Summary of Conference Call on Express Delivery Industry Industry Overview - The express delivery industry has maintained relatively stable prices since 2025, with the price for 500 grams in North China at approximately 1.25 yuan, a year-on-year decrease of 0.05 yuan due to reduced income for front-end franchisees [1][3][5] - The cost structure in North China limits further price declines, particularly in Hebei, a late grain-producing area [1][3] Key Points and Arguments - **Price Stability and Adjustments**: - The express delivery prices have remained stable in 2025, with minor fluctuations. The average price for 500 grams is around 1.25 yuan, down 0.05 yuan from the previous year [1][3][11] - Price increases in North China typically occur in mid-September, with actual increases implemented in October, averaging around 0.20 yuan [1][5][6] - Companies must be cautious in price adjustments to avoid customer loss, balancing between competitive pricing and maintaining market share [1][7] - **Impact of Headquarters Costs on Pricing**: - Headquarters' cost increases do not always translate directly to end-user prices. For instance, a 0.10 yuan increase in headquarters' costs may result in only a 0.02 to 0.03 yuan increase for customers [4][6] - Franchisees often absorb part of the cost increases to remain competitive, typically taking on 0.06 to 0.07 yuan of the loss [4][6] - **Franchisee Income and Market Dynamics**: - The decline in income for front-end franchisees has contributed to the overall price decrease in the industry. Franchisees are pressured to lower prices to maintain market share [5][12] - Franchisees require a profit margin of approximately 0.20 to 0.30 yuan per order to cover losses and achieve profitability [13][14] - **Seasonal and Structural Challenges**: - Franchisees in North China face significant operational pressures, with many reporting losses in the range of 2 to 4 million yuan due to seasonal demand fluctuations and high fixed costs [12][22] - The complexity of product structures and reliance on manual operations hinder cost reduction efforts during off-peak seasons [22][23] Additional Important Insights - **Role of "Yellow Cattle" (Resellers)**: - Resellers play a significant role in the express delivery market by offering lower prices to attract business, with some companies relying heavily on them while others focus on direct customer service [15][16] - The price offered to resellers is typically lower than that for direct customers, impacting overall profitability [16][17] - **Regulatory Environment and Coordination**: - Price adjustments in regions like Guangdong are coordinated under the guidance of regulatory bodies, which may influence similar actions in North China [10][20] - The potential for price increases in North China is contingent on the success of price adjustments in Guangdong and the establishment of a nationwide regulatory framework [20] - **Profit Distribution and Cost Management**: - In North China, well-managed franchisees may retain around 0.10 yuan per package after costs, while poorly managed ones face penalties that erode profit margins [21] - The need for fixed costs during off-peak seasons, such as labor and facility expenses, exacerbates financial challenges for franchisees [24]

Core Viewpoint - The recent significant increase in the China Express Index (CI005537) by 3.37% indicates a potential turning point for the express delivery industry, driven by collective price hikes across multiple regions [1][3]. Industry Summary - Starting from August 4, Guangdong Province has raised the minimum express delivery price by 0.4 yuan per ticket, mandating that companies cannot charge less than 1.4 yuan per ticket, with severe penalties for non-compliance [3]. - The price adjustments have been observed in major cities such as Guangzhou, Shenzhen, and others, with similar actions taken in the Chaozhou-Shantou region [3]. - Earlier, Yiwu had already increased its minimum price to 1.2 yuan per ticket on July 17, signaling the beginning of this industry-wide adjustment [3]. - The National Postal Administration has expressed strong opposition to "involutionary" competition, indicating a push for industry restructuring [3][7]. - The recent price adjustments are expected to be implemented in more regions, suggesting a broader trend towards stabilizing prices in the express delivery sector [3][12]. Company Performance - Following the announcement of price hikes, several express delivery companies have seen their stock prices rise significantly, with Shentong Express experiencing a 43% increase, Yunda and YTO Express both exceeding 20%, and Jitu Express rising by 16% [4][5]. - The stock performance reflects market optimism regarding the industry's potential to escape the low-price competition dilemma [4]. - Shentong's stock surge is partly attributed to its acquisition of Daniao Logistics for 362 million yuan, despite Daniao's current financial struggles [5][6]. Financial Insights - The express delivery industry has faced severe profit margin pressures, with companies like Yunda and YTO maintaining low gross margins around 10% and net margins around 5% [7]. - In Q2, the industry experienced intensified competition, with Yunda's average revenue per ticket at a historical low of 1.9 yuan and Shentong struggling to exceed 2 yuan [8]. - The recent price adjustments, particularly in Guangdong, could lead to significant earnings elasticity for major companies, with estimates suggesting potential increases of 33% for Shentong, 18% for Yunda, and 14% for YTO [11]. Future Outlook - The effectiveness of the "anti-involution" measures will depend on regulatory enforcement against potential disguised price reductions and the ability to extend these policies nationwide [12]. - The industry is at a critical juncture, with the need to establish a healthy pricing system and service differentiation mechanisms as a long-term goal [12].

