Core Insights - H World Group Limited reported strong third-quarter results for 2025, driven by its asset-light expansion strategy, loyalty ecosystem, and digital capabilities [1][3] Financial Performance - Hotel GMV reached RMB 30.6 billion, an increase of 17.5% year-on-year, while total revenue grew 8.1% year-on-year to RMB 7.0 billion [1] - Revenue from manachised and franchised hotels rose 27.2% to RMB 3.3 billion, highlighting the effectiveness of the asset-light model [1] - Adjusted EBITDA increased to RMB 2.5 billion, up from RMB 2.1 billion in the same period last year, reflecting improved operating efficiency and healthier margins [2] Strategic Initiatives - The company opened over 2,000 hotels year-to-date and is on track to achieve its target of 2,300 gross openings in 2025 [3] - H Rewards, the loyalty program, surpassed 300 million members, making it one of the largest hotel loyalty ecosystems globally [3][4] - Members booked 66 million room nights in Q3, a 19.7% increase year-on-year, indicating rising engagement with the brand [4] Operational Expansion - As of September 30, 2025, H World operated 12,702 hotels with 1,246,240 rooms globally, having opened 749 hotels in Q3 and expanded into 89 additional Chinese cities year-on-year [5] - The company remains optimistic about long-term growth prospects in China and abroad, supported by strong franchise demand and a scalable digital infrastructure [5]

Core Thesis - H World Group Limited (HTHT) is positioned as a strong investment opportunity due to its robust operational model, technology integration, and growth potential in the Chinese hotel market [1][5]. Company Overview - H World Group is a leading Chinese hotel operator with a diverse portfolio that includes budget to upscale hotels and partnerships with global brands [2]. - The company leverages proprietary technology, a strong loyalty program, and a significant domestic presence to create a competitive moat [2][3]. Technology and Operations - The "Huazhu Cloud" system integrates various management functions, utilizing AI-driven revenue management systems to optimize room rates in real time, enhancing occupancy and profitability [2][3]. - The "H Rewards" program boasts 288 million members, generating 76% of bookings through direct channels, which reduces reliance on online travel agencies (OTAs) [3]. Growth Strategy - HTHT operates over 12,000 hotels in China, focusing 99% of its expansion plans domestically with an asset-light "manachised" model that combines franchising and direct management [3]. - The company aims to achieve a target of 20,000 hotels by 2030, supported by a strong development pipeline and historical growth trends [4]. Financial Performance - Recent Q2 2025 results indicate modest revenue growth and slight declines in Revenue Per Available Room (RevPAR), attributed to accelerated hotel openings and renovations [4]. - Despite temporary challenges, management remains optimistic about future growth, projecting earnings and free cash flow growth of 10-15% annually through 2030 [5]. Investment Potential - The stock, currently trading around $35, offers potential annual returns of 15-20%, supported by resilient operations and a favorable growth trajectory [5]. - HTHT's competitive ecosystem and ongoing investments in brand quality create a sustainable advantage, making it a compelling investment opportunity [5].