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Smartkarma Daily Briefs

Daily Brief Thailand: Bumrungrad Hospital Pub Co, Srisawad Power 1979, Sansiri Public and more

By | Daily Briefs, Thailand

In today’s briefing:

  • Bumrungrad Hospital (BH TB): Cautiously Optimistic on Growth Prospect Amid Intensifying Competition
  • Quiddity Leaderboard SET50 Dec 24: 4 Changes Possible; Reference Period Starts on 1st Sep
  • Sansiri – Hyatt Acquires Standard International


Bumrungrad Hospital (BH TB): Cautiously Optimistic on Growth Prospect Amid Intensifying Competition

By Tina Banerjee

  • Bumrungrad Hospital Pub Co (BH TB) has reported mixed performance in 2Q24, with revenue growing 3% YoY to THB6,331M. However, bottomline growth outpaced the revenue growth.
  • We are cautiously optimistic about the future growth prospect of the company as well as valuation multiple expansion prospect due to intensifying competition in attracting international patients.
  • In recent times, revenue contribution from international patients has not changed much and is hovering around a range of 53–55%, significantly lower than pre-COVID time’s range of 64–67%.

Quiddity Leaderboard SET50 Dec 24: 4 Changes Possible; Reference Period Starts on 1st Sep

By Janaghan Jeyakumar, CFA

  • The SET50 index tracks the performance of the top 50 largest and most liquid names listed on the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET).
  • In this insight, we take a look at the potential ADDs/DELs for SET 50 during the index rebal event in December 2024.
  • Currently, we see 4 expected ADDs/DELs but the 3-month reference period used for average market cap rankings starts on 1st September and only after that the rankings will become stable. 

Sansiri – Hyatt Acquires Standard International

By Waraporn Wiboonkanarak

  • We maintain an Outperform rating on SIRI, holding a positive view on the sale of hotel management rights to the Hyatt Group, which is favorable to both the firm’s earnings and financial position.
  • SIRI’s fundamental valuation is attractive, while the tactical factors are viewed neutrally. This should help offset the slower EPS growth expected due to the high base in 2023.
  • The 1H24 dividend yield is 4.0% from the DPS of Bt0.07, with the  XD date scheduled for August 28, 2024.

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Daily Brief Singapore: Suntec REIT and more

By | Daily Briefs, Singapore

In today’s briefing:

  • Steady STI Trading Reflects Smooth Economic Landing Focus


Steady STI Trading Reflects Smooth Economic Landing Focus

By Geoff Howie

  • Global focus on key economic indicators for a smooth US landing has led to four stable STI sessions with a 40-point range and 8% gain, as markets look to the US August unemployment report on 6 Sep and potential Fed Funds Rate cut on 18 Sep.
  • Institutions have also been net buyers over the 4 sessions, with S$171 million of net inflow, led by Financials, REITs, and SATS.
  • Beyond STI constituents, stocks that contributed to the net 4-session institutional inflow included Lendlease Global REIT, NetLink NBN Trust, iFAST Corp, Keppel DC REIT, CLINT, Suntec REIT & Nam Cheong.

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Daily Brief United States: Choice Hotels Intl, Crude Oil, Hilton Grand Vacations, Capri Holdings , Quoin Pharmaceuticals , Under Armour, Copper, Tenax Therapeutics , Cargurus and more

By | Daily Briefs, United States

In today’s briefing:

  • Choice Hotels International Inc. – Major Drivers
  • [ETP 2024/34] Oil Slips on Weak Economic Indicators in US & China; Nat Gas Battles Oversupply
  • Hilton Grand Vacations Inc.: Strengthening of Japanese Yen and Impact on Hawaiian Market & Other Major Drivers
  • Capri Holdings Limited: Expansion of Direct-to-Consumer Channels and E-Commerce! – Major Drivers
  • QNRX: Assessing QRX003 For Multiple Conditions Opening International Netherton Syndrome Clinical Sites
  • Under Armour Inc.: An Enhanced Retail Strategy and SKU Optimization To Catalyze Growth! – Major Drivers
  • Teck Resources (TECK US): The New Purish Copper Play In Town
  • TENX: 100 Million Capital Raise
  • CarGurus Inc.: These Are The 4 Biggest Challenges In Its Path! – Major Drivers
  • ARWR: Two Obesity Assets to Enter the Clinic in 2025


Choice Hotels International Inc. – Major Drivers

By Baptista Research

  • Choice Hotels International has portrayed a strong growth trajectory in its latest quarterly result, evidenced by a significant increase in adjusted EBITDA and EPS.
  • The company raised its full-year adjusted EPS guidance, reflecting confidence in its financial outlook and operational strategy.
  • Central to its growth strategy is the expansion of its portfolio of revenue-intense hotels.

[ETP 2024/34] Oil Slips on Weak Economic Indicators in US & China; Nat Gas Battles Oversupply

By Suhas Reddy

  • For the week ending 16/Aug, US crude inventories dropped by 4.6 mb, exceeding the expected 2 mb drawdown. Gasoline and distillate stocks also declined, surpassing analyst expectations.
  • US natural gas inventories rise 35 bcf for the week ending 16/Aug, exceeding analyst expectations of a 26 bcf buildup. Inventories are 12.6% above the 5-year seasonal average.
  • UBS cut its target prices on Halliburton and Schlumberger but raised it for ExxonMobil and Occidental. Jefferies lowered its target price on Chevron.

