Summary of China/Hong Kong Consumer Strategy Conference Call Industry Overview - The consumer sector in China/Hong Kong entered 2026 with a mixed setup after three years of underperformance, with no immediate catalysts for a broad-based turnaround [1][3] - Headline consumption is expected to remain soft, necessitating flexible strategies across different sub-categories [1][3] Core Insights - **Macro Environment**: The macroeconomic backdrop has not turned decisively, with policy expected to be reactive rather than proactive regarding property and consumption. A property shock is anticipated to moderate but not end in 2026 [3][22] - **Consumer Dynamics**: Wage and employment levels remain subdued, contributing to ongoing household deleveraging and a drag on labor income dynamics. High precautionary savings and low spending confidence are prevalent [3][22] - **Consumption Growth**: Consumption in 2026 is likely to stabilize at a low growth rate rather than re-accelerate significantly. Focus is on selective segment pricing improvements and better supply discipline [3][23] Market Expectations - **Sales Growth**: Overall consumer sales growth is expected to be around 6% in 2026, with a mixed margin profile due to rising costs in certain areas like hard commodities [4][31] - **Valuation**: Consumer stocks' average P/E ratio is stabilizing around 16x, reflecting a cautious market outlook for 2026 [4][31] Investment Opportunities - Four key investment areas identified: 1. Recovery in offline services consumption (restaurants and beer in Q2-Q3 2026) 2. Supply recalibration in upstream dairy and likely liquor in H2 2026 3. Pricing recovery in restaurants, beer in H1 2026, and sports/cosmetics/liquor in H2 2026 4. Overseas growth in OEM and IP products in H1 2026 [5][21] Key Stock Picks - Recommended stocks include: - **YUMC**: Positive same-store sales growth and traffic - **Haidilao**: Recovery in dine-in demand - **CRB**: Expected growth driven by Heineken's market share gains - **Mengniu and Yili**: Anticipated margin improvements due to reduced raw milk supply [9][13] Macro Indicators - **CPI Trends**: Headline CPI is expected to show low inflation, with selective segments starting to see mild upward pricing revisions [24][27] - **Wealth Effect**: The wealth effect is differentiated across income cohorts, with higher-income groups showing improved spending intentions due to healthier balance sheets [27][31] Risks and Challenges - **Consumer Confidence**: The overall consumer sentiment remains fragile, with market sensitivity to marginal changes [20][22] - **Policy Limitations**: Current consumption-related policies are focused on protecting downside rather than stimulating growth, with limited fiscal support expected [22][27] Conclusion - The consumer sector is navigating a challenging macro environment with cautious optimism for selective recovery in certain segments. Investment strategies should focus on identifying pockets of resilience and potential growth areas while being mindful of the broader economic constraints.

Summary of Youran Dairy (9858.HK) Conference Call Company Overview - **Youran Dairy** is a leading player in the dairy industry, recognized as the largest raw milk provider globally in terms of dairy cow herd size and production volume as of 2020. The company was spun off from Yili and went public in Hong Kong in June 2021 [28][29]. Industry Context - **EU Dairy Product Tariff**: China has imposed provisional duties of 21.9-42.7% on certain EU dairy products, effective December 23, 2025. This primarily affects cheese and whipping cream, which constitute 20.7% of EU's market share in China [1][2]. - **Impact on Imports**: The EU accounted for 28.3% of China's dairy product imports in the first ten months of 2025, with cheese and whipping cream making up 9.1% and 1.6% of imports by raw milk equivalent volume [2][11]. Key Insights - **Raw Milk Oversupply**: China's raw milk supply has seen a surplus of 1-2 million tons in 2025, down from 3-4 million tons in 2024. The targeted EU dairy products import is estimated to be equivalent to ~0.8 million tons of raw milk, which could be replaced by domestic production, thus alleviating oversupply [3][17]. - **Domestic Demand for Solid Dairy Products**: The demand for deep-processed solid dairy products like whey, cheese, and butter has been growing, driven by high-end bakery and catering sectors. In 2024, China imported about 1 million tons of these products, with continued growth observed in 2025 [4][17]. - **Youran's Customer Development**: Youran's major customer, Yili, has established a solid dairy product production line with a daily capacity of 600 tons, which could substitute 15% of raw milk equivalent import volume at full utilization [4]. Financial Performance - **Earnings Summary**: - 2023: Net Profit -739 million RMB, Diluted EPS -0.195 RMB - 2024: Net Profit -691 million RMB, Diluted EPS -0.180 RMB - 2025E: Net Profit 541 million RMB, Diluted EPS 0.141 RMB (growth of 178.2%) [5][10]. - **Valuation Metrics**: - P/E ratio for 2025E is projected at 30.6, with a P/B ratio of 1.4 and ROE of 4.7% [5][10]. Market Outlook - **Target Price and Return**: The target price for Youran Dairy is set at HK$5.40, indicating an expected share price return of 13.2% [6][10]. - **Market Capitalization**: Youran Dairy's market cap is approximately HK$18.568 billion (US$2.387 billion) [6][10]. Risks and Considerations - **Key Risks**: Potential risks include lower-than-expected raw milk prices, reliance on the business performance of key customers, disease outbreaks at dairy farms, trade frictions affecting forage imports, and food safety issues [31]. Conclusion - Youran Dairy is positioned to benefit from the structural changes in the dairy market due to the EU tariff, which may enhance domestic raw milk demand. The company's strategic developments in solid dairy products and its strong market position suggest a positive outlook for future growth.

