Core Viewpoint - Li Ning is at a critical juncture, facing declining profits and increasing competition, prompting a strategic shift towards a focus on professional sports rather than relying on the "national trend" [2][4]. Financial Performance - Li Ning's net profit for 2024 decreased by 5.5% to 3.013 billion yuan, with a further decline of 11.0% to 1.737 billion yuan in the first half of 2025 [2]. - In contrast, Anta's revenue growth for 2024 was 13.6%, with a profit increase of over 50% to 16.989 billion yuan, highlighting the widening gap between the two companies [2]. - Li Ning's revenue growth was only 3.9% in 2024, slowing to 3.3% in the first half of 2025, significantly below pre-pandemic levels [2]. Strategic Adjustments - Li Ning is optimizing its store structure by closing 51 stores to improve asset quality and reduce reliance on market share [3][12]. - The company is experiencing a decline in gross margin by 0.4 percentage points to 50.0%, and net margin is also under pressure due to increased discounts and marketing costs [3][4]. Shift to Professional Sports - Li Ning is transitioning from a reliance on "national trend" to establishing a "professional sports" brand image, focusing on technology and performance to counteract market fatigue [6][10]. - The company increased R&D investment by 8.7% in the first half of 2025, significantly outpacing revenue growth, with a focus on core sports categories like running, basketball, and training [9][10]. Channel Optimization - Li Ning's channel strategy involves a "surgical" approach to reduce low-performing stores while investing in flagship locations in high-value areas [12][15]. - The average store size for major outlets is 242 square meters, with an average monthly revenue of 300,000 yuan, indicating a focus on efficiency and profitability [14][15]. Leadership Changes - Li Ning hired Victor Herrero, a former Zara executive, at a salary of 42 million yuan to lead the multi-brand strategy, aiming to enhance brand performance and operational efficiency [18][19]. - The company is exploring potential acquisitions, such as Puma, to strengthen its multi-brand portfolio, although internal operational challenges remain a concern [20][21]. Future Outlook - Li Ning's transformation is seen as a "second startup," requiring patience and resilience to navigate market challenges and internal restructuring [21][22]. - The success of this strategy hinges on the ability to convert R&D investments into consumer-recognized value in a competitive landscape [21][22].

Core Viewpoint - Li Ning is facing significant challenges, with declining profits and increasing competition from rivals like Anta, prompting a strategic shift towards a more professional sports brand image [1][3][19]. Financial Performance - Li Ning's net profit fell by 5.5% to 3.013 billion yuan in 2024 and further declined by 11.0% to 1.737 billion yuan in the first half of 2025 [1]. - Revenue growth for Li Ning was only 3.9% in 2024, with a further slowdown to 3.3% in the first half of 2025, significantly lagging behind Anta's 13.6% revenue growth [1][19]. Market Position and Strategy - The company is transitioning from a reliance on "national trend" to a focus on "professional sports," aiming to reshape its brand image [4][19]. - Li Ning's strategy includes optimizing its store structure by closing 51 underperforming stores to improve asset quality [1][11]. Product and R&D Focus - In the first half of 2025, Li Ning's R&D investment increased by 8.7%, outpacing revenue growth, with a focus on high-performance running shoes and basketball products [7][8]. - The company is concentrating resources on three core sports areas: running, basketball, and training, while also exploring new categories like outdoor and tennis [7][8]. Marketing and Brand Communication - Li Ning's marketing strategy has shifted to emphasize technology, performance, and athlete stories, moving away from cultural branding [8][19]. - The company has secured partnerships with the Chinese Olympic Committee and prominent athletes to enhance its professional image [8]. Channel Optimization - Li Ning is undergoing a "channel surgery" to focus on high-value locations, closing low-performing stores in lower-tier cities while expanding flagship stores in major urban areas [12][14]. - The average store size has increased to 242 square meters, with a monthly sales contribution of approximately 300,000 yuan from high-tier markets [13]. Leadership and Organizational Changes - Li Ning has appointed Victor Herrero, a former Zara executive, as co-CEO, aiming to leverage his experience in fast fashion to enhance brand performance [16][17]. - The company is exploring a multi-brand strategy, with Herrero's role seen as crucial for integrating Clarks and other brands into its portfolio [17][19]. Future Outlook - Li Ning's transformation is viewed as a "second startup," requiring patience and resilience to navigate internal challenges and external competition [20]. - The success of this strategic shift hinges on the company's ability to convert R&D investments into consumer-recognized value in a competitive market [19][20].