Hilton Grand Vacations Inc.: Strengthening of Japanese Yen and Impact on Hawaiian Market & Other Major Drivers

By Baptista Research

  • Hilton Grand Vacations reported its second-quarter earnings for 2024, revealing mixed results that indicate both challenges and strategic advancements.
  • The quarter’s financials showcased a slowdown in some areas, notably impacted by global economic pressures and internal execution hurdles, leading to the company adjusting its full year guidance downward.
  • Despite these setbacks, the company’s strategic moves, such as the integration of acquisitions and a restructuring of its sales and marketing operations, suggest forward-thinking adjustments aimed at strengthening its market position.

Capri Holdings Limited: Expansion of Direct-to-Consumer Channels and E-Commerce! – Major Drivers

By Baptista Research

  • Capri Holdings Limited recently reported its earnings for the fourth quarter and full fiscal year of 2023.
  • The company saw a revenue increase in high single digits and a mid-single digit rise in earnings per share on a 52- week constant currency basis.
  • Despite not fully meeting initial expectations, there were significant areas of performance strength.

QNRX: Assessing QRX003 For Multiple Conditions Opening International Netherton Syndrome Clinical Sites

By Zacks Small Cap Research

  • With a strategy to design products to treat multiple indications, QNRX intends to study QRX003 for several conditions & build a database supporting its efficacy and safety as a treatment for a range of dermatological conditions.
  • The company plans to begin a clinical study of QRX003 in Peeling Skin Syndrome (PSS), a rare autosomal disease that has no approved treatment.
  • By developing its assets for multiple indications, QNRX aims to increase the potential for an expedited regulatory pathway, attain economies of scale on R&D, sales & marketing and other costs and potentially broaden the target market if/when commercial sales launch.

Under Armour Inc.: An Enhanced Retail Strategy and SKU Optimization To Catalyze Growth! – Major Drivers

By Baptista Research

  • Under Armour’s first quarter fiscal 2025 earnings reflected a blend of strategic advancement and lingering challenges.
  • With Kevin Plank at the helm, the company appears focused on fortifying its branding, signifying a pivot towards a clearer segmentation of their market and a concerted effort to enhance product value rather than volume.
  • Starting with the positive aspects, Under Armour has delineated a path to refine its identity as an athletic brand through its “Protect This House” strategy, aiming to invigorate its connection with athletes and consumers globally.

Teck Resources (TECK US): The New Purish Copper Play In Town

By Sameer Taneja

  • After selling its coking coal business to Glencore Plc (GLEN LN), Teck Resources (TECK US) has pivoted to copper as its primary growth driver. 
  • The 7.3 bn CAD cash (20% of Mkt cap) received from the sale of the coal business stake is being used for buybacks, debt repayment, and growth opportunities.  
  • The stock is cheap on an EV-EBITDA basis at 7.5x, but we are not too fond of the business’s low ROCE. 

TENX: 100 Million Capital Raise

By Zacks Small Cap Research

  • Tenax has licensed the calcium sensitizer/K-ATP activator levosimendan and is pursuing approval for an indication in Group 2 Pulmonary Hypertension in the US and Canada.
  • The drug has been approved in over 60 countries with 35 published trials supporting its safety and efficacy and has over 1 million patient exposures.
  • In January 2018 Tenax announced a new indication for Levo and met with the FDA to confirm trial design.

CarGurus Inc.: These Are The 4 Biggest Challenges In Its Path! – Major Drivers

By Baptista Research

  • CarGurus, Inc. delivered a mixed yet fundamentally strong performance in its second quarter of 2024, reflecting a robust narrative of growth and strategic enhancements paired with the typical challenges inherent in rapidly expanding and diversifying market operations.
  • The management effectively articulated their strategic intentions, focusing on driving value through innovation in their service offerings and deepening market penetration, particularly within robustly growing sectors like digital transactions and international expansion.
  • Baptista Research looks to evaluate the different factors that could influence the company’s price in the near future and attempts to carry out an independent valuation of the company using a Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) methodology.

ARWR: Two Obesity Assets to Enter the Clinic in 2025

By Zacks Small Cap Research

  • On August 8, 2024, Arrowhead Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (ARWR) announced financial results for the third quarter of fiscal year 2024 that ended June 30, 2024 and provided a business update.
  • Arrowhead recently presented preclinical data on ARO-INHBE and introduced ARO-ALK7 at its summer seminar on obesity/metabolic disorders.
  • We anticipate both programs entering the clinic in 2025.

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Daily Brief India: Ola Electric, Asirvad Micro Finance Limited, Kalpataru Limited and more

By | Daily Briefs, India

In today’s briefing:

  • Ola Electric’s Path to Profitability: Volumes, Cells and PLI
  • Asirvad Micro Finance Pre-IPO – Accelerating Profitability Growth but with a Litany of Legal Cases
  • Kalpataru Pre-IPO Tearsheet


Ola Electric’s Path to Profitability: Volumes, Cells and PLI

By Devi Subhakesan

  • Investors seem concerned about poor visibility on Ola Electric’s profitability given its aggressive pricing strategy.
  • Expect increasing production volumes and the resulting benefits of operating leverage to lead to operating profits, likely by next quarter.
  • Integrating in-house manufactured Lithium-ion cells into its two-wheeler EVs from FY2026 and higher Government incentive pay out in FY2025 to drive profit margins further.

Asirvad Micro Finance Pre-IPO – Accelerating Profitability Growth but with a Litany of Legal Cases

By Ethan Aw

  • Asirvad Micro Finance Limited (1053198D IN) is looking to raise around US$183m in its upcoming India IPO.
  • Asirvad Micro Finance Limited (Asirvad) is a non-banking finance company (NBFC), and a microfinance institution (MFI) offering small loans to low-income women in India.
  • In this note, we talk about the company’s historical performance.

