Swiss watch exports (October 2025) EQUITY: JAPAN CONSUMER ELECTRONICS Lower US tariffs on Swiss goods not a major concern In a joint statement issued on 14 November, the US and Switzerland said they expected the US tariff on imports from Switzerland to be lowered to 15%. We see no major changes in pricing strategy in the near term as Swiss watchmakers still have inventories dating from before the imposition of tariffs in the US. We see no major impact on US sales at Casio Computer [6952], Citizen Watch [776 ...

格隆汇11月21日丨怡邦行控股(00599.HK)公告，截至2025年9月30日止6个月，集团营业额为1.67亿港 元，较上年度上半年期间减少29.6%。除税后亏损约为320万港元，较去年同期减少136.4%。每股亏损 0.45港仙。 凭藉其既有的采购网络及在五金、厨房和卫浴解决方案的专业知识，集团正积极寻求把握市场复苏的机 遇。然而，由于香港经济与中国密切相关，中国经济政策及地缘政治格局的变化更可能影响二手物业市 场，这或会影响集团的财务表现。 ...

Core Insights - UMC reported Q3 2025 revenue of $1.94 billion, a 1.6% year-over-year increase, exceeding expectations by $50 million [1] - The company achieved an earnings per ADS of $0.197, surpassing the forecast by $0.08 [1] - Net profit attributable to shareholders was NT$14.98 billion, with a consolidated gross margin of 29.8% and an operating profit margin of 18.8% [1] Revenue and Market Performance - The company observed a 3.4% increase in wafer shipments, driven by demand growth across most market sectors, particularly benefiting from a rebound in smartphone and laptop sales [1] - The 22nm technology platform accounted for over 10% of total sales, with expectations of over 50 product launches in 2025, and continued growth contribution anticipated in 2026 [1] - Revenue from 40nm and below technologies contributed 52% of wafer revenue, with 22/28nm revenue making up 35% [1] Future Outlook - UMC expects Q4 wafer shipments to remain consistent with Q3 levels, projecting low double-digit growth to conclude 2025 [2] - The company aims to maintain competitive process technologies to support diverse applications, particularly anticipating growth driven by the 22nm logic and specialty platforms [2]

Summary of Boteng Co., Ltd. Conference Call Company Overview - **Company**: Boteng Co., Ltd. - **Industry**: Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Key Financial Performance - **Q3 2025 Revenue**: Achieved a record high of 923 million yuan, with a total revenue of 2.544 billion yuan for the first three quarters, representing a year-on-year growth of approximately 19.7% [2][3] - **Net Profit**: Approximately 80 million yuan for the first three quarters, indicating a turnaround from losses in previous periods [2][3] - **Quarterly Growth**: Revenue increased from 800 million yuan in Q1 to 823 million yuan in Q2, and reached 923 million yuan in Q3 [3] - **Gross Margin**: Overall gross margin for Q3 was around 31%, with expectations for steady improvement [3][10] Business Segment Performance - **Key Growth Areas**: - Small molecule APIs, new molecules, and CGT (Cell and Gene Therapy) showed strong performance, particularly in the U.S. market [2][5] - Significant contributions from high-value projects in CBRM (Chronic Bacterial Respiratory Infection), autoimmune diseases, and oncology [5][7] - **Market Growth**: - Overseas market growth of 17% and domestic market growth of 21% [2][3] - Biotech market showing signs of moderate recovery, driven by demand for major projects [8] Operational Efficiency and Cost Control - **Cost Reduction Measures**: - Management and R&D expenses significantly decreased, while sales expenses slightly increased but remained below revenue growth [3][13] - Focus on improving production efficiency, controlling material costs, and increasing production yield [4][14] - **Production Capacity Utilization**: - Long-lasting factory utilization has significantly improved, with plans to enhance capacity further [18][20] Future Outlook and Strategic Focus - **Growth Strategy**: - Continued focus on high-value markets, clients, and business opportunities, particularly in peptide, ADC (Antibody-Drug Conjugate), and CGT technologies [6][19] - Anticipated further reduction in losses for gene and cell therapy segments by 30-40% next year [4][12] - **Market Demand**: - Optimistic outlook for future demand in CDMO (Contract Development and Manufacturing Organization) and new business segments, supported by market recovery trends [8][15] Additional Insights - **Talent Acquisition**: - Despite cost reductions, the company is increasing personnel to meet the demands of expanding fields such as CGT and new molecules [17] - **New Product Development**: - Strong focus on ADC and peptide projects, with plans to leverage existing capabilities to capture high-quality orders [25] - **Capacity Planning**: - No immediate plans for large-scale new facilities; instead, the focus is on optimizing existing facilities to accommodate more projects [20][24] Conclusion Boteng Co., Ltd. is experiencing a robust recovery with significant revenue growth and a positive outlook for future performance, driven by strategic focus on high-value markets and operational efficiency improvements. The company is well-positioned to capitalize on emerging opportunities in the biotechnology sector.

