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Daily Briefs

Daily Brief Japan: Fast Retailing, Nidec Corp, Shift Inc, WingArc1st Inc, Koshidaka Holdings, TSE Tokyo Price Index TOPIX and more

By | Daily Briefs, Japan

In today’s briefing:

  • Fast Retailing(9983) | Q3 Miss But FY Guide Intact – Execution Solid, China Still Weak
  • Nidec (6594 JP): New Factory in China
  • Shift Inc (3697 JP): Q3 FY08/25 flash update
  • WingArc1st Inc (4432 JP): Q1 FY02/26 flash update
  • Koshidaka Holdings (2157 JP): Q3 FY08/25 flash update
  • The Gap with Investors’ Perspective Stems from Managers Trying to Distance Themselves from Investors


Fast Retailing(9983) | Q3 Miss But FY Guide Intact – Execution Solid, China Still Weak

By Mark Chadwick

  • Q3 revenue/OP miss vs. our est. on weaker-than-expected Uniqlo International – FX and China weakness key drivers.
  • Japan and Western markets continue to outperform; U.S. and Europe now rival China in size.
  • FY company guidance unchanged but rising risks to next FY from tariffs and persistent China underperformance.

Nidec (6594 JP): New Factory in China

By Scott Foster

  • Nidec has opened a new motor factory in China to meet an anticipated increase in demand for home appliances. 
  • Sensing an opportunity for growth, management is already considering the construction of a second factory. 
  • This fits with the Chinese government’s efforts to promote domestic demand and with Nidec’s need for a new growth driver in China.

Shift Inc (3697 JP): Q3 FY08/25 flash update

By Shared Research

  • In cumulative Q3 FY08/25, the company reported sales of JPY95.4bn, gross profit of JPY33.0bn, and operating profit of JPY11.9bn.
  • Software Testing Related Services segment sales reached JPY61.9bn, with gross profit at JPY22.8bn and operating profit at JPY16.2bn.
  • The revised full-year forecast for FY08/25 anticipates sales of JPY130.0bn and operating profit of JPY15.0bn.

WingArc1st Inc (4432 JP): Q1 FY02/26 flash update

By Shared Research

  • FY02/26 revenue was JPY7.3bn (+2.7% YoY), with operating profit at JPY2.1bn (-13.1% YoY) and EBITDA JPY2.5bn (-10.6% YoY).
  • Q1 FY02/26 BDS sales revenue rose 3.1% YoY to JPY4.8bn, while DE business revenue increased 2.1% YoY to JPY2.5bn.
  • WingArc1st revised FY02/26 forecast projects revenue of JPY31.2bn (+8.7% YoY) and operating profit of JPY9.0bn (+8.9% YoY).

Koshidaka Holdings (2157 JP): Q3 FY08/25 flash update

By Shared Research

  • In cumulative Q3 FY08/25, revenue was JPY51.4bn (+10.7% YoY), with operating profit at JPY8.4bn (+19.1% YoY).
  • The company opened 31 facilities and closed seven, totaling 688 facilities and 18,574 rooms by end-Q3 FY08/25.
  • Personnel expenses rose 9.2% YoY, rent increased 11.8% YoY, and SG&A expenses rose to JPY5.1bn (+0.7% YoY).

The Gap with Investors’ Perspective Stems from Managers Trying to Distance Themselves from Investors

By Aki Matsumoto

  • The trend of AGMs being concentrated in the last week of June remains unchanged, and this’s seen as attempt to divert shareholder attention and reluctant attitude toward dialogue with shareholders.
  • The rise in share proposals has made some managers wary, and we are not optimistic about pushing AGM later dates and disclosing annual securities reports well in advance of AGM.
  • There are gap between what is stated and what actually happens in “the reasons for not introducing anti-takeover measures,” “compliance with constructive dialogue with shareholders,” and disclosure of “TSE’s requests.”

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Daily Brief Industrials: Tenneco Clean Air India Ltd, Nidec Corp, Aalberts Industries Nv, S&SYS, Johns Lyng and more

By | Daily Briefs, Industrials

In today’s briefing:

  • Tenneco Clean Air India Ltd Pre-IPO Tearsheet
  • Nidec (6594 JP): New Factory in China
  • What’s New(s) in Amsterdam – 10 July (ABN Amro | Aalberts | Volksbank)
  • S&SYS IPO Preview
  • Johns Lyng (JLG AU): PEP’s A$4/Share Offer Looks Light


Tenneco Clean Air India Ltd Pre-IPO Tearsheet

By Rosita Fernandes

  • Tenneco Clean Air India Ltd (1880671D IN)  (TCAIL)  is looking to raise about US$350m in its upcoming India IPO. The bookrunners for the deal are JM Fin, Citi, Axis, HSBC.
  • TCAIL designs and manufactures clean air, powertrain, and suspension solutions for Indian OEMs, export markets, and the aftermarket, serving PVs, CVs, OHs, and industrial applications.
  • According to the CRISIL Report, TCAIL was the largest supplier of Clean Air Solutions to Indian commercial truck (CT) OEMs with a 60% market share in FY24.

Nidec (6594 JP): New Factory in China

By Scott Foster

  • Nidec has opened a new motor factory in China to meet an anticipated increase in demand for home appliances. 
  • Sensing an opportunity for growth, management is already considering the construction of a second factory. 
  • This fits with the Chinese government’s efforts to promote domestic demand and with Nidec’s need for a new growth driver in China.

What’s New(s) in Amsterdam – 10 July (ABN Amro | Aalberts | Volksbank)

By The IDEA!

