Summary of the Conference Call for Sains 2025 Q3 Earnings Report Company Overview - The conference call discusses the Q3 earnings report of Sains, a leading environmental company in China focused on heavy metal and wastewater treatment in the non-ferrous metallurgy sector, backed by clients like Zijin Mining [2][3]. Key Financial Highlights - Revenue increased by approximately 16% year-over-year, reaching 677 million [3][4]. - Net profit decreased by over 40% compared to the previous year, primarily due to a reduction in investment income, which fell from over 60 million to around 5-6 million [3][4]. - The adjusted net profit (扣非归母净利润) saw a decline of about 10%, attributed to a rapid increase in operating expenses, including sales, management, and R&D costs, all rising by over 15% [3][4]. Business Segments Performance - Revenue breakdown for Q3: - Operating services: approximately 48% of total revenue - Product sales: around 35-36% - Comprehensive solutions for heavy metal pollution: about 15% [4][8]. - The comprehensive solutions segment is expected to see most of its revenue recognized in Q4, with an estimated revenue of around 100 million [5]. Strategic Initiatives and Future Outlook - The company is undergoing a strategic transformation, investing in several large projects, which has led to increased expenses without immediate revenue recognition [4][5]. - For the full year, the revenue target is set at 1.2 billion, with a net profit target of approximately 139 million [14]. - The company has a significant order backlog of around 600 million, up from 400 million year-over-year, indicating strong future revenue potential [12]. New Business Developments - New projects include: - A flotation reagent project in Shandong with a planned annual capacity of 100,000 tons, expected to start production in late 2024 [16][17]. - A high-purity sodium sulfide project, with an annual capacity of 60,000 tons, targeting a market price of over 4,000 per ton [42][43]. - The company is also exploring the production of lithium ammonium and other small metals, with ongoing collaborations with various mining companies [29][30]. Market Dynamics and Competitive Landscape - The global supply of lithium is limited, with significant reserves concentrated in a few countries, creating a favorable market environment for Sains [31]. - The flotation reagent market is characterized by many small enterprises, with Sains aiming to differentiate itself through technical support and customized solutions [32][33]. Profitability and Cost Structure - The flotation reagent project is expected to achieve a gross margin of 20-25% and a net profit margin of 10-15% once fully operational [36]. - The cost of producing lithium ammonium is relatively low, with initial estimates around 200 million for setup, indicating a strong potential for profitability [24][25]. Conclusion - Sains is positioned for growth with a solid revenue increase, strategic investments in new projects, and a strong order backlog. The company is optimistic about achieving its financial targets for the year and expanding its market presence in the non-ferrous metallurgy sector [46].

Core Insights - The company, Sains Environmental Co., Ltd., specializes in heavy metal pollution prevention and aims to be a leader in this field globally [2][3] - The company has developed comprehensive solutions for treating heavy metal pollution, which have been widely recognized and applied in numerous large and medium-sized enterprises across the country [2][3] Company Overview - Sains Environmental Co., Ltd. focuses on solving challenges related to heavy metal wastewater, waste acid, and waste residue treatment, as well as environmental remediation [2][3] - The company operates under a "three-in-one" business model, integrating comprehensive solutions, product sales, and operational services to provide extensive heavy metal pollution prevention services [3] Business Strategy - The company is undergoing a strategic transformation to create a dual-main business model of "mining and metallurgy environmental protection + new materials," emphasizing technological innovation and increased R&D investment [3][9] - The company aims to become the largest mining technology service provider globally by developing new materials such as new flotation agents and high-purity sodium sulfide [3][9] Product and Service Offerings - The main products and services include comprehensive solutions for heavy metal pollution prevention, sales of environmental agents, copper extraction agents, integrated equipment, and customized products [3] - The company plans to build a high-purity sodium sulfide project with an annual production capacity of 60,000 tons, with a total investment of approximately 210 million yuan [9] Market Position and Clientele - The core customer base includes large domestic and international non-ferrous industry groups involved in mining, mineral processing, and smelting [4] - The company has established relationships with top research institutions to provide customized solutions, enhancing its competitive edge in the flotation agent market [7] R&D and Innovation - The company has consistently increased its R&D investment since its listing, viewing innovation as a core strategy to enhance its competitive advantage [10] - The company is committed to maintaining its R&D intensity to meet market demands effectively [10] Capital Expenditure and Strategic Investments - The company views capital expenditure as crucial for achieving strategic goals and is actively seeking quality investment projects for potential mergers and acquisitions [11] - The capital expenditure strategy is driven by the company's strategic objectives and is subject to dynamic optimization [11] Environmental Business Stability - The company anticipates stability in its environmental governance business based on current economic conditions and market trends [12]

