Asia Pacific Equity Research 04 March 2025 Humanoid Robot Expert Call Takeaways (Part II): Commercialization is closer than you think We hosted an expert call today (Mar. 4) with Dr. Nicholas Nadeau, a distinguished figure in the fields of AI and robotics. Dr. Nadeau, with his extensive experience as a former CTO and founder in high-impact tech sectors, has been at the forefront of developing humanoid robots and integrating AI into practical applications. His tenure as CTO of 1X (formerly Halodi Robotics) s ...

Investment Rating - The report indicates a positive investment outlook for the high-end equipment sector, particularly focusing on specific companies and segments that are expected to benefit from market trends and technological advancements [2]. Core Insights - The mechanical sector is experiencing significant trends influenced by market conditions and economic changes, with a focus on smart manufacturing and emerging technologies [3]. - Companies like Bafang and Jiechang are highlighted as potential investment opportunities due to their low valuations and underestimated growth prospects [3]. - The report emphasizes the importance of supply chain dynamics and the recovery of demand in various segments, including electric bicycles and composite materials [4][5][6]. Summary by Sections Electric Assist Bicycle Industry - The inventory cycle in the electric assist bicycle industry is nearing its end, with Bafang expected to see significant revenue growth in 2025 and 2026 due to increased demand from both new and existing customers [4][5]. Composite Material Industry - The industrialization of composite materials is accelerating, with major manufacturers placing significant orders. Capacity utilization is expected to reach full capacity by the second half of 2025, presenting investment opportunities in equipment and material companies [4][6]. Robotics and Smart Manufacturing - Ailite's strategic shift towards humanoid robot ecosystem development is noted, with a focus on its progress in smart manufacturing and the potential for a second growth curve [4][7]. - The report suggests that investors should pay attention to companies involved in humanoid robotics, particularly Ailite, as it navigates its strategic adjustments [8]. Engineering Machinery Sector - The engineering machinery sector is experiencing a flat upward cycle, with state-owned enterprises improving profitability through reforms. Companies like LiuGong are expected to benefit from these changes [4][21][24]. - The demand for engineering machinery is influenced by the real estate cycle, with expectations of a gradual recovery in demand [22]. Military Industry - The military sector is transitioning towards a focus on delivery assurance, with increased production tasks in areas such as aviation and missiles. The demand for materials is expected to grow significantly [4][27][29]. - The report highlights the importance of technological advancements in the military sector, particularly in unmanned and intelligent systems, as key areas for future investment [29]. Investment Recommendations - The report suggests focusing on leading companies in high-end equipment manufacturing with strong competitive positions and high barriers to entry, such as Yingjian Technology and Feilihua [30]. - Short-term investment strategies should target companies in the aerospace supply chain that are expected to show early recovery in demand and financial performance [30].

Investment Rating - The report indicates a positive outlook for stocks over commodities and bonds, suggesting a preference for equities in the current market environment [5]. Core Insights - Recent market style rotation has shifted towards small-cap and growth styles, influenced by various macroeconomic factors and market sentiment [3]. - The industry rotation model recommends sectors such as steel, media, integrated communications, retail, and pharmaceuticals, based on liquidity and research performance [4]. - Active quantitative stock selection strategies have shown varied performance, with small-cap strategies outperforming others [6][10]. Summary by Sections Market Style Rotation - The current market style is leaning towards small-cap growth, with macro indicators slightly favoring small caps and market sentiment benefiting growth styles [3]. - Key drivers include a decline in new investor numbers and macroeconomic indicators [3]. Recommended Industries - The recommended sectors for March include steel, media, integrated communications, retail, and pharmaceuticals, selected based on an optimized industry rotation model [4]. - Media, integrated communications, and pharmaceuticals excel in liquidity, while steel scores high in research performance [4]. Asset Allocation Views - The report suggests a hierarchy of asset allocation: stocks are preferred over commodities, which in turn are preferred over bonds [5]. - The overall sentiment towards stocks is optimistic, supported by macroeconomic indicators, although caution is advised due to potential resistance in major indices [5]. Active Quantitative Stock Selection Strategies - The small-cap digging strategy has shown the best performance, with a 9.9% return in February, significantly outperforming small-cap indices [6]. - The investment behavior quality evaluation strategy has also performed well, yielding a 9.9% return in February and over 10% year-to-date [7][8]. Growth Strategy Performance - The ChatGPTBoost growth selection strategy yielded a 4.5% return in February, with a slight excess return over equity fund indices [9]. - The strategy focuses on identifying stocks with improving profitability and sustainable ROE [9]. Future Strategy Recommendations - Future recommendations emphasize the high valuation and market participation of small-cap and growth strategies, suggesting continued focus on these areas [11]. - Specific strategies to watch include small-cap digging and XGBoost for growth selection [11].