  • In this edition: • ABN Amro | court dismisses mass claim regarding overcharging on variable-rate loans • Aalberts | to acquire Grand Venture Technology • Volksbank | to remain state-owned for at least another year

S&SYS IPO Preview

By Douglas Kim

  • S&SYS is getting ready to complete its IPO in KOSDAQ in August. S&SYS is a shipbuilding equipment integrated solution company. 
  • The company plans to offer 1.9 million shares in this public offering. The IPO price range is from 27,000 won to 30,000 won. 
  • To value S&SYS, the bankers used Sejin Heavy Industries Co Ltd (075580 KS), Halla IMS, HD Hyundai Marine Solution (443060 KS), and Ksp Co Ltd (073010 KS) as comps. 

Johns Lyng (JLG AU): PEP’s A$4/Share Offer Looks Light

By David Blennerhassett

  • A month ago, Integrated building services provider Johns Lyng (JLG AU) fielded a non-binding Offer, by way of a Scheme, from Aussie fund manager Pacific Equity Partners (PEP).
  • JLG and PEP have now entered into a SID at A$4/share, a 77% premium to undisturbed. CEO Scott Didier, JLG’s largest shareholder with 17.64%, is supportive. 
  • A shareholder vote is expected to take place in October, with the transaction potentially wrapping up in November. This may need more gruel.

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Daily Brief Energy/Materials: Vedanta Ltd, New World Resources, SGX Rubber Future TSR20, Jindal Steel & Power, Zijin Mining Group , Santos Ltd, Aurelia Metals, China Northern Rare Earth Group High-Tech, BP PLC, MP Materials Corp and more

By | Daily Briefs, Energy & Materials Sector

In today’s briefing:

  • Is Vedanta Running a Ponzi Scheme? Deep Dive into Findings of Shortseller Report
  • New World Resources (NWC AU): Kinterra Tweaks Its Offer Structure and Bumps
  • Low-Risk, High Stakes: India Sharpens Rubber EUDR Compliance Focus
  • India Insider Buying – June ’25: Strong Activity in Small Caps, Limited Participation in Large Caps.
  • Zijin to Float Its Overseas Arm to Fund Global Expansion as Gold Prices Soar
  • Rudi’s View: Gold stocks & Miners, DigiCo, Pinnacle & More
  • Aurelia Metals Ltd – Australian Broker Call *Extra* Edition – Jul 10, 2025
  • China Northern Rare Earth (600111.SH): Strong H1 Guidance Supports Full-Year Outlook
  • bp — Focusing on returns and growth
  • MP Materials (NYSE: MP) | Defense-Backed Integration Anchors Strategic Rerating


Is Vedanta Running a Ponzi Scheme? Deep Dive into Findings of Shortseller Report

By Nimish Maheshwari

  • A foreign short seller has released its short thesis note on Vedanta Group, labelling the group as a Ponzi scheme. 
  • The report’s central assertion is ‘to repay the debt of holding company Vedanta Resources, Vedanta Limited paid aggressive dividends leading to depletion of financial & operational strength of Vedanta
  • Dividend & delisting along with share purchases funded through debt, unreconciled interest, and depleting asset base, stagnancy in expansion plans.

New World Resources (NWC AU): Kinterra Tweaks Its Offer Structure and Bumps

By Arun George

  • Kinterra increased its New World Resources (NWC AU) offer to A$0.063, which will be increased to A$0.064 and declared unconditional if Kinterra acquires 30% of voting rights by 11 July.
  • Central Asia Metals (CAML LN) has five business days to match Kinterra’s offer. While CAML today lowered its FY2025 production guidance, it retains the headroom to return with revised terms.
  • Trump’s recent copper tariffs support the case for the ongoing bidding war. Crucially, none of the bidders has declared their offer best and final. 

Low-Risk, High Stakes: India Sharpens Rubber EUDR Compliance Focus

By Vinod Nedumudy

  • Rubber Board undertakes nationwide EUDR sensitization drives  
  • Geo-mapping and traceability systems scaled up across states  
  •  Low-risk status to come under EU review in 2026

India Insider Buying – June ’25: Strong Activity in Small Caps, Limited Participation in Large Caps.

By Sreemant Dudhoria,CFA

  • Insider buying spanned across 40+ stocks in June 2025, highlighting continued conviction among promoters, directors, and trusts.
  • While, there were fewer companies with market cap above USD 1 bn which saw insider buying, this number was significantly higher (35 count) in smaller names.
  • Companies which have zoomed after the insider purchases include – LT Foods Ltd (LTFO IN) (+10%), Valor Estate (+11%). In smaller names – Man Industries (India) (MAN IN) (+88%)

Zijin to Float Its Overseas Arm to Fund Global Expansion as Gold Prices Soar

By Caixin Global

  • Zijin Mining Group Co. Ltd., China’s largest gold producer, is carving out its fast-growing international operations for an initial public offering (IPO) in Hong Kong, aiming to build a well-funded global powerhouse as gold prices reach record heights.
  • Already listed in Hong Kong and Shanghai, Zijin announced Monday that its subsidiary Zijin Gold International Co. Ltd. has submitted an IPO application to the Hong Kong Stock Exchange.
  • The offering — jointly underwritten by Morgan Stanley and Citic Securities — will float up to 15% of the unit’s shares, with an overallotment option of an additional 15% of that tranche.



China Northern Rare Earth (600111.SH): Strong H1 Guidance Supports Full-Year Outlook

By Rahul Jain

  • China Northern Rare Earth issued a mid-year earnings guidance of ¥900–960 million for H1 FY2025, marking a 1,900%+ YoY increase and reflecting strong volume recovery and operational leverage.
  • The company is on track to meet our full-year net profit estimate of ¥2.33 billion and EPS of ¥0.65, assuming a seasonally stronger H2.
  • Key risks include ongoing export restrictions, global supply chain diversification efforts, and downstream demand volatility, while long-term plans remain aligned with China’s rare earth consolidation and value-added material strategy.

bp — Focusing on returns and growth

By Edison Investment Research

bp is pivoting back towards its traditional upstream oil and gas business, with a renewed focus on shareholder returns. It will remain an integrated energy play with strong differentiating factors (trading, high-quality assets) but with a less aggressive tilt towards renewables, a strategic review of lubricants (Castrol) and a primary focus on maximising shareholder returns. In our view, this pivot could reduce its discount to peers. We believe oil and gas exposure is important in the construction of investors’ portfolios as it offsets the negative impact of energy price spikes.


