Summary of Key Points from the Conference Call Industry Overview - The focus is on the next-generation immuno-oncology (IO) therapeutics, which include bi/trispecific PD-1/VEGF, PD-1/IL-2, and PD-1/VEGF/CTLA4 candidates that have the potential to significantly alter cancer treatment landscapes [1][11][19]. Market Potential - The total addressable market (TAM) for next-generation IO products is estimated to exceed US$62 billion, driven by the expiration of key patents like Keytruda and Opdivo in 2028 [2][19][24]. - The current market for PD-1 IO therapies is projected to reach over US$50 billion, with significant growth expected as new candidates enter the market [11][19]. Company-Specific Insights Akeso Inc (9926.HK) - Akeso's ivonescimab has demonstrated statistically significant improvements in progression-free survival (PFS) in the HARMONi-2/HARMONi-6 trials, with promising overall survival (OS) data [2][29]. - Target price (TP) raised to HK$185 from HK$98, reflecting strong revenue growth and a robust pipeline [5][31]. - The company has achieved significant revenue of Rmb2.1 billion in 2024 and has transitioned from a high-risk rating to a buy rating [5][31]. Innovent (1801.HK) - Innovent's IBI363 has shown promising data in IO-treated non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and is expected to launch pivotal trials in 2H25 [2][32][33]. - TP increased to HK$105 from HK$90, with a focus on next-generation IO and antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) combinations [5][34]. 3SBio (1530.HK) - 3SBio is developing SSGJ-707 (PD-1/VEGF) and is expected to present more data in upcoming meetings [27]. - TP raised to HK$36 from HK$21, reflecting increased peak sales forecasts [5][28]. Shanghai Junshi Biosciences (1877.HK) - Junshi is conducting Phase 2 studies for JS207, with data expected in 3Q25 [35]. - TP adjusted to HK$32 from HK$17, indicating growth potential [5][36]. Sino Biopharmaceutical (1177.HK) - Sino Biopharmaceutical announced the acquisition of LaNova Medicines to enhance its innovative pipeline [37]. - TP increased to HK$8.80 from HK$6.20, reflecting progress in drug development [5][38]. Investment Opportunities and Risks - There are numerous business development (BD) opportunities as multinational corporations (MNCs) seek to replenish their pipelines with new drugs [3][24]. - The expiration of patents for leading IO products creates a competitive landscape, necessitating innovation and strategic partnerships [3][24]. Clinical Data and Progress - Promising clinical data for next-generation IO candidates, including head-to-head comparisons, have garnered investor interest [11][16]. - The report emphasizes the importance of clinical data in determining market share and probability of success (PoS) for each candidate [4][18]. Conclusion - The next-generation IO space presents significant investment opportunities, with several companies showing promising clinical data and strong market potential. Adjustments in target prices reflect the anticipated growth and success of these candidates in the evolving oncology landscape [5][18][19].

How This New Biotech Billionaire Outmaneuvered Merck In China (Photo: Akeso) https://t.co/A2hEkQpLtB https://t.co/6k5vr7PaB0 ...