Summary of the Express Delivery Industry Conference Call Industry Overview - The express delivery industry has experienced significant growth, with package volume growth outpacing e-commerce GMV and social retail sales, indicating a close relationship with the average order value (AOV) of e-commerce platforms [1][2] - The industry has transitioned through various stages: from the embryonic phase before 2011, explosive growth from 2011 to 2016, a clearing phase from 2017 to 2021, and currently in the late clearing phase since 2021, characterized by reduced competition intensity and a shift from price competition to value competition [1][4] Key Insights - The express delivery sector is projected to maintain a growth rate of around 10% in 2024, with actual growth potentially reaching close to 20%, driven by the rise of low-ticket e-commerce platforms and live-streaming e-commerce [2] - Major players like Pinduoduo, Douyin, and Kuaishou have significantly contributed to package volume, with Pinduoduo accounting for approximately 35% to 40% and Douyin and Kuaishou contributing nearly 30% [2] - The average order value (LOV) is declining due to the increasing share of low-ticket e-commerce platforms, which has profound implications for sellers' logistics cost sensitivity [2] Regulatory Impact - Regulatory interventions in 2021, such as the increase in delivery fees, have improved the profitability of the franchise ecosystem, although challenges remain for franchisees facing intense competition [6][9] - Measures like price floor restrictions in regions such as Guangdong are expected to stabilize operations at grassroots levels and support value recovery for brands and franchisees [3][9] Challenges Faced - The industry is currently facing fierce competition, with many secondary franchise outlets experiencing losses and cash flow issues, leading to salary payment delays for delivery personnel [7] - The distribution of profits between headquarters and channels is critical for the overall competitive capability of express delivery brands [7] Future Outlook - In the short term, companies with weak single-package profitability, such as Shentong, Yunda, and Jitu, are expected to recover profitability more quickly [10] - In the medium to long term, leading companies like Zhongtong and Yuantong are anticipated to gain market share due to their network capabilities and smaller price differentials [10] - The industry is expected to evolve towards brand and value competition, with regulatory measures playing a significant role in curbing malicious price competition [8][9]

Group 1 - Zhongtong Express-W (02057) has seen a rise of over 4%, currently up 4.28% at HKD 163.3, with a trading volume of HKD 542 million [1] - Starting from August 4, the minimum express delivery price in Guangdong Province has been increased by HKD 0.4 per ticket, raising the average price to above HKD 1.4 [1] - The National Postal Administration held a meeting on July 29 to address issues such as "involution" competition and illegal charges in rural areas, emphasizing the need for a healthy development of the industry [1] Group 2 - Zheshang Securities predicts that with the end of the off-peak season and the arrival of the peak season in September, there is potential for broader price stabilization and recovery, which may alleviate pressure on franchise operations [1] - Recently, Shentong Express's acquisition of Daniao marks the beginning of resource consolidation in the express delivery industry under the national anti-involution policy [1] - The National Postal Administration encourages mergers and restructuring among express delivery companies, leading to a healthier industry structure and optimized competitive ecology, which may present sector-wide investment opportunities [1]

Core Viewpoint - The express delivery industry is experiencing a new round of price increases amid efforts to combat "involution" and low-price competition, with Guangdong province raising the base price to 1.4 yuan per ticket starting August 4 [1][2]. Group 1: Price Adjustments - Starting August 4, the base price for express delivery in Guangdong province has been raised by 0.4 yuan per ticket, bringing the average price to over 1.4 yuan [1]. - Major express companies, including the "Tongda system," have begun implementing price increases, particularly for 0.1 kg special items, with increases ranging from 0.4 to 0.5 yuan [1][3]. - The price adjustments are a response to the ongoing decline in single-ticket prices, which had fallen below 2 yuan for some companies in the second quarter of this year [1][8]. Group 2: Industry Context - The express delivery industry has been trapped in a cycle of "low-price for volume" competition, leading to reduced profit margins for delivery personnel and poor service quality [3][4]. - The central government has emphasized the need to regulate low-price competition and improve product quality, with recent meetings highlighting the importance of maintaining a healthy market order [2][6]. - The express delivery sector has seen significant price drops, with some areas reporting ticket prices as low as 0.8 yuan, prompting calls for a shift from price wars to quality-focused competition [4][8]. Group 3: Regulatory Environment - Regulatory bodies have previously intervened to address low-price competition, with measures introduced in 2021 aimed at protecting the rights of delivery personnel and stabilizing prices [6][7]. - The National Postal Administration has reiterated its commitment to combating "involution" and ensuring fair competition within the industry [8]. - The recent price increases may signal a shift towards more stable pricing, as regulatory efforts continue to discourage unsustainable pricing practices [8].

