Summary of ZTO Express Conference Call Company Overview - **Company**: ZTO Express (ZTO.N) - **Industry**: Transportation & Infrastructure in Hong Kong/China Key Points and Arguments Market Share and Competition - ZTO has gained market share in Q4 2025, achieving low-teens year-over-year volume growth quarter-to-date, outperforming the industry due to a decrease in low-value parcels in the market [4][12] - Management believes that market competition has improved, with leading players resuming share gains, which was a positive surprise compared to expectations of stable market shares due to customer lock-up [2][4] - ZTO is not participating in aggressive pricing competition, which is deemed irrational for smaller players with thin margins and weak balance sheets [5][12] Financial Performance - 3Q25 net profit exceeded expectations due to tax credits, while gross profit and operating profit missed estimates [3] - Adjusted EBITDA was in line with expectations, and excluding tax benefits, unit profit increased quarter-over-quarter [3] - The 2025 volume outlook was slightly lowered due to a slowdown in market volume growth [3] Earnings Forecasts and Price Target - EPS forecasts for 2025-2027 have been raised by 3%, 6%, and 4% respectively, reflecting the 3Q25 results and healthier average selling price dynamics [6][15] - The weighted average cost of capital (WACC) assumption was slightly lowered to 13.2% from 13.3% due to a decrease in the cost of debt [6][16] - The price target has been increased by 5% to US$25.00, implying a 13x 2026 estimated P/E, which is below the domestic peer average of 16x [6][16] Shareholder Returns and Capital Expenditure - ZTO expects higher absolute shareholder returns year-over-year, assuming no irrational competition [14] - Capital expenditure guidance for 2025 is approximately Rmb5.5-6 billion, expected to decline to Rmb5 billion in 2026 [14] Risks and Opportunities - Risks still exist, but the company is optimistic about achieving both market share gain and profit growth in 2026 [5][29] - The retail business handles over 9 million daily parcels, representing 8-9% of total volume, with management targeting a higher retail parcel mix in 2026 [13] - Potential mergers and acquisitions are being considered as a growth option [14] Valuation and Investment Thesis - ZTO is viewed as a long-term winner in the industry, with attractive risk-reward dynamics, trading at 11x 2026 estimated P/E and a forward free cash flow yield of 7-8% compared to a peer average of 1% [7][29] - The company’s market leadership in volume and unit profitability supports a positive outlook, with a moderate probability of achieving both market share gain and profit growth [24][29] Additional Important Information - The effective tax rate is expected to be 18%, with a significant reduction in tax expenses noted [17] - The company’s market cap is currently Rmb107,605 million, with an average daily trading value of US$10 million [9] - The stock price closed at US$18.97 on November 19, 2025, indicating a 32% upside to the new price target [9] This summary encapsulates the key insights from the ZTO Express conference call, highlighting the company's performance, market dynamics, and future outlook.

Summary of Conference Call Notes Industry Overview - **Global Market Trends**: Recent adjustments in global risk assets, particularly in US stocks and Bitcoin, with significant declines noted. The Shanghai Composite Index fell below its upward trend line, but the Federal Reserve's signals of easing have reduced the risk of further declines in the short term [3][1]. Key Points by Industry Transportation Sector - **Impact of Japan-China Relations**: The transportation sector faced challenges due to reduced flights on Japan-China routes. However, the three major airlines were minimally affected as this route only accounts for a small percentage of their total flights. Spring Airlines and Juneyao Airlines experienced larger adjustments, while Huaxia Airlines remained unaffected [5][1]. Express Delivery Industry - **October Data and Financial Performance**: The express delivery sector showed positive trends with October data and ZTO's Q3 financial report. YTO Express had the fastest growth rate at 13%, while Shentong Express grew by over 4%, and Yunda Express saw a decline of 5%. The overall outlook for the sector remains optimistic, with expectations of continued growth into Q1 2026 [6][1]. Shipping Industry - **Freight Rates and Future Outlook**: The shipping sector saw freight rates reach multi-year highs before a slight correction. The peak season may last longer than expected, with further potential for rate increases. Key companies to watch include China Merchants Energy Shipping and Hainan Airlines [7][8]. Chemical Industry - **Current Market Conditions**: The CCPI index remained stable, while crude oil prices fell, leading to a decline in the chemical output index. The fourth quarter is typically a demand lull, with price sustainability needing validation in Q1 2026. Key sub-sectors include polyester filament and viscose staple fiber, with specific companies recommended for investment [11][12][17]. Lithium and Battery Materials - **Price Increases and Demand**: Lithium hexafluorophosphate prices surged to 167,000 CNY/ton, with significant increases in electrolyte and additive prices. The demand for energy storage is expected to drive profitability, with a recovery anticipated in 2026. Recommended companies include Sinoma Technology and Lianhua Technology [14][12]. Coal Industry - **Market Performance and Future Expectations**: The coal sector experienced a significant drop of 5.67%, with some companies like China Shenhua showing resilience. Despite short-term declines, the long-term fundamentals remain unchanged, and there are opportunities in quality stocks [21][22]. Organic Silicon and Soda Ash - **Market Dynamics**: The organic silicon industry reached a consensus on production cuts, with prices rising. The soda ash market saw price increases following production halts. Both sectors are expected to improve significantly by 2026, with key companies highlighted for investment [16][12]. Additional Insights - **Investor Confidence**: Jitu International's management has been actively repurchasing shares to bolster investor confidence, particularly in Southeast Asia and emerging markets [9][10]. - **Investment Recommendations**: The call emphasized focusing on high dividend-paying coal companies and other resilient sectors, suggesting a strategic approach to navigating potential market fluctuations [25][10]. This summary encapsulates the key insights and recommendations from the conference call, providing a comprehensive overview of the current market landscape across various industries.