Group 1 - The core announcement is that Sains (688480) plans to invest up to 300 million yuan in the expansion of its copper extraction agent production project through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Fujian Longli Chemical [1] Group 2 - The investment is specifically aimed at expanding the production capacity of copper extraction agents and other beneficiation reagents [1]

Core Viewpoint - Sains (688480.SH) has approved an investment plan for the expansion of its copper extraction agent production capacity, aiming to enhance market share through a project costing up to RMB 300 million [1] Group 1 - The third session of the board's 21st meeting was held on September 29, 2025, where the investment proposal was reviewed and approved [1] - The investment is part of the company's strategic development plan to increase production capacity for copper extraction agents [1] - The final investment amount will be determined based on actual expenditures [1]

Core Viewpoint - The company reported its 2025 H1 financial results, showing a revenue increase but a significant decline in net profit, primarily due to the impact of its comprehensive solution business and one-time investment gains from the previous year [1][2]. Financial Performance - In 2025 H1, the company achieved a revenue of 423 million yuan, a year-on-year increase of 18.8%, while the net profit attributable to shareholders was 49.03 million yuan, a decrease of 57.5% [1]. - The Q2 revenue was 253 million yuan, reflecting a slight growth of 0.34% year-on-year, with a net profit of 31.3 million yuan, down 12.9% [1]. - The adjusted net profit, excluding one-time gains, showed an 8.75% decline year-on-year [2]. Business Segment Analysis - Revenue from the comprehensive solution business, operational services, and product sales in 2025 H1 was 53 million yuan, 201 million yuan, and 166 million yuan, respectively, with year-on-year changes of -49.8%, +53.0%, and +41.8% [2]. - The gross margin for 2025 H1 decreased by 2.08 percentage points to 35.0%, with product sales, operational services, and comprehensive solutions having gross margins of 45.1%, 29.8%, and 21.0%, respectively [2]. Cost Structure - The company's expense ratio increased slightly to 20.0% in 2025 H1, up 0.52 percentage points year-on-year, driven by higher R&D and sales expenses [2]. Future Outlook - The company has set ambitious targets in its stock incentive plan, aiming for a revenue CAGR of 24.9% and a non-GAAP profit CAGR of 17.0% from 2025 to 2027 [4]. - Profit forecasts for 2025-2027 are 153 million yuan, 236 million yuan, and 299 million yuan, with expected growth rates of 28.6% for 2025 and 54.1% and 26.5% for 2026 and 2027, respectively [4].

Investment Rating - The investment rating for the company is "Buy" and is maintained [9] Core Views - The company achieved a revenue of 423 million yuan in H1 2025, representing a year-on-year growth of 18.8%. However, the net profit attributable to shareholders decreased by 57.5% to 49.03 million yuan, while the net profit excluding non-recurring items fell by 12.7% to 47.22 million yuan [2][6] - Excluding the one-time investment income impact from H1 2024, the net profit attributable to shareholders in H1 2025 decreased by 8.75%, primarily due to the drag from the comprehensive solution business. In contrast, the operational services and product sales showed impressive growth, with revenues increasing by 53.0% and 41.8% respectively [2][12] - The company is expanding its copper extraction agent production capacity, achieving a doubling of capacity. The resource recycling and new materials projects are gradually being implemented, indicating potential for category expansion and new growth opportunities [2][12] Summary by Sections Financial Performance - In H1 2025, the company reported revenues of 423 million yuan, a year-on-year increase of 18.8%. The net profit attributable to shareholders was 49.03 million yuan, down 57.5%, while the net profit excluding non-recurring items was 47.22 million yuan, down 12.7% [6][12] - For Q2 2025, the company achieved revenues of 253 million yuan, a slight increase of 0.34% year-on-year, with a net profit of 31.30 million yuan, down 12.9% [6][12] - The comprehensive solution business saw a revenue decline of 49.8%, while operational services and product sales grew significantly [12] Business Segments - Revenue breakdown for H1 2025: heavy metal pollution prevention solutions generated 53 million yuan, operational services 201 million yuan, and product sales 166 million yuan [12] - The gross margin for H1 2025 decreased by 2.08 percentage points to 35.0%, with product sales, operational services, and comprehensive solutions having gross margins of 45.1%, 29.8%, and 21.0% respectively [12] Growth Potential - The core subsidiary, Longli Chemical, reported a net profit of 26.63 million yuan in H1 2025, a year-on-year increase of 76.5%. The total production capacity for copper extraction agents increased from 3,400 tons/year to 7,000 tons/year, a 106% increase [12] - The company is actively pursuing multiple research projects, including lithium slag recycling and high-value recovery of rare metals, with promising results in new lithium extraction agents [12] - A stock incentive plan was announced in July 2025, targeting a revenue CAGR of 24.9% and a net profit CAGR of 17.0% from 2025 to 2027 [12]