MP Materials (NYSE: MP) | Defense-Backed Integration Anchors Strategic Rerating

By Rahul Jain

  • The U.S. Department of Defense has committed $550 million to MP Materials through preferred equity, a loan, and offtake guarantees to build a fully domestic rare earth magnet supply chain.
  • This positions MP as the U.S. government’s strategic partner for critical magnet materials, accelerating its shift from miner to fully integrated magnet producer.
  • With a 10-year NdPr price floor, guaranteed offtake, and minimum EBITDA protections, MP now has robust downside protection and earnings predictability through 2035.

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Most Read: Taishin Financial Holding, Shin Kong Financial Holding, Kokusai Electric , Toyota Industries, SK Square , Meituan and more

By | Daily Briefs, Most Read

In today’s briefing:

  • Taishin (2887 TT)/Shin Kong (2888 TT) Merger: Index Flows in July
  • Shin Kong/Taishin Merger Flows and Perhaps Unforeseen Problems
  • [Japan ECM] Kokusai Elec (6525) Offering – Expect It Very Well Bid, and the Back End Squeezy
  • Kokusai Electric (6525 JP): Small Index Impact for Now, but Could Lead to Something Bigger
  • Toyota Industries (6201 JP): Vocal Activism Gathering Pace
  • Labour’s Collapsing Credibility
  • SK Square: Time to Take Profits + Why Are There Holdco Discounts in the First Place?
  • SK Square Placement: Clean up by Kakao
  • Meituan Possible US$4bn Selldown – Will End up Being Well-Flagged but Sentiment Isn’t Great
  • Ohayo Japan | Markets Climb as Nvidia, Bitcoin Soar


Taishin (2887 TT)/Shin Kong (2888 TT) Merger: Index Flows in July

By Brian Freitas


Shin Kong/Taishin Merger Flows and Perhaps Unforeseen Problems

By Travis Lundy

  • A new factoid about the merger between the Shin Kong Financial Holding (2888 TT) and Taishin Financial Holding (2887 TT) merger of FHCs came to my notice last week.
  • There is withholding tax on a portion of the Taishin shares to be received. The last day of trading will be 11 July 2025. Expect repercussions.
  • This week will see multiple index events, combined with the risk arb events, and the WHT may affect how passive investors trade the events.

[Japan ECM] Kokusai Elec (6525) Offering – Expect It Very Well Bid, and the Back End Squeezy

By Travis Lundy

  • After the close today, Kokusai Electric (6525 JP) announced that large holder (and original PE owner) KKR HKE Investment LP would sell down 30mm shares or 12.88% of shares out.
  • This is not expected, but also not unexpected – it’s exactly a year since the first selldown. There is a decent-sized short position, and it isn’t a huge offering.
  • This changes two aspects of the future supply/demand balance. Both are important for how this trades in coming months.

Kokusai Electric (6525 JP): Small Index Impact for Now, but Could Lead to Something Bigger

By Brian Freitas


Toyota Industries (6201 JP): Vocal Activism Gathering Pace

By Arun George


Labour’s Collapsing Credibility

By Phil Rush

  • Labour failed to campaign on a platform up to the UK’s structural problems, depriving it of the support to deliver change in its first year. Reform UK now lead most polls.
  • Spending cut U-turns compound the fiscal hole exposed by the slippage of optimistic assumptions, making further tax hikes and more persistent deficits seem inevitable.
  • Far-centrism has been rejected, but challenges to Labour’s right and left break its ability to triangulate back towards success. Investors may not stay so forgiving.

SK Square: Time to Take Profits + Why Are There Holdco Discounts in the First Place?

By Douglas Kim

  • We are changing our View on SK Square (402340 KS) to Negative.
  • The major reason for this change is due to the surge in its share price along with lack of upside relative to its NAV.
  • Regarding SK Square, our holdco discount remains 40%. However, if there are real, positive continued efforts to improve corporate governance, this holdco discount could be reduced further.   

SK Square Placement: Clean up by Kakao

By Nicholas Tan

  • Kakao Corp (035720 KS) is looking to raise US$316m from a clean-up sale in SK Square (402340 KS) .
  • The deal is a small one, representing 5.4 days of the stock’s three month ADV, and 1.7% of total shares outstanding.
  • In this note, we will talk about the placement and run the deal through our ECM framework.

Meituan Possible US$4bn Selldown – Will End up Being Well-Flagged but Sentiment Isn’t Great

By Sumeet Singh

  • As per news reports, Prosus NV (PRX NA) could look to sell some/all of its Meituan (3690 HK) stake, worth around US$4bn
  • Prosus has held its stake for a few years, owing to the dividend payout by Tencent, but Meituan appears to be planning to take on one of its subsidiaries.
  • In this note, we will talk about the possible selldown and other deal dynamics.