Summary of China Pharma and Biotech Conference Call Industry Overview - The China healthcare sector is experiencing its strongest rally since mid-2023, with the Hang Seng Biotech and MSCI China Healthcare indices showing year-to-date (YTD) returns of 57% and 38%, respectively, outperforming broader indices like Hang Seng and MSCI China at 20% and 16% [1][10] - The current market is at 30% of the peak seen during the last healthcare boom in 2020-2021, with a notable shift towards mature companies and top players rather than early-stage firms [1][2] - Public financing has surged, increasing 4 times in 1H25 compared to 1H24, with about two-thirds of IPO and follow-on offerings yielding positive returns [1][12] Market Valuation and Opportunities - Valuations in the China healthcare sector are now at or above global counterparts, with MSCI China healthcare P/S ratios crossing over with S&P 500 healthcare [2] - Individual stock performance varies significantly, with funds showing interest in companies with lower valuation multiples and potential for out-licensing deals [2][52] - Specific companies like CSPC are considered overheated with a PEG ratio of 14.5x, while Hengrui (2.3x) and Sino Biopharm (2.0x) are viewed as cheaper alternatives [3][44] Biotech Sector Insights - Biotech companies are valued based on market cap to projected 2032 revenue, ranging from 2-5x. Companies like BeiGene (2.7x) and Zai Lab (1.2x) are seen as undervalued, while Akeso (4.7x) and Kelun Biotech (5.6x) are considered relatively pricey [4][48] - The biotech sector has seen a significant increase in market capitalization, rising from US$102 billion to US$160 billion YTD 2025 [11] Clinical Trials and R&D - The number of clinical trial starts in China has shown consistent growth, with local assets making up over 50% of the global pipelines for the first time in 2025 [1][33] - Innovative drug modalities, particularly in oncology, have seen a resurgence in clinical trials, indicating sustained R&D efforts despite previous market downturns [32][36] Out-licensing Trends - There has been a boom in outbound licensing deals, with companies like RemeGen and Innovent leading the way. This trend is expected to continue, although there are concerns about saturation in certain drug classes [34][52] - The out-licensing model has remained resilient against geopolitical challenges, with no significant shifts in FDA attitudes towards China-originated drugs [34] Investment Implications - The report rates Akeso, Hansoh, Innovent, and Hengrui as Outperform, while BeiGene, CSPC, Sino Biopharm, and Zai Lab are rated as Market-Perform [7] - A methodological shift in valuation is noted, with increased emphasis on multiple-based valuation for mature companies, while biotechs will continue to use P/S and DCF models [8] Conclusion - The China pharma and biotech sector is on an upward trajectory, driven by strong market sentiment, increased public financing, and a robust pipeline of clinical trials. However, caution is advised regarding valuation levels and the sustainability of the current rally, particularly in the context of out-licensing deals and market saturation [52][53]

Investment Rating - The report rates the China Healthcare industry as Attractive [4][47]. Core Insights - The NHSA and NHC have released measures to support the high-quality development of innovative drugs, including establishing a new drug list for commercial insurance and encouraging investment funds for innovative drug development [2]. - Sino Biopharma has received approval for anlotinib in combination with chemotherapy for the first-line treatment of advanced or metastatic soft tissue sarcoma, marking a significant milestone as the first combination therapy approved globally for this indication [2]. - Hengrui has gained approval for an additional indication for its JAK1 inhibitor, ivarmacitinib, now also indicated for severe alopecia areata [2]. Summary by Sections Regulatory Developments - New measures from NHSA and NHC include a drug list for commercial insurance that will not count towards DRG/DIP budgets and a commitment to ensure hospital access for newly listed drugs within three months [2]. Company Updates - Sino Biopharma has achieved multiple approvals, including for anlotinib and recombinant human coagulation factor VIIa N01, enhancing its product portfolio [2]. - Hengrui's ivarmacitinib has expanded its indications, showcasing the company's innovative capabilities in the biopharmaceutical sector [2]. Market Trends - The report highlights ongoing R&D progress among covered companies, indicating a robust pipeline and potential for future growth in the healthcare sector [10].

