Investment Rating - The report maintains a "Buy" rating for key companies in the sports footwear and apparel sector, specifically recommending Anta Sports, Li Ning, Xtep International, and 361 Degrees [7]. Core Insights - The sports footwear and apparel sector is expected to achieve steady growth in 2024, with a focus on leading companies' long-term investment value [1]. - In 2024, the combined revenue of four Hong Kong-listed sports footwear and apparel companies grew by 9% year-on-year to 123.2 billion yuan, while net profit attributable to shareholders increased by 36.21% to 21 billion yuan [1][11]. - The sector's stock prices have shown volatility but are expected to rise as consumer confidence improves and national policies stimulate demand [1][39]. Summary by Sections 2024 Review - The sports footwear and apparel sector demonstrated stable growth in terminal sales and maintained healthy inventory levels [1][11]. - The combined revenue of key companies in the sector showed consistent growth across the first and second halves of 2024, with a year-on-year increase of 9% [11]. - The inventory turnover days for major companies are healthy, averaging between 4-5 months, setting a solid foundation for growth in 2025 [1][24]. 2025 Outlook - The demand resilience in the sector is expected to continue, with a forecast for steady growth driven by recovering consumer confidence and an increasing preference for functional apparel [2][44]. - The report anticipates a trend of lower growth in the first quarter of 2025, followed by an increase in subsequent quarters, contingent on overall consumer sentiment improving [2][44]. Operational Trends - Companies are focusing on enhancing product quality, optimizing channel operations, and increasing marketing efforts to capture consumer attention [3]. - Key product categories such as running and outdoor gear are driving growth, with notable increases in sales for brands like Li Ning and Saucony [2][3]. - The report highlights the importance of channel optimization and marketing investments, with companies like 361 Degrees sponsoring major events to boost brand visibility [3][44]. Key Company Analysis and Investment Recommendations - Anta Sports is highlighted as a top pick due to its strong performance and expected revenue growth of 10.5% in 2025, with a projected net profit of 13% growth [45][46]. - Li Ning is expected to maintain stable revenue but face a decline in net profit due to prior asset impairments [45]. - Xtep International is projected to grow revenue by 7% and net profit by 10.3% in 2025, benefiting from its focus on professional sports segments [45][46]. - 361 Degrees is anticipated to achieve a 14% revenue increase and a 14.2% rise in net profit, supported by its broad market positioning [45][46].