Core Insights - The company has reported strong new orders and cumulative orders, indicating a positive trend in demand for its products [1][2] Group 1: New Orders - New orders for the first nine months of 2025 reached €771 million, an increase of approximately 4.6% compared to €737 million for the same period in 2024 [1] - New orders in the third quarter of 2025 totaled approximately €304 million, representing a significant increase of about 36% from the third quarter of 2024, driven by improved macroeconomic and geopolitical conditions [1] Group 2: Cumulative Orders - Cumulative orders as of September 30, 2025, amounted to €1.498 billion, reflecting a 12.9% increase from €1.326 billion as of September 30, 2024, and a 3.6% increase from €1.445 billion as of June 30, 2025 [1] - Net cumulative orders stood at €795 million as of September 30, 2025, up 4.5% from €761 million as of June 30, 2025, and a 1.9% increase from €780 million as of September 30, 2024 [1] Group 3: Revenue from New Yachts - Revenue from new yachts for the first nine months of 2025 was €887 million, a 2.5% increase from €865 million in the same period of 2024, primarily due to contributions from custom yachts and superyachts [1] Group 4: Executive Insights - The CEO expressed satisfaction with the strong new orders achieved during the period, attributing success to improved macroeconomic and geopolitical conditions, as well as the company's superior positioning and unique brand [2] - The CEO noted that ongoing negotiations are at a high level, reflecting steady growth in demand, and expressed confidence in the market recovery for the upcoming year-end and new U.S. season [2]

Core Insights - The company, Ferretti Group, is participating in major Mediterranean boat shows in September 2025, starting from a private preview in Monaco and concluding with the Monaco Yacht Show [1] Order Summary - New orders for the first nine months of 2025 reached €771 million, an increase of approximately 4.6% compared to €737 million for the same period in 2024 [1] - New orders in the third quarter of 2025 totaled approximately €304 million, representing a 36% increase from the third quarter of 2024, driven by improved macroeconomic and geopolitical conditions [1] - Cumulative orders as of September 30, 2025, amounted to €1.498 billion, a 12.9% increase from €1.326 billion on September 30, 2024, and a 3.6% increase from €1.445 billion on June 30, 2025 [1] - Net cumulative orders as of September 30, 2025, were €795 million, up 4.5% from €761 million on June 30, 2025, and a 1.9% increase from €780 million on September 30, 2024 [1] Revenue Insights - New yacht net revenue for the first nine months of 2025 was €887 million, a 2.5% increase from €865 million in the same period of 2024, primarily due to contributions from custom yachts and superyachts [2] Executive Commentary - The CEO expressed satisfaction with the strong new orders achieved during the period, attributing success to improved macroeconomic and geopolitical conditions that allowed the company to seize opportunities effectively [2] - The company highlighted its superior positioning, product mix, and brand uniqueness as key factors in the successful Mediterranean boat show season [2] - Ongoing negotiations are at a high level, reflecting steady demand growth, and the overall market recovery strengthens confidence for the end of the year and the upcoming U.S. season [2]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Q3, the company reported net sales of $10 billion, with EBITDA at $868 million, reflecting a sequential improvement despite being lower than the same period last year [5][6]. - Cash provided by operating activities increased by $1.6 billion sequentially, driven by working capital improvements and advanced payments for low-carbon solutions [7]. Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - **Packaging and Specialty Plastics**: Net sales decreased year-over-year and sequentially, with a 1% volume decrease year-over-year and a 2% sequential decline. Operating EBIT was $199 million, down from the previous year due to lower integrated margins [11]. - **Industrial Intermediates and Infrastructure**: Net sales were down 4% year-over-year but increased sequentially, with a 2% volume increase year-over-year and a 5% sequential increase. Operating EBIT increased significantly due to higher volumes and lower fixed costs [12][13]. - **Performance Materials and Coatings**: Net sales were $2.1 billion, down 6% year-over-year and 2% sequentially, with operating EBIT decreasing due to upstream margin compression [14]. Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The broader macroeconomic landscape remains largely unchanged, with subdued business investment and consumer spending impacting demand across key markets [18]. - In the packaging market, global demand remains steady, with North America experiencing record domestic and export volumes, while Europe contracted [18][19]. Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on restoring core earnings and positioning for profitable growth, with over $6.5 billion in strategic actions and cash support planned [32]. - The company is committed to being a low-cost producer, with over 75% of its global cracking capacity in a top-quartile cost position, expected to increase to approximately 80% [30]. Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that the prolonged down cycle continues to weigh on the industry, but there are encouraging signs of rationalization in global capacities that will benefit the company [26]. - The outlook for Q4 anticipates EBITDA of approximately $725 million, with expectations of margin compression from feedstock costs and normal seasonality impacting performance [21][22]. Other Important Information - The company has completed significant strategic actions, including a $3 billion partnership with Macquarie and a $1.4 billion bond issuance to enhance financial flexibility [8][17]. - The company is on track to deliver approximately $400 million in targeted cost savings this year, with a total goal of $1 billion by the end of 2026 [9][10]. Q&A Session Summary Question: Reconciliation of Q3 results - Management highlighted that higher integrated margins and better-than-expected volume contributed to exceeding original estimates, along with accelerated cost savings [36][38]. Question: Rationalization and project cancellations in China - Management provided insights on global capacity rationalization, noting potential delays in announced capacities in China due to market conditions [43][45]. Question: Polyethylene demand and joint venturing Alberta cracker - Polyethylene demand has been stable, with expectations for continued strength in packaging. Management indicated that joint venturing for the Alberta cracker remains a consideration but is not currently planned [61][65]. Question: MDI margins and construction market recovery - Management noted that while MDI margins are benefiting from reduced imports due to anti-dumping measures, a recovery in the construction market is contingent on further reductions in mortgage rates [69][70]. Question: Demand function and order books for Q4 - Management indicated that October order books look good, with a cautious but optimistic outlook for Q4 sales and EBITDA guidance [72][74].