Investment Rating - The investment rating for the company is "Buy" (maintained) [1] Core Views - The company has shown improvement in its business structure, with rapid development in its chemical agent business [1] - The report highlights a significant increase in revenue and a focus on expanding the chemical agent product line, which is expected to drive future growth [1] Financial Performance Summary - For 2023, total revenue is projected at 808.40 million, with a year-on-year growth of 47.47% - The net profit attributable to the parent company for 2023 is estimated at 90.33 million, reflecting a year-on-year increase of 36.39% - The earnings per share (EPS) for 2023 is expected to be 0.95 yuan, with a price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio of 44.42 [1][8] Revenue and Profit Forecast - Total revenue is forecasted to reach 1,271.09 million in 2025, representing a year-on-year growth of 37.09% - The net profit attributable to the parent company is expected to be 163.15 million in 2025, showing a decrease of 9.74% compared to 2024 [1][8] - The EPS for 2025 is projected at 1.71 yuan, with a P/E ratio of 24.59 [1][8] Business Segment Performance - The chemical agent revenue for the first half of 2025 is expected to be 1.66 billion, with a year-on-year growth of 42% - The gross margin for the chemical agent segment is projected to be 45%, contributing to 51% of the total gross profit [1] - The company has made significant investments in expanding its production capacity for copper extractants and other chemical products [1] Strategic Initiatives - The company has implemented a stock incentive plan aimed at achieving a compound annual growth rate of 17% in net profit from 2025 to 2027, reflecting confidence in future growth [1] - The report emphasizes ongoing efforts in market development and technological research, which are expected to enhance the company's competitive position [1]

Investment Rating - The report maintains a "Buy" rating for the company with a target price of RMB 58.80 [7][8]. Core Views - The company reported a revenue of RMB 423 million for H1 2025, representing a year-on-year increase of 18.81%, while the net profit attributable to shareholders decreased by 57.50% to RMB 49 million [1]. - The decline in net profit is attributed to high investment income from acquisitions in H1 2024, with a notable performance in new business areas such as copper extractants and ammonium rhenate, which are expected to drive revenue growth [1][4]. - The company is focusing on environmental governance, resource recovery, and new materials, with significant project wins in environmental governance totaling over RMB 400 million [4]. Summary by Sections Financial Performance - For H1 2025, the company achieved a revenue of RMB 423 million, with a net profit of RMB 49 million, reflecting a decline in profitability due to previous high investment returns [1]. - The revenue for Q2 2025 was RMB 253 million, showing a year-on-year increase of 0.34% and a quarter-on-quarter increase of 48.37% [1]. Business Segments - The operational services and reagent sales segments saw significant growth, with revenues of RMB 201 million and RMB 166 million, respectively, marking increases of 53.02% and 41.84% year-on-year [2]. - The company’s business structure is continuously optimizing, with operational services and reagent sales gaining a larger share of total revenue [2]. Cost and Profitability - The gross margin for H1 2025 was 35.01%, with a net profit margin of 12.36%, both showing declines compared to the previous year [3]. - Increased expenses and impairment losses have pressured short-term profits, but ongoing business optimization is expected to improve profitability in the future [3]. New Business Development - The company is expanding into new business areas, including ammonium rhenate, copper extractants, sodium sulfide, and flotation agents, which are anticipated to enhance revenue growth [4]. - The production line for ammonium rhenate has been completed, and the company has successfully synthesized high-purity sodium sulfide, with new customer orders for copper extractants exceeding 50% [4]. Profit Forecast and Valuation - The company’s projected net profits for 2025-2027 are RMB 201 million, RMB 241 million, and RMB 300 million, respectively [5]. - The report assigns a PE ratio of 28 times for 2025, reflecting the company’s diversified business model and expected growth in various sectors [5].