Kalpataru Pre-IPO Tearsheet

By Akshat Shah

  • Kalpataru Limited (KTARU IN) is looking to raise about US$189m in its upcoming India IPO. The deal will be run by ICICI, JM Fin and Nomura.
  • Kalpataru is an integrated real estate development company involved in activities associated with real estate development, including identification and acquisition of land, planning, designing, execution, sales, and marketing of projects.
  • It is a prominent real estate developer in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) and is present across all micro-markets in MMR, as per an Anarock Report.

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Daily Brief China: Bank of East Asia, XPeng , Innovent Biologics Inc, SITC International, Sunny Optical Technology Group, Full Truck Alliance , Legend Biotech Corp, Vipshop Holdings and more

By | China, Daily Briefs

In today’s briefing:

  • BEA – Far Worse Deterioration in Hong Kong than Other Regions & Sharply Lower HFD Centa City Index
  • [XPeng Inc. (XPEV US, SELL, TP US$2) Earnings Review]: Delivery Goal for MONA M03 Is Unrealistic
  • Innovent Biologics (1801 HK) Adds to Its Oncology Portfolio
  • SITC International (1308 HK): Advancing Amid the Challenging Time
  • Morning Views Asia: Sunny Optical Technology Group, Xiaomi Corp
  • Full Truck Alliance Q224 Results: Generally Strong Growth | Attractive Closer to US$7 Per ADS
  • Legend Biotech: Achieving Regulatory Milestones and Market Approval! – Major Drivers
  • [Vipshop (VIPS US, BUY, TP US$14.5) TP Change]: Buying for Dividend Yield and Cash Flow Yield


BEA – Far Worse Deterioration in Hong Kong than Other Regions & Sharply Lower HFD Centa City Index

By Daniel Tabbush

  • Data from Bank of East Asia (23 HK) is just out with poor 1H24 results YoY
  • Notable in its release are its Hong Kong overdue exposure by over three months
  • Hong Kong region income is the worst affected by credit costs, this does not seem to be over

[XPeng Inc. (XPEV US, SELL, TP US$2) Earnings Review]: Delivery Goal for MONA M03 Is Unrealistic

By Eric Wen

  • XPeng (XPEV) reported C2Q24 top line, non-GAAP operating loss and GAAP net income in line, 5.4% worse and 7.5% better than our estimate. 
  • We raised our MONA forecast by 13% but still significantly below XPEV’s guidance. We believe management guidance is overly optimistic;
  • We maintain a SELL rating on the stock and TP unchanged.

Innovent Biologics (1801 HK) Adds to Its Oncology Portfolio

By Avien Pillay

  • Dupert, a drug for the special treatment of non-small cell cancer has been approved by the NMPA.
  • In 2022, China recorded the highest number of new cancer cases, and their exceptional high incidence of smoking is of particular concern.
  • Innovent’s portfolio of nine oncology drugs is very attractive in the biggest cancer market.

SITC International (1308 HK): Advancing Amid the Challenging Time

By Osbert Tang, CFA

  • SITC International (1308 HK)‘s management guided for a promising outlook for 2H24, with strong load performance in Jul-Aug, and better long-term contract rates YoY.  
  • Gross margin expanded 4.5pp in 1H24 despite a 5.3% drop in average freight rate, thanks to good cost control with lower chartered-in costs and more self-owned vessels.
  • Net cash increased 195% from end-FY23, and we are confident that its 70% payout ratio can be maintained. Its P/B is still below the 5-year average.

Morning Views Asia: Sunny Optical Technology Group, Xiaomi Corp

By Leonard Law, CFA

Lucror Analytics Morning Views comprise our fundamental credit analysis, opinions and trade recommendations on high yield issuers in the region, based on key company-specific developments in the past 24 hours. Our Morning Views include a section with a brief market commentary, key market indicators and a macroeconomic and corporate event calendar.


Full Truck Alliance Q224 Results: Generally Strong Growth | Attractive Closer to US$7 Per ADS

By Daniel Hellberg

  • Another set of strong results from YMM, revenue and core earnings both up
  • Need to monitor orders per MAU; reason for decline in Q224 unclear
  • Maintain US$9.45/ADS target price, ADSs are attractive closer to US$7

Legend Biotech: Achieving Regulatory Milestones and Market Approval! – Major Drivers

By Baptista Research

  • Legend Biotech, during their second quarter 2024 earnings call, presented a detailed insight into its operations, financial health, and the strides it’s making in the pharmaceutical space, particularly regarding CARVYKTI, their FDA-approved treatment for multiple myeloma.
  • The company reported an 18.5% quarter-over-quarter revenue growth amounting to $186 million for CARVYKTI, which marks a robust 60% increase year-over-year.
  • Baptista Research looks to evaluate the different factors that could influence the company’s price in the near future and attempts to carry out an independent valuation of the company using a Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) methodology.

[Vipshop (VIPS US, BUY, TP US$14.5) TP Change]: Buying for Dividend Yield and Cash Flow Yield

By Ying Pan

  • Vipshop reported C2Q24 revenue and profit were in-line vs. the street, but the mid-point of C3Q revenue guide missed by 8% due to soft apparel demand;
  • VIPS has been post growth for some time. However, its healthy cash flow ensures a 75% dividend payout ratio as promised by the company. 
  • We cut our CY24 EPS estimate by 8.4% due to soft apparel demand, leading to a US$ 14.5 TP, but maintain BUY on a post-subsidy recovery. 

