Equity Bottom-Up Archives | Page 40 of 222 | Smartkarma

• Deep Industries (DEEPI IN) targeting 800 Cr worth of revenue by FY26, with 35% CAGR in next 2 years.
• India is opening more oil & gas wells, needs services of company like Deep who can provide one stop shop for all Oil & Gas Needs.
• Key Triggers- Prabha Barge(60% Operating Margins) and Dolphin Offshore(for diversifying into offshore services) will further margin accretive.

• A European Court dismissed the injunction application filed by Insulet for overseas intellectual property rights infringement which would allow Eoflow to start selling its EoPatch products in Europe. 
• Eoflow is trying to complete a rights offering in December 2024. The expected rights offering price is 4,235 won (27% lower than current price). 
• Although results of the main lawsuit in the US remain undecided, with the UPC’s decision in favor of Eoflow, the legal sentiment on this case is in favor of Eoflow.

• Initiate a short position in MCHP Target Price Range: $45-50 Time Horizon: 6-12 months 
• Declining fundamentals: Q2 FY2025 revenue declined 48% YoY, with adjusted EPS falling 72% YoY. Valuation concerns: P/E of 36.8x vs. sector median of 22x, unsupported by current performance.  
• Geo-Political risk: 50% of sales from Asia, exposed to potential trade tensions. Operational challenges: Customer destocking and sluggish demand. ETF-Driven price support: Potential for sharp correction if sector rotation occurs. 

• Prada S.P.A. (1913 HK) (1913 HK —US$18 billion) is a strange beast.

• It’s an Italian fashion group listed in Hong Kong, of all places. Many European and American investors ignore the name, which has caused Prada to trade at a considerable discount to its peers.

• The first Prada shop was opened in 1913 by Mario Prada, a former leather goods salesman who imported English handbags and travel accessories and sold them to the Italian elite.

• Aspirasi Hidup Indonesia booked a solid set of 3Q2024 results with an upgrade to SSSG projects for FY2024 with the numbers and guidance for 20 new stores this year. 
• The company continued to expand stores more aggressively outside Java in 3Q2024 and into October and intends to increase store openings further in 2025 along with its rebranding exercise. 
• ACES will see inventories rise in 4Q2024 as it stocks up early for rebranding and upcoming festive periods. Valuations remain attractive with improving growth and productivity driven by regional expansion.

• HP undergoes leadership overhaul and revamps supply chain in preparation for Trump 2.0, while strict qualification measures impact 7nm technology development.
• TSMC’s AI chip expansion is overshadowed by the potential return of Trump, with global notebook shipments fluctuating in Q3/Q4 2024.
• DIGITIMES Research forecasts a steady revenue growth of over 10% CAGR for the global wafer foundry industry during the 2024-2029 period, while Apple India’s sales soar to US$8B driven by strong iPhone sales. Availability of Samsung’s HBM3E for Nvidia’s Blackwell remains uncertain.

• Post-Covid, Aeon Co Ltd (8267 JP) began to deliver real profit growth but 1H2024 showed it cannot rest on its laurels. 
• While it’ll be happy not to be worrying about a takeover bid like its rival, Seven & I, it still doesn’t have a profit machine similar to Seven Eleven Japan.
• Welcia helps and so does expanding e-commerce but there is still plenty of room for cutting overhead.

• In this Insight, we share our channel inputs that might be relevant for SRF Ltd (SRF IN), Navin Fluorine International (NFIL IN), and Gujarat Fluorochemicals (FLUOROCH IN).
• Weak demand and operational conditions in China have forced companies to focus on clearing inventory rather than maintaining prices, which has negatively impacted India’s export-oriented companies.
• Industry-Wide product cycles, especially in Specialty Chemicals, are shortening, which is a potential threat to leaders like SRF Ltd (SRF IN).

• Polymatech Electronics (POLM IN) revenues have skyrocketed by 27x in the last three years, but the balance sheet is filled with several red herrings. 
• Topline looks out of sync with production and have been largely aided by receivables. Being an R&D oriented company, the R&D expense only appeared in FY24, when sales were INR6bn
• Mis-Classification of cash flows, questionable RPT with promoters, dubious transition towards IND AS, absurd nature of some key expenses, also warrant attention

• Lagardere has two core businesses: publishing and travel retail.
• Publishing business has long-term cash flow potential and growth opportunities.
• Travel retail has captive audience but faces competition from airports for margins.

This content is sourced through publicly available sources and has been machine generated. Information displayed is for general informational purposes only.

