Summary of the Conference Call for Smoore International Company Overview - Smoore International is transitioning from an electronic vapor company to a platform company focused on heated not-burn (HNB) technology, collaborating with firms like British American Tobacco to advance new tobacco products in response to the declining traditional cigarette market [2][5]. Industry Trends - The global traditional cigarette market is experiencing a continuous decline, with a significant drop in per capita smoking rates in the U.S. by 30% to 40% since 1970. The smoking population and consumption have decreased by approximately 1% annually over the past 20 years [7]. - New tobacco products, including HNB and oral products, are seen as key to overcoming the challenges faced by traditional tobacco companies. HNB and oral products are more suitable for large traditional tobacco firms, while the vapor electronic cigarette market is dominated by Chinese manufacturers [10]. Key Points on Smoore's Business - Smoore's HNB products are gaining market share in Japan, Italy, and Poland, indicating strong market performance and growth potential. For instance, Japan saw a 1.4% increase in market share within three months [11]. - The market valuation of Smoore is considered conservative, with future growth expected primarily from HNB business expansion. Achieving sales of over 10 billion units by 2026 could lead to a significant leap in performance [13]. - Smoore's U.S. subsidiary is focused on the medical vaporization sector and has applied for FDA certification, investing approximately 400 million yuan annually in R&D. This segment is expected to become a new growth point within three years [19]. Financial Projections and Market Expectations - Smoore has set ambitious market capitalization targets of 300 billion, 400 billion, and 500 billion yuan by 2025, despite its current valuation being in the hundreds of billions [4]. - The traditional electronic vapor market is stabilizing, with an expected annual growth rate of over 10% [3][18]. - The company anticipates that its HNB business could contribute significantly to its valuation, with estimates suggesting a sales share of 10-15% from HNB products, potentially leading to substantial profit elasticity [16][17]. Future Outlook - The domestic new tobacco market in China is expected to grow significantly, with Smoore positioned to benefit from this shift. The potential transition towards new tobacco products in China could create vast market opportunities [14]. - The medical vaporization segment is seen as a third growth curve for Smoore, with expectations for commercialization and revenue generation within three years [19][20]. Conclusion - Smoore International is strategically positioned to capitalize on the evolving tobacco landscape, with a focus on HNB technology and medical applications. The company's growth potential is supported by its innovative R&D efforts and collaborations with major tobacco firms, setting the stage for a promising future in the new tobacco market.

Market Overview - U.S. private credit market risks are emerging, with significant exposure concentrated in large banks and insurance funds rather than smaller banks[6] - The U.S. economy grew at its fastest pace in two years in Q3 2025, with GDP growth reaching 4.3%, exceeding expectations of 3.3%[31] Stock Market Performance - A-shares experienced a slight increase, with the Shanghai Composite Index closing at 3,919 points, up 0.07%[15] - U.S. stock indices reached new highs, with the S&P 500 up 0.5% to 6,909.8 points and the Nasdaq up 0.6% to 23,561.8 points[9] Commodity and Currency Trends - Gold and silver prices reached record highs due to U.S. interest rate cut expectations and geopolitical risks[28] - The U.S. dollar index fell to its lowest level since early October, while the Chinese yuan approached the 7 yuan mark against the dollar[28] Fixed Income Market - U.S. Treasury yields rose sharply in the short term following strong GDP data, with the 2-year yield at 3.53%[31] - A $44 billion auction of 7-year Treasury bonds is scheduled, reflecting ongoing market adjustments[31] Sector Insights - The healthcare sector in Latin America showed strong performance, with the medical care sector rising by 2.48%[9] - The real estate sector in China is under focus, with government efforts to stabilize the market and support reasonable financing needs for real estate companies[31]