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Daily Brief Japan: Seven & I Holdings, ROHM Co Ltd, Jafco Co Ltd, Toyo Corp, Golf Digest Online, LaKeel and more

By | Daily Briefs, Japan

In today’s briefing:

  • Couche-Tard Bid for 7&I (3382) – FEFTA and Economic Security
  • Rohm (6963): Search for the Bottom
  • Back to Jafco- Continues to Be in the Right Place and at the Right Time
  • Toyo Corporation (8151 JP) – Q3 FY9/24 Results Update
  • Golf Digest Online (3319 JP) – 2Q Follow-Up
  • LaKeel (4074 JP) – Continuing to Build a Track Record


Couche-Tard Bid for 7&I (3382) – FEFTA and Economic Security

By Travis Lundy

  • The largest potential inbound cross-border M&A in years – for a national champion no less – gets a lot of press coverage. 
  • This morning, a Nikkei article noted Alimentation Couche-Tard (ATD CN) was likely to need “prior approval” from Japanese regulatory authorities for its takeover “the Nikkei has learned.”
  • It wasn’t difficult for the Nikkei to learn that. METI publishes a FEFTA List. 7&i has been on it for years as Type II Designated Business, requiring prior approval.

Rohm (6963): Search for the Bottom

By Michael Allen

  • Rohm’s cyclical turning points in revenue typically lag the turn METI production %YoY less inventory % YoY for electronic devices and components by 12 months.
  • Investors were disappointed with Q1 results, but the company cleanly outperformed most peers in the power semiconductor space, and recovery now looks inevitable. 
  • We believe the fair value of shares to be around ¥3,300, 2x the current price, but investors should ask, “When?” Not “How much.”

Back to Jafco- Continues to Be in the Right Place and at the Right Time

By Rikki Malik

  • Its portfolio of Japanese investments should benefit from the change in investor focus to domestic names.
  • Has shown strong outperformance since the sell-off presaging future relative strength
  • The business itself progressing as planned for increased shareholder returns

Toyo Corporation (8151 JP) – Q3 FY9/24 Results Update

By Astris Advisory Japan

  • Toyo Corporation announced a share buyback of up to 1.2 million shares or ¥1.5 billion for FY9/24, which equals about 5% of the current shares outstanding in addition to an upward revision of DPS to ¥67 from ¥62.
  • This reflects Toyo’s commitment to improving total shareholder returns and ROE. OP margin declined significantly (-6.4% Q3 FY9/23, -6.5% Q3 FY9/24) but it was due to cyclicality.
  • Physics / Energies continued to see strong growth (+35.0% YoY) on the back of robust demand for carbon neutrality. 

Golf Digest Online (3319 JP) – 2Q Follow-Up

By Sessa Investment Research

  • GDO announced 1H FY24/12 consolidated financial results at 15:00 on Thursday 8/8, and it held a results briefing at 16:00 via Zoom webinar, hosted by CEO Ishizaka, COO Yoshikawa and CFO Nakamura.
  • Headline figures were net sales +10.2% YoY, EBITDA -26.9%, the operating loss expanding and profit attributable to owners of parent dropping into loss.
  • While headline numbers on the surface appear to indicate an extremely challenging environment, it is worth noting that the trend for 2Q-only profit improved sequentially at all levels (see red circles in the table below), and management is confident that profit will return to profitability in the 2H as measures to improve GPM and control costs contribute going forward.

LaKeel (4074 JP) – Continuing to Build a Track Record

By Astris Advisory Japan

  • Q1-2 FY12/24 results were ahead of company guidance for profits, with the company driving earnings through a combination of sales growth for the higher return Product Service segment, and sound cost management with flat SG&A costs YoY.
  • We believe quarterly Q2 FY12/24 SaaS metrics for LaKeel Products were positive, demonstrating an acceleration in growth for ARPU (+9% YoY) and MRR (+26.2% YoY).
  • This strategically important product line contributed 14% of Q1-2 FY12/24 sales, and continued execution of scaling will allow the company to improve both the sales mix as well as the quality of earnings.

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Most Read: Alibaba Group Holding , JD.com , Greatview Aseptic Packaging, Seven & I Holdings, China Traditional Chinese Medicine, Westgold Resources, Workday Inc Class A, SK Innovation, Eoflow, Hanwha Galleria and more

By | Daily Briefs, Most Read

In today’s briefing:

  • Alibaba (9988 HK/BABA) Dual Primary Listing: Are We There Yet?
  • JD.com (9618 HK): Index Implications of Walmart Placement
  • GAPack (468 HK)’s Co-Founders (Almost) Walk The Walk
  • Couche-Tard Bid for 7&I (3382) – FEFTA and Economic Security
  • TCM (570 HK): Profit Warning Is No Biggie
  • S&P/​​​​​​​​​ASX Index Rebalance Preview: Review Period Nearly Done; Big Impact Changes
  • Quiddity Leaderboard S&P500 Sep 24 Rebal: Palantir, Apollo, Workday Racing for Mega$ Flows
  • NPS Will Vote Against the Merger Between SK Innovation and SK E&S
  • Insulet Launches a Patent Lawsuit Against Eoflow in Europe
  • A Tender Offer to Purchase a 17.5% Stake in Hanwha Galleria by Kim Dong-Sun


Alibaba (9988 HK/BABA) Dual Primary Listing: Are We There Yet?

