Core Insights - The article emphasizes three investment themes to focus on during the third quarter earnings reports, highlighting the relatively subdued internal growth expectations and increased external uncertainties due to the escalation of US-China tariffs [1] Group 1: Earnings Highlights - Key areas to watch in the third quarter earnings include sectors such as gold, TMT (Technology, Media, and Telecommunications) benefiting from high AI demand, and non-bank financials [1] - Investors are encouraged to identify structural highlights through the earnings reports, particularly in sectors with low correlation to economic cycles and external risks [1] Group 2: High-Growth Opportunities - High-growth opportunities include the AI industry chain and sectors with significant overseas capacity layout that cater to non-US economic trade, such as white goods, construction machinery, and power grid equipment [1] - The article suggests focusing on industries that have achieved supply-side clearing in a moderately recovering environment, including industrial metals, lithium batteries, innovative pharmaceuticals, commercial vehicles, and rail and road equipment [1]

Core Viewpoint - The report from CICC indicates that the third quarter earnings growth of A-shares is expected to improve compared to the second quarter, with a focus on fundamental trends during the earnings disclosure period [1][2][3] Earnings Disclosure Peak - The peak period for third-quarter earnings disclosures for A-share companies will occur in mid to late October, with approximately 2.3% of companies having already released earnings forecasts as of October 16 [2][3] Earnings Growth Expectations - A-share earnings growth is anticipated to increase year-on-year in the third quarter compared to the second quarter, with non-financial earnings expected to grow by 8.2% [3][4] - Retail sales growth has shown marginal slowdown, with a year-on-year increase of 4.6% from January to August, down from 5.0% in the first half of the year [3][4] Sector Highlights - Key sectors to watch during the earnings period include: - Gold sector and TMT (Technology, Media, and Telecommunications) benefiting from AI trends [4][9] - High-growth opportunities less correlated with economic cycles, such as the AI industry chain and white goods [4][9] - Industries achieving supply-side clearing, including industrial metals, lithium batteries, and innovative pharmaceuticals [4][9] Financial Sector Insights - Non-bank financials are expected to benefit from high market activity, while the gold and technology hardware sectors are projected to be structural highlights [4][5] - The report suggests that the non-financial sector will see varied performance, with the gold sector expected to outperform due to rising prices amid geopolitical tensions [4][5] Manufacturing and Export Performance - The manufacturing sector, particularly in energy and raw materials, is expected to see improved performance, with rising prices for non-ferrous metals and coal [5][6] - The export sector remains resilient, with year-on-year growth in export amounts in the range of 8.0% to 8.4% from July to September [3][4] Consumer Sector Trends - The consumer sector is facing challenges, with overall demand needing to be stimulated, particularly in essential consumption areas like food and beverages [7][8] - New consumption areas, such as beauty and trendy products, are expected to perform relatively well despite a general slowdown in consumer demand [7][8] TMT Sector Outlook - The TMT sector is experiencing high growth, particularly in AI-related fields, with expectations for continued capital expenditure increases in technology [4][8] - The semiconductor and software industries are projected to maintain strong performance, driven by stable demand and low base effects [8][9]

Core Viewpoint - The A-share market has experienced a pullback due to declining risk appetite, increased uncertainty in US-China relations, and a general market sentiment decline, with major indices showing a downward trend [4][5]. Market Performance - The A-share market saw a significant decline this week, with the STAR Market 50 index dropping the most at 6.2%, while the Shanghai 50 index fell the least at 0.2%. The overall valuation of the market is at a historically high level since 2010 [4]. - Market styles have diverged, with value stocks performing better. Large-cap value stocks increased by 2.1%, while mid-cap growth stocks decreased by 5.8% [4]. Short-term Market Outlook - The A-share market has shown notable volatility, with the Shanghai Composite Index briefly surpassing 3900 points, a level not seen since August 2015, before falling back below that threshold [5]. - Increased market volatility is attributed to high valuations and rising uncertainties in US-China relations, with the VIX index also showing a significant increase [5]. - Historically, pullbacks during bull markets are common, typically occurring after 60-80 trading days into a bull market, with a usual retracement of 6-7% before resuming upward movement [5][6]. Current Market Phase - The market is likely still in a bull phase, although it may enter a wide-ranging fluctuation stage in the short term. The maximum drawdown observed so far is 4.01%, which is within historical norms [6]. Sector Focus - In the short term, the focus should be on defensive and consumer sectors, as historically, these sectors perform better during market fluctuations. High-dividend stocks and consumer sectors such as food and beverage, social services, and beauty care are expected to benefit from increased domestic demand [7][8]. - In the medium term, attention should be directed towards TMT (Technology, Media, and Telecommunications) and advanced manufacturing sectors, which may gain traction due to liquidity-driven trends and ongoing developments in AI [8].

