Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the investment opportunities in the consumer sector, particularly focusing on traditional consumption, which is perceived to have more potential than new consumption due to the undervaluation of leading companies in this space [3][15]. Summary by Sections Traditional vs. New Consumption - The consumer market is divided into traditional consumption (e.g., Guizhou Moutai, Haitian Flavoring, Yili) and new consumption (e.g., Pop Mart, Laopu Gold, Weilong). The author favors traditional consumption due to strong companies with clean balance sheets and current undervaluation [4][5]. Performance of Food and Beverage Sector - The article reviews the half-year performance of various segments within the food and beverage sector: - **Baijiu**: Revenue growth of -0.4% and net profit growth of -0.9%, with a notable decline in Q2 due to policy impacts [7]. - **Beer**: Revenue growth of +2.8% and net profit growth of +11.8%, with a focus on non-drinking channels and premium products [7]. - **Beverages**: Revenue growth of +7.2% and net profit growth of +3.2%, driven by new product launches [7]. - **Condiments**: Revenue and net profit growth both at +10.6%, with a recovery in soy sauce and vinegar [7]. - **Dairy Products**: Revenue growth of +1.9% and net profit decline of -1.3%, but a significant recovery in Q2 with a net profit growth of 44.2% [7]. - **Frozen Foods**: Revenue growth of +0.2% and net profit decline of -11.5%, impacted by reduced dining out [7]. - **Snacks**: Revenue growth of -4.2% and net profit decline of -42.9%, with some segments performing better [7][8]. Future Outlook - The article suggests that the food and beverage sector's performance is generally underwhelming, reflecting a recovering economic environment where consumer spending on dining out is reduced [8][9]. - For the baijiu industry, a U-shaped recovery is expected, with growth resuming in two to five years [10]. - For other consumer goods, a recovery is anticipated, but the timing of a market turnaround remains uncertain [11]. Investment Directions - Notable investment opportunities include leading companies like Ningde Times and Guizhou Moutai, with the latter serving as a benchmark for evaluating other investments [12]. - The article highlights the low valuation of the consumer sector, with the food ETF's price-to-earnings (PE) ratio at 21.3, which is at the 10th percentile compared to the past decade [12][13][14]. - The author suggests that if investors recognize these leading consumer companies as strong, the current valuation presents a worthwhile opportunity [15]. Investment Strategy - The article advises a diversified investment approach, balancing high-growth sectors with traditional consumption and utilizing ETFs for broader exposure to leading companies [16].