Investment Rating - The report recommends an overweight allocation to leading companies in the chemical industry at this time [1] Core Viewpoints - The recovery of the real estate market is significantly supporting the demand for chemical materials, particularly in new and second-hand home renovations, with a notable increase in transaction volumes in major cities [3][4] - Anticipated policy measures from the upcoming Two Sessions are expected to benefit the chemical industry, particularly in refining and ethylene sectors, by optimizing industrial layout and increasing high-end capacity supply [3][4] - The cost pressures on chemical companies have substantially eased due to a significant decline in coal prices and oil prices, which enhances profitability [4] - The valuation of leading chemical stocks is at historical lows, with the price-to-book ratio of CITIC's segmented chemical leaders at only 2.03 times, indicating potential for value re-evaluation [5] - 2025 is projected to be a pivotal year for the petrochemical industry, with capital expenditures declining and new capacity releases concluding, leading to a gradual improvement in industry conditions [6] Summary by Sections Real Estate Market Impact - The real estate market has shown signs of stabilization, with a 3% year-on-year increase in transaction volume across 30 major cities and a 45% increase in second-hand home transactions in key cities, which supports chemical demand [3][4] Policy Expectations - The upcoming Two Sessions may introduce favorable policies for the chemical industry, focusing on eliminating outdated capacity and enhancing high-end production [3][4] Cost Pressure Relief - Recent declines in coal prices (down 200-300 RMB/ton) and oil prices (around $70/barrel) have significantly reduced cost pressures for major chemical companies, improving their profitability [4] Valuation Insights - The current price-to-book ratio for leading chemical stocks is at a low historical level, suggesting a disconnect between stock prices and fundamental improvements, indicating potential for upward valuation adjustments [5] Industry Outlook - The chemical industry is expected to enter a recovery phase post-2025, following a three-year down cycle, with capital expenditures decreasing and new capacity reaching its peak [6] Company-Specific Developments - Wanhua Chemical is facing challenges but has strong fundamentals in its MBIA business, with prices for key products at high levels, indicating potential for profit growth [7][8] - Hualu Hengsheng's urea business is performing well with over 3 million tons of capacity and improving profitability despite price fluctuations [12] - Longbai Group is expected to see improved profitability due to limited global titanium ore supply and increased production capacity [21] - Baofeng Energy is benefiting from lower coal prices, leading to significant profit growth in its coal-to-olefins projects [22]

