Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the conflict between Huaxi Biological and several securities firms regarding the comparison of hyaluronic acid and recombinant collagen protein, with Huaxi asserting that the notion of hyaluronic acid being outdated is a misleading narrative driven by "restless capital" [2][11]. Summary by Sections Company Background - Huaxi Biological, once a darling of the capital market, saw its stock peak at 313.1 yuan and market capitalization exceed 150 billion yuan, but has since experienced a significant decline, with its stock price dropping to 52.61 yuan and market cap to 25.3 billion yuan as of May 21 [3][12]. Market Dynamics - The rise of recombinant collagen protein companies like Juzhi Biological and Jinbo Biological has shifted capital focus, with these companies achieving record highs in stock prices [4][14]. - Huaxi Biological's performance has been declining, particularly in its functional skincare segment, while the recombinant collagen protein sector is experiencing rapid growth [4][20]. Securities Firms' Reports - Huaxi Biological criticized reports from nine securities firms that favor recombinant collagen over hyaluronic acid, claiming these reports mislead the market [6][9]. - Specific reports from Huatai Securities, Guojin Securities, and others highlighted the advantages of recombinant collagen, such as its biological features and safety, which Huaxi disputes [7][8]. Industry Trends - The market for recombinant collagen products in China is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 44.93%, reaching 58.57 billion yuan by 2025 [12]. - Huaxi Biological's sales of hyaluronic acid accounted for 44% of the global market in 2021, but its revenue has been declining due to challenges in its functional skincare business [12][17]. Financial Performance - Huaxi Biological's revenue and net profit have been declining, with 2023 revenue at 6.08 billion yuan and a net profit of 593 million yuan, reflecting a year-on-year decrease of 4.45% and 38.97%, respectively [17][18]. - The company's functional skincare revenue peaked in 2022 but has since dropped, leading to overall performance issues [17][19]. Strategic Response - In response to declining performance, Huaxi Biological is restructuring its management and focusing on core competencies, including a shift in branding and operational strategies [19][20]. - The company has also made acquisitions to enter the collagen market, although its recent acquisition has not yet proven profitable [20]. Competitive Landscape - The article notes that both hyaluronic acid and recombinant collagen have their respective advantages, with hyaluronic acid still holding a competitive edge in certain applications despite market challenges [21].