Core Viewpoint - Li Ning Company reported a revenue of 14.82 billion yuan for the first half of 2025, reflecting a year-on-year increase of 3.3%, while maintaining a healthy cash flow and manageable inventory levels [1] Financial Performance - Revenue reached 14.82 billion yuan, up 3.3% year-on-year [1] - Gross profit was 7.41 billion yuan, with a gross margin of 50.0%, representing a 2.5% increase [1] - Net profit stood at 1.74 billion yuan, with a net margin of 11.7% [1] Strategic Initiatives - The company continues to focus on a "single brand, multiple categories, and multiple channels" strategy, emphasizing professional sports and enhancing its operational foundation [1] - Li Ning has become the official partner of the Chinese Olympic Committee for 2025-2028, launching the "China Glory, Li Ning Together" marketing campaign across over 5,200 stores [2] - R&D investment increased by 8.7% year-on-year, totaling over 3.8 billion yuan in the last decade [2] Product Development - Professional product revenue exceeded 60%, with footwear accounting for 56% of total revenue [2] - The "Ultra" technology launched in 2024 has been applied to several new products, including the "Yueying 5 PRO" running shoes and "ULTRALIGHT 2025" basketball shoes [2] - The company introduced aerospace technologies into its products, such as "Aerospace Quick-Dry" and "Aerospace Sun Protection," receiving positive market feedback [3] Category Performance - The company focuses on six core categories: running, basketball, cross-training, badminton, table tennis, and sports leisure, with running, basketball, and cross-training accounting for 67% of retail sales [4] - Running category sales grew by 15%, with over 14 million pairs of running shoes sold [4] - Basketball products leverage star athlete endorsements and innovative technology to strengthen market presence [5] - Cross-training products saw a 15% increase in retail sales, supported by new technology [6] Operational Efficiency - Li Ning maintains a healthy inventory turnover with a stock turnover period of 61 days and a sales-to-inventory ratio of four months [7] - The company has expanded its sales points to 7,534, optimizing its channel structure and enhancing market coverage [7] - E-commerce operations showed significant growth, with online direct sales increasing by high single digits [7] Supply Chain and Logistics - The company is focused on optimizing its supply chain for quality control, delivery assurance, cost optimization, and sustainability [8] - Li Ning has made significant progress in logistics, launching a national logistics network and enhancing operational efficiency [8] Future Outlook - The company plans to continue its core strategy of "single brand, multiple categories, and multiple channels," focusing on product competitiveness and enhancing collaboration with the Chinese Olympic Committee [8]

Group 1: Financial Performance - The company reported a revenue of 14.82 billion yuan for the first half of the year, representing a year-on-year increase of 3.3% [1] - The net profit for the same period was 1.74 billion yuan, with a net profit margin of 11.7% [1] - Cash generated from operating activities amounted to 2.41 billion yuan, with total cash and cash equivalents reaching 11.8 billion yuan, an increase of 4.3 billion yuan compared to the end of 2024 [1] Group 2: Inventory and Sales Performance - The company maintained a channel inventory turnover ratio of 4 months, with inventory turnover days at 61 days, indicating a healthy inventory structure [1] - Professional sports categories accounted for over 60% of total revenue, with footwear products making up 56% of the revenue [1] - Sales of professional running shoes exceeded 14 million pairs, with the core running shoe series achieving total sales of over 5.26 million pairs [1] Group 3: Marketing and Partnerships - The company became the official partner of the Chinese Olympic Committee and the Chinese sports delegation for 2025-2028, launching a marketing campaign titled "China Glory, Li Ning Together" [2] - The signing of player Yang Hanshen, who was selected 16th overall in the NBA draft, is expected to enhance the brand's long-term momentum in basketball [2] - The company has established partnerships with major events like the Beijing Half Marathon and has collaborated with the National Space Administration to integrate aerospace technology into sports innovation [3]