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Q3 2025, the company reported net sales of $10 billion, reflecting sequential improvement despite industry pressures [6] - EBITDA was $868 million, lower than the same period last year but improved over Q2 [6] - Cash provided by operating activities increased by $1.6 billion sequentially, driven by working capital improvements [7] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - **Packaging and Specialty Plastics**: Net sales decreased year-over-year and sequentially due to lower downstream polymer prices and olefins volumes [13][15] - **Industrial Intermediates and Infrastructure**: Net sales were down 4% year-over-year but increased sequentially due to volume gains and lower planned maintenance activity [16][17] - **Performance Materials and Coatings**: Net sales were $2.1 billion, down 6% year-over-year and 2% sequentially, impacted by pricing pressures [18] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Global demand in the packaging market remains steady, with North America showing record domestic and export volumes [25] - The infrastructure sector faces soft market conditions across the U.S., Europe, and China, with limited affordability affecting demand [26] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on restoring core earnings and positioning for profitable growth during industry recovery [6][43] - Strategic actions include cost reduction initiatives targeting $1 billion in savings by 2026 and a reduction in capital expenditures [11][43] - The company is rationalizing its asset footprint to enhance competitiveness and reduce exposure to high-cost operations [36][41] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted a cautious operating environment with subdued business investment and consumer spending due to economic uncertainty [24] - The outlook for Q4 anticipates EBITDA of approximately $725 million, with expectations of margin compression from higher feedstock costs [29][30] Other Important Information - The company completed a $3 billion strategic partnership and issued $1.4 billion in bonds to enhance financial flexibility [10][21] - The company is actively engaged in discussions with governments to mitigate impacts from anti-competitive behaviors and ensure fair trade [38][44] Q&A Session Summary Question: Reconciliation of Q3 results - Management highlighted higher integrated margins and improved cost reduction efforts as key factors for exceeding expectations [50][52] Question: Industry rationalization and project cancellations - Management provided insights on global capacity rationalization, particularly in Asia and Europe, and noted potential delays in announced capacities in China [56][59] Question: Polyethylene demand and pricing - Polyethylene demand has remained stable, with strong performance in packaging applications despite weaker consumer sentiment [77] Question: CapEx outlook for 2026 - Management indicated potential CapEx of $2.5 billion for 2026, with a focus on maintenance and strategic projects [73] Question: MDI margins and construction market recovery - Management noted that MDI margins are benefiting from reduced imports due to anti-dumping measures, while the construction market requires further interest rate declines for recovery [87]

Core Insights - L'Oréal Group's same-store sales growth for Q3 was 4.2%, marking the second consecutive quarter below analyst expectations [1] Summary by Category Sales Performance - The total sales for L'Oréal Group in Q3 increased by approximately 0.5% year-on-year, reversing the decline seen in Q2 [1] - Same-store sales in the North Asia region, which includes mainland China, achieved nearly 5% growth, recovering from a decline in Q2, driven by the revival of the high-end skincare market and new product innovations [1] - In North America, same-store sales growth slowed from over 8% in Q2 to 1.4%, significantly below the analyst forecast of 4.4%, potentially impacted by IT system adjustments and possible tariff effects [1]

Core Points - Binance has announced a $300 million initiative in token vouchers and a $100 million loan program to assist users who experienced liquidation losses during a recent market downturn [1][2][4] Group 1: User Support Initiatives - Binance will distribute $300 million in token vouchers to eligible users who suffered forced liquidation losses on Futures and Margin trading between October 10 and October 11, with voucher amounts ranging from $4 to $6,000 [2][6] - To qualify for the token vouchers, users must have incurred forced liquidation losses of at least $50, which must represent at least 30% of their overall net assets based on a snapshot taken on October 9 [6] Group 2: Institutional Support Initiatives - Binance has introduced a $100 million low-interest loan program aimed at supporting institutional clients and ecosystem participants affected by recent market volatility, with the goal of easing liquidity constraints and stabilizing partners [4] - Eligible VIP and institutional clients can apply for the loan program through their dedicated account managers [4] Group 3: Market Context - The announcement follows a significant downturn in the cryptocurrency market, described by Binance as one of the toughest weeks in recent memory, which has negatively impacted user confidence [2] - The market crash on October 11 was exacerbated by external factors, including political announcements, leading to major outages across several crypto exchanges, including Binance [7]