Summary of the Conference Call for Lepu Biopharma (2157.HK) Company Overview - Lepu Biopharma is focused on the development of innovative cancer therapies, particularly in the areas of immunotherapy, antibody-drug conjugates (ADC), and oncolytic virus drugs. The company has a robust pipeline and is expected to enter a period of new drug approvals in the next 3-5 years [1][2]. Key Points R&D Pipeline and Drug Approvals - The company has developed multiple oncology product lines, including: - PD-1 monoclonal antibody, Pralsetinib, and MRG003, which are already on the market. - Six ADC drugs, one oncolytic virus, and one T cell engager (TCE) drug currently in clinical stages. - The overall pipeline is well-structured, indicating a promising future for new drug approvals [1][2]. Financial Performance - The company has achieved its first profitability and positive operating cash flow in the first half of 2025, driven by business development (BD) and sales efforts [2]. Competitive Advantages of ADCs 1. **MRG003 (EGFR ADC)**: - Approved for use in late-line nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) in China, showing superior survival benefits and safety compared to competitors. - Actively pursuing broader indications in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), with a Phase III trial ongoing for 2L+ HNSCC [2][3]. 2. **MRG004A (TF-ADC)**: - Currently in Phase III trials for late-line pancreatic cancer, demonstrating strong competitive potential [3]. 3. **MRG006A (GPC3 ADC)**: - A first-in-class (FIC) targeting the liver cancer market, with promising results from Phase I trials, and expected to enter Phase III trials in 2026 [3]. 4. **CMG901**: - A global FIC CLDN 18.2 ADC, currently in Phase III trials [3]. 5. **MRG001 (CD20 ADC)**: - Showing potential in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) [3]. Oncolytic Virus Therapy - The company introduced the oncolytic virus therapy CG0070 in 2019, targeting the bladder cancer market. - CG0070 has initiated a rolling Biologics License Application (BLA) with the FDA for high-risk non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) and is in critical registration bridging trials in China. - Recent Phase III data indicates historical best durability in NMIBC, with a G3+ treatment-related adverse event (TRAE) rate of 0, showcasing both efficacy and safety [3]. International Expansion - The company has successfully collaborated on international projects with MRG007 (CDH17 ADC) and CTM012 (a tri-antibody targeting CD3/4-1BB/DLL3) [3]. Revenue Projections - Revenue forecasts for the company are as follows: - 2025: 880 million CNY - 2026: 1.02 billion CNY - 2027: 1.49 billion CNY - Expected growth rates are 138% in 2025, 16% in 2026, and 47% in 2027, with net profits projected at -20 million CNY in 2025, 10 million CNY in 2026, and 280 million CNY in 2027 [3]. Investment Rating - The company’s ADC pipeline is progressing steadily, and commercial advancements are on track, leading to a "Buy" rating [4]. Risk Factors - Potential risks include: - Delays in clinical progress of innovative drugs. - Subpar clinical data for innovative drugs. - Poor sales performance post-launch of innovative drugs. - Geopolitical risks [4].

Core Viewpoint - The company is entering a new drug approval phase with a well-structured pipeline in oncology, focusing on immunotherapy, ADC targeted therapy, and oncolytic virus drugs, which is expected to yield multiple new drug approvals in the next 3-5 years [1][2]. Pipeline Development - The company has developed multiple oncology products, including two already marketed drugs (PD-1 monoclonal antibody Prutilizumab and MRG003) and has six ADC drugs, one oncolytic virus, and one TCE drug in clinical stages [1]. - MRG003 (EGFR ADC) has been approved for post-line NPC in China, showing superior survival benefits and safety compared to competitors, with ongoing trials for HNSCC and NSCLC [1]. - MRG004A (TF-ADC) for post-line pancreatic cancer is currently in Phase III trials after demonstrating strong competitive advantages in Phase I [2]. - MRG006A (GPC3 ADC) is targeting the liver cancer market, with promising results in Phase I trials and plans to initiate Phase III trials in 2026 [1][2]. Oncolytic Virus Therapy - The company has introduced the oncolytic virus therapy CG0070 for bladder cancer, which is currently undergoing a rolling BLA application with the FDA and is in critical registration bridging trials in China [2]. - CG0070 has shown the best historical durability efficacy data in the NMIBC field, with a G3+TRAE rate of 0, indicating excellent efficacy and safety [2]. Financial Projections - The company is still in the investment phase for innovative drug development, with projected revenues of 880 million, 1.02 billion, and 1.49 billion yuan for 2025, 2026, and 2027, respectively, representing year-on-year growth of 138%, 16%, and 47% [2]. - The net profit attributable to the parent company is expected to be -20 million, 10 million, and 280 million yuan for the same years [2]. Investment Recommendation - The company is rated as a "buy" due to the steady progress of its ADC pipeline and successful commercialization efforts [2].