Investment Rating - The report provides a cautious outlook for the electricity sector in 2025, indicating a potential weakening compared to 2024, with a focus on both pressures and opportunities in the market [1][4]. Core Insights - The electricity sector is expected to face pressures from a slowdown in electricity demand growth, projected at 5.5% to 6% for 2025, down from a compound annual growth rate of 7% in previous years [2][3]. - The report highlights three main opportunities within the sector: strong policy support for new energy, stricter market capitalization management for state-owned enterprises, and the potential for long-term investments in quality assets during market corrections [4][5][6]. Summary by Sections Electricity Sector Overview - The report discusses the overall electricity market dynamics, noting that the installed capacity growth has significantly outpaced electricity demand growth from 2021 to 2024, leading to a more relaxed supply-demand balance [2][3]. - A comprehensive decline in electricity prices has been observed, particularly affecting thermal power, which has implications for the revenue of electricity companies in 2025 [3][4]. New Energy Opportunities - The report emphasizes the ongoing government support for the new energy sector, suggesting that policies will continue to evolve towards high-quality development rather than rapid expansion [6][7]. - The introduction of a new pricing mechanism for renewable energy projects is expected to stabilize profitability and encourage investment in the sector [7][8]. Market Dynamics and Investment Strategies - The report identifies a shift in market sentiment, with increased risk appetite among investors, which may lead to reduced demand for defensive assets like electricity stocks [4][5]. - It suggests that investors should focus on undervalued stocks in the renewable energy sector, particularly those with strong fundamentals and potential for recovery as policies are implemented [9][10]. Long-term Growth Potential - The report highlights the potential for offshore wind energy as a promising investment area, with expectations for significant project approvals and stable returns [10][11]. - It also discusses the importance of nuclear power in the long-term energy mix, projecting stable growth and profitability for leading nuclear companies [16][17]. Solar Energy Insights - The solar energy sector is expected to see a gradual recovery in demand, with projections for growth in installations despite potential short-term fluctuations [19][20]. - The report notes that technological advancements and competitive dynamics will play a crucial role in shaping the future of the solar market [27][28]. Supply Chain and Production Trends - The report indicates that supply chain dynamics are improving, with a focus on maintaining production levels amid market fluctuations [24][25]. - It also highlights the importance of new technologies in enhancing production efficiency and reducing costs in the solar sector [31][32].

Investment Rating - The report indicates a positive outlook for the market, particularly highlighting a structural bull market driven by sentiment and expectations, with a technical bull market defined by a price increase exceeding 20% [4][5][6]. Core Insights - The report emphasizes the ongoing revaluation of Chinese assets, with significant attention on foreign capital flows and their potential impact on market dynamics [2][22]. - It identifies three key characteristics of the current market: sentiment-driven, expectation-driven, and structurally focused, suggesting that the market is heavily influenced by a few leading technology stocks [4][6][19]. - The report also discusses the importance of understanding the structural nature of the market, where only a small percentage of stocks are outperforming the index, indicating a narrow base for the market rally [5][6]. Summary by Sections Market Performance - The market has shown a strong upward trend, with the Hang Seng Index reaching new highs, particularly driven by technology stocks [2][3]. - Recent fluctuations in capital flows, including significant inflows and subsequent outflows, reflect investor sentiment and market volatility [3][8]. Foreign Capital Dynamics - Foreign capital has been increasingly active, with notable inflows observed, particularly in the technology sector, suggesting a potential for further investment [9][10]. - The report estimates that foreign capital allocation to Chinese stocks is currently low, indicating substantial room for growth if conditions improve [12][13]. Structural Market Characteristics - The report highlights that the current market is characterized by a structural bull market, where a limited number of stocks are driving the overall index performance [5][6]. - It notes that understanding the dynamics of these leading stocks is crucial for investors aiming to outperform the market [6][19]. Investment Strategy Recommendations - Investors are advised to focus on sectors with clear structural trends, particularly technology, while being cautious of market sentiment fluctuations [15][21]. - The report suggests a balanced approach, advocating for strategic entry during market dips and careful monitoring of market conditions [15][21].

