Investment Rating - The report maintains a "Buy" rating on ZTO Express (ZTO US, TP USD22.00) and STO Express (002468 CH, TP RMB14.10), while J&T Express (1519 HK, Hold, TP HKD9.00) is seen as having upside potential [6][10][49]. Core Insights - The express delivery sector in China is expected to benefit from new policy guidance aimed at preventing aggressive price competition, which has previously led to an 8% decline in average revenue per parcel (ARPP) despite a 20% increase in volume [2][10]. - Historical trends indicate that the sector has re-rated positively following government interventions to stabilize pricing, with a notable 48% rally in September 2021 after delivery fee increases [4][10]. - The current consensus has cut ZTO's earnings estimates by 15% due to intensified price competition, resulting in a forward PE multiple of 10.4x, significantly below its historical average of 19.2x, suggesting potential downside protection for the stock [3][10]. Summary by Sections Policy Impact - The State Post Bureau's recent conference emphasized tighter regulations to curb aggressive pricing strategies, which has already led to a 5-10% increase in share prices for express delivery companies [2][10]. - The report anticipates that if express delivery companies respond to the new policy with price hikes, a sustainable re-rating of the sector could occur [4]. Financial Projections - ZTO is projected to achieve 9% earnings growth by 2025, with a 21% increase in volume, despite an expected 11% decline in ARPP [5]. - A sensitivity analysis indicates that a 1 percentage point improvement in ARPP could lead to a 3 percentage point increase in net profit growth [5]. Company Ratings and Targets - ZTO Express is highlighted as the domestic leader with a target price of USD22.00, while STO Express is also rated as a "Buy" with a target price of RMB14.10, benefiting from potential regulatory interventions [6][10]. - J&T Express is rated as a "Hold" with a target price of HKD9.00, reflecting its position as a laggard in the market but with potential upside as competition eases [6][10].