Summary of Key Points from the Conference Call Company and Industry Overview - **Company**: Smoore International - **Industry**: Heated Tobacco Products (HNB) and E-cigarettes Core Insights and Arguments - Smoore International's vaping business is expected to rebound by the end of 2024, contributing approximately 40 billion RMB in market value due to regulatory adjustments in the TA framework and market normalization in Europe and the US [1][2] - The new HNB product, Glow Halo, developed by Smoore, has rapidly gained market share in Japan and achieved significant results in Poland and Italy, validating its market potential [1][4] - The overall growth rate of the HNB industry is steadily increasing, with major tobacco companies actively launching new products, anticipating accelerated penetration rates by 2030 [1][5] - Despite short-term underperformance of Glow Halo in Japan, its long-term viability is recognized, with expectations of achieving a profit target of 10 billion RMB, further boosting the company's market value [1][5] Financial Projections and Market Performance - Smoore's HNB business is projected to ship 20-30 billion units over the next two to three years, generating profits of 1-1.5 billion USD, corresponding to a market value of 25 billion RMB [1][7][15] - The vaping business is expected to contribute 40 billion RMB in market value, with a 20x valuation multiple, while the HNB segment could add another 25 billion RMB [7][17] - The company anticipates a significant increase in revenue from its vaping business, driven by regulatory changes in Europe and a return of compliant products in the US market, projecting a double-digit growth rate [16] Market Dynamics and Competitive Landscape - BAT's Glow Halo has a market share of 1.3% in Japan, which is lower than expected, but the transition of consumers to HNB products is acknowledged to take time [8][10] - In Europe, particularly in Poland and Italy, Glow Halo is performing better than in Japan, aided by aggressive promotional activities [11] - BAT plans to cover at least 20 core countries by the end of 2026, with expectations of terminal sales exceeding 10 billion units, half of which will come from Japan [12][13] Future Catalysts and Risks - Upcoming reports from BAT in February 2026 and Smoore's performance updates in March 2026 are potential catalysts for stock price movements [18] - The company is expected to increase R&D investments in the HNB sector, with a projected profit increase of approximately 200 million RMB in 2026 [14] - The overall market sentiment is currently at a low point, but the fundamentals support a valuation of around 65 billion RMB, with potential upside from collaborations with other tobacco companies [17] Additional Important Insights - Smoore's entry into the medical aerosol sector is expected to gradually reflect its value by 2026-2027, although it has not yet contributed significantly to profits [1][7] - The dual-brand strategy of BAT in Japan, with both Hyper and Halo targeting different market segments, is designed to enhance brand image and cater to varying consumer preferences [7][10]

Summary of Conference Call Records Industry Overview - **Consumer Sector Outlook**: The consumer sector is expected to face challenges in the first half of 2026 due to the tapering of the trade-in policy, which may lead to a slowdown in durable goods consumption. However, service consumption is showing strong internal momentum, with growth expected in sectors like elderly care and home services, which may receive more policy support [1][4][5]. Key Points and Arguments - **Consumer Data Trends**: In November 2025, retail sales growth fell to 1.3%, the lowest of the year, primarily due to the early Double Eleven promotions, the impact of the trade-in policy, and weakened consumer confidence due to falling housing prices [2][3]. - **Trade-in Policy Impact**: The decline in the trade-in policy is anticipated to negatively affect consumer spending in early 2026, particularly in durable goods like home appliances and automobiles, which are expected to see continued low growth [3][21]. - **Service Consumption Growth**: Service retail growth has increased from 4.9% at the beginning of the year to 5.4%, with significant contributions from education and dining sectors [4]. - **Investment Recommendations**: Focus on the AI industry and emerging sectors like pet economy and trendy toys. Real estate is expected to recover by 2026-2027, benefiting related industries [1][6][7]. Important but Overlooked Content - **High-End Consumption and Travel Chain**: The service sector in 2026 will focus on high-end consumption and travel, with recommendations for companies in the duty-free, hotel, aviation, and dining sectors, such as China Duty Free Group and hotel chains like Jin Jiang and Huazhu [7]. - **Overseas Expansion Opportunities**: Companies like Anker Innovations and Huakai 100 are recommended for their potential in overseas markets, despite current low stock prices [9][10]. - **Alcohol and Beverage Sector**: The alcohol sector is currently in a low season, but some brands are seeing price recovery due to channel control measures. The soft drink market is also expected to show potential growth despite current sales being slow [11][12][13]. - **Food and Beverage Trends**: The snack sector is seeing positive demand ahead of the Spring Festival, with health-oriented products like konjac and oats showing significant growth. Companies like Wancheng and Yanjinpuzi are highlighted for investment [12]. - **Investment in New Consumption Areas**: The new consumption sector is showing upward trends, particularly in the vaping and AI glasses markets, with companies like Smoore and Kangnai Optical recommended for their growth potential [16]. Conclusion - The consumer sector is navigating a complex landscape with both challenges and opportunities. The focus on service consumption, emerging sectors, and strategic investments in high-potential companies will be crucial for navigating the anticipated economic conditions in 2026.

