Core Viewpoint - ST Pava (688184.SH) is facing significant challenges due to the investigation of its former chairman Zhang Bao for embezzlement, alongside ongoing financial difficulties and declining performance since its IPO in 2022 [1][2][6]. Financial Performance - In 2023, ST Pava reported a revenue of 9.54 billion, a decrease of 42.38% year-on-year, and a net loss of 2.48 billion, marking a shift from profit to loss [6][8]. - For 2024, the company achieved a revenue of 9.49 billion, a slight decline of 0.6%, with a net loss of 7.27 billion, indicating a worsening financial situation [6][8]. - Cumulatively, the company has incurred losses of 9.75 billion over two consecutive years [6]. Product and Market Dynamics - The company's main product, lithium-ion battery ternary precursor materials, has seen a significant drop in average selling prices, leading to increased inventory impairment and reduced gross margins [6][7]. - In 2024, the sales volume of ternary precursors reached 16,883.5 tons, a year-on-year increase of 37.94%, but the average selling price fell by 24.05% to 55,400 per ton [7][8]. - The gross margin for the company's core products turned negative, with gross margins for single crystal and multi-crystal NCM ternary precursors at -18.81% and -48.35%, respectively [8]. Management Changes - Following the investigation, Zhang Bao resigned as chairman and was succeeded by Wang Baoliang, who previously held the position from 2016 to 2022 [5][9]. - The effectiveness of Wang Baoliang's leadership in reversing the company's fortunes remains uncertain [9]. Regulatory and Audit Issues - The company has faced multiple regulatory warnings, including a negative audit opinion regarding its internal controls and financial reporting [2][5]. - ST Pava's stock was reclassified to "ST Pava" due to risk warnings, reflecting the ongoing financial and operational challenges [2].