Core Insights - The Magnum Ice Cream Company (TMICC) aims to lead the frozen snacking market with a focus on innovation and customer service, backed by a clear growth strategy [2][5] - TMICC has a medium-term organic sales growth target of 3-5% annually, which is above Unilever's historical average of 3% [4][19] - TMICC is now the world's largest standalone ice-cream manufacturer, commanding a 21% global market share, nearly double that of its nearest competitor [5][27] Financial Performance - TMICC's revenue for the last year was reported at €7.95 billion, an increase from €7.62 billion the previous year, with adjusted operating profit rising to €964 million from €854 million [24] - The adjusted EBITDA margin improved to 16.9% from 15.9%, with adjusted EBITDA increasing to €1.34 billion from €1.21 billion [24] - Organic sales growth in 2024 was 2%, with the same rate maintained in the first half of 2025 [23] Market Strategy - TMICC plans to increase advertising and promotional spending to 13% of group revenues by 2026, up from 12.4% last year [7] - The company is focusing on e-commerce as a significant growth channel, complementing traditional retail and out-of-home sales, which account for about 40% of total turnover [17] - TMICC has implemented a €500 million productivity plan aimed at enhancing supply chain efficiency and tech-enabled productivity in manufacturing [20] Corporate Structure and Governance - TMICC is led by CEO Peter ter Kulve and CFO Abhijit Bhattacharya, with a board comprising experienced executives from various industries [22] - The company is addressing governance issues related to the Ben & Jerry's Foundation, which has been a point of contention following the demerger from Unilever [8][9] - TMICC's management is focused on capital allocation and innovation tailored to the ice-cream category, free from the broader priorities of Unilever [16][27] Future Outlook - Analysts suggest that TMICC's separation from Unilever will allow for improved performance and focus on higher-margin growth areas [27][28] - Unilever is reportedly considering divesting other food brands to concentrate on beauty and wellness sectors, indicating a strategic shift in its business model [25][26]

Summary of the Conference Call on China Consumer Equity Research Industry Overview - The report focuses on the **China Consumer** sector, particularly the dynamics between **equity-driven spenders** and **cautious mass buyers** in 2026 [1][2][29]. Key Insights Consumer Segmentation - **Equity-driven spenders** have shown improved sentiment due to: - A rally in the equity market, particularly in A-shares and H-shares [2][16]. - Increased investment in AI and a wave of new IPOs, which have created new wealth [2][16]. - Notable improvements in luxury sales, luggage, and Macau gaming since mid-2025 [2][16]. - **Cautious mass spenders** are experiencing weak sentiment due to: - Concerns over employment and economic stability [2][29]. - Government stimulus measures have provided temporary boosts but are countered by anti-extravagance policies [3][29]. Policy Environment - The government's **15th Five-Year Plan** aims to increase household consumption rates significantly, with the final version expected in March 2026 [3][4]. - Mixed policy impacts: - Trade-in policies have boosted certain sales categories [3][29]. - Anti-extravagance measures and e-commerce subsidies have distorted retail pricing and channel dynamics [3][29]. Corporate Strategies - Corporates are adapting by: - Seeking growth in emerging segments and reinventing existing products/services [5][57]. - Expanding globally through cultural influence and intellectual property [5][57]. - Traditional consumer segments like RTD beverages, breweries, and hypermarkets may face tough comparisons in 1H26 due to previous anti-extravagance policies [6]. Market Performance and Valuation - The consumer sector's relative PE is below the -2 standard deviation level, indicating extreme de-rating [8]. - Valuations for traditional consumer names are near historical lows, reflecting slower earnings growth expectations [79]. - Positive catalysts could lead to a significant rebound in share prices [79]. Investment Recommendations - **Top Picks for Value**: YUMC, CRB, Midea (A), Yili, WH Group, Galaxy, H&H [9]. - **Top Picks for Growth**: Laopu, Popmart, Eastroc, China Pet, DPC, MGP [9]. - Companies projected to yield 5%+ dividends include Midea, Galaxy, and WH Group [81]. Economic Outlook - China's GDP growth is forecasted at 4.8% for 2025, declining to 4.2% in 2026 and 2027 [11]. - The equity market boom has contributed to the creation of High Net Worth Individuals (HNWIs) [4][52]. Consumer Behavior Trends - A shift towards **B1 Culture**, characterized by a preference for low-ticket items, reflects cautious spending behavior [56]. - Consumers are increasingly valuing brands that offer transparency and trust, particularly in the context of food and beverage products [56]. Challenges and Risks - The paradox of margin expansion versus competition is evident, as falling raw material costs have improved gross margins but intensified competition [73]. - The consumer sector remains sensitive to price increases due to the current macroeconomic backdrop [73]. Conclusion - The China consumer landscape in 2026 is marked by a dichotomy between equity-driven and cautious consumers, influenced by government policies and corporate strategies. Investment opportunities exist, particularly in traditional consumer names and high-growth sectors, but challenges remain due to economic uncertainties and competitive pressures.