Ohayo Japan | Markets Climb as Nvidia, Bitcoin Soar

By Mark Chadwick

  • S&P 500 +0.27% to 6,280; Nasdaq +0.09%; Dow +0.43% – all record highs
  • Fast Retailing net profit rose 8% to ¥339bn (Sep–May), a four-year high; quarterly OP misses on China weakness
  • Seven & i net profit jumped 2.3x to ¥49bn, boosted by Ito-Yokado asset sale, but core conbini sales declined

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Daily Brief Industrials: Tenneco Clean Air India Ltd, Nidec Corp, Aalberts Industries Nv, S&SYS, Johns Lyng and more

By | Daily Briefs, Industrials

In today’s briefing:

  • Tenneco Clean Air India Ltd Pre-IPO Tearsheet
  • Nidec (6594 JP): New Factory in China
  • What’s New(s) in Amsterdam – 10 July (ABN Amro | Aalberts | Volksbank)
  • S&SYS IPO Preview
  • Johns Lyng (JLG AU): PEP’s A$4/Share Offer Looks Light


Tenneco Clean Air India Ltd Pre-IPO Tearsheet

By Rosita Fernandes

  • Tenneco Clean Air India Ltd (1880671D IN)  (TCAIL)  is looking to raise about US$350m in its upcoming India IPO. The bookrunners for the deal are JM Fin, Citi, Axis, HSBC.
  • TCAIL designs and manufactures clean air, powertrain, and suspension solutions for Indian OEMs, export markets, and the aftermarket, serving PVs, CVs, OHs, and industrial applications.
  • According to the CRISIL Report, TCAIL was the largest supplier of Clean Air Solutions to Indian commercial truck (CT) OEMs with a 60% market share in FY24.

Nidec (6594 JP): New Factory in China

By Scott Foster

  • Nidec has opened a new motor factory in China to meet an anticipated increase in demand for home appliances. 
  • Sensing an opportunity for growth, management is already considering the construction of a second factory. 
  • This fits with the Chinese government’s efforts to promote domestic demand and with Nidec’s need for a new growth driver in China.

What’s New(s) in Amsterdam – 10 July (ABN Amro | Aalberts | Volksbank)

By The IDEA!

  • In this edition: • ABN Amro | court dismisses mass claim regarding overcharging on variable-rate loans • Aalberts | to acquire Grand Venture Technology • Volksbank | to remain state-owned for at least another year

S&SYS IPO Preview

By Douglas Kim

  • S&SYS is getting ready to complete its IPO in KOSDAQ in August. S&SYS is a shipbuilding equipment integrated solution company. 
  • The company plans to offer 1.9 million shares in this public offering. The IPO price range is from 27,000 won to 30,000 won. 
  • To value S&SYS, the bankers used Sejin Heavy Industries Co Ltd (075580 KS), Halla IMS, HD Hyundai Marine Solution (443060 KS), and Ksp Co Ltd (073010 KS) as comps. 

Johns Lyng (JLG AU): PEP’s A$4/Share Offer Looks Light

By David Blennerhassett

  • A month ago, Integrated building services provider Johns Lyng (JLG AU) fielded a non-binding Offer, by way of a Scheme, from Aussie fund manager Pacific Equity Partners (PEP).
  • JLG and PEP have now entered into a SID at A$4/share, a 77% premium to undisturbed. CEO Scott Didier, JLG’s largest shareholder with 17.64%, is supportive. 
  • A shareholder vote is expected to take place in October, with the transaction potentially wrapping up in November. This may need more gruel.

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Daily Brief Health Care: HLB Life Science, China Medical System, Shanghai MediTrust Health Technology Group, CStone Pharmaceuticals, Soligenix , Cigna Group, Elevance Health , Ainos and more

By | Daily Briefs, Healthcare

In today’s briefing:

  • The HLB Merger Swap Turned into a Messier Trading Setup with Layered Dynamics in Play
  • China Medical System (867 HK): SGX Secondary Listing Benefits Questionable
  • Shanghai MediTrust Health Technology Group Pre-IPO Tearsheet
  • CStone Pharma (2616 HK): Placement to Fund R&D; Sugemalimab Changes Fortune For Now, What Lies Next?
  • SNGX: Multiple Catalysts Upcoming in 2H25
  • Cigna Group: Broad Suite of GLP-1 Solutions to Innovate & Lead In Addressing Contemporary Healthcare Challenges Efficiently!
  • Elevance Health: Affordable Care Act (ACA) Market Dynamics To Be A Robust Segment Within Its Diverse Portfolio!
  • Ainos, Inc. – New Partnerships Drive Growing Momentum for Ainos’ SmellTech Solutions


The HLB Merger Swap Turned into a Messier Trading Setup with Layered Dynamics in Play

By Sanghyun Park

  • Street’s wrongly assuming only 1% of total shares can exercise appraisal rights, but under Korean law, pre-meeting dissent suffices — today’s vote tells us nothing about actual buyback risk.
  • Focus is on pre-dissent size — local checks point to 20% of SO, 4x the 40B KRW cap. With stock 40% below appraisal price, merger break risk looks real.
  • Market’s treating deal break as bearish, deterring some from exercising appraisal despite being in the money. With spread this wide, swap leg offers high-risk, high-reward setup worth watching.

China Medical System (867 HK): SGX Secondary Listing Benefits Questionable

By David Blennerhassett

  • On the 24th June 2025, specialty pharmaceutical play China Medical System (867 HK) (CMS) announced a proposed secondary SGX listing, by way of introduction.  No equity fundraising will occur.
  • The SGX has given the green light, with shares expected to commence trading on the 15th July. 
  • This secondary listing is not, it would seem, a pre-cursor to an HKEx withdrawal; but to “enhance the [CMS’s] global visibility, thereby facilitating its international business expansion“. 

Shanghai MediTrust Health Technology Group Pre-IPO Tearsheet

By Troy Wong

  • Shanghai MediTrust Health Technology Group Co., Ltd. (SMHTG) is looking to raise about US$100m in its upcoming Hong Kong IPO. The deal will be run by GS, HSBC, and CICC.
  • SMHTG is the largest innovative healthcare payor platform in China, according to Frost & Sullivan (F&S).
  • SMHTG is transforming the healthcare payment system in China by addressing funding and payment challenges faced by patients, health insurers and pharmaceutical companies.

CStone Pharma (2616 HK): Placement to Fund R&D; Sugemalimab Changes Fortune For Now, What Lies Next?