Investment Rating - The investment rating for ZTO Express (2057.HK) is "Buy" [1] Core Views - The report highlights that ZTO Express achieved a year-on-year growth of 9.8% in parcel volume for Q3 2025, driven by a strong performance in the bulk parcel segment, which saw nearly 50% growth year-on-year [3][6] - The company adjusted its full-year parcel volume growth target down to 12.3% to 13.8%, reflecting a more cautious outlook while emphasizing quality and market share expansion [5] - The report suggests that the express delivery industry still has significant growth potential, particularly in the context of e-commerce and the ongoing "anti-involution" trend, which shifts focus from quantity to quality [6] Summary by Sections Financial Performance - For the first three quarters of 2025, ZTO Express reported total revenue of 34.588 billion yuan, a year-on-year increase of 10.3%, with adjusted net profit of 6.818 billion yuan, down 8.1% year-on-year [2] - In Q3 2025, the company achieved revenue of 11.865 billion yuan, up 11.1% year-on-year, and adjusted net profit of 2.506 billion yuan, up 5.0% year-on-year [2] Operational Metrics - In Q3 2025, ZTO Express handled 9.573 billion parcels, marking a 9.8% increase year-on-year, with a market share of approximately 19.4%, maintaining the leading position in the industry [3] - The average revenue per parcel in Q3 was 1.15 yuan, reflecting a 2.3% increase year-on-year, attributed to improved pricing dynamics due to the "anti-involution" trend [3] Cost and Profitability - The cost per parcel in Q3 was approximately 0.59 yuan, down 8.5% year-on-year, with significant reductions in line-haul and sorting costs [4] - The adjusted net profit per parcel was 0.262 yuan, down 4.3% year-on-year, but up 25.6% quarter-on-quarter, indicating improved profitability trends [4] Future Outlook - The report projects adjusted net profits for ZTO Express to be 9.870 billion yuan in 2025, with growth rates of -2.08%, 14.21%, and 11.11% for the following years [7] - The company is expected to leverage its scale and operational efficiencies to achieve stable growth in both parcel volume and profitability [7]