By Brian Freitas

  • In its last update, Alibaba Group announced that the company was preparing for its primary listing in Hong Kong and the process was expected to complete by the end August.
  • The Board meets on 14 August to approve results for the three months ending June. Could there be an announcement on the dual primary listing too?
  • Mainland Chinese own between 3.5%-15.5% of companies that converted from Secondary to Dual-Primary in the last few years. Similar buying in Alibaba could take the stock higher from here. 

JD.com (9618 HK): Index Implications of Walmart Placement

By Brian Freitas

  • Media reports indicate that Walmart (WMT US) is looking to sell 144.5m shares of JD.com (JD US) to raise up to US$3.74bn. That would be substantially all of its stake.
  • There will be passive buying from global index trackers at the time of settlement of the placement shares and could absorb around 12% of the placement shares.
  • There will be no passive buying from HSI, HSCEI, HSTECH and HSIII trackers in the short-term. An increase in CCASS holdings should result in passive buying in December.

GAPack (468 HK)’s Co-Founders (Almost) Walk The Walk

By David Blennerhassett

  • To say Greatview Aseptic Packaging (468 HK)‘s management and Shandong Xinjufeng (301296 CH) (XJF) don’t get along is an understatement. GAPack has labelled XJF’s pre-conditional Offer hostile and unwelcome.
  • Last night (6th August), co-founders Jeff Bi and Gang Hong tabled a non-binding Offer. No price was mentioned. Collectively they hold 14.72% of shares out compared to XJF’s 26.8%.
  • A firm Offer (and price) would have been welcome, and this probably reflects on-going funding negotiations. But the announcement will give minorities pause if/when tendering into XJF’s Offer.

Couche-Tard Bid for 7&I (3382) – FEFTA and Economic Security

By Travis Lundy

  • The largest potential inbound cross-border M&A in years – for a national champion no less – gets a lot of press coverage. 
  • This morning, a Nikkei article noted Alimentation Couche-Tard (ATD CN) was likely to need “prior approval” from Japanese regulatory authorities for its takeover “the Nikkei has learned.”
  • It wasn’t difficult for the Nikkei to learn that. METI publishes a FEFTA List. 7&i has been on it for years as Type II Designated Business, requiring prior approval.

TCM (570 HK): Profit Warning Is No Biggie

By David Blennerhassett

  • China Traditional Chinese Medicine (570 HK) flagged a 60-70% drop in its 1H24E net profit versus 1H23, due to reduced sales/profit of TCM concentrate, bad debt provisions, and remedial taxes. 
  • MAC triggers? No – Sinopharm won’t exercise such right, even if one was ostensibly triggered. I’d be surprised if Sinopharm wasn’t fully aware of TCM’s underlying operations. 
  • Get involved on any dips today. Trading wide at a 11.7%/38.7% gross/annualised spread, assuming Dec-end payment.

S&P/​​​​​​​​​ASX Index Rebalance Preview: Review Period Nearly Done; Big Impact Changes

By Brian Freitas

  • With 2 trading days left in the review period, there could be 30 adds/deletes across the S&P/ASX family of indices in September.
  • Passive trackers will need to trade a lot of stock in the forecast changes, with the impact being especially large for the changes to the S&P/ASX 200 and S&P/ASX 300.
  • The forecast adds have hugely outperformed the forecast deletes. Borrow recall on the deletes and increased borrow availability on the adds could result in underperformance following announcement of the changes.

Quiddity Leaderboard S&P500 Sep 24 Rebal: Palantir, Apollo, Workday Racing for Mega$ Flows

By Travis Lundy

  • The S&P 500 index tracks the 500 largest names listed in the US and it is one of the most highly-tracked indices in the world.
  • In this insight, we take a look at the upcoming constituent changes in the run up to the September 2024 index rebal event.
  • We expect two regular changes in September 2024. There are also several live M&A events which could trigger intra-review index changes in the late-2024/early-2025.

NPS Will Vote Against the Merger Between SK Innovation and SK E&S

By Douglas Kim

  • NPS will vote against the merger between SK Innovation and SK E&S, mainly due to significant concerns about destroying shareholder value (especially for SK Innovation shareholders). 
  • Sustinvest also recommended that institutional investors vote against this merger, citing that the merger ratio between SK Innovation and SK E&S is disadvantageous to SK Innovation’s general shareholders.
  • If NPS exercises its appraisal rights, this could put a knife in the wheel of the M&A merger between SK Innovation and SK E&S. 

Insulet Launches a Patent Lawsuit Against Eoflow in Europe

By Douglas Kim

  • Eoflow announced Insulet had filed an injunction on 3 July against Eoflow and Menarini requesting a ban on the manufacture, sale, distribution, and use of EOPatch in 17 European countries.
  • Given that Eoflow should have reported this event earlier, this is likely to result in further loss of confidence on Eoflow by many investors in the near term. 
  • If Eoflow is able to complete its rights offering (albeit lower amount than proposed), this could boost its chances to become a formidable competitor to Insulet on a global basis. 

A Tender Offer to Purchase a 17.5% Stake in Hanwha Galleria by Kim Dong-Sun

By Douglas Kim

  • It was announced that a tender offer to purchase a 17.54% stake in Hanwha Galleria has been launched by Kim Dong-Sun (Vice President at Hanwha Galleria).
  • Tender offer price is 1,600 won per share, which is 22.8% higher than the closing price on 22 August. Tender offer amount is 54.4 billion won. 
  • On 23 August, Hanwha Galleria’s share price is likely to rise close to the tender offer price as many investors believe the tender offer is likely to be successful. 