Investment Rating - The report assigns a "Buy" rating for the company, Lepu Biopharma (2157.HK), marking its first coverage [1]. Core Insights - The company is entering a harvest period for new drug approvals, having established a comprehensive pipeline in oncology that includes immunotherapy, ADC (Antibody-Drug Conjugate) targeted therapy, and oncolytic virus drugs. The company has multiple ADC drugs and other therapies in clinical stages, with expectations for new drug approvals in the next 3-5 years [3][10]. - The ADC pipeline is characterized by unique features and competitive advantages in various indications, with MRG003 (EGFR ADC) already approved for NPC (nasopharyngeal carcinoma) in China and showing promising results in other indications [4][30]. - The introduction of oncolytic virus therapy CG0070 has shown potential in the bladder cancer market, with successful regulatory progress in the U.S. and ongoing clinical trials in China [5][30]. - Financially, the company has achieved its first profit and positive operating cash flow in the first half of 2025, with steady revenue growth driven by business development and sales [25]. Summary by Sections R&D Coverage and Pipeline - The company focuses on oncology treatment, with a pipeline that includes immunotherapy, ADCs, and oncolytic virus therapies. It has developed a robust ADC technology platform and has multiple products in various stages of clinical development [11][10]. - The pipeline includes 6 ADC drugs and 1 oncolytic virus therapy, with several candidates in pivotal clinical stages, indicating a well-structured development strategy [14][10]. Unique Features of ADCs - MRG003 has been approved for NPC and is in advanced trials for HNSCC (head and neck squamous cell carcinoma) and NSCLC (non-small cell lung cancer), showcasing its broad applicability and competitive edge [30][4]. - Other ADCs in development, such as MRG004A for pancreatic cancer and MRG006A for liver cancer, are also progressing well, with MRG004A entering pivotal trials [30][6]. Financial Performance and Projections - The company reported revenues of 4.66 billion yuan in the first half of 2025, a significant increase from 1.33 billion yuan in the same period of 2024. The net profit for the same period was 290 million yuan, marking a turnaround from a loss of 197 million yuan in the previous year [25][30]. - Revenue projections for 2025, 2026, and 2027 are estimated at 8.8 billion yuan, 10.2 billion yuan, and 14.9 billion yuan, respectively, with expected growth rates of 138%, 16%, and 47% [30].