Core Viewpoint - The acquisition of a 61% stake in Fujian Zijin Mining Reagent Co., Ltd. by Sains is under scrutiny due to a significant valuation discrepancy, resulting in a goodwill of 169 million yuan, and the absence of performance guarantees in the deal [1][10]. Group 1: Acquisition Details - Sains plans to use its own funds of 183 million yuan to acquire the 61% stake in Zijin Reagent, which will make it a wholly-owned subsidiary [2]. - The previous acquisition of a 39% stake in Zijin Reagent in June 2019 was valued at only 80 million yuan, highlighting a valuation increase of 2.75 times in the current transaction [1][5]. - The acquisition is Sains' first since its listing on the Sci-Tech Innovation Board in November 2022, where it raised approximately 455 million yuan [2]. Group 2: Valuation Concerns - The valuation of Zijin Reagent has raised questions, as its equity value increased from 79.44 million yuan in 2019 to 90.73 million yuan in 2023, a mere 14.21% growth, while the overall valuation surged to 300 million yuan [5][6]. - Sains compared Zijin Reagent's valuation with that of Chongqing Kangpu Chemical Industry Co., Ltd., which has a dynamic price-to-earnings ratio of 21.858, suggesting that Zijin Reagent's estimated value could be higher than the transaction price [6]. Group 3: Financial Performance - Zijin Reagent's net profits from 2020 to 2022 were 8.05 million yuan, 8.76 million yuan, and 10.43 million yuan respectively, with an expected net profit of 20.52 million yuan for 2023 [7]. - The significant increase in expected profits for 2023 has prompted inquiries into the reasons behind this change and its alignment with comparable companies [7]. Group 4: Related Party Transactions - The acquisition involves related parties, as Zijin Mining Group, a major stakeholder, has previously committed to minimizing unnecessary related transactions with Sains [8][9]. - The transaction is expected to increase related party transactions post-acquisition, raising concerns about the fairness and necessity of the deal [9]. Group 5: Goodwill and Performance Guarantees - The acquisition will result in a goodwill of 169 million yuan on Sains' balance sheet, with the exchange not including performance guarantees, which has drawn criticism [10]. - The absence of performance commitments raises questions about the protection of shareholder interests and the rationale behind the timing of the acquisition [10].

Summary of Conference Call Notes Company Overview - **Company Name**: 长江环保 (Changjiang Environmental Protection) - **Industry**: Environmental Protection and Resource Recovery - **Founded**: 2009 by a team from Central South University - **Key Milestones**: Listed at the end of 2022, expanded into overseas markets post heavy metal pollution incident in Jiangxi Core Business and Market Performance - **Business Segments**: - Comprehensive Solutions (EPC) - Operational Services - Product Sales - **Revenue Composition**: - Product sales are becoming the core focus, with a projected increase in revenue share - EPC revenue share decreased from 70% in 2019 to 33% in 2024, while operational services increased from 8.9% to 35% in the same period [5][6] - **Market Potential**: - In the copper, lead, and zinc industry, the annual EPC market space is approximately 1.4 billion CNY, and operational space is 7.1 billion CNY [9] - The company aims to increase market share in the acid-free and wastewater treatment sectors, with potential revenue reaching 1.03 billion CNY if market shares reach 30% and 10% respectively [9] Financial Goals and Incentives - **Equity Incentive Plan**: - Revenue growth targets set at 30%, 15%, and 30% for 2025, 2026, and 2027 respectively, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 25% [6] - Profit growth targets are 20%, 20%, and 10% for the same years, with a CAGR of 17% [6] Strategic Partnerships - **Key Client**: 紫金矿业 (Zijin Mining) - Transaction amounts with Zijin increased from 140 million CNY in 2022 to approximately 300 million CNY in 2024 [10][11] - The partnership is expected to deepen, with Zijin's overseas projects being managed by the company [11] Recent Developments and Projects - **Acquisition**: - Acquired 龙利化学 (Longli Chemical) to enter the chemical agent sector, focusing on copper extraction agents [13] - Sales dependency on Zijin reduced to about 20%, enhancing sustainability [14] - **New Projects**: - Announced a high-efficiency flotation agent project with a total capacity of 100,000 tons and an investment of 600 million CNY [16] - Initiated a high-purity sodium sulfide project with a capacity of 60,000 tons and an investment of 210 million CNY [21] Market Expansion and Future Outlook - **Overseas Market**: - Benefiting from Chinese enterprises acquiring mining projects in Africa and Central Asia, with significant revenue from Congo and Chile [15] - **Resource Recovery Strategy**: - Focus on expanding resource recovery projects, including rhenium recovery, with a potential revenue of 19 million CNY if fully operational [19][20] - **Overall Development Outlook**: - Strong sustainability in core business, with a shift towards chemical agents and resource recovery expected to drive future growth [23]