By Tina Banerjee

  • CStone Pharmaceuticals (2616 HK) announced the placement of 100M shares for subscription at HK$4.72 per share. Placing shares represent approximately 7.33% of existing issued shares capital of the company.
  • The company intends to use 90% of the net proceeds from the for further research and development relating to assets in the company’s “Pipeline 2.0”.
  • Expanded indications of sugemalimab, the successive data readouts, approvals and continuous commercialization expansion efforts into global markets augurs well, but concerns remain.

SNGX: Multiple Catalysts Upcoming in 2H25

By Zacks Small Cap Research

  • Soligenix, Inc. (SNGX) has a number of important catalysts ahead in the second half of 2025.
  • The company is currently conducting the Phase 3 FLASH2 trial of HyBryte (SGX301) for the treatment of early-stage cutaneous T cell lymphoma (CTCL).
  • We anticipate an update on enrollment in the 2H25, with topline results expected in the 2H26.

Cigna Group: Broad Suite of GLP-1 Solutions to Innovate & Lead In Addressing Contemporary Healthcare Challenges Efficiently!

By Baptista Research

  • Cigna Group reported its first quarter 2025 financial results, demonstrating robust performance amid a dynamic market environment.
  • The company highlighted total revenues of $65.5 billion and adjusted earnings per share of $6.74.
  • Subsequently, Cigna increased its full-year EPS guidance to at least $29.60.

Elevance Health: Affordable Care Act (ACA) Market Dynamics To Be A Robust Segment Within Its Diverse Portfolio!

By Baptista Research

  • Elevance Health, formerly known as Anthem, outlined its first quarter results for 2025, reflecting consistent progress in strategic initiatives and financial performance.
  • Elevance Health emphasized its mission of advancing human health, underpinning its operations and strategic direction.
  • The company highlighted important strategic moves, particularly in patient advocacy solutions and enhancements to the HealthOS platform, which have been key in simplifying healthcare experiences and streamlining provider workflows.

Ainos, Inc. – New Partnerships Drive Growing Momentum for Ainos’ SmellTech Solutions

By Water Tower Research

  • Ainos expands its AI-powered digital olfaction platform. Ainos has established several new/expanded partnerships since the company provided its mid-year update.
  • The three partnerships announced in the past two weeks point to a significant strategic pivot toward expanding Ainos as a critical SmellTech provider in verticals beyond healthcare to multiple industrial sectors, adding significant growth potential.
  • The integration of AI Nose with these partners’ platforms will provide smell, the missing link in factory sensing.

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Daily Brief Consumer: Crizac, Fast Retailing, Sa Sa International Hldgs, Tata Motors, Nike, Vince Holding, Koshidaka Holdings, TSE Tokyo Price Index TOPIX, Cie Automotive Sa and more

By | Consumer, Daily Briefs

In today’s briefing:

  • Crizac (CRIZ:NS). Sell into the Aftermarket.
  • Fast Retailing(9983) | Q3 Miss But FY Guide Intact – Execution Solid, China Still Weak
  • Sa Sa Intl (178 HK): Looking Better Forward
  • Tata Motors – JLR Q1FY26 Weakness
  • Nike to Cut China Footwear Output to Counter $1 Billion Tariff Hit
  • VNCE: 2H Signposts: Tariffs Defer the VNCE Growth Story; Reiterate Buy, $4 PT
  • Koshidaka Holdings (2157 JP): Q3 FY08/25 flash update
  • The Gap with Investors’ Perspective Stems from Managers Trying to Distance Themselves from Investors
  • CIE Partial Tender Fizzles – No Proration, Bullish Signal


Crizac (CRIZ:NS). Sell into the Aftermarket.

By Edward Slade

  • Crizac has had a successful IPO, pricing at 28x PE. 
  • Before any aftermarket premium, the company is already at a significant valuation premium to other global education stocks.
  • CRIZ has too many risks to justify a high rating. 95% of revenues come from India-UK student placement, aggregating applications for 10,362 agents.   

Fast Retailing(9983) | Q3 Miss But FY Guide Intact – Execution Solid, China Still Weak

By Mark Chadwick

  • Q3 revenue/OP miss vs. our est. on weaker-than-expected Uniqlo International – FX and China weakness key drivers.
  • Japan and Western markets continue to outperform; U.S. and Europe now rival China in size.
  • FY company guidance unchanged but rising risks to next FY from tariffs and persistent China underperformance.

Sa Sa Intl (178 HK): Looking Better Forward

By Osbert Tang, CFA

  • Sa Sa International Hldgs (178 HK)‘s 1Q FY26 update provides evidence for a business recovery as turnover grew 4.7%, against a YoY drop in the last 5 quarters.  
  • Resurgence in mainland tourist arrivals is a driver. The start of 2Q FY26 also looks good, as this has increased 21.8% YoY in the last 15 days.
  • At 1.55x P/B, it is only 7% above the trough since 2020. Also, it traded at a higher multiple in FY20-22 when it was loss-making. 

Tata Motors – JLR Q1FY26 Weakness

By Sreemant Dudhoria,CFA

  • Q1FY26 Decline: JLR’s Q1FY26 wholesale volumes dropped 10.7% YoY and 21.7% QoQ, signaling a tougher-than-expected environment amid planned model transitions and tariff shocks.
  • US Tariffs & Jaguar Phase-Out Drag Down Sales:Pause in US shipments post-April’25 and wind-down of legacy Jaguar models led to sharp volume contraction in key markets, particularly UK and North-America.
  • Luxury Mix Strong, but Growth Uncertain:While 77.2% of Q1FY26 volumes came from high-margin models (Range Rover/Defender),growing reliance on a few nameplates adds concentration risk in a sluggish global macro environment

Nike to Cut China Footwear Output to Counter $1 Billion Tariff Hit

By Caixin Global

  • Nike Inc. is undertaking a major overhaul of its global supply chain to reduce its reliance on Chinese manufacturing for footwear destined for the U.S. market. The move comes as the sportswear giant faces mounting tariff pressures and falling sales.
  • Currently, China accounts for about 16% of Nike’s footwear imported into the United States, Matthew Friend, Nike’s chief financial officer, said during an earnings call on Thursday. The company wants to cut that figure to a “high single-digit percentage range” by May 2026, shifting production to other countries to offset rising tariff costs.
  • Nike estimates tariffs imposed by the Trump administration will add roughly $1 billion to its expenses, highlighting the urgency of diversifying its sourcing strategy.