Summary of Key Points from the Conference Call Companies Involved - **Innovent Biologics (1801 HK)** - **Akeso (9926 HK)** Core Insights and Arguments Innovent Biologics - Innovent is positioned as a significant player in the China biopharma sector, focusing on oncology and GLP-1 therapies [4][8] - The company has 16 drugs on the market and approximately 4,000 commercial staff, with expectations to achieve IFRS net-income break-even by 2025 [8] - Projected sales for 2027 could reach RMB 20 billion based on company guidance [8] - Key upcoming events include: - Approval of IBI112 (IL-23p19 inhibitor) for psoriasis in 2H25 [5] - Phase 3 data readout for IBI343 (CLDN18.2 ADC) in 2H25 [5] - Data readout for IBI362 (GLP-1/GCGR) in 2H25/1H26 [5] - IBI363 (PD-1/IL-2α-bias) has shown promising data, with peak sales forecasted at RMB 7 billion in China and RMB 10 billion ex-China [16][8] - The GLP-1 drug mazdutide (IBI362) is expected to capture approximately 11% of the China GLP-1 market, with potential peak sales of RMB 50 billion [8] - Risks include potential pricing cuts, pipeline development setbacks, and competition in the weight loss drug market [8] Akeso - Akeso is recognized as a leading bispecific antibody company in China, having launched the first bispecific drug, AK104 (PD-1/CTLA-4), in 2022 [33][36] - Forecasted peak sales for AK104 in China are around RMB 6 billion, with potential expansions into various cancer indications [36] - AK112 (PD-1/VEGF bispecific) has been out-licensed to Summit Therapeutics, with expected peak sales of over RMB 5 billion in China and over USD 2.5 billion in the US [36] - Upcoming key events for Akeso include: - Sales data for AK104 and AK112 in 1H25 [34] - Detailed data readout for AK112 in various trials in 2H25/1H26 [34] - Concerns exist regarding AK112's commercialization potential in the US due to previous trial results, but there is optimism for improved outcomes with longer follow-up [40] - AK104's efficacy in trials has not been fully appreciated by the market, and a global development plan announcement could enhance investor interest [41][44] Additional Important Content - Innovent's pipeline includes a diverse range of assets across oncology, cardiovascular, autoimmune, and ophthalmology, which supports its growth strategy [12] - Akeso's sales forecasts indicate a strong growth trajectory, with total product sales expected to reach RMB 16.1 billion by 2034 [45] - Both companies face risks related to pipeline development and market competition, which could impact their future performance [8][34]

Core Viewpoint - AstraZeneca is potentially facing a significant financial commitment due to ongoing discussions for a partnership with Summit Therapeutics, which has raised concerns among investors [1][2]. Financial Implications - The partnership may involve an upfront payment of several billion dollars, with a total figure mentioned being $15 billion, which includes upfront and milestone payments [5][6]. - AstraZeneca has a strong financial position, with over £4 billion ($5.5 billion) in cash reported at the end of its latest quarter, but the $15 billion figure is substantial even when distributed over the drug's lifecycle [6]. Drug Development Potential - The collaboration is centered around ivonescimab, a cancer drug that has shown significant potential and could become a blockbuster if successful [4][7]. - The oncology development program for ivonescimab is noted for its promising prospects, suggesting that the investment could be worthwhile for AstraZeneca [7].

Investment Rating - The report maintains an "Overweight" (OW) rating for several sectors including Communication Services, Consumer Discretionary, Financials, Healthcare, and Industrials, while underweighting (UW) Energy and Utilities [7][11]. Core Insights - The report anticipates a range-bound MXCN (70-80) in the near term with potential upside in the second half of 2025, driven by factors such as strong southbound inflows into Hong Kong and a possible resolution in US-China trade negotiations [6][22]. - The forecast for MXCN/CSI300 is projected to reach HK$80/Rmb4,150 (+5.1%/5.8% from the previous close) in the base case and HK$89/Rmb4,420 (+16.8%/12.7% from the previous close) in the upside case by the end of 2025 [6][22]. - The report highlights a shift in consumer preferences from "affordable treats" to "affordable experiences," indicating a potential investment opportunity in sectors related to learning and at-home entertainment [6][8]. Summary by Sections Key Drivers for 2H25 - The report identifies key drivers for the second half of 2025, including a rebound in GDP growth and a rise in the share of sub-sectors in Recovery and Expansion [17][20]. - The business cycle profile of China equity is noted to have troughed in 3Q24, with a significant increase in the number of sectors showing recovery [17][20]. Earnings Outlook & Sector Weights - The report predicts upside for MXCN EPS compared to consensus, while forecasting downside for CSI300/CSI500/CSI1000 EPS growth due to differing sector exposures [6][7]. - Sector weights indicate a return to an Overweight stance on IT, while maintaining Overweight on Communications Services, Discretionary, Healthcare, and Materials [6][7]. Thematic Stock Screens - The report emphasizes several themes, including the rise of high yielders favored by onshore investors and the potential for financial sector consolidation [6][11]. - Top picks for 2H25 include Tencent, Alibaba, and Innovent, among others, reflecting a focus on companies with strong growth potential and favorable market conditions [6][7][11].