Group 1 - Smoore International (06969) shares increased by 4.6%, reaching HKD 12.96, with a trading volume of HKD 146 million [1] - The company announced a renewed procurement framework agreement with EVE Energy (300014) for battery products, effective from January 2026 to December 2028 [1] - The procurement agreement is driven by the continuous growth of the global electronic vaporization product market, indicating a potential increase in product orders [1] Group 2 - Huafu Securities highlighted that the new procurement agreement is expected to enhance sales of Smoore's new tobacco products in new regions, particularly with the entry of international tobacco leaders' HNB products into mainstream markets [1] - The company is anticipated to benefit from a shift in European markets towards more profitable products like pod-based and open-system devices [1] - In the U.S., the enforcement of electronic cigarette regulations has strengthened, suggesting significant recovery potential for compliant product market share [1] Group 3 - Smoore International's diverse business segments, including vapor electronic cigarettes, HNB, vapor beauty, and vapor medical products, are entering a harvest phase [1] - The global launch of various products and multi-point catalysts are expected to drive future growth [1]

Core Viewpoint - Smoore International (06969) has seen a stock increase of over 4%, currently trading at HKD 12.96, with a transaction volume of HKD 146 million. The company has renewed its procurement framework agreement with EVE Energy, effective from January 2026 to December 2028, for battery products, indicating a positive outlook for the electronic vaporization product market [1]. Group 1 - The renewed procurement agreement with EVE Energy is expected to support the continuous growth of Smoore's product orders due to the expanding global electronic vaporization market [1]. - The company is likely to benefit from the entry of major international tobacco players' heated non-combustible (HNB) products into mainstream markets, which may contribute to sales growth in new regions [1]. - In Europe, particularly in the UK, there is potential for a shift towards more profitable pod-based and open-system products, enhancing profitability [1]. Group 2 - The enforcement of electronic cigarette regulations in the United States is expected to restore market share for compliant products, providing significant recovery opportunities [1]. - Smoore's diverse business segments, including vapor electronic cigarettes, HNB, vapor beauty, and vapor medical products, are entering a harvest phase, with global launches and multi-point catalysts anticipated [1].

Core Viewpoint - China is the largest traditional tobacco market globally, while the US leads in the new tobacco market, with Japan and South Korea also holding significant shares in the new tobacco sector [1][3] Group 1: Market Dynamics - The traditional tobacco market is gradually shrinking, while the new tobacco market is experiencing rapid growth. In 2020, the market size of heated not-burn (HNB) products surpassed that of electronic cigarettes, establishing itself as the new leader in the new tobacco sector [2] - The US market currently leads in vaporized electronic cigarettes but has a significant gap in the HNB market. The resolution between PMI and BAT is expected to accelerate the development of the HNB market [3] - The regulatory environment in Europe is tightening for vaporized products while remaining stable for HNB, which may allow HNB to gradually capture a larger market share [3] Group 2: Product Landscape - The transition from traditional cigarettes to new tobacco products is driven by a dual focus on flavor and health, with new tobacco products offering significant harm reduction advantages and more diverse taste options [2] - Major multinational tobacco companies are actively investing in new tobacco products, which is likely to increase the penetration rate of these products in the market [2] Group 3: Compliance and Regulation - The structure of tobacco products and their acceptance in different countries is largely determined by national policies and regulations. Taxation influences the differing policy attitudes towards traditional and new tobacco products, while health concerns shape the regulatory stance on various new tobacco products [4] - Strict regulations and weak enforcement may lead to unintended consequences, such as the growth of the illegal electronic cigarette market [4] Group 4: Brand Landscape - The traditional tobacco market is highly concentrated, dominated by brands like Marlboro, Winston, and Camel. In the new tobacco sector, PMI and BAT hold leading market shares, but changes in policy and company strategies may alter the brand landscape [5] Group 5: Industry Chain - The tobacco supply chain includes essential materials for both cigarette and electronic cigarette production, such as cigarette labels, rolling paper, and electronic cigarette components like lithium batteries and control chips. Key listed companies in this supply chain include Jinjia Co., Dongfeng Co., and others [8]