VNCE: 2H Signposts: Tariffs Defer the VNCE Growth Story; Reiterate Buy, $4 PT

By Small Cap Consumer Research

  • We are reiterating our Buy rating, $4 price target and projections for Vince as we look at key trends for 2HFY25 and beyond.
  • We believe, more than any other player in our universe, VNCE has been affected by worries over tariffs; given that the company registered over 60% of their goods from China in FY24, this is not surprising.
  • That said, we believe Vince management has done yeoman’s work in quickly diversifying the supply chain and focusing on the key longer term drivers of the business, from continued store expansion and upgrades, increasing wholesale penetration, international growth, deepening the focus on men’s and adding new categories to the store mix to become even more of a lifestyle brand.

Koshidaka Holdings (2157 JP): Q3 FY08/25 flash update

By Shared Research

  • In cumulative Q3 FY08/25, revenue was JPY51.4bn (+10.7% YoY), with operating profit at JPY8.4bn (+19.1% YoY).
  • The company opened 31 facilities and closed seven, totaling 688 facilities and 18,574 rooms by end-Q3 FY08/25.
  • Personnel expenses rose 9.2% YoY, rent increased 11.8% YoY, and SG&A expenses rose to JPY5.1bn (+0.7% YoY).

The Gap with Investors’ Perspective Stems from Managers Trying to Distance Themselves from Investors

By Aki Matsumoto

  • The trend of AGMs being concentrated in the last week of June remains unchanged, and this’s seen as attempt to divert shareholder attention and reluctant attitude toward dialogue with shareholders.
  • The rise in share proposals has made some managers wary, and we are not optimistic about pushing AGM later dates and disclosing annual securities reports well in advance of AGM.
  • There are gap between what is stated and what actually happens in “the reasons for not introducing anti-takeover measures,” “compliance with constructive dialogue with shareholders,” and disclosure of “TSE’s requests.”

CIE Partial Tender Fizzles – No Proration, Bullish Signal

By Jesus Rodriguez Aguilar

  • CIE’s €24/share partial offer closed with just 9.8% uptake, suggesting investors see more value ahead. No proration required. Treasury shares may support future free float improvements.
  • The weak subscription outcome aligns with our DCF-based fair value of €31–33/share. Market consensus also points to €32, underscoring material undervaluation and long-term upside potential.
  • Strong fundamentals, 4.0% yield, and attractive peer comps reinforce the case. Investors chose to stay long, confirming confidence in CIE’s strategic direction, liquidity plans, and re-rating potential.

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Daily Brief TMT/Internet: SK Square , Taiwan Semiconductor (TSMC), Oneconnect Financial Technology, Lg Innotek, Lenovo, Indra Sistemas Sa, Shift Inc, TPG Telecom , WingArc1st Inc, Quartix Holdings and more

By | Daily Briefs, TMT/Internet

In today’s briefing:

  • SK Square: Time to Take Profits + Why Are There Holdco Discounts in the First Place?
  • TSMC June Revenue Down 17.7% Mom. What Gives?
  • OneConnect (6638 HK/OCFT US): Ping An’s Offer Gets The Nod From SAMR
  • KOSPI Size Indices: Overlaps Between Active & Passive Flows
  • PC 2Q25: 6-7% Unit Growth YoY Is Pretty Good. 2025 Looks like a 5-6% Growth Year
  • Indra Sistemas: Initiation of Coverage- Is This Underrated Tech Powerhouse Europe’s Next Big Defense Bet?
  • Shift Inc (3697 JP): Q3 FY08/25 flash update
  • TPG Telecom Ltd – The Overnight Report: Trump Cheers Record Highs
  • WingArc1st Inc (4432 JP): Q1 FY02/26 flash update
  • Quartix Holdings plc – Hybridan Small Cap Feast: 03/07/2025


SK Square: Time to Take Profits + Why Are There Holdco Discounts in the First Place?

By Douglas Kim

  • We are changing our View on SK Square (402340 KS) to Negative.
  • The major reason for this change is due to the surge in its share price along with lack of upside relative to its NAV.
  • Regarding SK Square, our holdco discount remains 40%. However, if there are real, positive continued efforts to improve corporate governance, this holdco discount could be reduced further.   

TSMC June Revenue Down 17.7% Mom. What Gives?

By William Keating

  • TSMC today reported June 2025 revenues of NT$263.71 billion, a decrease of 17.7 % MoM but an increase of 26.9% YoY
  • At the guided exchange rate of 32.5, TSMC’s Q225 revenue amounts to $28.7 billion, up 12.2% QoQ and up 37.6% YoY, but roughly $100 million below the guided midpoint
  • However, if we take today’s exchange rate of 29.24, Q225 revenue comes in at $31.9 billion, way above the guide. Take your pick & let’s see this day next week

OneConnect (6638 HK/OCFT US): Ping An’s Offer Gets The Nod From SAMR

By David Blennerhassett

  • On the 15th May, dual-listed Oneconnect (6638 HK/OFT US), a digital retail banking/commercial banking/digital insurance play, announced a firm Scheme Offer from Ping An, OneConnect’s controlling shareholder.
  • Ping An is offering HK$2.068/share, or US$7.98/ADS, a 72.33% premium to last close, and a 131.66% premium to the 30-day average. Net cash is, however,  ~HK$1.83/share. The price is final.
  • SAMR has now signed off on the deal, satisfying the pre-condition. We await directions from the Cayman court on timing. I’m estimating late-September payment. Should the deal get up.