Investment Rating - The report suggests an "Overweight" rating for sectors benefiting from the influx of educated youth into the workforce, particularly in services, healthcare, financial services, high-tech industries, and hospitality & entertainment [66][69]. Core Insights - Youth unemployment in China has increased significantly, from approximately 10% in 2018 to around 21% in the summer of 2023, but this is viewed as an opportunity rather than a threat due to the unprecedented level of education among the youth entering the workforce [2][5][6]. - China is transitioning from an industrial policy-driven economy to a services-oriented economy, with a notable increase in the contribution of services to GDP, which has risen from 32% in 1990 to 55% in 2023 [4][53]. - The report highlights that the most educated cohort in China's history is entering the labor market, with tertiary education enrollment rates soaring from 3% in 1990 to 75% in 2023, indicating a well-prepared workforce [4][14][10]. Summary by Sections Youth Unemployment - Youth unemployment is currently misinterpreted as a threat, while it actually presents an opportunity for economic growth as the most educated population enters the workforce [6][13]. - The report emphasizes that the rise in youth unemployment should be viewed through the lens of potential service consumption growth [6][20]. Human Capital Development - China has rapidly upskilled its population, with 15,467 per 100,000 now holding a degree, a fourfold increase over the past 20 years [4][10]. - Investment in education has increased from 2.4% of GDP in 2005 to 4.0% in 2022, leading to a significant rise in STEM graduates [4][39]. Service Sector Growth - The services sector in China is expected to grow significantly, with the potential to reach levels comparable to the US, where services contribute 76% to GDP [53][55]. - Key sectors identified for growth include healthcare, financial services, high-tech industries, and hospitality & entertainment, which currently employ a lower percentage of the labor force compared to the US [62][66]. Investment Opportunities - The report lists specific companies that are well-positioned to benefit from the growth in service consumption, including Trip.com, MGM China, NetEase, and Ping An Group, among others [66][69][88]. - The financial intermediation sector is highlighted as having substantial growth potential, particularly in health and protection products, with a noted lack of active CPAs in China compared to the US [70][69]. Healthcare Sector - The healthcare sector is poised for growth, with China now holding a 20% share of global PCT patent publications in biotechnology, second only to the US [76][81]. - The report identifies companies like Innovent and Akeso as potential beneficiaries of the expanding healthcare services market [76][81].