Market Overview - The A-share market is experiencing a volume contraction and noticeable declines in the Shenzhen Component Index and the ChiNext Index, with expectations of a wide-ranging fluctuation phase in the short term while still being in an upward trend overall [1][5][6] Investment Recommendations - Short-term focus should be on defensive and consumer sectors, with significant value in the non-ferrous metals industry; long-term growth remains centered on technology, particularly in TMT (Technology, Media, and Telecommunications) and advanced manufacturing sectors [1][6][7][8] Regulatory Developments - The China Securities Regulatory Commission (CSRC) has revised the "Corporate Governance Guidelines for Listed Companies," effective January 1, 2026, to enhance governance standards among listed companies [2] Fiscal Policy - The Ministry of Finance will continue to advance the 2026 new local government debt limits to support major projects and bolster economic recovery [3] Industry Insights - The user base for generative artificial intelligence in China reached 515 million by June 2025, doubling in six months, indicating a significant growth trend in this sector [4] - The non-ferrous metals sector is highlighted for its strong configuration value due to supply-side contraction policies and new demand dynamics, with specific focus on gold, rare earths, copper, aluminum, and new energy metals [8] - Solid-state battery technology is gaining traction, with expectations for significant advancements in product performance and cost, presenting investment opportunities across the battery supply chain [10]

Group 1 - The core viewpoint is that the current structural fundamental clue in A-shares is the outbound expansion of Chinese enterprises, influenced by the ongoing US-China tensions, which may affect market pricing for outbound investments [2] - The new focus is on China's long-term strategy to ensure resource security, industrial chain safety, and leading technology security, indicating a shift in investment themes post-dividend rotation [2] - The adjustment in the leading industries, such as optical modules, PCB, and innovative pharmaceuticals, is expected to continue, with potential for new highs as the third-quarter reports approach [3][4] Group 2 - The market is currently in a bull market consolidation phase characterized by high-low fund rotation and index stagnation, with the expectation that the bull market logic remains intact [6] - The market's recent adjustments are attributed to high valuations and uncertainties in US-China relations, but historical patterns suggest that such corrections are common in bull markets [7] - The upcoming policy expectations and the focus on the "15th Five-Year Plan" are likely to provide new investment opportunities, particularly in sectors with strong performance certainty [8][10] Group 3 - The recent market adjustments are seen as the beginning of a structural shift, with a focus on domestic industries that are experiencing a recovery in demand [9] - The investment strategy should prioritize sectors with strong growth potential, such as new consumption, military industry, and advanced manufacturing, while also considering defensive sectors [11] - The fourth quarter is anticipated to see continued upward movement in indices, driven by policy catalysts and stable earnings expectations [14]

Core Viewpoint - The fundamental purpose of investment is to provide reasonable returns to investors, emphasizing the importance of anchoring on the fundamentals of listed companies and pursuing genuine earnings growth as the source of fund returns [3][5][10]. Investment Framework - The investment framework constructed by the fund manager consists of three interconnected layers: macro asset timing to determine overall market direction, industry comparison to identify high-potential sectors, and micro company research to select quality stocks [5][6][10]. - The framework emphasizes a balanced allocation strategy, with no single sector exceeding 30% of the portfolio, ensuring comprehensive coverage across various industries [6][10]. Risk Management - Risk control is prioritized, involving understanding, assessing, and responding to risks, along with a flexible approach to market feedback [6][10]. Trend Analysis - Identifying sustainable industry trends lasting over three years is crucial for investment success, focusing on long-term value creation rather than short-term market fads [8][9]. - In-depth research and early identification of trends are essential for capturing investment opportunities, with a strong emphasis on field research and direct engagement with companies [9][10]. Future Investment Opportunities - Current investment opportunities are seen in AI and technology growth, which are pivotal during economic transitions, with significant potential from upstream computing power to downstream applications [11]. - The "new dividend" assets are highlighted, particularly in high-quality leading companies with stable earnings and increasing dividend rates, as the macroeconomic environment stabilizes [11].

Core Viewpoint - The A-share market is experiencing a cautious sentiment with a focus on the upcoming "14th Five-Year Plan" and the third quarter earnings reports, which are expected to provide more investment clues [2] Group 1: Market Sentiment and Trends - The Shanghai Composite Index fell by 1.47% this week, while the Shenzhen Component and ChiNext Index dropped by 4.99% and 5.71% respectively, indicating a bearish trend in the A-share market [2] - Short-term market sentiment is cautious, with reduced trading volumes and a likelihood of phase-based fluctuations [2] - The upcoming 20th Central Committee's Fourth Plenary Session will focus on the "14th Five-Year Plan," which is expected to influence market dynamics [2] Group 2: Sector Focus and Investment Opportunities - China Galaxy Securities suggests focusing on sectors with strong policy support and earnings certainty, as the current market adjustment presents a layout opportunity for investors [2] - CITIC Securities highlights that the biggest structural fundamental clue in the A-share market remains the overseas expansion of Chinese enterprises, with a need to monitor new trends related to resource security and AI technology [2] - Everbright Securities recommends short-term attention on defensive and consumer sectors, while mid-term focus should be on TMT (Technology, Media, and Telecommunications) and advanced manufacturing sectors [3] - Huajin Securities indicates that while the technology-driven style may shift to a more balanced approach in the short term, the long-term preference for technology growth remains unchanged [4]