• Despite being a key beneficiary in travel and tourism in China, the rather muted growth in the first half does not bode well for Travelsky Technology Ltd H (696 HK) .
• YTD share price performance has reflected the above, but the deep discount valuation to Trip.com (TCOM US) might be temporary.
• In the near term, the company’s share price will not rebound as the company has less upside participation compared to Airlines and OTA. 

• Smartphone demand remains slow, that contributes to weak outlook for commodity DRAM.  Nvidia / Mediatek and Qualcomm AI PC chips should be launched mid-2025. 
• Nvidia allocation of TSMC CoWoS remains at 60% in 2025, capacity doubles, Data Center GPU revenue will double? TSMC 2nm-16A roadmap on track.  
• SK Hynix is now ahead of Samsung in HBM, DDR5, 3D NAND and SSD. Meanwhile, Samsung is buying back shares. 

• Takasago Thermal Engineering (1969 JP) is one of the top 10 players in Japan for energy efficiency players for industrial clients, especially semiconductors. 
• Japan Metropolitan Govt bought stake in Rapidus, signifying a potential long-term business potential for Takasago Thermal Engineering. 
• Valuation is no longer dirt cheap but still at a favorable level given its potential enlarged revenue growth. 

• Kuaishou reported C3Q24 revenue, IFRS operating profit,and IFRS net income in-line with our estimates and consensus.The only negative was that C4Q24 guidance for operating margin missed consensus and our estimate;
• Within mid-sized Internet platforms, Kuaishou lacks fresh secular driver, putting its stock under pressure. Advertising and GMV growth still outpace the industry and some peers. The stock is undervalued;
• We maintain our BUY rating and slightly revised down TP to HK$72 to make up for the higher-than-expected OPEX guidance.

• Haier plans to acquire all shares of Autohome and dismiss 30% of Autohome’s employees.
• In 3Q24, Xiaomi’s revenue grew by 30% YoY or 17% YoY without electric vehicle.
• In 3Q24, Tongcheng Travel’s revenue increased by 51% YoY with gross profit up by 29% YoY.

• The stock has risen 84% in one year, but we still believe there is an upside of 49%.
• We believe the operating margin will continue to improve significantly in 3Q24.
• We also believe the growth rates of all main businesses should be healthy in 3Q24.

• Nameson Holdings (1982 HK) results for H1 FY25 revenue/net profit showed a slight growth of 2.2%/3.1% YoY, with margin expansion being offset by lower other income. 
• The company declared a 9.8 cent interim dividend (current share price = 82 cents), maintaining a 75% payout ratio, which gives us confidence that a 16-17% yield can be maintained. 
• At 4.9x FY25 PE (see: Nameson Holdings (1982 HK): 17% Dividend Yield Can Be Sustained and Improved Long-Term ), this is a very steady yield play. 

• China State Construction Int’l (3311 HK)‘s backlog of HK$418.26bn is enough to cover 3x consensus forecast revenue of FY25, providing comfort for secured earnings outlook. 
• The focus on public housing and municipal projects limits its exposure to the real estate market. Its consecutive earnings growth in last five years demonstrated its resilience.
• With ROE of 15-16%, its P/B of 0.8x is cheap. The reduction in operating cash outflow supports higher payout ratio, and its dividend yield of 5.6-6.3% is healthy. 

• Shares of Jiangxi Rimag Group, a medical group with focus on medical imaging in China, rose 200%+ since IPO and massively outperformed Hang Seng Index.
• A Nanchang-based medical imaging center operator priced its IPO at HK$14.98/share and raised ~HK$183M in June. Cornerstone investors have agreed to acquire ~8M H shares.
• I expect key cornerstone investor may sell shares after 200%+ post-IPO gains as early lock-up period will end on December 6th, 2024.

• We met with UMP Healthcare (722 HK) in Hong Kong. We believe management’s cost control initiatives are bearing fruit and will see an inflection in earnings in FY25. 
• The weak consumption sentiment is setting a landscape for asset disposals, such as EC Healthcare (2138 HK) ‘s 436 mn HKD disposal of medical imaging to AIA. 
• We believe the company is a multi-bagger trading at 6.8x PE FY25e. It has ~80% of its market cap in cash (260+ mn HKD) and a ~10% dividend yield. 

• NVIDIA this week reported Q3FY25 revenues of $35.082 billion, up 17% QoQ, up 94% YoY and a full $2.5 billion above the guided midpoint.
• Looking ahead, NVIDIA is forecasting revenues of $37.5 billion, up ~7% sequentially. Gross margins to decline slightly to 73%.
• Contrary to Jensen Huang’s vision, the existing $1 trillion worth of data centers do not need to be “modernized” into AI factories. This is pure fantasy. 