Investment Ratings - Sanhua is rated as Buy, LeaderDrive and Moons' Electric are rated Neutral, and Best Precision is downgraded to Neutral from Buy [2][4][5][20]. Core Insights - The report updates market share expectations for key humanoid robot supply chain stocks, reflecting a more optimistic outlook for Sanhua, while indicating increased competition for Best Precision [1][4]. - Sanhua is expected to achieve a market share of 70% in the high-spec humanoid robot actuator assembly business by 2025E-30E, up from a previous estimate of 50% [2]. - LeaderDrive's net income forecasts for 2024E-30E have been revised up by up to 21% due to its entry into the PRS business, projecting a 5% global market share [4]. - Best Precision's long-term global PRS market share forecast has been revised down to 10% from 15% due to anticipated competition [4][21]. - Moons' Electric is expected to see an 8% increase in net income forecasts for 2024E-30E, driven by potential upgrades in content value [5]. Company Summaries Sanhua - Sanhua is a leader in HVAC control and thermal management components, with a strong growth potential in the auto/EV sector [33]. - The 12-month target price for Sanhua is set at Rmb36.5, based on a 21x 2030E P/E [34]. LeaderDrive - LeaderDrive is recognized as a domestic leader in China's harmonic reduction gear market, with a focus on expanding its applications [41]. - The 12-month target price for LeaderDrive is Rmb134.6, based on a 45x 2030E P/E [42]. Best Precision - Best Precision aims to become a competitive supplier of planetary roller screws for humanoid robots, with a projected 10% global market share starting in 2027E [37]. - The 12-month target price for Best Precision is Rmb28.2, based on a 32x 2030E P/E [38]. Moons' Electric - Moons' Electric is positioned to become a key player in the humanoid robot coreless motor supply chain, with expectations for increased revenues from coreless motor applications [45]. - The 12-month target price for Moons' Electric is Rmb53.3, based on a 37x 2030E P/E [46].

Investment Rating - Envicool and Kehua are rated as Buy, while Kstar is rated as Neutral [2][12][22] Core Insights - Alibaba's significant increase in capital expenditures, amounting to Rmb31.8 billion (approximately US$4.35 billion) in Q4 2024, reflects a 260% year-over-year growth and an 80% quarter-over-quarter growth, primarily driven by cloud infrastructure investments [2][7] - The anticipated increase in cloud revenue and capital expenditures from Alibaba, a leading hyperscaler in China, is expected to positively impact the demand and supply dynamics within the Chinese data center industry [2][12] - Envicool and Kehua are highlighted as having substantial revenue exposure to data center and server markets, with 54% and 37% of their total revenue in 2024E coming from these sectors, respectively [2][12] - Kstar's revenue exposure to data centers is 62%, but it is split between domestic and international markets, leading to a Neutral rating due to lower exposure to internet and cloud customers [2][12] Summary by Company Envicool - Envicool specializes in precision cooling technology for data centers and energy storage systems, benefiting from the digital economy and carbon reduction trends in China [14] - The company is expected to see strong revenue growth driven by the adoption of liquid cooling technologies, particularly in the context of increasing investments in generative AI [14][16] - The 12-month target price for Envicool is set at Rmb30.2, based on a 2025E P/E of 25x [16] Kehua - Kehua is a leader in the Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) market in China, with a 13% domestic market share and a 3% global market share as of 2022 [18] - The company is expected to achieve revenue and net income CAGRs of 20% and 25% respectively from 2023E to 2025E, driven by growth in the energy storage system sector [18][19] - The 12-month target price for Kehua is Rmb22.2, based on a 2025E P/E of 15x [19] Kstar - Kstar focuses on electric power conversion technology, holding the largest UPS shipment in China for 21 years, with a 9% domestic and 3% global market share in 2022 [22] - The company is projected to deliver revenue and net income CAGRs of 17% and 9% respectively from 2023E to 2025E, primarily driven by growth in PV inverters and residential energy storage systems [22][23] - The 12-month target price for Kstar is Rmb18.2, based on a 2025E P/E of 15x [23]