KOSPI Size Indices: Overlaps Between Active & Passive Flows

By Brian Freitas

  • The review period for the September rebalance of the KOSPI Size Indices commenced on 1 June and will end on 31 August.
  • Nearing halfway in the review period, we forecast 53 migrating stocks. Among new listings, 1 stock could be added to LargeCap, 3 to MidCap and 1 to SmallCap.
  • Two potential downward migrations could be deleted from a global index in August. The new listing that is a potential LargeCap add could be added to a globalindex in September.

PC 2Q25: 6-7% Unit Growth YoY Is Pretty Good. 2025 Looks like a 5-6% Growth Year

By Nicolas Baratte

  • Consumer demand remains slow but Enterprises are upgrading to Windows 11. Low risk of tariff distortion: 1Q was too high in the US but 2Q has slowed down. 
  • 2Q25 highest YoY growth: Apple (22%), Asus (17%), Lenovo (16%). Others are flat. Enterprise growth also implies higher ASP and margins for PC and CPU vendors.
  • On the CPU side, AMD share gains have slowed in PC, accelerated in Server. Given their roadmap, AMD should keep gaining slowly, Intel defending with difficulty.

Indra Sistemas: Initiation of Coverage- Is This Underrated Tech Powerhouse Europe’s Next Big Defense Bet?

By Baptista Research

  • Indra Sistemas S.A. showcased a mixed yet promising performance in its recent quarterly earnings report.
  • The company demonstrated resilience and growth in several strategic areas amidst a favorable market environment driven by increased defense budgets in Spain and broader Europe.
  • Key financial metrics such as backlog, order intake, and income displayed notable increases, signaling robust future order flow and operational momentum.

Shift Inc (3697 JP): Q3 FY08/25 flash update

By Shared Research

  • In cumulative Q3 FY08/25, the company reported sales of JPY95.4bn, gross profit of JPY33.0bn, and operating profit of JPY11.9bn.
  • Software Testing Related Services segment sales reached JPY61.9bn, with gross profit at JPY22.8bn and operating profit at JPY16.2bn.
  • The revised full-year forecast for FY08/25 anticipates sales of JPY130.0bn and operating profit of JPY15.0bn.

TPG Telecom Ltd – The Overnight Report: Trump Cheers Record Highs

By FNArena

  • A global perspective on what happened overnight

WingArc1st Inc (4432 JP): Q1 FY02/26 flash update

By Shared Research

  • FY02/26 revenue was JPY7.3bn (+2.7% YoY), with operating profit at JPY2.1bn (-13.1% YoY) and EBITDA JPY2.5bn (-10.6% YoY).
  • Q1 FY02/26 BDS sales revenue rose 3.1% YoY to JPY4.8bn, while DE business revenue increased 2.1% YoY to JPY2.5bn.
  • WingArc1st revised FY02/26 forecast projects revenue of JPY31.2bn (+8.7% YoY) and operating profit of JPY9.0bn (+8.9% YoY).

Quartix Holdings plc – Hybridan Small Cap Feast: 03/07/2025

By Hybridan

  • * A corporate client of Hybridan LLP.
  • ** Potential means Intention to Float (ITF) or similar announcement has been made.
  • ***Arranged by type of listing and date of announcement.

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Daily Brief Financials: SK Square , State Bank Of India, US Bancorp, Philippine Stock Exchange, Wells Fargo & Co, American International Group, Aflac Inc, Cincinnati Financial, DigiCo Infrastructure REIT, Shui On Land and more

By | Daily Briefs, Financials

In today’s briefing:

  • SK Square Placement: Clean up by Kakao
  • SBI Possible US$3bn QIP – Will Be One of the Largest Fund Raisings in India, Last One Didn’t Do Well
  • U.S. Bancorp: Will The Management Focus On Payments Power & Precision Cost Control Pay Off?
  • Shortlist of High Conviction Philippines Equity Ideas – July 2025
  • Wells Fargo: Focus On Non-Interest Revenue & Critical Growth Levers!
  • American International Group (AIG) Is Using AI To Add To Its Competitive Advantage In Underwriting Precision; But Is It Enough?
  • Aflac Inc.: Expanding Product Portfolio in Japan to Capitalize On Demographic Shifts!
  • Cincinnati Financial Delivers 14% Investment Income Surge—But Is It Enough To Warrant Optimism?
  • DigiCo Infrastructure REIT – Rudi’s View: The Megatrend You Simply Cannot Ignore
  • Lucror Analytics – Morning Views Asia


SK Square Placement: Clean up by Kakao

By Nicholas Tan

  • Kakao Corp (035720 KS) is looking to raise US$316m from a clean-up sale in SK Square (402340 KS) .
  • The deal is a small one, representing 5.4 days of the stock’s three month ADV, and 1.7% of total shares outstanding.
  • In this note, we will talk about the placement and run the deal through our ECM framework.

SBI Possible US$3bn QIP – Will Be One of the Largest Fund Raisings in India, Last One Didn’t Do Well

By Sumeet Singh

  • As per news reports and company filings, State Bank Of India (SBIN IN) could soon look to raise around US$3bn (INR250bn) via a QIP.
  • SBI raised around US$2.3bn (INR150bn) in 2017, but the deal didn’t end up doing well.
  • In this note, we will talk about the possible fund raising and other deal dynamics.

U.S. Bancorp: Will The Management Focus On Payments Power & Precision Cost Control Pay Off?