Summary of Conference Call on the Express Delivery Industry Industry Overview - The conference call focused on the express delivery industry in China, particularly the recent regulatory measures aimed at reducing vicious price competition and promoting healthy competition [1][3][19]. Key Points and Arguments - **Regulatory Measures**: The State Post Bureau held a high-level meeting to address the issue of excessive competition in the express delivery sector, emphasizing the need for companies to commit to anti-involution measures and ensure network stability [2][3]. - **Price Increases in Guangdong**: Express delivery prices in Guangdong have increased by 0.4 to 0.5 yuan, based on reasonable cost assessments, aimed at ensuring fair compensation for delivery personnel and improving profit margins for franchisees [1][5][8]. - **Rural Issues**: The meeting highlighted the need to resolve illegal charges for package collection in rural areas, which stem from low delivery fees. The solution involves raising collection prices to ensure reasonable compensation and prevent franchisee defaults [6][19]. - **Future Development**: The express delivery industry is expected to continue implementing anti-involution measures through enhanced regulation and self-discipline among companies, leading to high-quality development [7][19]. - **Impact of Price Adjustments**: The price adjustments in Guangdong are primarily focused on small and electronic items, with base prices now ranging from 0.95 to 1 yuan. This adjustment is seen as necessary to restore delivery fees and profits for franchisees [8][9]. - **Comparison with Yiwu**: Unlike Yiwu's gradual price increases, Guangdong's approach is characterized by strong local regulatory determination to implement price hikes in a more immediate manner [10]. - **Regional Price Effects**: The price increase in Guangdong is likely to influence surrounding regions, such as Fujian, with potential for broader price adjustments across the industry [11][15]. - **Current Industry Challenges**: The express delivery sector has faced intense competition leading to deteriorating conditions for franchisees, with reports of major brands experiencing defaults. Single-package profits are at historical lows, and cash flow is weaker than in 2021 [4][12]. - **Future Price Trends**: The industry is expected to see further price increases during the peak season in 2025, with optimistic projections for profitability based on historical data [13][14]. - **Investment Recommendations**: Investors are advised to focus on companies with lower single-package profits and greater elasticity, such as Shentong, while also considering leading companies like YTO and ZTO for balanced risk and return [18]. - **Long-term Industry Impact**: The anti-involution measures are anticipated to have a profound impact on the express delivery sector, improving profitability and reducing social risks associated with over-competition [19]. Additional Important Insights - **Market Sentiment**: The current market conditions reflect only partial expectations of price increases, suggesting potential for further upward adjustments in the future [17]. - **Regulatory Environment**: The express delivery industry is entering a new regulatory phase aimed at improving pricing structures and overall market health, which is crucial for long-term sustainability [17][19].

以史为鉴看快递"反内卷"：快递为何后来居上？ 20250804 摘要 快递行业反内卷的核心在于稳就业和保就业，该行业吸纳大量劳动力， 但劳动合同签署率和五险一金缴纳率较低，反内卷有助于提升就业质量。 快递行业单价持续下跌，部分地区派费低于成本线，导致网点亏损和快 递员薪酬拖欠。反内卷旨在提升加盟网点利润和快递员薪资待遇，而非 仅为总部利益。 消费者对快递价格小幅上涨接受度较高。测算显示，即使华南部分省份 涨价三四毛钱，总体费用率上涨不到一个百分点，下游接纳度较高。 监管部门在快递行业反内卷中发挥重要作用。邮政管理局有能力遏制恶 性竞争，通过调控政策引导行业良性发展，保障快递员合法权益。 2021 年和 2025 年快递行业均面临非理性竞争导致的产业链盈利恶化、 网点亏损等问题，监管部门均采取干预措施引导良性竞争。 2021 年第四季度快递行业单价上涨 0.3 元，上市公司单票净利增加 0.1 元，小哥和网点占 0.2 元。涨价持续 4 个月，并维持了 16 个月。 预计 2025 年这轮反内卷将持续至少四个月以上，部分地区涨价幅度可 能达到 0.3 元。若义乌和广州等主要产量区涨价 0.4 元，全国范围内可 ...

