Investment Rating - The report initiates coverage on Link Real Estate Investment Trust (0823 HK) with a "Buy" rating and a target price of HKD 50.59 [1][8] Core Views - Link REIT is the first listed REIT in Hong Kong, focusing on essential consumer scenarios with a total asset valuation of approximately HKD 225.8 billion. The annualized return for unit holders since listing is 10.9%, highlighting its high yield and stable growth characteristics. Factors such as RMB appreciation, population recovery, Federal Reserve rate cuts, and inclusion in the Stock Connect are expected to drive valuation recovery [1][19][24]. Summary by Sections Investment Highlights - The report emphasizes that the appreciation of the RMB and the recovery of the resident population are likely to boost the Hong Kong retail sector, creating a favorable environment for local retail recovery [2][20]. - The widening dividend yield spread and expectations of interest rate cuts by the Federal Reserve enhance Link REIT's investment appeal, with the current yield spread at 204 basis points, above the historical average of 187 basis points [3][21]. - The potential inclusion in the Stock Connect could attract long-term funds and increase demand for Link REIT, which has a strong focus on essential consumer assets and a robust ability to withstand economic cycles [3][22]. Differentiation from Market Views - The report argues that concerns regarding the Hong Kong retail sector's performance are manageable, with the stock price having corrected approximately 44% from its 2019 peak, indicating that pessimistic expectations are largely priced in. The report suggests that the market has not fully priced in the positive impacts of RMB appreciation, population recovery, and potential Federal Reserve rate cuts [4][23]. Financial Performance and Valuation - The projected distributable amounts for Link REIT for the fiscal years 2026-2028 are HKD 69.08 billion, HKD 69.82 billion, and HKD 70.52 billion, reflecting a slight decline in 2026 followed by modest growth in subsequent years. The report uses a dividend discount model for valuation, arriving at a target price of HKD 50.59 based on a long-term dividend growth rate of 0.5% [5][19].