First(SH:603806)2025-12-24 12:57Summary of Foster's Conference Call Company Overview - Foster has a healthy balance sheet with a debt-to-asset ratio below 20% and no bank debt, holding approximately 8 billion yuan in cash reserves to support business development and return value to investors. The cash dividend ratio exceeded 50% last year, with over 600 million yuan distributed, and this trend will continue this year [2][5]. Industry Insights - The price of EVA films is expected to rebound by 2026, with Foster maintaining low inventory levels of about one month. The proportion of white EVA films is decreasing, with EVA and POE films each accounting for nearly half of the production [2][7]. - The photovoltaic new materials sector is anticipated to remain stable, with overseas markets maintaining high demand, potentially increasing market share. Electronic materials are expected to grow by over 30%, and the aluminum-plastic film business is also projected to grow by over 30%, driven by solid-state battery applications [2][11]. Business Performance - In the photovoltaic sector, Foster's film production is clearing quickly, with a stable market share. The overseas market, particularly in Thailand and Vietnam, accounts for about 20% of sales. A market reversal is expected in the second half of 2026 [3]. - The electronic materials segment is experiencing explosive demand, especially in high-end electronic materials for servers, leading to significant sales growth [3]. - The aluminum-plastic film business is rapidly developing, with current production capacity at 30 million square meters, expanding to 50 million square meters, and expected to achieve profitability next year [4][23]. Future Projections - The company anticipates a steady increase in shipments in the photovoltaic new materials sector in 2026, with uncertainties in the domestic market but high expectations for overseas markets. The growth in electronic materials and aluminum-plastic films is expected to contribute significantly to overall business growth [11]. - The solid-state battery market is projected to drive demand for aluminum-plastic films due to their lightweight and extensibility advantages [3][11]. Production and Expansion Plans - Foster's overseas production capacity is nearly fully utilized, with production and sales doubling, primarily serving clients in India and the Middle East. The company is evaluating plans for a factory in the U.S. to adapt to policy changes [16]. - A domestic project worth 250 million yuan has been delayed until the end of next year, with strategic adjustments based on market demand [16]. Product Development and Innovations - Foster is advancing in the sensitive area of photonic films for space applications, showcasing the company's ability to innovate by combining materials from different fields [9]. - The company is also focusing on high-end electronic materials, with a significant push into advanced substrate applications, particularly in the automotive and server sectors [18]. Financial Health and Risk Management - The company maintains a strong financial position with a low risk of impairment due to increasing overseas sales, which are less likely to default [24]. - The average price of dry films is around 5 yuan, with high-end products reaching up to 30 yuan, and the overall gross margin is currently at 24% [20]. Conclusion - Foster is well-positioned for growth in the photovoltaic, electronic materials, and aluminum-plastic film sectors, with a strong financial foundation and strategic plans for expansion and innovation. The company is expected to continue delivering value to investors while navigating market challenges and opportunities.