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Daily Brief Industrials: Hanwha Aerospace, SITC International, Full Truck Alliance , Nexans SA and more

By | Daily Briefs, Industrials

In today’s briefing:

  • Both Hanwha Aerospace Spinoffs Remain in KOSPI 200: Trading Value Gap Between Trading Suspension
  • SITC International (1308 HK): Advancing Amid the Challenging Time
  • Full Truck Alliance Q224 Results: Generally Strong Growth | Attractive Closer to US$7 Per ADS
  • Nexans – ESG Report – Lucror Analytics


Both Hanwha Aerospace Spinoffs Remain in KOSPI 200: Trading Value Gap Between Trading Suspension

By Sanghyun Park

  • KRX announced that both Hanwha Aerospace and the new Hanwha Industrial Solutions will be added to the KOSPI 200.
  • Since 2020, two K200 spinoffs had both companies remain: DL Holdings and DL E&C in January 2021, and SK Telecom and SK Square in November 2021, with notable value increases.
  • This trade isn’t risk-free and requires a sophisticated hedge setup, but the trading opportunities from this flow situation are worth close attention.

SITC International (1308 HK): Advancing Amid the Challenging Time

By Osbert Tang, CFA

  • SITC International (1308 HK)‘s management guided for a promising outlook for 2H24, with strong load performance in Jul-Aug, and better long-term contract rates YoY.  
  • Gross margin expanded 4.5pp in 1H24 despite a 5.3% drop in average freight rate, thanks to good cost control with lower chartered-in costs and more self-owned vessels.
  • Net cash increased 195% from end-FY23, and we are confident that its 70% payout ratio can be maintained. Its P/B is still below the 5-year average.

Full Truck Alliance Q224 Results: Generally Strong Growth | Attractive Closer to US$7 Per ADS

By Daniel Hellberg

  • Another set of strong results from YMM, revenue and core earnings both up
  • Need to monitor orders per MAU; reason for decline in Q224 unclear
  • Maintain US$9.45/ADS target price, ADSs are attractive closer to US$7

Nexans – ESG Report – Lucror Analytics

By Leonard Law, CFA

Lucror Analytics’ ESG Scores are based on a 3-tiered scale and are adjusted for Controversies (if applicable).
We assess Nexans’ ESG as “Adequate”, in line with its “Adequate” Social and Governance scores. The company has a “Strong” score for the Environmental pillar. Controversies are “Immaterial” and Disclosure is “Strong”.


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Daily Brief TMT/Internet: ROHM Co Ltd, Hon Hai Precision Industry, Toyo Corp, PVA TePla, Sunny Optical Technology Group, LaKeel, Nano Dimension , Shift4 Payments, Alarm.Com Holdings, Unity Software and more

By | Daily Briefs, TMT/Internet

In today’s briefing:

  • Rohm (6963): Search for the Bottom
  • Tech Supply Chain Tracker (23-Aug-2024): Silicon Shield 2.0: supply chain security & diplomacy.
  • Toyo Corporation (8151 JP) – Q3 FY9/24 Results Update
  • PVA TePla – Strong Q224 results
  • Morning Views Asia: Sunny Optical Technology Group, Xiaomi Corp
  • LaKeel (4074 JP) – Continuing to Build a Track Record
  • Nano Dimension – Creating a leader in additive manufacturing
  • Shift4 Payments Inc.: Focus on Organic Growth and Diverse Offerings & Other Major Drivers
  • Alarm.com Holdings Inc.: Expanding Video Analytics & Remote Monitoring Capabilities! – Major Drivers
  • Unity Software: How Are They Restructuring Their Advertising Business To Drive Growth! – Major Drivers


Rohm (6963): Search for the Bottom

By Michael Allen

  • Rohm’s cyclical turning points in revenue typically lag the turn METI production %YoY less inventory % YoY for electronic devices and components by 12 months.
  • Investors were disappointed with Q1 results, but the company cleanly outperformed most peers in the power semiconductor space, and recovery now looks inevitable. 
  • We believe the fair value of shares to be around ¥3,300, 2x the current price, but investors should ask, “When?” Not “How much.”

Tech Supply Chain Tracker (23-Aug-2024): Silicon Shield 2.0: supply chain security & diplomacy.

By Tech Supply Chain Tracker

  • Silicon Shield 2.0 involves managing risks and building partnerships to secure supply chains in today’s economic landscape.
  • AMD collaborates with ZT System engineers to simplify rising AI system complexity, enhancing efficiency and productivity.
  • Foxconn leverages AI server trading models to increase profits, while Taiwan’s president calls for regional de-risking and trade partnerships to adapt to supply chain shifts. #Taiwan #trade #partnerships #supplychain. Innodisk’s AI revenue surpasses 20%, foreseeing growth in revenue and profit in the second half of 2024. SK Hynix’s revenue doubles in the US and China, attributed to increased AI demand in the first half of 2024. TSMC’s new fab in Germany is expected to generate jobs and enhance wafer ecosystems in Europe.

Toyo Corporation (8151 JP) – Q3 FY9/24 Results Update

By Astris Advisory Japan

  • Toyo Corporation announced a share buyback of up to 1.2 million shares or ¥1.5 billion for FY9/24, which equals about 5% of the current shares outstanding in addition to an upward revision of DPS to ¥67 from ¥62.
  • This reflects Toyo’s commitment to improving total shareholder returns and ROE. OP margin declined significantly (-6.4% Q3 FY9/23, -6.5% Q3 FY9/24) but it was due to cyclicality.
  • Physics / Energies continued to see strong growth (+35.0% YoY) on the back of robust demand for carbon neutrality. 