Investment Rating - The report rates the express delivery industry as "Overweight" indicating a positive outlook for the sector [3][4]. Core Insights - The National Postal Administration held a meeting on July 29, 2025, to discuss the promotion of high-quality development in the express delivery industry and to address issues related to "involution" competition [4]. - In the first half of 2025, the express delivery business volume grew by 19.3% year-on-year, but the industry average price fell more than expected, leading to a decline in stock prices for major companies [4]. - The report anticipates a potential price stabilization and recovery in the express delivery sector due to favorable policies, which could lead to significant valuation recovery for companies in the industry [4]. Summary by Sections Price Elasticity of Profits - The report provides scenarios for profit elasticity based on potential price increases in August 2025, with different assumptions for price hikes in various regions [4]. - Under a neutral scenario, if prices increase by 0.2 yuan in key areas, net profits for major companies are projected to be: Zhongtong 10.3 billion, Yuantong 4.5 billion, Yunda 2.0 billion, and Shentong 1.9 billion, reflecting year-on-year growth of 1.4%, 12.6%, 5.2%, and 86.9% respectively [4]. - In an optimistic scenario, with a nationwide price increase, net profits could rise to: Zhongtong 11.4 billion, Yuantong 5.4 billion, Yunda 2.7 billion, and Shentong 2.7 billion, with growth rates of 12.0%, 34.4%, 43.4%, and 157.5% respectively [4]. Company Valuation - The report includes a valuation table for key companies in the express delivery sector, with projected net profits and price-to-earnings (PE) ratios for 2025, 2026, and 2027 [7]. - For example, Zhongtong Express is projected to have a net profit of 95.4 billion yuan in 2025 with a PE ratio of 12, while Yuantong Express is expected to have a net profit of 20.05 billion yuan with a PE of 11 [7].

华源证券表示，7-8月是快递行业传统淡季，或可看到在监管号召下，局部价格较低城市、加盟商亏损 严重区域响应提价，后续在全国范围或者旺季或有更大范围提价。中长期来看，若后续有持续的监管政 策推出，行业或保持良性竞争，从价格战向价值战转变，长期改善快递公司业绩。国信证券表示，未来 在"反内卷"和高质量发展政策指导下，快递行业的无序竞争有望实现边际好转，从而促使监管、竞争、 盈利和质量达成新的平衡，今年四季度旺季行业的价格和盈利表现仍然值得期待。 智通财经APP获悉，中通快递-W(02057)涨超10%，截至发稿，涨10.6%，报168.1港元，成交额10.61亿 港元。 消息面上，7月29日，国家邮政局召开快递企业座谈会，就依法依规治理行业"内卷式"竞争，强化农村 地区领取快件违规收费等突出问题整治，促进行业高质量发展进行座谈交流。据现代物流报，7月17日 义乌邮管局已率先行动，在1.1元底价基础上再涨0.1元。中通随即响应，宣布广东地区价格提升0.1元， 缓解派件网点压力。7月24日，广东邮管局组织会议要求8月1日起提价，预计幅度0.2-0.3元。 ...

中通快递-W(02057)涨超10%，截至发稿，涨10.6%，报168.1港元，成交额10.61亿港元。 消息面上，7月29日，国家邮政局召开快递企业座谈会，就依法依规治理行业"内卷式"竞争，强化农村 地区领取快件违规收费等突出问题整治，促进行业高质量发展进行座谈交流。据现代物流报，7月17日 义乌邮管局已率先行动，在1.1元底价基础上再涨0.1元。中通随即响应，宣布广东地区价格提升0.1元， 缓解派件网点压力。7月24日，广东邮管局组织会议要求8月1日起提价，预计幅度0.2-0.3元。 华源证券表示，7-8月是快递行业传统淡季，或可看到在监管号召下，局部价格较低城市、加盟商亏损 严重区域响应提价，后续在全国范围或者旺季或有更大范围提价。中长期来看，若后续有持续的监管政 策推出，行业或保持良性竞争，从价格战向价值战转变，长期改善快递公司业绩。国信证券表示，未来 在"反内卷"和高质量发展政策指导下，快递行业的无序竞争有望实现边际好转，从而促使监管、竞争、 盈利和质量达成新的平衡，今年四季度旺季行业的价格和盈利表现仍然值得期待。 ...