• PDD reported C3Q24 top line, non-GAAP EBIT and non-GAAP net income (2.6%), (12.4%) and (6.3%) vs. cons., and (3.4%)
• PDD is easing its appeasement of China-platform merchants, positive for profitability,but its transition to the semi-consignment model will likely continue as it tries to improve merchandise selection and logistics quality
• We reiterate BUY as PDD is undervalued at 8.1x CY2025 P/E, but we cut its TP to US$ 146 to reflect slower growth amid increasing overseas investment.

Sayona Mining is a lithium producer and explorer with projects in Canada, Western Australia and soon in the US and Ghana. A proposed merger of equals with Piedmont Lithium will create a c A$1bn mid-tier lithium player with streamlined asset ownership and significant growth optionality. Sayona and Piedmont’s Canadian and US projects comprise one of the largest advanced hard rock lithium resources in North America and are strategically positioned to supply the region’s growing lithium demand. Following the proposed equity raises, the company will be well capitalised to execute on its growth plans. As a producer, Sayona should also benefit strongly from inevitable recovery in lithium prices, with additional upside coming from the potential downstream expansion.

• Temasek-Backed 65 Equity Partners bought 13% stake in Tuya, implying a total investment of US$100 million (or S$134M). 
• The fund’s mandate is to support high-growth, mid-cap companies seeking a listing on the Singapore Exchange (SGX).
• The listing will benefit Tuya by providing easy access to capital. Tuya will be able to use stock as a currency to fund its expansion plans in Southeast Asia.

Avon Technologies’ FY24 results show the continued momentum seen throughout the year, with revenue growth of 12.2% y-o-y ($275m), adjusted operating profit growth of 53.4% y-o-y ($31.6m) and a record closing order book value of $225m, up 64.3% y-o-y. Return on invested capital (ROIC) grew 500bp y-o-y to 13.7%. Given Avon’s record order pipeline, disciplined capital allocation and strong cash generation, management expects the company to achieve both its medium-term operating margin (14–16%) and ROIC (>17%) targets a year ahead of schedule in FY26.

• Beike (BEKE) reported C3Q24 revenue in-line with our estimate and consensus but non-GAAP operating profit 26%/25% below, mainly due to higher commission rebate and agent salaries;
• Strong rebound in home transaction volumes in October and November, led to our C4Q24 revenue 16% above consensus. But the rebound needs more stimulus to sustain;
• We maintain the stock as BUY and raise TP to US$25 to reflect the near term rebound and steady market share gains.

Games Workshop Group’s (GAW’s) H125 trading update suggests the company enjoyed a strong Q225 in both its core business (due to the launch of the fourth edition of Age of Sigmar midway through Q125) and licensing (due to the success of the Space Marine 2 video game). These are impressive in the context of the tough comparative from the prior year’s launch of the new edition of Warhammer 40K (40K) and the currency headwinds in the early part of H125. We upgrade our profit estimates for FY25 (by 7%) and FY26 (by 3%) to reflect the outperformance versus our prior expectations.

• Price momentum softened dramatically in October, mirroring steep declines in H221, FY22
• We believe price momentum, rather than earnings, drives medium-term share performance
• Reaction to ZIM’s stellar Q324 results & guidance raise suggests more downside ahead

• Edwards Lifesciences reported third-quarter 2024 results, showcasing notable achievements with financial metrics and strategic advancements across various product lines.
• The company, specialized in structural heart disease innovations, marked a revenue of $1.4 billion, a rise of 10% on a constant currency basis compared to the year prior, subtly surpassing expectations.
• 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.

• Nvidia posted earnings yesterday, and guidance was light of buy-side bogeys. I’m not going to step into the mind game of bogeys here, but there are some finer points to focus on.
• NVIDIA reports Q3 EPS $0.81 ex-items vs FactSet $0.75. Reports Q3: Revenue $35.08B vs FactSet $33.17B (2 billion beat like clockwork)
• Q4 Guidance: Revenue $37.5B +/- 2% vs FactSet $37.09B (a bit light). GAAP and non-GAAP gross margins are expected to be 73.0% and 73.5%, respectively, +/- 50 bps. (also light)

• On November 18th, 2024, Temasek-affiliated investment fund 65Equity bought 13% of TUYA, an IOT hardware company and planned to bring the company to list on the Singapore Stock Exchange;
• TUYA is trading at US$901mn market cap, equivalent to 3.2x 12TTM sales. This isn’t cheap. Xiaomi, a high flying stock, now trades at 2.0x 12TTM sales. TUYA is not profitable;
• TUYA is a good and real company but in a bad business. Electronics inventory cycle and advanced stocking for Trump’s Tariff Hike shall support earnings in the next few quarters.

