Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (01398) H2 2024 Earnings Call March 28, 2025 03:32 PM ET Moderator good afternoon. Welcome to the twenty twenty four Annual Earnings Call of ICBC. I'm Chennoh from ICBC's Strategic Management and Investor Relations department. The 2024 Annual Report has annual announcement has already been released. Thank you for the 880,000 investors for recognition. SEB has been highly valued, the IR and the market value management. We have maintained a frequent and effective contac ...

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company is transitioning from an innovation drug discovery company to a commercialization-driven company, with significant growth in sales and profitability expected [4][20] - The net sales increased close to 200% compared to the same period in 2024, despite a price reduction due to the NRDL [7][23] - The gross profit margin is targeted to reach 80% over the next few years as the company optimizes its manufacturing processes [50] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The sales of dorzaglietin have shown a significant increase, with 2,700 hospitals prescribing the drug by the end of 2024, accounting for 81% of total sales in China [9][21] - The company plans to expand its sales force to cover the top 500 hospitals, aiming for RMB 1 billion in sales by 2027 [40][42] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The oral anti-diabetic market in China is valued at approximately RMB 30 billion, with dorzaglietin expected to remain a major market force for the next ten years [41] - The company is exploring opportunities in Southeast Asia, where diabetes prevalence is projected to increase significantly [12][13] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to enhance its commercialization capabilities and establish a strong presence in the market by focusing on key hospitals and leveraging its existing R&D team [40][41] - Future strategies include developing a second-generation glucokinase activator and exploring partnerships for broader market access [14][62] Management Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the drug's effectiveness and safety, highlighting its acceptance in the medical community and among patients [9][21] - The company anticipates a decline in net loss and an increase in profitability as it gains control over its sales and marketing efforts [20][24] Other Important Information - The company has established a strong patent portfolio with 200 approved patents worldwide, enhancing its attractiveness as an investment target [18][19] - The transition from Bayer to in-house sales and marketing is expected to improve control over sales and profitability [20][25] Q&A Session Summary Question: How does the company view the competition from GLP-1 drugs? - Management believes dorzaglietin complements GLP-1 therapies by improving insulin secretion and glucose sensitivity, addressing the underlying causes of diabetes [34][35] Question: What is the market potential for dorzaglietin amid competition? - The company sees immense opportunities in the oral anti-diabetic market in China, with plans to establish a strong internal infrastructure for sales and marketing [40][41] Question: What are the plans for the second-generation drug? - The company aims to find partners for the second-generation glucokinase activator, focusing on both monotherapy and combination therapy strategies [62][63]

Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (01398) H2 2024 Earnings Call March 28, 2025 05:30 AM ET Moderator good afternoon. Welcome to the twenty twenty four Annual Earnings Call of ICBC. I'm Chennoh from ICBC's Strategic Management and Investor Relations department. The 2024 Annual Report has annual announcement has already been released. Thank you for the 880,000 investors for recognition. SEB has been highly valued, the IR and the market value management. We have maintained a frequent and effective contac ...

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported record high contributions, recurring profits, and full-year distributions to shareholders, with a total payout of HKD0.25 per share [5][6] - The interest coverage ratio at the end of the year was four times, exceeding the comfort level of three times [9] - The company maintained strong cash flows and retained two investment-grade credit ratings [6][9] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Indofood achieved record revenues for the eleventh consecutive year, with EBIT margins for the Noodles division reaching 25.9%, the highest ever [10] - Metro Pacific's core profit also reached record highs, driven primarily by power, water, and toll roads, with expectations for continued strong performance in 2025 [12][13] - PLDT reported record high sales and service revenues, with mobile data and SMS showing the strongest growth [13] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company increased its stake in MPIC from 46.3% to 49.9% [4] - The Philippines and Indonesia's economies are expected to double from 2018 to 2029, which may positively impact the company's performance [75] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company plans to continue focusing on growth in its core businesses, particularly in defensive industries like power, roads, and water [75] - There is an emphasis on improving operational efficiency and reducing non-revenue water in Metro Pacific to enhance revenue [36] - The company is exploring strategic options for Maya, including potential IPO or trade sale discussions [72] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the future, indicating that current trends suggest another strong year for Metro Pacific in 2025 and 2026 [75] - The company highlighted the importance of securing long-term contracts for gas supply to mitigate past issues and enhance profitability [28] Other Important