PVA TePla – Strong Q224 results

By Edison Investment Research

PVA TePla’s (PVA’s) Q224 results were strong and management reiterated its FY24 guidance and FY25 outlook of moderate growth, despite a weak order intake. The outlook is based on the expectation of increased order momentum in Q4, especially for metrology. PVA has resolved the issue of replacing at short notice two supervisory board members. Two new board members will be up for election at PVA’s AGM on 30 August. Although the company’s share price has appreciated from its recent lows of c €13 (from c €20 earlier this year), there is no meaningful recovery yet. With FY24 and FY25 estimates unchanged, this implies much lower multiples compared to our initiation report in May.


Morning Views Asia: Sunny Optical Technology Group, Xiaomi Corp

By Leonard Law, CFA

Lucror Analytics Morning Views comprise our fundamental credit analysis, opinions and trade recommendations on high yield issuers in the region, based on key company-specific developments in the past 24 hours. Our Morning Views include a section with a brief market commentary, key market indicators and a macroeconomic and corporate event calendar.


LaKeel (4074 JP) – Continuing to Build a Track Record

By Astris Advisory Japan

  • Q1-2 FY12/24 results were ahead of company guidance for profits, with the company driving earnings through a combination of sales growth for the higher return Product Service segment, and sound cost management with flat SG&A costs YoY.
  • We believe quarterly Q2 FY12/24 SaaS metrics for LaKeel Products were positive, demonstrating an acceleration in growth for ARPU (+9% YoY) and MRR (+26.2% YoY).
  • This strategically important product line contributed 14% of Q1-2 FY12/24 sales, and continued execution of scaling will allow the company to improve both the sales mix as well as the quality of earnings.

Nano Dimension – Creating a leader in additive manufacturing

By Edison Investment Research

Nano Dimension reported record revenue of $15.0m in Q224, slightly higher year-on-year and 12% higher quarter-on-quarter. The Reshaping Nano initiative continued to reduce cash burn, which was down 64% y-o-y in Q224 and 69% in H124, before share buybacks. Management is focused on completing the Desktop Metal (DM) acquisition by the end of the year. The combined entity will have a broad product offering, supporting the entire value chain from prototyping through to volume manufacturing, along with considerable cash to support organic and inorganic growth. With significant revenue and cost synergies identified, the new group should be able to accelerate the path to profitability.


Shift4 Payments Inc.: Focus on Organic Growth and Diverse Offerings & Other Major Drivers

By Baptista Research

  • Shift4 Payments reported its second quarter results for 2024, reflecting robust growth in several key financial metrics, driven by strategic acquisitions and a significant expansion across various verticals both domestically and internationally.
  • The company showcased impressive growth in end-to-end payment volume, ascending by 50% year-over-year.
  • Gross profit increased by 38%, and gross revenue led by network fees grew by 41%.

Alarm.com Holdings Inc.: Expanding Video Analytics & Remote Monitoring Capabilities! – Major Drivers

By Baptista Research

  • Alarm.com reported its second quarter 2024 financial results, which have exceeded expectations with significant achievements and strategic advancements outlined during the earnings call.
  • The company saw an increase in SaaS and license revenue to $155.9 million and adjusted EBITDA to $42.8 million.
  • This can be attributed to organic growth in its commercial, international, and Energy Hub businesses.

Unity Software: How Are They Restructuring Their Advertising Business To Drive Growth! – Major Drivers

By Baptista Research

  • Unity’s leadership, spearheaded by newly appointed CEO Matthew Bromberg and outgoing CFO Luis Visoso, provided a comprehensive overview of the company’s Q2 2024 performance and forward-looking strategies in the recent earnings call.
  • Despite facing challenges, Unity’s strategic positioning and operational adjustments have it set towards a path of recovery, albeit with cautious optimism.
  • Baptista Research looks to evaluate the different factors that could influence the company’s price in the near future and attempts to carry out an independent valuation of the company using a Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) methodology.

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Daily Brief Consumer: Seven & I Holdings, Hanwha Galleria , XPeng , Ola Electric, MSCI ACWI Index, Choice Hotels Intl, Hilton Grand Vacations, Under Armour, Golf Digest Online, Capri Holdings and more

By | Consumer, Daily Briefs

In today’s briefing:

  • Couche-Tard Bid for 7&I (3382) – FEFTA and Economic Security
  • A Tender Offer to Purchase a 17.5% Stake in Hanwha Galleria by Kim Dong-Sun
  • [XPeng Inc. (XPEV US, SELL, TP US$2) Earnings Review]: Delivery Goal for MONA M03 Is Unrealistic
  • Ola Electric’s Path to Profitability: Volumes, Cells and PLI
  • Shift Now to Defensives; Snap-Back Rally Testing Resistance $ACWI $SPX; Neutral Outlook Intact
  • Choice Hotels International Inc. – Major Drivers
  • Hilton Grand Vacations Inc.: Strengthening of Japanese Yen and Impact on Hawaiian Market & Other Major Drivers
  • Under Armour Inc.: An Enhanced Retail Strategy and SKU Optimization To Catalyze Growth! – Major Drivers
  • Golf Digest Online (3319 JP) – 2Q Follow-Up
  • Capri Holdings Limited: Expansion of Direct-to-Consumer Channels and E-Commerce! – Major Drivers


Couche-Tard Bid for 7&I (3382) – FEFTA and Economic Security

By Travis Lundy

  • The largest potential inbound cross-border M&A in years – for a national champion no less – gets a lot of press coverage. 
  • This morning, a Nikkei article noted Alimentation Couche-Tard (ATD CN) was likely to need “prior approval” from Japanese regulatory authorities for its takeover “the Nikkei has learned.”
  • It wasn’t difficult for the Nikkei to learn that. METI publishes a FEFTA List. 7&i has been on it for years as Type II Designated Business, requiring prior approval.

