Investment Rating - The report suggests a cautious investment approach towards the real estate market, particularly in first-tier cities, while highlighting potential opportunities in non-first-tier cities and developed county economies [10][21]. Core Insights - The Chinese real estate market is fundamentally different from Japan's, with a higher proportion of self-funding and manageable overall leverage, which mitigates systemic risks [1][2]. - Since 2020, China's manufacturing sector has seen an increase in leverage, with high-end manufacturing continuously enhancing global competitiveness, contrasting with Japan's asset-liability issues due to real estate speculation [1][2]. - The report emphasizes the importance of maintaining employment stability and improving household income expectations to avoid a deflationary spiral similar to Japan's [1][2]. - China's regional economy is developing in a multi-point flowering pattern, avoiding the polarization seen in Japan's major cities, with a more balanced distribution of industries [1][5]. - Non-first-tier cities and developed counties present significant growth prospects, with a more equitable distribution of large enterprises and active participation in global competition [1][7]. Summary by Sections Real Estate Market - The report identifies a trend of young people and retirees leaving first-tier cities in search of more suitable living conditions, with significant differences in housing repayment periods across city tiers [21]. - First-tier cities face longer repayment periods for home loans, with Beijing requiring 18 years of income to repay, while non-first-tier cities generally require around 10 years [21]. Consumer Behavior - Lower-tier consumers prioritize brand and symbolic consumption, while higher-tier consumers lean towards shared economy and personalized needs [23]. - The tea beverage industry shows significant growth in lower-tier markets, with brands like Gu Ming achieving a compound annual growth rate of 25.8% from 2022 to 2024 [24]. Economic Development - The report highlights that non-first-tier cities are successfully attracting young talent through improved living conditions and job opportunities, contrasting with the declining attractiveness of first-tier cities [16][17]. - County economies are thriving by leveraging local resources and developing unique economic models, leading to increased property market activity [20]. Investment Opportunities - Investors are advised to focus on consumer companies in non-first-tier cities and developed counties, while exercising caution with investments in first-tier and quasi-first-tier consumer companies [10].