Investment Rating - The report initiates coverage with an "Outperform" rating for Lepu Biopharma-B (2157) [4] Core Views - The company is a leading domestic innovative pharmaceutical enterprise focusing on ADC combined with IO in oncology, with expectations for rapid market penetration following the approval of MRG003 [1][4] - The product pipeline is expected to expand internationally, indicating strong long-term growth potential for the company [1] Financial Summary - Projected total revenue for 2024A, 2025E, 2026E, and 2027E is 368 million, 853 million, 1,204 million, and 1,665 million RMB respectively, reflecting growth rates of 63%, 132%, 41%, and 38% [3] - Gross profit is expected to increase from 292.97 million in 2024A to 1,415.20 million in 2027E, with a gross margin projected to be around 79.66% to 85% [3] - Net profit is forecasted to improve from -411 million in 2024A to -29 million in 2027E, indicating a significant reduction in losses [3] Company Overview - Lepu Biopharma was established in January 2018 and focuses on oncology, particularly targeted and immunotherapy [9] - The company has built a diverse product pipeline through acquisitions and partnerships, including PD-1 antibodies and ADCs [9] - The management team is experienced, with a high concentration of ownership, ensuring stability and strategic direction [13][15] Market Potential - The global and Chinese cancer immunotherapy market is expected to grow significantly, with a CAGR of 16.3% and 25.1% respectively from 2025 to 2030 [28][31] - The PD-1 therapy market in China is projected to reach 582 billion RMB by 2030, with a CAGR of 30.5% from 2020 to 2025 [33][35] ADC Market Growth - The global ADC market is anticipated to reach 66.2 billion USD by 2030, with a CAGR of 30.3% from 2023 to 2030 [41] - The ADC market in China is expected to grow at a CAGR of 72.6% from 2023 to 2028, reaching 38.3 billion RMB [44][45] Product Pipeline and Clinical Development - MRG003 is currently under NDA review and has shown promising results in clinical trials for R/M NPC, with a significant improvement in overall response rates compared to chemotherapy [56][61] - The company is actively exploring combination therapies with PD-1 inhibitors, which may enhance treatment efficacy [60][65]

Investment Rating - The report assigns an "Accumulate" rating to the company [5]. Core Insights - The company is a leading domestic innovative pharmaceutical enterprise focusing on ADC combined with IO, with expectations for rapid growth following the approval of MRG003 [2]. - The product pipeline includes plans for international business development, indicating a positive long-term outlook for the company [2]. Financial Summary - Projected total revenue for 2024A is 368 million RMB, with a growth rate of 63%. By 2027E, revenue is expected to reach 1,665 million RMB, with a growth rate of 38% [4]. - The company is projected to achieve a net profit of -411 million RMB in 2024A, improving to -29 million RMB by 2027E [4]. - The price-to-earnings (PE) ratio is expected to improve from -10.04 in 2024A to -389.49 in 2027E, while the price-to-book (PB) ratio is projected to increase from 5.87 to 18.86 over the same period [4]. Company Overview - The company was established in January 2018 and focuses on innovative treatments for cancer, particularly targeted therapies and immunotherapies [13]. - The company has built a robust product pipeline through acquisitions and partnerships, including PD-1 antibodies and ADC drugs [13][15]. - The management team is experienced, with a high concentration of ownership, ensuring stability and strategic direction [15][19]. Market Potential - The global and Chinese cancer immunotherapy market is expected to grow significantly, with a projected CAGR of 16.3% and 25.1% respectively from 2025 to 2030 [30]. - The PD-1 therapy market in China is anticipated to reach 582 billion RMB by 2030, with a CAGR of 30.5% from 2020 to 2025 [33]. Product Pipeline and Development - The company has multiple tumor product pipelines covering immunotherapy, ADC targeted therapy, and oncolytic virus drugs [20]. - MRG003 is currently under NDA review for treating R/M NPC, with potential for significant market impact [22]. - The company is also exploring combination therapies with PD-1 antibodies, which may enhance treatment efficacy [20]. Sales Growth - The company's first commercial product, the PD-1 antibody, has seen rapid sales growth, achieving 300 million RMB in revenue in 2024, three times the revenue of 2023 [23][36]. - The company has expanded its sales network across 118 cities in China, enhancing its market presence [36].