• SK Square (402340 KS) announced a solid corporate value up plan pushing up its share price by 8.8% to 87,500 won on 22 November.
• Major highlights of the corporate value up plan included cancellation of 200 billion won of treasury shares, higher ROE target, and achieve 1x PBR ratio (nearly double the current ratio).
• Our NAV analysis of SK Square suggests NAV of 15.2 trillion won or 112,822 won per share, representing 29% higher than current share price.

• Arthur J.
• Gallagher & Company reported strong financial results for the third quarter of 2024, showcasing a robust performance across its core segments, Brokerage and Risk Management.
• The company’s revenue growth was impressive at 13%, with organic growth marking 6%.

• Globalstar reported strong results for the third quarter of 2024, with notable growth in both revenue and adjusted EBITDA.
• Total revenue grew by 25% from the previous year, reaching a record $72 million.
• Service revenue increased by 28%, primarily driven by wholesale capacity revenue and the recognition of performance bonuses for 2023 and part of 2024.

• Nexstar Media Group reported its third-quarter 2024 financial results, delivering record high revenues and showcasing strong operational performance in a challenging media landscape.
• The company achieved its highest third-quarter total net revenue, driven by record-setting distribution and political advertising revenues.
• The financial results reflect a solid balance between increasing revenues and maintaining cost efficiency, showcasing Nexstar’s ability to leverage its extensive media assets effectively.

• Abbott has demonstrated robust performance in its third quarter of 2024 with an organic sales growth of over 8%, excluding COVID testing sales, and adjusted earnings per share of $1.21.
• These results underscore the company’s capacity to execute its multifaceted strategy effectively, despite varying performance across different sectors.
• Notably, the U.S. Pediatric Nutrition segment showed remarkable growth, leading with a 12% increase due to gains in the infant formula business.

• Boston Scientific Corporation presented its third quarter of 2024 financial results, reflecting a strong performance that exceeded company forecasts and investor expectations.
• The corporation reported a significant growth in operational sales by 19% and organic sales by 18%, surpassing the anticipated guidance range of 13% to 15%.
• Adjusted earnings per share (EPS) grew by 27% to $0.63, also exceeding the projections of $0.57 to $0.59.

• In this insight, we provide the major highlights of the solid Corporate Value Up plan announced by LG Corp on 22 November. 
• The key highlights include about 500 billion won worth of share cancellation by 2026, improved dividend policy, and higher ROE target.
• Our base case NAV valuation analysis of LG Corp suggests implied NAV of 16.1 trillion won or NAV per share of 102,426 won, which is 33.4% higher than current price.

• Gautam Adani and executives indicted in U.S. for bribery, fraud, and obstructing justice tied to renewable energy projects worth billions.
• Allegations spotlight governance risks, promoter-driven models, and transparency issues in Indian conglomerates, threatening investor trust in Adani Group and renewable energy sectors.
• Adani Group issued media statement saying that charges in indictment are baseless and denied.

• Hong Kong is again trading well below its historical multiple valuation levels after the October/November correction.  Mainland investors bought a record amount the day after Trump’s win.
• Kingsoft Corp (3888 HK) reported consensus beating results with its online game segment surging.  The company is benefiting from AI upgrades in its office SAAS business.
• Precision Tsugami China (1651 HK) posted blockbuster earnings for its 1H25 as the machine tool sector rebounds on the back of factories upgrading to intelligent manufacturing.

• On 18 November, it was announced that 65 Equity Partners (backed by Temasek) will invest US$100 million (S$134 million) for a 13% stake in Tuya Inc (TUYA US). 
• Net cash as a percentage of market cap is currently at 92%. Tuya’s sales growth and improvement in operating margin in 1Q-3Q 2024 have also been impressive this year.
• Comps are trading at average EV/EBITDA of 13.7x in 2025 versus 2.3x for for Tuya. If Tuya continues its turnaround, its valuation gap versus its peers could decrease further. 