Summary of China Pharma and Biotech Conference Call Industry Overview - The focus is on the **China Pharma and Biotech** sector, particularly the out-licensing activities and their sustainability in 2025 [1][7]. Key Insights - **Out-licensing Growth**: As of June 17, 2025, the total value of China's out-licensing deals reached **$54 billion**, surpassing the **$47 billion** total for the entire year of 2024. This indicates a significant increase in deal-making activity [1][9]. - **US-bound Deals**: Historically, about half of China's licensing deals have been with US partners. In 2025, **57%** of the deal value is attributed to US-bound deals, suggesting that geopolitical tensions have not significantly impacted these transactions [1][9][11]. - **Global Licensing Trends**: The total value of global license transfers has been steadily increasing, with a notable contribution from China. In 2025, China's outbound deal value exceeded that of developed markets for the first time [2][13][15]. Emerging Drug Classes - **New Favorites**: The PD-1/VEGF bispecific and GLP-1 drug classes have emerged as the new favorites in out-licensing, with the former attracting deals worth over **$20 billion** and upfront payments exceeding **$3 billion** [4][38]. - **Historical Context**: Previous booms in 2020-2021 were primarily driven by PD-1 and TIGIT drugs, which ultimately faced saturation and deal terminations. The current growth drivers may also face similar risks of overheating and saturation [3][5][39]. Market Dynamics - **R&D Efficiency**: China's R&D efficiency has improved significantly, with clinical trial costs being approximately **1/5** of those in the US. This has led to a substantial increase in the size and quality of local players' pipelines [7]. - **Investment in R&D**: Despite market challenges, top pharma and biotech players in China continue to invest heavily in R&D, leading to a growing number of first-in-class assets [7]. Deal Activity - **Mega-deals**: There have been **23 license transfers** to global players with total deal values exceeding **$500 million**, with over **two-thirds** of these deals valued at **$1 billion or more** [8][9]. - **Upfront Payments**: The average upfront payment for China's outbound deals is lower than that of developed markets, with a typical range of **3-5%** of total deal value compared to around **10%** in developed markets [2][14]. Future Outlook - **Cautious Optimism**: While long-term growth in out-licensing is expected, there are short-term concerns regarding the sustainability of the current boom, particularly with the potential saturation of key drug classes [5][39]. - **Market Share Potential**: Despite the significant role of top 20 multinational corporations (MNCs) in China's out-licensing deals, China's share of these MNCs' licensing deals remains low, indicating potential for market share gains [44][50]. Conclusion - The China Pharma and Biotech sector is experiencing unprecedented growth in out-licensing activities, driven by improved R&D efficiency and strategic partnerships, particularly with US firms. However, the sustainability of this growth remains a concern as the market evolves and potential saturation looms for key drug classes.

Investment Rating - The report maintains a "Buy" rating for several companies in the healthcare sector, including Asymchem, InnoCare, Samsung Biologics, Shandong Weigao Group, United Imaging, and Zai Lab [29][30]. Core Insights - The China biotech sector has seen a significant re-rating, with a year-to-date increase of 72%, driven by a surge in licensing-out deals, particularly in PD-1/VEGF bispecifics, which has validated asset quality and innovation [1][2]. - Investors are optimistic about the sustainability of this momentum, with expectations for more licensing deals to follow, including potential major deals from CSPC and Sino Biopharma [2]. - The CRO/CDMO sector has also benefited from increased licensing activity, with a 25% year-to-date growth, and companies like Tigermed and WuXi AppTec are highlighted for their resilience [8]. - Medtech is showing signs of recovery, with equipment tendering up 91% year-over-year in May, although revenue recognition remains a challenge due to inventory digestion and centralized procurement processes [8][10]. Summary by Sections China Biotech Licensing and Global Pharma Engagement - The rebound in China biotech is largely attributed to licensing deals with global pharma, enhancing confidence in the quality and innovation of Chinese biotech assets [2]. - Notable licensing deals include Akeso to Summit and 3S Bio to Pfizer, which have allowed companies to monetize global market valuations through royalties [2]. CDMO/CRO Implications - The CRO/CDMO sector has seen a 25% increase year-to-date, with Tigermed reporting a 20% year-over-year increase in new orders for Q1 [8]. - WuXi AppTec and Asymchem are expected to deliver resilient earnings due to their focus on late-stage and commercial manufacturing [8]. Medtech Recovery and Tendering Trends - Medtech has faced challenges, with a year-to-date decline of 4%, but there are signs of recovery in equipment tendering, which increased by 91% year-over-year in May [8][10]. - Companies like United Imaging and Mindray are expected to turn positive in their growth trajectories in the coming quarters [8]. Global Pharma Engagement - Global large pharma continues to recognize the importance of China in their business development strategies, particularly in the context of biopharma innovation cycles [10]. - Companies like GE Healthcare and Philips remain cautious about the capital equipment procurement environment in China, despite positive tendering momentum [10].