Core Viewpoint - The 18A companies in the Hong Kong stock market have experienced a significant turnaround in 2025, showcasing a surge in listings, stock price increases, and international expansion opportunities [1][2][4]. Listing Wave - In 2025, there has been a notable wave of listings for 18A companies, with 10 out of 58 newly listed companies being 18A firms, many of which performed exceptionally well on their debut [2]. - The enthusiasm from investors is evident, with companies like Zhonghui Biotechnology and Yinnuo Pharmaceutical experiencing over 4000 times and 5341 times oversubscription, respectively [2]. - There are currently 49 18A companies that have submitted applications to the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, with at least 20 awaiting approval for listing [2][4]. Price Surge - Among the 77 listed 18A companies, 17 have seen stock price increases exceeding 200%, while 26 have risen between 100% and 200% since the beginning of 2025 [5]. - Beihai Kangcheng has recorded the highest increase at 1644%, although its total market capitalization remains relatively small at approximately 1.1 billion HKD [5][6]. International Expansion - The 18A companies are leveraging unique "outbound" strategies by licensing their products to well-known overseas pharmaceutical companies, which enhances their revenue potential and showcases their technological advancements [7]. - For instance, Rongchang Biotechnology has licensed its RC28-E injection to Santen China for a total of 2.5 billion HKD in upfront payments and additional milestone payments [8]. - The trend of outbound licensing is indicative of the rapid progress of Chinese pharmaceutical companies, transitioning from imitation to innovation, and establishing a competitive edge in the global market [9][10].

Core Viewpoint - The 18A companies in the Hong Kong stock market have experienced a significant turnaround in 2023, showcasing a surge in listings, stock price increases, and international expansion opportunities [1]. Listing Wave - In 2023, the Hong Kong stock market saw a wave of 18A company listings, with 10 out of 58 newly listed companies being 18A firms, many of which performed exceptionally well on their debut [3]. - Notably, five of the top six companies with the highest first-day gains were 18A companies, indicating a growing investor interest [3]. - The IPO of Zhonghui Biotechnology on August 11 received over 4,000 times oversubscription, raising over 200 billion HKD, while Yinnuo Pharmaceutical's IPO on August 15 garnered over 300 billion HKD with 5,341 times oversubscription [3]. Price Surge - Among the 77 listed 18A companies, 17 have seen stock price increases exceeding 200%, with 26 others rising between 100% and 200% since the beginning of 2023 [8]. - The highest price increase was recorded by Beihai Kangcheng, which surged by 1,644%, although its total market capitalization remains relatively small at approximately 1.1 billion HKD [8]. International Expansion - 18A companies are increasingly adopting a unique "outbound" model by licensing their products to well-known overseas pharmaceutical companies, which has generated investor confidence in their future profitability [12]. - For instance, Rongchang Biotechnology announced a licensing agreement with Santen China, receiving an upfront payment of 250 million HKD and potential milestone payments totaling up to 520 million HKD [13]. - Similarly, Lepu Biopharma disclosed a licensing agreement with ArriVent, which could yield up to 1.2 billion USD in total payments [13]. Industry Growth - The rapid advancement of Chinese pharmaceutical companies is reflected in their transition from imitation to innovation, with a growing number of original drug candidates that are competitive on a global scale [15]. - As of the first quarter of 2025, China accounted for nearly 60% of the global transaction value for outbound licensing, indicating its emergence as a center for innovative drug transactions [15].

Core Viewpoint - The 18A companies in the Hong Kong stock market have experienced a significant turnaround in 2023, showcasing a surge in listings, stock price increases, and international expansion opportunities [1]. Listing Wave - In 2023, there has been a notable listing wave for 18A companies, with 10 out of 58 newly listed companies being 18A firms, many of which performed exceptionally well on their debut [3]. - The IPO of Zhonghui Biotechnology on August 11 received over 4000 times oversubscription, with total subscription amount exceeding 200 billion HKD, while Yinnuo Pharmaceutical's IPO on August 15 saw over 300 billion HKD in subscription [3]. - The top six companies with the highest first-day gains included five 18A companies, indicating strong investor interest [3]. Price Surge - Among the 77 listed 18A companies, 17 have seen stock price increases exceeding 200%, with 26 companies experiencing gains between 100% and 200% since the beginning of 2023 [8]. - The highest price increase was recorded by Beihai Kangcheng, with a staggering 1644% rise, although its market capitalization remains relatively small at approximately 1.1 billion HKD [8]. International Expansion - The 18A companies are leveraging unique "outbound" models to generate revenue through licensing agreements with international pharmaceutical firms, despite many still not generating significant income [12]. - Rongchang Biotechnology announced a licensing agreement with Santen China, which includes a non-refundable upfront payment of 250 million HKD and potential milestone payments totaling up to 520 million HKD [12]. - Lepu Biopharma disclosed a licensing agreement with ArriVent, which could yield up to 1.2 billion USD in total payments, including upfront and milestone payments [13]. Industry Progress - The impressive performance of biopharmaceutical companies is attributed to the rapid advancement of Chinese pharmaceutical firms, transitioning from imitation to innovation since 2015 [14]. - Chinese innovative drug companies are now actively developing original drugs, with a significant increase in the number of clinical trials and a growing international competitive edge [15]. - By Q1 2025, China accounted for nearly 60% of global innovative drug licensing transactions, marking its emergence as a center for innovative drug deals [15].