Financial Performance - Company reported a revenue increase of 3.3% to 14.82 billion yuan, with a gross profit rise of 2.5% to 7.41 billion yuan, resulting in a gross margin of 50% [1] - Net profit attributable to equity holders reached 1.74 billion yuan, with a net profit margin of 11.7% [1] - As of June 30, total cash and cash equivalents amounted to 11.8 billion yuan, an increase of 4.3 billion yuan compared to the end of 2024 [1] Market Competition and Strategy - Company acknowledges intense market competition but views it as an opportunity to enhance brand and product competitiveness for sustainable growth [3] - Emphasis on deepening core categories such as running, basketball, and cross-training while exploring new sports categories like outdoor and pickleball [9] Product Performance - Footwear remains the main revenue pillar, with a 5% increase in shoe product revenue, accounting for 56% of total revenue [7] - Retail sales in running and cross-training categories grew by 15%, contributing to 67% of total retail sales [4] R&D and Technological Investment - Company has invested over 3.8 billion yuan in R&D over the past decade, with an 8.7% increase in R&D spending in the first half of 2025 [8] - The introduction of "super" technology in products like the "Yueying 5PRO" running shoes has been well-received in the market [8] Brand Development and Partnerships - Strategic partnership with the Chinese Olympic Committee aims for long-term brand development and exposure in major international events from 2025 to 2028 [12][13] - Company plans to enhance marketing activities and product launches in alignment with its partnership with the Chinese Olympic Committee [13]

Core Viewpoint - In 2025, the Chinese sportswear industry is undergoing significant structural changes amid a slow recovery in the consumer market, as evidenced by Li Ning's mid-term financial report showing revenue growth but pressured profit margins [1][2]. Revenue and Profit Analysis - Li Ning's revenue reached 14.82 billion yuan, a year-on-year increase of 3.3%, aligning with market expectations, especially in a challenging consumer environment where retail sales in the apparel sector grew only 3.1% [2][3]. - The company's gross profit was 7.41 billion yuan, up 2.5%, but the overall gross margin decreased by 0.4 percentage points to 50.0%. Net profit was 1.74 billion yuan, with a net margin decline from 13.6% to 11.7% [3]. Business Structure and Product Focus - The growth was primarily driven by footwear, with professional products accounting for over 60% of revenue, and footwear sales making up 56% of total revenue, highlighting the brand's focus on professional sports [3][4]. - The online sales channel saw a 7.4% increase, while retail channels faced pressure, with a 3.4% decline in revenue due to adjustments in store layouts and shifting consumer behavior towards online shopping [4]. Strategic Initiatives and R&D Investment - Li Ning has entered the "Olympic cycle" as the official sportswear partner for the Chinese Olympic Committee, which is expected to enhance brand positioning and guide product development and marketing strategies over the next three years [5][7]. - R&D investment increased by 8.7% in the first half of 2025, with cumulative R&D spending exceeding 3.8 billion yuan over the past decade, indicating a commitment to enhancing product competitiveness [5][6]. Product Performance and Market Positioning - The running category showed significant growth, with retail sales increasing by 15%, and total sales of running shoes surpassing 14 million pairs, driven by popular series [6][8]. - Li Ning is also exploring niche categories like badminton and table tennis, while identifying emerging markets such as outdoor sports and tennis as strategic growth areas [7][8]. Conclusion - Li Ning's performance in the first half of 2025 reflects a balance of steady growth amid industry challenges, with strategic investments aimed at building a robust professional sports brand [8][9].

