宁德时代与星云股份：新能源行业的“牌面”与“里子”

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the complex interrelationships within the lithium battery supply chain, particularly focusing on the deep ties between Ningde Times and Xingyun Co., highlighting how these relationships influence financial performance and investment strategies [2][4]. Group 1: Financial Dynamics - Ningde Times plans to raise approximately HKD 30.7 billion, with about 90% allocated for projects in Hungary, which may involve equipment procurement from Xingyun Co. [5] - Xingyun Co. recently completed a private placement raising about CNY 637 million, primarily for building a storage system and battery component manufacturing center in Ningde, closely tied to Ningde Times [7]. - Despite Xingyun Co. reporting a net loss of CNY 97.45 million in 2024 and over CNY 10 million in Q1 2025, its stock price increased by nearly 50% shortly after the private placement [11]. Group 2: Strategic Relationships - The capital interlock between Xingyun Co. and Ningde Times is evident, with significant investments from Ningde Times' affiliates in Xingyun's private placement, indicating a mutual benefit in their financial dealings [9][11]. - Xingyun Co.'s revenue heavily relies on Ningde Times, with 60.02% of its total revenue in 2022 coming from Ningde Times and its subsidiaries [12]. - The relationship extends beyond financial transactions, as key executives from both companies share personal and professional connections, enhancing collaboration opportunities [17][18]. Group 3: Market Position and Challenges - Xingyun Co. has faced declining profitability, with gross margins dropping from 45% in 2021 to 28% in 2022, and accounts receivable turnover days increasing significantly [14]. - The joint venture, Fujian Times Xingyun Technology, aimed at the "light-storage-charging-inspection" market, has struggled to achieve profitability despite growing revenues [19]. - New regulations mandating safety inspections for power batteries may create new business opportunities for Xingyun Co., potentially offsetting previous losses [21].