BERNSTEIN：中国制药与生物技术_近期上涨、多重扩张及仍存在机会的领域

Summary of China Pharma and Biotech Conference Call Industry Overview - The China healthcare sector is experiencing its strongest rally since mid-2023, with the Hang Seng Biotech and MSCI China Healthcare indices showing year-to-date (YTD) returns of 57% and 38%, respectively, outperforming broader indices like Hang Seng and MSCI China at 20% and 16% [1][10] - The current market is at 30% of the peak seen during the last healthcare boom in 2020-2021, with a notable shift towards mature companies and top players rather than early-stage firms [1][2] - Public financing has surged, increasing 4 times in 1H25 compared to 1H24, with about two-thirds of IPO and follow-on offerings yielding positive returns [1][12] Market Valuation and Opportunities - Valuations in the China healthcare sector are now at or above global counterparts, with MSCI China healthcare P/S ratios crossing over with S&P 500 healthcare [2] - Individual stock performance varies significantly, with funds showing interest in companies with lower valuation multiples and potential for out-licensing deals [2][52] - Specific companies like CSPC are considered overheated with a PEG ratio of 14.5x, while Hengrui (2.3x) and Sino Biopharm (2.0x) are viewed as cheaper alternatives [3][44] Biotech Sector Insights - Biotech companies are valued based on market cap to projected 2032 revenue, ranging from 2-5x. Companies like BeiGene (2.7x) and Zai Lab (1.2x) are seen as undervalued, while Akeso (4.7x) and Kelun Biotech (5.6x) are considered relatively pricey [4][48] - The biotech sector has seen a significant increase in market capitalization, rising from US$102 billion to US$160 billion YTD 2025 [11] Clinical Trials and R&D - The number of clinical trial starts in China has shown consistent growth, with local assets making up over 50% of the global pipelines for the first time in 2025 [1][33] - Innovative drug modalities, particularly in oncology, have seen a resurgence in clinical trials, indicating sustained R&D efforts despite previous market downturns [32][36] Out-licensing Trends - There has been a boom in outbound licensing deals, with companies like RemeGen and Innovent leading the way. This trend is expected to continue, although there are concerns about saturation in certain drug classes [34][52] - The out-licensing model has remained resilient against geopolitical challenges, with no significant shifts in FDA attitudes towards China-originated drugs [34] Investment Implications - The report rates Akeso, Hansoh, Innovent, and Hengrui as Outperform, while BeiGene, CSPC, Sino Biopharm, and Zai Lab are rated as Market-Perform [7] - A methodological shift in valuation is noted, with increased emphasis on multiple-based valuation for mature companies, while biotechs will continue to use P/S and DCF models [8] Conclusion - The China pharma and biotech sector is on an upward trajectory, driven by strong market sentiment, increased public financing, and a robust pipeline of clinical trials. However, caution is advised regarding valuation levels and the sustainability of the current rally, particularly in the context of out-licensing deals and market saturation [52][53]