Core Insights - The Sci-Tech Innovation Board (STAR Market) has seen significant growth since its inception, with the number of semiconductor companies listed increasing from 4 to 109, and the total market capitalization surpassing 3 trillion yuan by July 2025 [1][3] - The semiconductor sector has become a core component of the STAR Market, accounting for 37.6% of the total market value, highlighting its importance in the context of China's technological ambitions [1][3] Industry Overview - The STAR Market has achieved a full-chain breakthrough in the semiconductor industry, with domestic companies making significant advancements in various segments, including wafer manufacturing, chip design, and equipment [2][3] - Major players in the semiconductor industry include SMIC, Cambrian, and Zhongwei, with a well-formed industry chain matrix emerging over the past six years [3] Financial Performance - Semiconductor companies on the STAR Market have raised over 310 billion yuan through IPOs and private placements, with an average R&D investment ratio of 19.6%, significantly higher than the A-share average of 12.38% [4] - Companies like Cambrian and Lexin Technology have reported substantial revenue growth, with Cambrian expecting a 58.17% increase in revenue for the first half of 2025 [5][6] AI Impact - The rapid development of the AI industry is driving demand for semiconductor products, with companies experiencing increased orders for AI-related chips and manufacturing equipment [7] - The AI boom is expected to create a massive market for AI chips, with companies like Cambrian seeing a surge in demand for their cloud training chips [7] Policy Developments - The STAR Market is introducing new policies, including the "1+6" measures aimed at supporting high-potential tech companies, particularly those in the semiconductor sector [8] - The establishment of a growth layer within the STAR Market is designed to assist technology companies that are not yet profitable but have significant breakthroughs and commercial potential [8]

Investment Rating - The report maintains a "Buy" rating for AMEC, with a 12-month price target of Rmb275, indicating an upside potential of 58.8% from the current price of Rmb173.13 [12]. Core Insights - AMEC is positioned as a key supplier in the semiconductor equipment industry, focusing on etching and metal-organic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD) equipment. The company is expanding its product lineup to include advanced etchers and deposition tools, which are expected to drive growth [9][10]. - The management is optimistic about the growth in China's semiconductor equipment demand and plans to continue investing in R&D and capacity expansions to leverage market opportunities [1][9]. Summary by Sections R&D and Product Expansion - AMEC is committed to continuous R&D spending, focusing on product expansions in etching, deposition, EPI, and advanced packaging tools. The CCP etcher's aspect ratio has improved from 60:1 to 90:1, and the company has over 40 deposition tools in the R&D pipeline [2][8]. Employee Efficiency - The total number of employees has increased by an average of 22% year-over-year since 2016, reaching 2,480 by 2024. The average sales per employee have exceeded Rmb4 million, up from Rmb3.5 million in 2022, indicating improved operational efficiency [3][4]. Capacity Expansion - AMEC's factory size was 348,000 square meters in 2024, expected to grow to 453,000 square meters in 2025 with the new headquarters. By 2028, the company anticipates reaching over 750,000 square meters of total factory space, significantly expanding its production capabilities [4][8]. Market Position and Valuation - AMEC is trading below its historical average 12-month forward P/E ratio, suggesting an attractive valuation. The company is expected to benefit from ongoing capacity expansions and the growing adoption of domestic semiconductor equipment [9][10].