A Tender Offer to Purchase a 17.5% Stake in Hanwha Galleria by Kim Dong-Sun

By Douglas Kim

  • It was announced that a tender offer to purchase a 17.54% stake in Hanwha Galleria has been launched by Kim Dong-Sun (Vice President at Hanwha Galleria).
  • Tender offer price is 1,600 won per share, which is 22.8% higher than the closing price on 22 August. Tender offer amount is 54.4 billion won. 
  • On 23 August, Hanwha Galleria’s share price is likely to rise close to the tender offer price as many investors believe the tender offer is likely to be successful. 

[XPeng Inc. (XPEV US, SELL, TP US$2) Earnings Review]: Delivery Goal for MONA M03 Is Unrealistic

By Eric Wen

  • XPeng (XPEV) reported C2Q24 top line, non-GAAP operating loss and GAAP net income in line, 5.4% worse and 7.5% better than our estimate. 
  • We raised our MONA forecast by 13% but still significantly below XPEV’s guidance. We believe management guidance is overly optimistic;
  • We maintain a SELL rating on the stock and TP unchanged.

Ola Electric’s Path to Profitability: Volumes, Cells and PLI

By Devi Subhakesan

  • Investors seem concerned about poor visibility on Ola Electric’s profitability given its aggressive pricing strategy.
  • Expect increasing production volumes and the resulting benefits of operating leverage to lead to operating profits, likely by next quarter.
  • Integrating in-house manufactured Lithium-ion cells into its two-wheeler EVs from FY2026 and higher Government incentive pay out in FY2025 to drive profit margins further.

Shift Now to Defensives; Snap-Back Rally Testing Resistance $ACWI $SPX; Neutral Outlook Intact

By Joe Jasper

  • Snap-Back rallies have continued in the largest global equity markets (U.S., Japan, and Europe).
  • Japan’s TOPIX is still below 2690-2700 and the EURO STOXX 50 is below 4884, and whether they roll over here or from marginally higher levels, lower highs remain likely.
  • It all fits with our ongoing belief (since our July 25, 2024 Int’l Compass) that MSCI ACWI is going through a 1- to 4-month pullback/consolidation (we are one month in).

Choice Hotels International Inc. – Major Drivers

By Baptista Research

  • Choice Hotels International has portrayed a strong growth trajectory in its latest quarterly result, evidenced by a significant increase in adjusted EBITDA and EPS.
  • The company raised its full-year adjusted EPS guidance, reflecting confidence in its financial outlook and operational strategy.
  • Central to its growth strategy is the expansion of its portfolio of revenue-intense hotels.

Hilton Grand Vacations Inc.: Strengthening of Japanese Yen and Impact on Hawaiian Market & Other Major Drivers

By Baptista Research

  • Hilton Grand Vacations reported its second-quarter earnings for 2024, revealing mixed results that indicate both challenges and strategic advancements.
  • The quarter’s financials showcased a slowdown in some areas, notably impacted by global economic pressures and internal execution hurdles, leading to the company adjusting its full year guidance downward.
  • Despite these setbacks, the company’s strategic moves, such as the integration of acquisitions and a restructuring of its sales and marketing operations, suggest forward-thinking adjustments aimed at strengthening its market position.

Under Armour Inc.: An Enhanced Retail Strategy and SKU Optimization To Catalyze Growth! – Major Drivers

By Baptista Research

  • Under Armour’s first quarter fiscal 2025 earnings reflected a blend of strategic advancement and lingering challenges.
  • With Kevin Plank at the helm, the company appears focused on fortifying its branding, signifying a pivot towards a clearer segmentation of their market and a concerted effort to enhance product value rather than volume.
  • Starting with the positive aspects, Under Armour has delineated a path to refine its identity as an athletic brand through its “Protect This House” strategy, aiming to invigorate its connection with athletes and consumers globally.

Golf Digest Online (3319 JP) – 2Q Follow-Up

By Sessa Investment Research

  • GDO announced 1H FY24/12 consolidated financial results at 15:00 on Thursday 8/8, and it held a results briefing at 16:00 via Zoom webinar, hosted by CEO Ishizaka, COO Yoshikawa and CFO Nakamura.
  • Headline figures were net sales +10.2% YoY, EBITDA -26.9%, the operating loss expanding and profit attributable to owners of parent dropping into loss.
  • While headline numbers on the surface appear to indicate an extremely challenging environment, it is worth noting that the trend for 2Q-only profit improved sequentially at all levels (see red circles in the table below), and management is confident that profit will return to profitability in the 2H as measures to improve GPM and control costs contribute going forward.

Capri Holdings Limited: Expansion of Direct-to-Consumer Channels and E-Commerce! – Major Drivers

By Baptista Research

  • Capri Holdings Limited recently reported its earnings for the fourth quarter and full fiscal year of 2023.
  • The company saw a revenue increase in high single digits and a mid-single digit rise in earnings per share on a 52- week constant currency basis.
  • Despite not fully meeting initial expectations, there were significant areas of performance strength.

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