Core Viewpoint - The new oral tobacco-free products are expected to have a favorable tax environment and less intense competition compared to vaping products, leading to the highest gross margins among new tobacco categories, attracting significant interest from international tobacco companies [1] Group 1: New Oral Tobacco Products - New oral tobacco products combine characteristics of heated non-combustible (HNB) and vaping products, addressing traditional oral tobacco's limitations such as high acceptance barriers and storage challenges [1] - The invention of new oral tobacco products has sparked global popularity, with the potential to replace traditional products and attract a new customer base through diverse flavor offerings [1] Group 2: Competitive Landscape - The market for new oral tobacco products has low entry barriers, but the market share remains concentrated among international tobacco companies, with no expected deterioration in market structure [2] - Factors supporting the current market structure include established customer bases and sales channels of traditional oral tobacco companies, a stable regulatory environment, and a short supply chain that enhances brand control over production [2] Group 3: Industry Catalysts - Philip Morris International's $16 billion acquisition of Swedish Match, the parent company of the leading brand ZYN, marks a significant direct investment in the new oral tobacco segment, reinforcing the industry's growth potential [3] - The FDA's approval of ZYN's 20 products for market release in January 2025, along with positive performance indicators from online distributors, further validates the industry's high growth outlook [3]

Core Viewpoint - The report from CICC indicates a downward adjustment in the net profit forecast for Smoore International (06969) for 2025 by 20% to 1.05 billion yuan, while the 2026 net profit forecast is raised by 11% to 1.88 billion yuan, reflecting a strong performance driven by HNB product sales [1] Group 1: Financial Performance - For the first three quarters of 2025, the company reported revenue of 10.21 billion yuan, a year-on-year increase of 21.8%, while the net profit attributable to shareholders was 810 million yuan, a year-on-year decrease of 23.8% [2] - Adjusted for stock incentive expenses, the net profit attributable to shareholders was 1.18 billion yuan, showing a slight year-on-year increase of 0.1% [2] - Quarterly net profit for 1Q, 2Q, and 3Q of 2025 was 200 million, 300 million, and 317 million yuan respectively, with year-on-year changes of -43.4%, +12.7%, and -16.4% [2] Group 2: Market Expansion and Product Performance - The Glo Hilo brand is expanding steadily in Japan and Poland, with the company positioned as a leader in flavor restoration, heating speed, and brand image [3] - The company anticipates continued growth in the European vaping market, driven by differentiated compliant products amid regulatory changes [3] - The open-system self-owned brand is leading in global market share, with expectations of continued year-on-year growth in 3Q25 [3] Group 3: Cost Structure and R&D Investment - Short-term profitability is impacted by the allocation of stock incentive expenses, while R&D investments remain high [4] - The company expects slight pressure on gross margins in the short term due to increased orders from small clients in the European vaping market and initial sales of HNB heating devices [4] - The net profit and adjusted net profit for 3Q25 showed year-on-year changes of -16.4% and +4% respectively [4] Group 4: Long-term Growth Prospects - The company is optimistic about the global expansion of HNB products, which is expected to drive performance in the coming years [5] - The combination of drug-device complex generic drug development and innovative drug collaborations is anticipated to lead to commercialization in the vaping medical sector, opening up long-term growth opportunities [5]

Investment Rating - The investment rating for the company is "Buy" and is maintained [12] Core Insights - Smoore International is the largest electronic vaporizer supplier globally, with growth potential unlocked by its technology positioning in HNB (Heated Not Burn) products [3][6] - The company's core business is recovering, benefiting from regulatory shifts in the industry and increasing market share among major clients [3][6] - The HNB business is expected to see significant growth, with a projected annual growth rate in the double digits and a current global penetration rate of less than 6% [3][7] Summary by Sections Introduction - Smoore International leverages its R&D advantages to launch HNB products, marking a new phase in the industry [6][17] - The company has transitioned from a pure equipment supplier to a tobacco business model, opening new growth avenues [6][17] Core Business - The HNB segment is poised for accelerated development, with a low penetration rate and high barriers to entry, indicating substantial growth potential [7][28] - The collaboration with British American Tobacco to launch Glo Hilo combines both companies' strengths, enhancing market competitiveness [7][28] Performance Outlook - The revenue-sharing model for Glo Hilo is expected to yield significant profits, with projections estimating annual profits for Smoore's HNB business to reach 6-7 billion RMB if market penetration increases [8][9] - The U.S. market presents a significant opportunity, with potential market size increases if HNB penetration rises to 15% [8][37] Traditional Business - The U.S. vaping market is expected to grow from $19.81 billion in 2021 to $27.03 billion in 2024, with a CAGR of 11% [9][20] - Regulatory changes in the U.S. are becoming more favorable, allowing for a recovery in the vaporizer business [9][20] Long-term Strategic Direction - The company is diversifying into medical and beauty vaporization, aiming for long-term growth across multiple sectors [10][19]