Summary of Haier Smart Home Conference Call Company Overview - **Company**: Haier Smart Home - **Industry**: Home Appliances Key Points and Arguments Market Impact and Challenges - The North American market is minimally affected by U.S. tariffs due to local production in the U.S. and Mexico, where Mexico enjoys zero tariffs. However, overall Chinese appliance exports have declined since April and are expected to continue this trend in the coming months [2][3] - Domestic market faces challenges from reduced subsidy intensity and a price war in the air conditioning sector. The gradual implementation of the old-for-new subsidy may be controlled, raising market concerns, especially with recent adjustments in Jiangsu province's air conditioning subsidy policy [2][4] - In Q1 2025, Haier's refrigerator business grew by 8%, washing machines by over 10%, and air conditioning by 15%, outperforming industry averages [2][5] Strategic Initiatives - Haier is enhancing operational efficiency through digital inventory management, accelerating inventory turnover, and expanding online channels, particularly targeting younger consumers. The air conditioning business added 150 top customers, resulting in a 60% increase in retail volume [2][8] - The company launched the "Lazy Wash" washing machine, which has seen significant pre-sale success, with orders fully booked until July [2][9] Competitive Landscape - The recent price decline in air conditioning products, led by the Hualing brand, is not expected to last as long as previous price wars in 2019 and 2020. Prices have already begun to recover post-618 shopping festival [6][10] - Haier's air conditioning business is performing better than expected despite price war pressures, with significant improvements in product quality and cost efficiency achieved through increased R&D and self-manufacturing of core components [10][11] Regional Performance - Haier has shown strong performance in Southeast Asia and South Asia, with market shares nearing 40% in Turkey and Pakistan, and ranking third in India with a 7% market share. The company has improved profitability through product structure enhancements and digital transformation [3][18] - The company’s global building business unit achieved a significant milestone by surpassing 10 billion yuan in revenue for the first time in 2024, driven by self-manufacturing of key components and new product launches [12] Future Outlook - The overall home appliance market is expected to remain stable in 2025, despite a potential slowdown in growth rates due to high base effects from 2024. Haier aims to maintain its market share without engaging in price competition [21][22] - Investors express concerns about the cyclical nature of the appliance industry, but long-term stability is expected due to strong replacement demand for refrigerators, washing machines, and air conditioners [22] Valuation and Investment Perspective - Haier's current valuation is at a near ten-year low, with a dividend yield at a ten-year high, presenting an attractive investment opportunity. The company’s transformation and execution capabilities are expected to drive future profit and dividend growth [23][24] Conclusion - Haier Smart Home is navigating a complex market landscape with strategic initiatives aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and product offerings. The company is well-positioned to leverage its global production capabilities and local market insights to sustain growth and profitability in the home appliance sector.