Investment Ratings - Alibaba: Buy with a 12-month target price (TP) raised to US$160/HK$156 from US$117/HK$114 [1] - Xiaomi: Buy with a 12-month TP increased to HK$58 [2] - Humanoid Robots: Buy-rated companies include Harmonic Drive, Sanhua & Tuopu [6] - Rio Tinto: Buy with a 12-month TP of A$143.70 [10] - NetEase: Buy with a 12-month TP of US$116/HK$181 [11] - Bilibili: Buy with a 12-month TP raised to US$23.7/HK$185 [11] - Laopu Gold: Buy with a new 12-month TP of HKD553 [11] - Mengniu Dairy: Buy with a 12-month TP raised to HK$23.60 from HK$21.80 [13] - Tokyo Electron: Buy with a 12-month TP of ¥35,000 [14] - Foxconn Industrial: Buy with a 12-month TP of Rmb25.84 [15] - BYDE: Buy with a 12-month TP of HK$67.05 [15] Core Insights - Alibaba's eCommerce profits are stabilizing, with a significant upside from AI and cloud services, leading to an increase in revenue growth forecasts for Alibaba Cloud [1] - Xiaomi is enhancing its AI capabilities and expanding its ecosystem, resulting in increased revenue forecasts for 2025-26E by 4%-7% [2] - The global humanoid robot industry is transitioning to volume production, with a potential total addressable market (TAM) of US$38 billion to US$205 billion by 2035E [6] - China's "Two Sessions" are expected to maintain a GDP growth target of "around 5%" and increase the fiscal deficit target to 4.0% of GDP, indicating a focus on fiscal expansion [8] - The Chinese property market shows signs of bottoming, with better policy execution needed to support recovery and increase household confidence [8] Summary by Company Alibaba - 3QFY25 results exceeded expectations, leading to a TP increase and a Buy rating [1] - Cloud revenue growth forecast raised to +23%/+25% for FY26/27E [1] Xiaomi - Positioned to leverage AI for expanding its ecosystem, with revenue forecasts raised by 4%-7% [2] - EPS forecasts lifted by 17-20% due to improved profitability in IoT and EV sectors [2] Humanoid Robots - Industry entering volume production phase with significant demand growth anticipated [6] - Preferred stocks include Harmonic Drive, Sanhua & Tuopu [6] Rio Tinto - 2024 results in line with estimates, maintaining a Buy rating with a strong cash flow outlook [10] NetEase - Strong performance in PC games offsetting mobile slowdown, leading to a Buy rating [11] Bilibili - First positive GAAP profit quarter, positioned to benefit from AI and advertising growth [11] Laopu Gold - Profit warning indicates higher productivity, leading to a TP increase [11] Mengniu Dairy - Strong core profit delivery amid low cycle, with earnings estimates revised up [13] Tokyo Electron - Expected growth driven by advanced memory investments, maintaining a Buy rating [14] Foxconn Industrial - Positive outlook on cloud computing business and AI server shipments [15] BYDE - Anticipated growth in automotive electronics supported by smart driving adoption [15]

• 上周五美股大跌，道琼斯指数创去年 10 月以来最大单周跌幅，油价下跌 3%，美债收益率下降，美元小幅回升，日元大幅上涨，显示市场避险情绪 升温，可选消费、科技、工业和能源板块领跌。 • 密歇根大学消费者信心指数降至一年来新低 64.7，引发市场对消费支出 （占美国经济总需求 70%）的担忧，主要原因是通胀预期增加和对未来失 业率上升的担忧。 • 美联储会议纪要显示，若通胀预期持续上升，可能采取更激进的货币政策， 但近期疲软经济数据可能促使其放缓甚至停止缩表，以应对潜在经济放缓 风险。 • 美国劳动力市场和服务业出现警讯，华盛顿特区初次申请失业金人数连续 两周上升，服务业 PMI 指数意外跌破荣枯线至 49.7，反映出政府削减支出 带来的外溢效应。 • 沃尔玛发布谨慎业绩指引后股价大跌，引发市场对家得宝、TJX Companies 和塔吉特等其他零售商未来业绩的担忧，加剧了上周五的市 场跌势。 Q&A 上周美国股市出现了较大波动，能否详细分析一下具体情况及其背后的原因？ 上周美国股市经历了从喜悦到悲伤的剧烈波动。上周三，标普 500 指数一度创 下新高，但到了周五却大幅下跌 1.7%，这是自今年 1 月以来 ...