Core Conclusions - In a bull market, the style is relatively stable in the early and late stages, but it tends to fluctuate in the mid-stage. Non-mainstream sectors may lead in the later stages of the bull market, influenced significantly by capital flow rather than performance realization, typically lasting 1-2 quarters [2][10][28] Historical Cases - During the 2005-2007 financial cycle bull market, from January to May 2007, small-cap growth stocks surged, with non-mainstream sectors like textiles, environmental protection, and pharmaceuticals leading the gains. This was attributed to accelerated capital inflow and a shift in market focus towards previously underperforming sectors [3][11][14] - In the 2013-2015 TMT bull market, the fourth quarter of 2014 saw large-cap value stocks outperform, with non-bank financials, construction, banking, and steel sectors leading. This shift was driven by significant inflows of retail capital and a change in focus from performance to valuation [19][21][27] Market Dynamics - Non-mainstream sectors tend to lead in the later stages of a bull market due to increased capital inflow, as mainstream sectors often reach high valuation levels, leading investors to seek undervalued sectors with high safety margins [3][28] - The performance of non-mainstream sectors may be supported by earnings growth, as seen in the textiles sector in early 2007, but there can also be instances where performance realization remains weak despite leading gains, such as in the construction and steel sectors in late 2014 [30][28] Current Market Outlook - The report suggests that the current market may be entering a main upward trend, with potential for style switching towards low-value sectors, particularly in banking and non-bank financials, as well as in low-valued electric equipment and cyclical stocks [37][38] - The financial sector is highlighted as having low overall valuations, with potential for rebound due to style switching and regulatory support for long-term capital inflows [39]

Market Review - Since October, global risk events have increased, including the potential U.S. government shutdown, heightened political uncertainty in Japan, and escalating China-U.S. trade tensions, leading to a rise in market risk aversion. Precious metals have strengthened while oil prices have declined, with Hong Kong stocks experiencing a greater drop than A-shares and U.S. stocks due to the strong U.S. dollar and international capital flow impacts. A-shares have shown characteristics of risk-averse trading, evidenced by a decrease in trading volume, with daily turnover falling below 2 trillion yuan, and a style shift where previously strong sectors like the ChiNext and STAR Market have seen significant adjustments while defensive dividend indices have risen [1][2]. Market Outlook - The report emphasizes the importance of cherishing quality assets, predicting a gradual recovery in the market starting in late October. Recent signals from U.S. trade representatives indicate a potential easing of trade tensions, with expectations for some consensus to be reached during upcoming economic discussions and the APEC summit. This contrasts with the previous widespread declines in April, as the current trade situation reflects a shift in capital flows rather than a broad market downturn. Overall, financing and ETF funds continue to see net inflows, suggesting that micro liquidity in the stock market remains relatively abundant. The construction of a "stabilizing mechanism" in the capital market and improvements in investor return systems are highlighted as key features of this market cycle, supporting the notion of a sustained "slow bull" market in A-shares, which are currently viewed as not overly expensive [2][3]. Key Focus Areas 1. The U.S. government has released signals indicating a potential easing of trade tensions, with discussions between Chinese and U.S. trade leaders suggesting a possible return to "TACO" trading dynamics. This could lead to a recovery in capital market risk appetite [2]. 2. Positive domestic and international factors are expected to support the market, with the upcoming 20th Central Committee meeting likely to address various themes such as new productivity, green development, and external openness, potentially catalyzing investment opportunities. Additionally, a likely interest rate cut by the Federal Reserve and a stable U.S. dollar index are anticipated to provide further support [3]. 3. The recent market style shift, characterized by a decline in tech-heavy indices and a rise in defensive dividend stocks, reflects a defensive positioning by investors amid reduced trading volumes. The report attributes the tech sector's adjustment to several factors, including increased trading congestion and profit-taking amid rising risk aversion due to trade tensions [4][5]. Industry Configuration - The report suggests that the current valuation fluctuations in the tech sector do not indicate a permanent style shift. Upcoming events, including the Central Committee meeting and the release of quarterly reports, are expected to boost market sentiment and catalyze thematic trading. The report notes that growth sectors like TMT continue to show relative performance advantages, while cyclical sectors lack fundamental support due to ongoing negative PPI trends. The report anticipates that once market structures stabilize, the focus will likely return to growth and technology investments, with a recommendation to pay attention to "mergers and acquisitions" as a theme [5][6].

- The quantitative review system signals have consistently pointed to low valuation and dividend sectors since October 1st, indicating a market shift towards these areas [7] - The TMT sector's transaction amount share has continued to decline, while cyclical and financial real estate sectors have seen a gradual increase in transaction amount share, supporting the "high-to-low switch" logic previously proposed [7] - The Sci-Tech 50 Index has experienced a significant adjustment, which can be analyzed as being in the A-wave phase of the fourth wave adjustment according to the Elliott Wave Theory [7] - The high-frequency thermometer indicator for the Sci-Tech 50 Index has dropped below 20, suggesting that the current adjustment may be nearing its end [7]