Core Viewpoint - Zhongtong Express reported a third-quarter revenue of 11.86 billion yuan, with a year-on-year increase of 11.1% and a quarter-on-quarter increase of 0.3% [1] - The significant growth in profitability is attributed to the "anti-involution" policy leading to an increase in express delivery prices [1] Financial Performance - The net profit attributable to shareholders for the third quarter was 2.52 billion yuan, reflecting a year-on-year increase of 5.3% and a quarter-on-quarter increase of 30.2% [1] - Adjusted net profit for the third quarter was 2.49 billion yuan, with a year-on-year increase of 3.6% and a quarter-on-quarter increase of 22.9% [1] - For the first three quarters, the company's net profit attributable to shareholders was 6.46 billion yuan, showing a year-on-year increase of 0.3%, while the adjusted net profit was 6.73 billion yuan, down 9.2% year-on-year [1] Volume and Pricing Trends - In the third quarter, the company completed a delivery volume of 9.57 billion parcels, with a year-on-year increase of 9.7% but a quarter-on-quarter decrease of 2.8% [1] - The average revenue per parcel in the third quarter was 1.22 yuan, with a quarter-on-quarter increase of 0.02 yuan [1] - The company expects a 10.1% quarter-on-quarter increase in delivery volume for the fourth quarter, driven by the traditional e-commerce peak season [1] Cost and Profitability - The average cost per parcel in the third quarter was 0.91 yuan, with a quarter-on-quarter increase of 0.09 yuan [2] - The adjusted operating profit per parcel was 0.25 yuan, down 0.08 yuan year-on-year but stable quarter-on-quarter [2] - The company anticipates further cost reduction potential in the long term due to economies of scale and automation [2] Industry Outlook - The "anti-involution" policy is expected to shift the express delivery industry from a focus on volume growth to high-quality development [2] - The overall growth rate of delivery volume in the industry is slowing, with a reported year-on-year increase of 7.9% in October [2] - Zhongtong Express, as a market leader with a 19.4% market share, is expected to be less affected by the reduction in low-value parcel demand [2] Valuation Adjustments - The profit forecasts for 2025, 2026, and 2027 have been raised by 10%, 5%, and 2% respectively, with adjusted net profit forecasts also increased [3] - The valuation multiple has been lowered to 15.2x for 2025E PE, and the target price has been reduced by 10% to 185.9 HKD / 23.9 USD [3]

Core Points - The article highlights the launch of the "Zhenheyi·Gongnuan'xin'" service brand by the Zhenjiang Municipal Federation of Trade Unions to enhance the influence, cohesion, and service capacity of labor unions for new employment forms [1][7] - The service system includes a comprehensive organizational network and five service packages aimed at improving the sense of gain, happiness, and belonging among new employment form workers [1][7] Group 1: Organizational Network - The establishment of a city-level union for internet, road transport, and delivery workers in Zhenjiang is a pioneering move in the province, with full coverage of county-level unions planned by 2024 [2] - The "scan to join" initiative and the launch of a comprehensive service center for new employment form workers have made it easier for workers to join unions and access services [2] - The municipal union has equipped new industry unions with social workers and provided subsidies to stimulate grassroots activity [2] Group 2: Service Infrastructure - The construction of a "15-minute service circle" with 25 24-hour smart service stations has been implemented to provide convenient rest and refreshment options for outdoor workers [3] - The new comprehensive service center integrates various resources to offer one-stop services, becoming a "spiritual home" for new employment form workers [3] - Initiatives like "one yuan noodles" and the establishment of "union canteens" aim to enhance the welfare of workers [3] Group 3: Rights Protection - The introduction of the "Courier Workers Care Day" and the "Courier Workers Care Subsidy Measures" has provided financial support and emotional care for workers facing difficulties [4][5] - Legal aid stations have been established to protect the legal rights of new employment form workers, with significant financial assistance provided [5] - A democratic consultation mechanism has been created to address workers' grievances and improve management practices [5] Group 4: Growth Empowerment - Various activities and competitions have been organized to enhance the skills and personal development of new employment form workers, fostering a sense of community and growth [6] - The union has implemented programs for educational advancement and mental health support, contributing to the overall development of workers [6] - The focus on both material support and personal growth reflects a commitment to improving the quality of life for workers in new employment forms [6]

Core Insights - The report highlights a significant increase in VLCC (Very Large Crude Carrier) freight rates, reaching a new high, driven by a notable decline in Russian oil exports, which has created additional demand for oil transportation from the Middle East to India and China [3][4] - The report suggests a positive outlook for the transportation sector, particularly in shipping and aviation, with recommendations for specific companies such as China Merchants Energy and COSCO Shipping Energy [3][4] - The report emphasizes the importance of monitoring seasonal trends in freight rates, particularly the potential for a "not-so-dull" off-season from December to February [3] Industry Overview - The transportation index has decreased by 5.00%, underperforming the CSI 300 index by 1.23 percentage points, with the express delivery sector showing the smallest decline at -2.75% and the public transport sector experiencing the largest drop at -9.35% [4][11] - The shipping sector has shown mixed performance, with the Baltic Dry Index increasing by 5.67% while the coastal dry bulk freight index fell by 3.47% [4][11] - The report notes that the average freight rate for VLCCs has risen by 5% week-on-week, reaching $126,371 per day, with the Middle East to Far East route hitting a new high of $138,144 per day [3][4] Shipping Sector Insights - The report indicates that the average freight rate for the fourth quarter is approaching $99,000 per day, marking it as one of the highest quarterly averages in history [3] - The decline in Russian oil exports has been significant, dropping from nearly 4 million barrels per day to around 3 million barrels per day, which has increased demand for oil from the Middle East [3][4] - The report also highlights the recovery of chartering activities following the Bahri conference, with shipowners beginning to control capacity due to tightening supply [3] Aviation Sector Insights - The report discusses the unprecedented challenges in the aircraft manufacturing supply chain, with an aging fleet expected to persist over the next 5-10 years, leading to constrained supply [3] - It anticipates a significant improvement in airline profitability as capacity is allocated to international routes, suggesting a potential golden era for airlines [3] - Recommendations include major airlines such as China Eastern Airlines and Spring Airlines, which are expected to benefit from these trends [3] Express Delivery Sector Insights - The express delivery industry is entering a new phase of competition, with three potential scenarios outlined: price recovery leading to utility-like profitability, continued competitive pressure, or higher-level consolidation [3] - Companies such as Shentong Express and YTO Express are highlighted as having strong potential due to their competitive advantages and market positioning [3] High Dividend Stocks in Transportation - The report lists high dividend yield stocks in the transportation sector, including Bohai Ferry with a yield of 8.08% and China Railway with a yield of 3.95% [21] - The focus on high dividend stocks is seen as a stable investment strategy amidst market fluctuations [21]