Core Viewpoint - The company has reported significant revenue growth and profitability improvements in its interim results, driven by successful commercialization of its product pipeline and strategic partnerships in the oncology sector [1][2][3] Financial Performance - The company achieved revenue of RMB 466 million, a year-on-year increase of 249.59% [1] - Profit attributable to owners was RMB 41.75 million, compared to a loss of RMB 192 million in the same period last year [1] - Basic earnings per share were RMB 0.02 [1] - Revenue from MRG007 licensing was RMB 309 million, up from RMB 20.7 million in the same period last year [1] - Sales of Puyuheng (Petrilizumab injection) generated RMB 151 million, a significant increase of 58.8% compared to RMB 94.8 million in the previous year [1] - Revenue from CDMO services was RMB 6.3 million, down from RMB 17.8 million in the same period last year [1] Product Pipeline and Development - The company has strategically developed multiple oncology product pipelines, including one candidate drug in the clinical/commercialization stage and nine in clinical stages [2] - Among the nine clinical candidates, seven are targeted therapies and two are immunotherapies [2] - MRG003 has received FDA designations including BTD, ODD, and FTD for treating NPC [2] - MRG002 and CMG901 have also received FDA designations for their respective indications [2] - The company is focused on building and developing new technology platforms as part of its innovation strategy [2] Commercialization Strategy - The company aims to commercialize its product pipeline in China through a professional sales and marketing team while expanding into international markets via strategic partnerships [3] - Puyuheng has completed the commercialization process and is experiencing rapid sales growth [3] - CMG901's global rights have been licensed to AstraZeneca, and MRG007's rights outside Greater China have been licensed to ArriVent [3] - The company has established end-to-end commercialization capabilities in the domestic market and is positioning itself as a global biotech company [3]

Group 1: Financial Performance - The company reported a revenue of RMB 466 million for the six months ending June 30, 2025, representing a year-on-year increase of 249.59% [1] - Profit attributable to the owners of the company was RMB 41.75 million, a significant turnaround from a loss of RMB 192 million in the same period last year [1] - Basic earnings per share were RMB 0.02 [1] Group 2: Product Pipeline and Development - The company has strategically developed multiple oncology product pipelines, including one candidate drug in the clinical/commercialization stage and nine candidate drugs in clinical stages [2] - Among the nine clinical-stage candidates, seven are targeted therapies and two are immunotherapies, with several receiving FDA designations such as Breakthrough Therapy Designation (BTD) and Orphan Drug Designation (ODD) [2] - The company is focused on building and developing new technology platforms as part of its innovation engine [2] Group 3: Commercialization and Strategic Partnerships - The company aims to commercialize its product pipeline in China through a professional sales and marketing team while expanding into international markets via strategic partnerships [3] - The product "普佑恆®" (Putilizumab Injection) has completed the full commercialization process and is currently experiencing rapid sales growth [3] - The global rights for CMG901 have been licensed to AstraZeneca, and the rights for MRG007 outside Greater China have been licensed to ArriVent, establishing a solid foundation for future commercialization and global collaboration [3]