Investment Rating - The report maintains a Neutral rating for the company with a target price of HKD 16.28, indicating a potential downside of 10.1% from the current closing price of HKD 18.11 [2][15]. Core Insights - The company reported a steady performance in the first half of 2025, with revenue increasing by 3.3% year-on-year to RMB 14.82 billion. However, challenges are anticipated in the third quarter due to declining foot traffic and increased marketing expenses related to the Olympics [7]. - The management has maintained its full-year guidance for 2025, expecting flat revenue and a high single-digit net profit margin. The company is currently in an adjustment phase, and the recovery pace in the second half remains uncertain [7]. - The company has a healthy inventory level with a stock-to-sales ratio of four months, despite a net decrease of 51 stores to 7,534 by the end of the first half [7]. Financial Overview - Revenue projections for the company are as follows: RMB 27,598 million in 2023, RMB 28,676 million in 2024, and RMB 29,007 million in 2025, reflecting a growth rate of 7.0%, 3.9%, and 1.2% respectively [6][8]. - Net profit is expected to decline from RMB 3,187 million in 2023 to RMB 2,678 million in 2025, with a corresponding decrease in earnings per share from RMB 1.23 to RMB 1.04 [6][17]. - The company’s gross margin is projected to be 49.1% in 2025, down from 48.4% in 2023, while the net profit margin is expected to decrease to 9.2% in 2025 [8][18]. Market Position and Strategy - The company continues to focus on professional sports categories, with footwear sales growing by 4.9% year-on-year, while apparel sales declined by 3.4%. The running category showed strong growth, with sales increasing by 15% [7]. - The management has increased marketing investments, particularly in collaboration with the Chinese Olympic Committee, to enhance the brand's professional image, despite the anticipated rise in marketing expense ratios in the second half of the year [7].

Core Viewpoint - Li Ning Company reported a revenue of 14.82 billion yuan for the first half of 2025, reflecting a year-on-year increase of 3.3%, while maintaining a healthy cash flow and manageable inventory levels [1][17]. Financial Performance - The gross profit for the first half of 2025 was 7.41 billion yuan, up 2.5% year-on-year, with an overall gross margin of 50.0% [1]. - The net profit reached 1.74 billion yuan, resulting in a net profit margin of 11.7% [1]. Strategic Initiatives - The company continues to focus on its "single brand, multiple categories, and multiple channels" strategy, emphasizing professional sports and enhancing its operational foundation [1][17]. - Li Ning has become the official partner of the Chinese Olympic Committee and the Chinese sports delegation for 2025-2028, launching the "China Glory, Li Ning Together" marketing campaign across over 5,200 stores [2]. Research and Development - R&D investment increased by 8.7% year-on-year, totaling over 3.8 billion yuan in the last decade [4]. - The proportion of revenue from professional products exceeded 60%, with footwear accounting for 56% of total revenue [4]. Product Performance - The running category saw a 15% increase in retail sales, with over 14 million pairs of running shoes sold, highlighting strong product competitiveness [6]. - The basketball category focuses on professional basketball and has leveraged star athlete endorsements to strengthen market presence [8]. Multi-Category Development - Li Ning is expanding into new sports categories such as outdoor sports, tennis, and pickleball, while maintaining strong performance in core categories like running, basketball, and training [6][11]. - The training category achieved a 15% increase in retail sales, supported by innovative products utilizing aerospace technology [9]. Operational Efficiency - The company maintains a healthy inventory turnover ratio of 4 months and an inventory turnover period of 61 days, indicating strong operational management [13]. - E-commerce operations showed positive growth, with online direct sales increasing significantly, contributing to overall business growth [15]. Supply Chain Optimization - Li Ning is enhancing its supply chain through quality control, delivery assurance, cost optimization, and sustainable practices, achieving significant improvements [17]. - The company has established a nationwide logistics network, with the launch of the Nanning central warehouse marking a key milestone [17]. Future Outlook - Li Ning plans to continue its core strategy of "single brand, multiple categories, and multiple channels," focusing on product competitiveness and operational efficiency to drive sustainable growth [17].