Information - The company is planning a new 600-megawatt hydrogen-ready power project expected to commence operations in January 2029 [16] - The financing mix for new power plant projects is anticipated to be approximately 60% debt and 40% equity [47] Q&A Session Summary Question: What is the expected earnings trajectory for FPM power in 2025 and 2026? - Management indicated that 2023 was an exceptional year and that profits are expected to taper gradually, with long-run marginal costs influencing future earnings [24][27] Question: Can you provide updates on the Terra Solar Phase two project? - The focus remains on Phase one of the Terra Solar project, with initial delivery expected in Q1 2026 [30] Question: What are the considerations for the spin-off of MailiNet? - The valuation is tied to strong performance and operational efficiency improvements, with a focus on reducing non-revenue water [35] Question: Will there be share buybacks given the current NAV discount? - Management stated that share buybacks are part of a dynamic capital allocation strategy and will be assessed based on liquidity and other commitments [39][41] Question: What is the financing mix for PLP's new power plant projects? - The financing is expected to consist of approximately 60% debt and 40% equity, with dividends continuing to be paid to shareholders [47] Question: What are the plans for Maya, PLDT's online bank? - Maya is experiencing significant growth, and discussions regarding its future, including potential IPO or trade sale, are ongoing [72]

Financial Performance and Key Indicators - The company's income for continuous operations in 2024 was CNY 1,590 million, an increase of 11.5% year-over-year [7] - Adjusted business revenue, excluding procurement services, was CNY 1,360 million, reflecting a year-over-year increase of 13.1% [7] - The company's gross margin in 2024 was CNY 510 million, up 4.7% year-over-year, while the adjusted gross margin rate was 34%, an increase of 1.5% [7][10] - Net profit declined significantly in 2024, primarily due to the underperformance of Joy Young and ongoing investments in the S and A Pac region [8] Business Line Performance - Revenue from S and A Pac increased from USD 152 million in the previous year to USD 342 million in 2024, marking a significant growth [9][18] - Joy Young's revenue decreased by approximately 3% year-over-year, attributed to intense competition in domestic markets and weak performance in small household appliances [10][14] - The overall adjusted gross margin growth was driven by the introduction of high-end products and effective cost optimization in APAC [10][11] Market Performance - The Australian and New Zealand markets showed remarkable growth, with revenue contributions increasing significantly, accounting for 43% of S and A Pac's total revenue [19] - Japan's market share and sales revenue continued to grow steadily, particularly in the cordless vacuum cleaner segment [4][21] - South Korea's market share increased from 3.7% to 20.6%, reflecting strong growth and brand influence [19][25] Company Strategy and Industry Competition - The company is focusing on optimizing resource allocation, enhancing R&D, and expanding marketing and sales channels [2][3] - Joy Young plans to concentrate on entry-level products and improve the product matrix to enhance scale and profit margins [14][72] - The company aims to leverage its successful models in Australia and New Zealand to expand into other regions, particularly Southeast Asia [46][48] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged the challenges posed by fierce market competition and emphasized the need for continuous product innovation [75] - The company is optimistic about maintaining steady growth in the S and A Pac region and expanding its market presence in Southeast Asia [5][32] - Management expressed confidence in the ability to adapt to market conditions and consumer needs, aiming for sustainable growth [75] Other Important Information - The company has made significant investments in ESG initiatives, achieving a 100% complaint resolution rate for products and services [33] - Capital expenditure for continuous operations was approximately USD 27 million, primarily for marketing-related assets and office relocations [12] Q&A Session Summary Question: What is the strategy for market access in APAC? - The company utilizes both direct sales and distributor models, establishing local operational teams for direct sales while relying on distributors for broader market access [36][39] Question: What factors contributed to growth in Australia, New Zealand, and South Korea? - Growth in these markets is attributed to cultural similarities with Western markets, effective distributor partnerships, and successful product launches [42][44] Question: What are the major driving forces for development in 2025? - Key drivers include product upgrades in mature markets, expansion into new markets, and the introduction of innovative products [48][49] Question: Can you elaborate on partnerships in Southeast Asia? - The company has established partnerships with strong local distributors in Thailand and Indonesia to enhance market penetration and brand visibility [53][58] Question: How does the company plan to promote hero products in Southeast Asia? - The company emphasizes tailored product offerings based on local consumer preferences and extensive R&D to ensure market fit [60][62]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported record high contributions, recurring profits, and full-year distributions to shareholders, with a total payout of HKD0.25 per share [6][11][12] - The interest coverage ratio at the end of the year was four times, exceeding the comfort level of three times [8][49] - The company maintained two investment-grade credit ratings and had no borrowings due in 2025 [6][7] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Indofood achieved record revenues for the eleventh consecutive year, with EBIT margins for the Noodles division reaching 25.9%, the highest ever [9][10] - Metro Pacific's core profit also reached record highs, driven primarily by power, water, and toll roads, with expectations for continued strong performance in 2025 [11][12] - PLDT reported record high sales and service revenues, with mobile data and SMS showing the strongest growth [12][14] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company noted that the electricity generation market in Singapore is expected to grow at rates exceeding 4% annually [24] - The Philippines and Indonesia's economies are projected to double from 2018 to 2029, which is expected to positively impact Metro Pacific's revenues and profits [75] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focusing on capitalizing on strong growth in its core businesses, particularly in defensive industries like power and water [75][80] - There are ongoing discussions regarding the potential IPO of Metro Pacific, with a focus on finding new capital through private placements [57][62] - The company is also exploring strategic options for Maya, its fintech venture, including potential IPOs or trade sales in the future [72] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the future, indicating that current trends suggest another strong year for Metro Pacific in 2025 and 2026 [75][80] - The management highlighted the importance of improving operational efficiencies and reducing non-revenue water in Metro Pacific's water utility business to enhance valuation [33] Other Important Information - The company has secured long-term contracts for gas supply, which is expected to provide a competitive advantage in the electricity generation market [26] - The new 600 megawatt hydrogen-ready power project is anticipated to begin operations in January 2029, adding significant capacity to the portfolio [16][25] Q&A Session Summary Question: What is the expected earnings trajectory for Pacific Light Power in 2025 and 2026? - Management indicated that 2023 was an exceptional year, and while profits are expected to taper, the overall portfolio remains strong with new projects in the pipeline [24][25] Question: Can you provide updates on the Terra Solar Phase two project? - The focus remains on Phase one of the Terra Solar project, with initial deliveries expected in Q1 2026 [27][29] Question: What are the considerations for the spin-off of MailiNet? - The valuation is tied to strong performance and operational efficiencies, with a focus on reducing non-revenue water [30][33] Question: Will there be share buybacks given the current NAV discount? - Management stated that share buybacks are part of a dynamic capital allocation strategy and will be assessed based on liquidity and other commitments [35][39] Question: What is the financing mix for PLP's new power plant projects? - The financing plan anticipates approximately 60% debt and 40% equity for the project costs [45][47] Question: What are the expected returns for the new power project in Singapore? - Expected returns are projected to be in excess of 12% up to mid-teens for investments in this space [53][54] Question: Any updates on the potential IPO for Maya? - Management confirmed that Maya is at an inflection point with growing customer bases and is generating positive net income, with discussions ongoing about future strategic options [70][72]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The profit attributable to the parent company reached RMB 137.9 billion, an increase of 11.4% year-on-year [4][10][28] - Cash flow from operations was RMB 220.9 billion, with free cash flow at RMB 97.5 billion [8][29] - The cost per barrel decreased by 5.3%, while the net profit increased by 77% [9][30] - The dividend for the year was set at RMB 1.4, reflecting a 12% increase year-on-year, with a payout ratio of 44.7% [5][30] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company achieved a net production increase of 5.6%, with offshore production growing by 10.8% due to the Paraya project in Guyana [15][16] - The reserve longevity is over ten years, with a replacement rate of 176% [8][15] - The company made 11 new discoveries in offshore exploration and assessed 30 structures with oil and gas [12][14] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The average price per barrel was maintained at RMB 28.5 [8] - The company reported strong performance in the Guangdong, Zhujiang, and Bohai Bay regions, which are high-value areas for natural gas consumption [46] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on enhancing productivity and efficiency through technology-driven and digital transformation, while adhering to low-carbon green development [3][4] - Future strategies include improving productivity, green transformation, and technology innovation, with a commitment to maintaining a high dividend payout ratio [31][33] - The company aims to expand its offshore exploration and production capabilities, particularly in the Atlantic and Belt and Road regions [14][15] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in maintaining growth despite a high base of production volume, with targets set for 2025 at $7.60 to $7.80 [36][37] - The company is prepared to face uncertainties in the oil market and will focus on improving efficiency and controlling costs [69][84] - Management emphasized the importance of long-term contracts for stabilizing natural gas sales amid geopolitical tensions [47][48] Other Important Information - The company has made significant investments in green energy projects, including offshore wind farms and carbon capture initiatives [25][27][86] - The company is committed to high-quality corporate governance and market value management [4][5] Q&A Session Summary Question: What