By Baptista Research

  • U.S. Bancorp reported first-quarter 2025 earnings with earnings per share of $1.03 and a return on tangible common equity of 17.5%.
  • The company demonstrated progress on its strategic priorities, achieving a year-over-year positive operating leverage of 270 basis points on an adjusted basis.
  • This improvement was driven by disciplined expense management, momentum across fee businesses, and modest margin expansion.

Shortlist of High Conviction Philippines Equity Ideas – July 2025

By Sameer Taneja


Wells Fargo: Focus On Non-Interest Revenue & Critical Growth Levers!

By Baptista Research

  • The recent earnings call for Wells Fargo & Company presented a generally solid performance for the first quarter of 2025, reflecting progress against its strategic priorities amidst a challenging economic environment.
  • With net income at $4.9 billion, or $1.39 per diluted common share, the company reported a 16% increase in earnings per share compared to the previous year.
  • Despite a decline in revenue due to lower net interest income, Wells Fargo managed to grow fee-based revenue across various sectors, illustrating the benefit of its investment diversification strategy.

American International Group (AIG) Is Using AI To Add To Its Competitive Advantage In Underwriting Precision; But Is It Enough?

By Baptista Research

  • American International Group (AIG) presented its first quarter of 2025 results, showcasing a mix of achievements and challenges that yield insights for potential investors.
  • The company’s performance was framed by significant strategic moves, including the deconsolidation of Corebridge Financial in mid-2024, which has reorganized its financial statements to treat Corebridge’s historical results as discontinued operations.
  • AIG reported an adjusted after-tax income of $702 million or $1.17 per diluted share for the period.

Aflac Inc.: Expanding Product Portfolio in Japan to Capitalize On Demographic Shifts!

By Baptista Research

  • Aflac Incorporated reported its financial results for the first quarter of 2025 with mixed outcomes across its Japan and U.S. operations.
  • For the quarter, Aflac achieved net earnings per diluted share of $0.05, notably impacted by net investment losses.
  • Conversely, its adjusted earnings per diluted share stood at $1.66, remaining consistent with the previous year.

Cincinnati Financial Delivers 14% Investment Income Surge—But Is It Enough To Warrant Optimism?

By Baptista Research

  • Cincinnati Financial Corporation’s first quarter of 2025 was marked by significant challenges and notable resilience in certain areas.
  • Faced with widespread weather-related catastrophes, the company reported a net loss of $90 million, primarily driven by a substantial increase in catastrophe losses estimated at $356 million after taxes.
  • Despite these setbacks, Cincinnati Financial saw growth in its property casualty premiums by 11%, demonstrating its ability to maintain momentum amidst adverse conditions.


Lucror Analytics – Morning Views Asia

By Leonard Law, CFA

  • In today’s Morning Views publication we comment on developments of the following high yield issuers: Shui On Land, Vedanta Resources, JSW Steel, Nissan Motor
  • UST yields declined yesterday (the first drop in a week), on the back of a solid auction of 10Y notes. The yield on the 2Y UST fell 5 bps to 3.84%, while the yield on the 10Y UST was down 7 bps at 4.33%. Equities rallied, led by gains in large tech stocks. The S&P 500 rose 0.6% to 6,263, while the Nasdaq climbed 0.9% to 20,611.
  • US President Donald Trump has released more tariff-letter screenshots on Truth Social, outlining a 25% rate on the Philippines, 30% on Sri Lanka and 50% on Brazil, among others. In particular, the letter for Brazil highlighted the “witch hunt” on former Brazilian president Jair Bolsonaro, as well as the country’s “insidious attacks on free elections and the fundamental free speech rights of Americans”, citing the Brazilian Supreme Court’s censorship orders on US social media platforms.

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Daily Brief Australia: S&P/ASX 200, Arena Reit, Lifestyle Communities, Beetaloo Energy Australia and more

By | Australia, Daily Briefs

In today’s briefing:

  • S&P/ASX 200 Outlook Following Proposed Index Rule Review
  • Arena REIT (ARF AU) Vs National Storage REIT (NSR AU): Statistical Arbitrage in Two Australian REITs
  • Lifestyle Communities Ltd – The Overnight Report: Nvidia Tops US$4trn
  • Beetaloo Energy Australia – C-5H Stimulated Completed – Now for the Gas Rate


S&P/ASX 200 Outlook Following Proposed Index Rule Review

By Nico Rosti

  • As reported by Gaudenz Schneider , the 90-Day pause on country-specific reciprocal tariffs was set to expire on July 9, 2025 and Australia and its Minerals sector might suffer indirectly. 
  • Australia has business with a number of Asian countries, especially China and Japan. Any shock to the growth of other economies in the region could affect the S&P/ASX 200 INDEX
  • This insight will focus on the short-term tactical outlook and possible trend direction for the Australian index for the coming weeks. 

Arena REIT (ARF AU) Vs National Storage REIT (NSR AU): Statistical Arbitrage in Two Australian REITs

By Gaudenz Schneider

  • The Arena REIT (ARF AU) vs. National Storage REIT (NSR AU) Price-Ratio has deviated more than two standard deviations from its one-year average, presenting a potential relative value opportunity.
  • This relative value opportunity can be implemented as a long-short pair trade or as relative over-/underweights in a long only context.
  • Why Read: Essential for quantitative traders seeking mean-reversion opportunities, with detailed execution framework, risk management protocols, and historical simulation showing the statistical basis for this relative value play.


Beetaloo Energy Australia – C-5H Stimulated Completed – Now for the Gas Rate

By Research as a Service (RaaS)

  • Beetaloo Energy Australia Limited (ASX:BTL) is a gas development company, with onshore Northern Territory (NT) gas exploration and development assets.
  • BTL has the largest tenement position in the highly prospective Greater McArthur Basin, which includes the Beetaloo Sub-basin.
  • The company has announced the successful completion of the stimulation phase of the Carpentaria-5H (C-5H) testing and evaluation campaign, with the outcomes in-line with the initial specifications.

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