Core Insights - Li Ning Company reported a revenue of 14.82 billion yuan for the first half of 2025, representing a year-on-year increase of 3.3% [1] - The gross profit reached 7.41 billion yuan, with a gross margin of 50.0%, while net profit was 1.74 billion yuan, yielding a net margin of 11.7% [1] - The company maintains strong cash flow and healthy inventory levels, laying a solid foundation for sustainable growth [1] Strategic Focus - The company continues to implement its "single brand, multiple categories, and multiple channels" strategy, emphasizing professional sports and enhancing its operational foundation [1] - Li Ning has become the official partner of the Chinese Olympic Committee and the Chinese sports delegation for 2025-2028, launching the "China Glory, Li Ning Together" marketing campaign across over 5,200 stores [2] R&D and Product Development - R&D investment increased by 8.7% year-on-year, with cumulative investment exceeding 3.8 billion yuan over the past decade [4] - Professional product revenue now accounts for over 60% of total revenue, with footwear representing 56% [4] - New technologies, such as "Aerospace Quick-Dry" and "Aerospace Sun Protection," have been successfully integrated into products, receiving positive market feedback [4] Category Performance - The company focuses on six core categories: running, basketball, cross-training, badminton, table tennis, and sports leisure, with running, basketball, and cross-training accounting for 67% of retail sales [6] - Running category sales grew by 15%, with over 14 million pairs of running shoes sold, and Li Ning shoes achieved a 61.35% market share among runners completing the Beijing Half Marathon in under 90 minutes [6] - Basketball products leverage star athlete endorsements and innovative designs, with Li Ning signing Yang Hansheng, a notable player in the NBA draft [8] Operational Efficiency - Li Ning has optimized its channel structure, inventory management, and e-commerce operations, maintaining a healthy inventory turnover of 61 days and a stock-to-sales ratio of four months [12][14] - E-commerce performance has improved, with online direct sales showing high single-digit growth, contributing significantly to overall business growth [16] - The company has made significant advancements in supply chain optimization, focusing on quality control, delivery assurance, and cost optimization [18] Future Outlook - Li Ning plans to continue its core strategy of "single brand, multiple categories, and multiple channels," aiming for long-term sustainable growth through product competitiveness and operational efficiency [18]

Investment Rating - The report maintains a "Buy" rating for the company [3][8] Core Views - The company's mid-year performance showed robust revenue growth, with a 21.5% increase in profit, slightly exceeding market expectations due to effective management cost control and increased government subsidies [7] - The overall gross margin saw a slight decline, but long-term prospects for improvement are anticipated as the company continues to expand its children's business and enhance the income share from the Saucony brand [7] - The Saucony brand demonstrated strong growth, with a projected doubling of revenue over the next three years, supported by the opening of new stores and a focus on high-end running products [7] - The company is expected to strengthen its outdoor brand, Merrell, in response to the growing outdoor industry, which could become a potential growth driver in the medium term [7] Financial Forecasts - The company forecasts earnings per share (EPS) of 0.49, 0.56, and 0.63 RMB for 2025, 2026, and 2027 respectively, with a target price of 8.54 HKD based on a 16x PE valuation for 2025 [2][8] - Revenue projections for the years 2023 to 2027 are as follows: 14,346 million RMB (2023), 13,577 million RMB (2024), 14,452 million RMB (2025), 15,795 million RMB (2026), and 17,244 million RMB (2027), reflecting a compound annual growth rate [2][12] - The company's net profit attributable to the parent company is expected to grow from 1,030 million RMB in 2023 to 1,745 million RMB in 2027, with corresponding growth rates of 11.8% (2023), 20.2% (2024), 10.6% (2025), 13.7% (2026), and 12.0% (2027) [2][12]