Summary of Key Points from the Conference Call Industry Overview - The conference call discusses the performance of various sectors in the Chinese consumer market, particularly focusing on e-commerce platforms like Tmall, Taobao, and JD. The overall growth across most sectors is described as muted, with specific categories showing significant declines in year-over-year (YoY) growth rates [1][12]. Category Performance - **Supplements/Infant Milk Formula/Dairy**: - Supplements grew by 9% YoY, Infant Milk Formula (IMF) by 2%, and Dairy by 1% [1][12]. - **Declining Categories**: - Beer saw a decline of 19%, Beauty products declined by 9%, Small kitchen appliances by 7%, Sportswear by 6%, and Sports shoes by 4% YoY [1][12]. - **Flat Performance**: - Pet foods and Women's clothing remained flat YoY [1][12]. Brand Performance - **Domestic vs. MNC Brands in Cosmetics**: - Multinational Corporations (MNCs) outperformed local brands in October, attributed to easier bases and favorable platform support. Estee Lauder and Kose led with 33% and 32% YoY growth, respectively [2][29]. - Local brands like Mao Geping and Botanee grew by 33% and 11% YoY, while Proya and Giant saw declines of 24% and 25% YoY [2][28][29]. Sportswear Insights - Niche MNC brands continued to outperform larger brands, with product cycles playing a significant role in performance disparities. For instance, Adidas showed solid momentum, while Nike did not perform as well [3]. - Weather-sensitive brands like Bosideng and Uniqlo experienced growth due to colder weather in Northern China [3]. Sales Recognition Practices - The growth rates for October may be distorted due to sales recognition practices related to pre-sales and returns during the Double-11 shopping festival. A combined analysis of October and November data is recommended for a clearer picture [7]. Notable Brand Performers - **Outperforming Brands**: Lululemon, Adidas, Roborock, Pop Mart, and Maogeping [8]. - **Underperforming Brands**: QuadHA, Nutrilon, Fancl, Carlsberg, and Comfy [8]. Additional Insights - The report highlights the importance of omni-channel strategies being executed by brands, indicating that online sales may not fully reflect overall performance due to offline sales channels [3]. - The performance of various categories is further detailed in the exhibits, showing YoY trends and market share changes for key brands in the infant milk formula and supplements sectors [19][20][22][25]. Conclusion - The overall consumer market in China is experiencing stagnant growth with significant variances across categories and brands. MNCs are generally outperforming local brands, particularly in cosmetics, while certain sectors like sportswear are seeing a bifurcation in performance based on brand strategies and external factors like weather.

Investment Rating - The report maintains a consistent sector preference, favoring sports brands, diversified retailers, dairy, beverages, and restaurants, while being less favorable towards apparel/footwear OEM, furniture, projectors, discretionary small kitchen appliances, jewelry, and non-super-premium spirits [11]. Core Insights - Consumption in China has shown signs of recovery, with retail sales growth improving to +4.6% year-over-year in 1Q25, and companies in the coverage reporting an average growth of 14% compared to 12% in 4Q24 [1]. - Despite the positive growth, companies remain cautious about the outlook due to ongoing volatility and external factors such as US-China tariff developments impacting consumer confidence [2][1]. - Margin performance in 1Q25 was mixed, with some companies benefiting from favorable raw material prices and cost control, while others faced risks from marketing investments and competition [1]. - Companies are generally maintaining disciplined pricing strategies and healthier inventory levels, although some categories like spirits and sportswear are experiencing challenges due to demand pressures [1]. - The impact of tariffs on earnings and consumer sentiment is significant, with companies cautious about the second half of 2025 amid uncertainties [2]. Summary by Sections Key Findings from 1Q25 Results - Retail sales growth improved to +4.6% year-over-year, with coverage companies reporting an average growth of 14% [1]. - Labor Day consumption growth accelerated, indicating a potential rebound in consumer spending [1]. Expectations for 2Q25 - Companies are cautious about the outlook for 2H25 due to tariff uncertainties, although those with market share gain opportunities may be more resilient [2]. Sector/Stock Preferences - Preferred sectors include sports brands, diversified retailers, dairy, beverages, and restaurants, while least preferred sectors include apparel/footwear OEM and furniture [11]. Macro Data Points - The report notes that macroeconomic data points are solid, but ongoing tariff developments and policy support need to be monitored [11]. Valuation Methodology - The report emphasizes the importance of understanding the valuation methodology and the potential risks associated with it [11].