of 41.2% for 2024, with expectations of maintaining a bottom line GPM of 40% [1][10]. - The DCF-based valuation suggests a price target of HK$1,111, implying a 33x forward P/E for the next 12 months [11][29].

Investment Rating - The investment rating for Laopu Gold is Equal-weight with a price target of HK$980.00, indicating a 22% upside from the current price of HK$804.00 [5]. Core Insights - Laopu Gold is a highly debated jewelry stock, with bullish investors focusing on short-term performance driven by gold prices and store openings, while bearish investors express concerns about long-term sustainability and execution risks [2][8]. - The report highlights a significant correlation between Laopu's stock valuation and gold prices, suggesting that Laopu could serve as a new proxy for gold investments [9][11]. Summary by Sections Bull vs. Bear Arguments - **Gold Price Impact**: Bulls argue that resilient gold prices will benefit Laopu, while bears warn that price volatility could lead to stock de-rating [3]. - **Fashion Risk**: Bulls believe Laopu's popularity reflects a lasting industry upgrade, whereas bears caution about the short cycles of fashion trends in China [3]. - **Store Opening**: Bulls see potential for revenue growth from new store openings, while bears highlight the risk of cannibalization and macroeconomic impacts on demand [3]. - **Execution Risk**: Bulls are optimistic about the founder's vision for store productivity, while bears question the feasibility of achieving such targets [3]. - **Competition**: Bulls note Laopu's established brand as a high-end heritage gold brand, while bears point out increasing competition with limited design differentiation [3]. - **Earnings Expectations**: Bulls project a net profit of Rmb6-7 billion for 2025, while bears suggest a lower consensus of Rmb3-4 billion, leading to concerns about high P/E ratios [3]. Financial Projections - For fiscal year 2025, Laopu is expected to generate a net profit of Rmb6-7 billion according to bullish estimates, with a projected P/E ratio of 18x [3][5]. - Revenue projections for 2025 are estimated at Rmb22.82 billion, with EBITDA expected to reach Rmb5.75 billion [5]. Market Dynamics - The report indicates that Laopu's revenue trends are largely supply-driven, with new store openings expected to contribute additional revenue with limited cannibalization [33]. - Laopu plans to expand its store presence both domestically and internationally, with openings in key locations such as Shanghai and Singapore [34]. Consumer Insights - A survey indicates that consumers primarily purchase gold jewelry for self-reward and daily wear, with product quality and design being the top factors influencing brand choice [12][16]. - Laopu is perceived positively in terms of product quality and brand heritage, which may enhance its competitive position in the market [17][19].

Investment Rating - The report maintains a "Buy" rating for Zai Lab (ZLAB) with a 12-month price target of $53.91, indicating an upside potential of 82.5% from the current price of $29.54 [10][11]. Core Insights - The competitive landscape for generalized Myasthenia Gravis (gMG) treatment is evolving, particularly with the positive Phase 3 results of telitacicept, which has implications for Zai Lab's efgartigimod [1]. - Efgar's competitive profile is highlighted by its quick treatment onset and durable symptom improvement, making it a favorable option for refractory gMG patients [1][4]. - Zai Lab is transitioning from a licensing-in model focused on China to a dual engine model that includes in-house development and global opportunities, which is expected to enhance its R&D progress [9]. Summary by Sections Competitive Landscape - The report discusses the competitive dynamics in gMG treatment, noting that while telitacicept shows deep patient response, efgar demonstrates quicker symptom relief, which is crucial for patient adoption [4][8]. - The treatment duration is a significant differentiator, with efgar accumulating clinical evidence for long-term usage, while RC18 is positioned as a long-term maintenance therapy [4][5]. Clinical Data Comparison - Efgar shows a mean change of -5.13 in MG-ADL score at week 21, compared to RC18's -5.74 at week 24, indicating efgar's quicker onset of symptom improvement [9]. - The report emphasizes the variability in placebo profiles across clinical trials, suggesting caution in cross-trial comparisons [8]. Market Position and Future Outlook - Zai Lab's efgar is positioned favorably due to its two-year lead in NRDL coverage and endorsements from clinical guidelines in both China and the US [8]. - The report anticipates that Zai Lab's global pipeline will attract more market interest starting in 2025, as the company becomes more selective in its licensing deals [9].

Investment Rating - The report maintains a "Buy" rating for Midea Group with a target price of RMB 93.00, corresponding to a 16x P/E ratio for 2025 [4][5][28]. Core Insights - Midea Group's management has guided a revenue growth of 5%-10% for 2025, with profit growth expected to be faster. The core home appliance business is anticipated to grow within this range, while overseas business is expected to grow faster due to OBM drivers. The 2B business is projected to grow at a double-digit rate [1][2]. - The company emphasizes continuous product structure upgrades as a key strategy for improving profitability, with high-end brands COLMO and Toshiba achieving RMB 15 billion in sales in 2024, a 30% year-on-year increase [2]. - Midea is focusing on its core business and plans to exit or stop operations in less profitable areas, reiterating its "focus on core" strategy initiated in 2022 [2]. Financial Projections - Revenue projections for Midea Group are as follows: - 2023: RMB 373.71 billion - 2024E: RMB 415.40 billion - 2025E: RMB 458.94 billion - 2026E: RMB 494.01 billion [7]. - The estimated CAGR for earnings from 2024E to 2026E is 12% [4]. Competitive Landscape - Midea acknowledges the competitive threat posed by Xiaomi, particularly in channel efficiency and "explosive product strategy." In response, Midea plans to enhance its channel capabilities and introduce more entry-level SKUs under the Hualing brand, which offer better technology and quality at lower prices [3]. Valuation Metrics - The report estimates a target price of RMB 93.00 based on a sum-of-the-parts (SOTP) valuation method, reflecting a 16x P/E ratio for 2025 [4][5]. - The stock is currently trading at RMB 74.30, indicating a potential upside of 25.2% [9]. Market Data - Midea Group's market capitalization is approximately RMB 511 billion (USD 69.7 billion) with a circulating share ratio of 97% [5]. - The average daily trading volume is 34,443 thousand shares, with an average daily turnover of RMB 2,532.9 million [5]. Dividend and Earnings - The projected earnings per share (EPS) for Midea Group are as follows: - 2024E: RMB 5.02 - 2025E: RMB 5.67 - 2026E: RMB 6.26 [7]. - The expected dividend per share for 2025 is RMB 3.74, yielding a net dividend yield of 5.0% [7]. Conclusion - Midea Group is positioned for steady growth driven by product upgrades and a focus on core business areas, with a favorable outlook for profitability and market performance in the coming years [1][2][4].