are the growth targets for production volume? - Management acknowledged the challenge of maintaining growth momentum but expressed confidence in achieving targets set for the next three years [36][37] Question: How will the company handle deep ocean technology opportunities? - The company highlighted its pioneering role in deep ocean technology and ongoing innovations, including seismic data collection and deepwater drilling [39][40] Question: What is the strategy regarding natural gas amidst geopolitical tensions? - Management stated that long-term contracts are crucial for stabilizing natural gas sales and emphasized the importance of compliance and risk management [46][48] Question: Will the company consider raising the minimum dividend payout above 45%? - The company is committed to returning value to shareholders and will consider profitability, gearing ratio, and market conditions when making dividend decisions [51][53] Question: What is the update on the Gulf of Mexico asset sale? - The transaction is progressing as planned, but the exact timing for completion remains uncertain due to regulatory approvals [71][72] Question: How does the company view the impact of asset depreciation? - Management explained that asset depreciation is based on accounting principles and the collectible value of offshore assets [57][60] Question: What is the outlook for crude oil prices? - Management noted the difficulty in predicting oil prices due to various factors, including geopolitical issues, but expressed confidence in the company's ability to manage costs and maintain profitability [68][69]

Financial Performance - The company's revenue increased by 3.9% year on year, reaching 28.68 billion RMB, with a gross profit margin up by one percentage point to 49.4% [3][35] - Net profit was 3.13 billion RMB, with a net profit margin of 10.5%, reflecting a decrease of 0.5 percentage points compared to the previous year [3][15] - Operating cash flow rose by 12.4% to 5.27 billion RMB, with a healthy operating cash over revenue ratio of 7.4% [4][19] Business Line Performance - Footwear accounted for 50% of total revenue, growing by 7% year on year, which was a key driver of overall business growth [6] - The online business environment improved, leading to a 2 percentage point increase in revenue share from e-commerce to 31% [6] - Direct retail revenue decreased by 1% year on year, primarily due to the optimization of store structure [10][11] Market Performance - Offline retail sales declined by a low single digit, while online sales grew by 10% to 20% [9] - The number of points of sale (POS) decreased by 83 to a total of 7,585, with a notable reduction in direct retail stores [7][8] - The company maintained a healthy inventory turnover of four months, with inventory aging structure stabilizing at 80% for new products [15][16] Strategic Direction and Industry Competition - The company aims to enhance brand value through sports marketing and product innovation, focusing on core categories such as running, basketball, and fitness [24][25] - The strategy includes a single brand with multiple categories and channels to improve market competitiveness [24] - The company is committed to innovation in new sports segments and enhancing its professional product matrix [25][30] Management Commentary on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - The management expressed confidence in the medium to long-term growth of China's athletic footwear and apparel industry, despite current challenges [21][20] - For 2025, the company expects flat revenue growth and plans to increase investment in brand building and core categories [21] - The management highlighted the importance of maintaining operational efficiency and adapting to market changes [39][42] Other Important Information - The company recommended a final dividend of 20.73 cents per share, increasing the total dividend payout from 45% to 50% [4] - The company has been recognized as the official apparel partner of the Chinese Olympic Committee for the period of 2025 to 2028 [33] Q&A Session Summary Question: What are the expectations for revenue growth in 2025? - The company expects full-year revenue to remain flat year on year, focusing on sustainable growth in core categories [21] Question: How is the company addressing challenges in offline retail? - The company is optimizing channel structures and enhancing operational efficiency to adapt to declining customer traffic [39] Question: What is the strategy for e-commerce growth? - The company is investing in differentiated strategies for various e-commerce platforms to improve customer traffic and sales conversion rates [42]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a revenue of RMB 8.1 billion and a net profit of RMB 810 million for 2024, with profit attributable to shareholders at RMB 180 million [19][20] - Total rental income, including joint ventures and associates, was RMB 3.54 billion, reflecting a 9% year-on-year increase despite market challenges [21][22] - The gross profit margin improved to 64%, higher than the previous year, primarily due to a revenue composition shift towards rental income [23] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Property sales on a consolidated level reached RMB 4.3 billion, with a notable increase in contract sales driven by the successful launch of Lakeview 6, which generated nearly RMB 12 billion in sales on its launch day [19][35] - The commercial portfolio's rental and related income increased by 9% year-on-year, supported by new projects opened in 2023 [11][52] - The average occupancy rate for the commercial sector remained stable at around 90% [53] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The high-end residential market in Shanghai saw a 150% year-on-year increase in transactions, indicating strong demand despite broader market challenges [15] - The overall residential market in China continues to contract, but first-tier cities are showing early signs of recovery, with home prices turning positive in late 2024 [39][40] - The luxury home sales in Shanghai nearly doubled, with significant demand from high-net-worth individuals [43] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company will continue to focus on an asset-light strategy, expanding its urban retreat community and launching new projects in high-growth cities [11][48] - The strategy includes prioritizing opportunities in top-tier cities, particularly Shanghai, and leveraging the Lakeview brand for competitive advantage [41][42] - The company aims to innovate its business model and form strategic partnerships to drive sustainable growth [42] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged the challenging operating environment due to economic transitions and geopolitical uncertainties but expressed confidence in maintaining profitability [3][5] - The company noted that supportive government measures are beginning to stabilize the market, with increasing land sales at premiums indicating growing confidence [14][40] - Future expectations include a focus on high-end residential projects and a continued emphasis on sustainability efforts [14][46] Other Important Information - The company has fully repaid significant offshore debts, enhancing its liquidity and reducing reliance on foreign financing [12][33] - Sustainability efforts have led to a 51.3% reduction in carbon emissions intensity and recognition in the Climate Leadership Award from CDP [13][14] Q&A Session Summary Question: What are the expectations for the residential market in the coming years? - Management highlighted that while the national market is contracting, first-tier cities are showing signs of recovery, with positive month-on-month price changes expected [39][40] Question: How is the company managing its debt and liquidity? - The company has successfully repaid a significant portion of its offshore debts and reduced its reliance on foreign financing, maintaining a stable gearing ratio [33][34] Question: What are the key drivers for growth in the commercial sector? - The company is focusing on enhancing tenant experiences and maintaining high occupancy rates, with a strategic emphasis on high-quality services in its office portfolio [53][56]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Shui On Land reported a profit attributable to shareholders of RMB 180 million for the year, with total revenue of RMB 8.1 billion and net profit of RMB 810 million [4][20] - The company experienced a decline in revenue and profit primarily due to lower levels of residential completion and handover in 2024 compared to 2023 [21] - The gross profit margin improved to 64%, higher than in 2023, mainly due to a revenue composition more driven by rental income [22] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Contract sales for 2024 increased by 32%, reaching RMB 55 billion, with residential property sales of RMB 14.55 billion and commercial property sales of RMB 5.2 billion [35] - Total rental income, including joint ventures and associates, increased by 9% year on year, amounting to RMB 3.54 billion [20][22] - The commercial portfolio yielded solid rental growth, with a total rental and related income of RMB 3.5 billion, supported by new projects opened in 2023 [12][53] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The high-end residential market in Shanghai continued to perform well, with high-end transactions increasing by 150% year on year [16] - The overall residential market in China is undergoing a structural correction, but signs of recovery are emerging in top-tier cities [40] - The second-hand market in Shanghai saw monthly sales exceeding 20,000 units from October to December 2024, indicating a resurgence in demand [41] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company will continue to prioritize an asset-light strategy and focus on top-tier cities, particularly Shanghai, to capture the best opportunities [8][42] - The strategy includes leveraging the Lakeview brand and expanding urban retreat communities through partnerships and innovative business models [50] - The company aims to maintain prudent capital management while expanding its portfolio without putting pressure on its financial balance sheet [18][33] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged the challenging operating environment due to economic transitions and geopolitical uncertainties but expressed confidence in maintaining profitability [4][8] - The company noted that supportive measures from the central government are beginning to shore up market confidence, particularly in the high-end residential sector [15][40] - Management remains optimistic about the future, citing strong demand in the luxury market and the successful sales launch of Lakeview 6 as positive indicators [10][16] Other Important Information - The company has fully repaid RMB 45.2 billion in foreign loans and maintained a stable net debt ratio of 52% [13][25] - Sustainability efforts have led to a 51.3% reduction in carbon emissions intensity and recognition in the Climate Leadership Award from CDP [14] - The company is focusing on urban regeneration projects and partnerships to enhance its asset-light strategy [50] Q&A Session Summary Question: What are the company's plans for future residential projects? - The company plans to launch the next phase of Lakeview 6 in late 2025, featuring low-density heritage-inspired villas and townhouses, with construction completion expected in Q2 2027 [46] Question: How is the company addressing the challenges in the office market? - The company is focusing on a refined office leasing strategy and has successfully signed over 230,000 square meters of new leases, targeting high-quality tenants [56]