Core Viewpoint - The rapid adoption of unmanned delivery vehicles in the logistics industry is driven by their cost-effectiveness and operational efficiency, particularly in remote areas where traditional delivery methods are less viable [1][3][5]. Group 1: Cost Efficiency and Operational Benefits - Unmanned vehicles can operate with lower costs compared to traditional delivery methods, saving significant amounts on fuel, labor, and maintenance [6][7]. - For instance, using unmanned vehicles can save approximately 25,000 yuan in fuel, 20,000 yuan in insurance and maintenance, and another 20,000 yuan in labor costs annually [7]. - The ability to deliver smaller quantities of packages efficiently makes unmanned vehicles particularly advantageous in sparsely populated areas [2][6]. Group 2: Market Growth and Adoption - The number of unmanned delivery vehicles is expected to exceed 6,000 by the end of 2024, significantly outpacing other autonomous vehicle applications like unmanned taxis [3]. - Major logistics companies such as Zhongtong, Jitu, and Shunfeng are investing heavily in unmanned vehicles, with Zhongtong alone deploying nearly 3,000 units [3][8]. - The cost of unmanned vehicles has decreased significantly, with prices dropping from over 1 million yuan in 2018 to around 40,000 to 70,000 yuan by 2025 [22][23]. Group 3: Technological Advancements - Continuous improvements in technology, including hardware and software, are enhancing the reliability and efficiency of unmanned vehicles [11][23]. - Companies are innovating their business models, such as offering lower hardware prices combined with software subscription services, making it more accessible for logistics providers [23] - The deployment of unmanned vehicles is not limited to rural areas; urban centers like Shenzhen and Qingdao are also integrating them into their logistics networks [8][12]. Group 4: Regulatory Environment and Challenges - The successful operation of unmanned vehicles is contingent upon local government regulations and the establishment of road rights [15][16]. - While some cities have embraced unmanned delivery vehicles, the distribution of these approvals is uneven across the country [15]. - The logistics industry is actively engaging with local governments to ensure compliance and safety measures are in place for unmanned vehicle operations [14][17]. Group 5: Future Outlook - Despite existing concerns regarding safety and operational challenges, the long-term outlook for unmanned vehicles in the logistics sector remains positive [25][26]. - The industry is witnessing a shift towards more automated and efficient delivery systems, with ongoing support from government initiatives aimed at promoting the use of unmanned vehicles [26][27].

Investment Rating - The industry investment rating is "Positive" [39] Core Viewpoints - The growth rate of express delivery volume has decreased to a low level, with October's national express service business volume reaching 17.6 billion pieces, a year-on-year increase of 7.9%, marking the lowest growth rate of the year [1][10] - The decline in the growth rate is attributed to a decrease in the enthusiasm for this year's Double Eleven shopping festival, as consumers are becoming more rational and impulsive spending is reduced due to prolonged promotional periods and consumption downgrade [2][7] - The express delivery companies are showing a divergence in strategies, with companies like Yunda experiencing a significant drop in growth rate, while companies like YTO maintain a relatively high growth rate due to a strong desire to increase market share [2][17] - The average revenue per piece for the major express companies has continued to rise, but the extent of the increase varies among companies, indicating a clear differentiation in strategies [3][28] Summary by Sections 1. Overview of the Industry - In October, the express delivery business volume reached 17.6 billion pieces, with a year-on-year growth of 7.9%. The same-city business volume decreased by 7.4%, while the intercity business volume increased by 9.6% [10][20] - The trend of "anti-involution" has been forming since July, leading to a significant decline in growth rates [7][10] 2. Express Delivery Volume - The express delivery volume growth rate has further declined in October, which is believed to be related to the cooling of the Double Eleven shopping festival [10][17] 3. Average Revenue per Piece - The average revenue per piece for the major express companies has shown a continued increase, with Shentong, YTO, and Yunda experiencing month-on-month increases of 2.8%, 0.9%, and 4.5% respectively [28][29] - The average revenue per piece for the industry has seen a year-on-year decline of 3.0% [26][28] 4. Structural Changes - The industry concentration ratio (CR8) in October was 87.0, an increase of 1.8 compared to the same period last year, indicating a slight increase in market concentration [35][36] 5. Investment Recommendations - The current anti-involution trend is expected to have strong sustainability, leading to a high-quality transformation in the industry. Companies are encouraged to focus on service quality rather than solely on volume [39]

Core Viewpoint - Cathay Securities has given ZTO Express (02057) an "Accumulate" rating with a target price of HKD 195.99, highlighting the company's "co-building and sharing" concept as a solid foundation for a stable franchise network, which will help maintain its leading position in the industry [1]. Group 1: Business Model and Network Stability - The "co-building and sharing" concept was introduced by ZTO Express in 2010, and by 2015, the company had transitioned some major franchisees into shareholders, making it the first and only company in the express delivery sector to do so. This alignment of interests has fostered trust and stability within the network, contributing to ZTO's leadership in the industry [2]. Group 2: Investment in Core Assets - Since 2013, ZTO Express has benefited from significant early investments in sorting and other equipment, along with effective network management, leading to a steady increase in market share. By 2016, the company achieved a market share of 14.4%, and it has continued to invest in core assets (land, facilities, vehicles, sorting equipment) while maintaining efficient network management, securing its position as the industry leader [3]. Group 3: Balanced Development - The company focuses on achieving a balance between business volume, market share growth, and profitability, while effectively managing costs. Following improvements in the industry landscape, ZTO has successfully increased both business volume and profit per shipment [4]. Group 4: Financial Forecast and Investment Recommendations - Cathay Securities projects ZTO Express's revenue for 2025-2027 to be HKD 471.07 billion, HKD 516.85 billion, and HKD 577.06 billion, representing year-on-year growth of 6%, 10%, and 12%, respectively. The net profit attributable to shareholders is expected to be HKD 95.65 billion, HKD 106.33 billion, and HKD 119.29 billion, with year-on-year growth of 8%, 11%, and 12%. The estimated EPS for these years is HKD 11.89, HKD 13.22, and HKD 14.83. The target price of HKD 195.99 corresponds to a 15x P/E ratio for 2025, supporting the "Accumulate" rating [5].

Core Viewpoint - Cathay Securities gives ZTO Express (02057) a "Buy" rating with a target price of HKD 195.99, highlighting the company's "co-building and sharing" concept as a solid foundation for a stable franchise network, which will help maintain its leading position in the industry [1]. Group 1: "Co-Building and Sharing" Concept - ZTO Express introduced the "co-building and sharing" concept in 2010 and transitioned major franchisees to shareholders by 2015, becoming the first and only express delivery company to do so, aligning interests and establishing trust, which enhances network stability and supports its industry leadership [2]. Group 2: Early Capital Investment - Since 2013, ZTO Express has benefited from significant early investments in sorting and other equipment, coupled with effective network management, leading to a steady increase in market share, which reached 14.4% in 2016, and has maintained the top position in the industry through continued investment in core assets [3]. Group 3: Balanced Development of Volume, Profit, and Cost - The company focuses on growing business volume and market share while maintaining profitability and managing costs effectively, resulting in simultaneous increases in business volume and profit per shipment following improvements in the industry landscape [4]. Group 4: Profit Forecast and Investment Recommendations - The firm forecasts ZTO Express's revenue for 2025-2027 to be HKD 471.07 billion, HKD 516.85 billion, and HKD 577.06 billion, with year-on-year growth rates of 6%, 10%, and 12% respectively. Net profit is projected to be HKD 95.65 billion, HKD 106.33 billion, and HKD 119.29 billion, with corresponding EPS of HKD 11.89, HKD 13.22, and HKD 14.83. The target price of HKD 195.99 corresponds to a 15x P/E ratio for 2025, supporting a "Buy" rating [5].