• DigiPlus Interactive (PLUS PM) presented PSE Star investor day yesterday and briefly analyzed two game-changing catalysts from the call: a) CasinoPlus acquisition and b) Brazil license. 
• The expected TAM associated with e-games/Bingo in Brazil is 250 bn pesos (4 bn USD), compared to the Philippines, which is currently cycling at 160 bn pesos (Q3 PAGCOR data). 
• The stock trades at 7.8x FYPE with 15% of the market cap in cash and a 3.8% dividend yield (30% payout ratio) with a seasonal uptick in Q4 FY24. 

• Straits Trading (STRTR SP) is a conglomerate-investment company with diversified investments in resources, real estate and hospitality.
• Straits Trading’s key growth engine is its real-estate arm – Straits Real Estate (SRE) which has a diversified property portfolio across different geographies and various sectors.
• Despite fluctuations in STC’s earnings, the company continues to pay stable dividends to its shareholders. As at the end of June 30, 2024, Straits Trading generated cash and bank balances of SGD476.4m. STC continues to generate positive cash from operations.

• In 3Q24, PDD released strong revenue growth, but a flat margin.
• We believe, in 2025, PDD will continue to focus on growth rather than profit.
• We conclude an upside of 43% and a price target of US$167 for 2025. Buy.

• Qualcomm is aggressively pushing into the PC market, aiming to transform its identity from a mobile chip giant to a diversified computing powerhouse.
• At its recent investor day, Qualcomm announced bold revenue projections of $4 billion from PC chips by 2029, alongside significant strides in automotive, industrial IoT, and XR markets.
• This marks a pivotal moment as Qualcomm ventures beyond its traditional smartphone business, which currently accounts for 75% of its chip revenue.

• Xiaomi reported CY3Q24 revenue, non-IFRS EBIT and non-IFRS net income 4.7%, 7.8%, and 16.6% vs. consensus. 
• C4Q should be even stronger, as (1) appliance subsidy drive IoT revenue and margin improvement, (2) SU7 production output ~doubles
• We reiterate Xiaomi as our TOP BUY idea and raise Xiaomi’s TP to HK$ 33 to reflect the improved profit outlook. Our TP implies 26.6x CY25 P/E.

• TCOM reported C3Q24 revenue 1.4%/1.6% higher than our est./cons., non-GAAP operating income is 12.5%/5.4% higher than our est./cons., mainly due to strong domestic sales and efficient cost control.
• We expect revenue growth to accelerate in 4Q24 and 2025,backed by domestic travel recovery and steady overseas expansion.AI powered cost saving bringing extra leverage in margin is an additional positive.
• We keep the stock as BUY rating and raise TP to US$74/ADS.

• Harmonic reported record results for the third quarter of 2024, with total company revenue and profitability exceeding expectations.
• The company’s Broadband and Video segments both contributed significantly to this performance, showcasing strong execution on business plans.
• The Broadband revenue reached $145.3 million, marking a 92% year-over-year increase and a 56% sequential increase.

• BABA reported CY3Q24 top line, adjusted EBITA and non-GAAP net profit (1.0%), (1.6%) and in-line vs. consensus. 
• CMR improved amid monetization changes that narrowed the growth gap with GMV, but also eliminated some low-single profit sellers from its GMV. 
• Cloud and overseas e-commerce revenue also saw good growth and improved profitability. All of BABA’s key businesses are sputtering to life while macro tailwinds are also favorable. 

• During Tesla’s third quarter of 2024 financial report, several key points emerged that provide an overview of the company’s performance and strategic direction.
• One of the prominent highlights was Tesla’s achievement of record deliveries in a market experiencing overall industry declines.
• This emphasizes Tesla’s ability to navigate a challenging automotive landscape, an important consideration for investors assessing the company’s resilience and market positioning.

• Both online marketing and “other revenues” grew strongly in 3Q24.
• Both the gross margin and the operating margin improved over the same period last year.
• We believe total revenue will accelerate when live streaming is not significant and margins will rise when e-commerce makes profit.

• 3Q25 (Oct-25) 5% above Consensus, Hopper growing incl H200, no Blackwell revenue. 4Q25 (Jan-25) guidance inline with Consensus but Nvidia has beat guidance for 8 quarters.
• Jan-25: Blackwell revenue “several billion dollars”. Supply keeps to increase but supply constraints. GM will moderate to low-70% during Blackwell ramp due  but will stabilize at mid-70%.
• The stock is not expensive, trading at its average multiples since 2019: 51x trailing EPS, 34x forward EPS. These multiples are high in an absolute sense, but average for NVDA.

• QCOM estimates ~5% Android revenues growth Cagr to FY29, Automotive 22%, IoT 21%. If QCOM keeps Apple business, revenue Cagr will be 9% to FY29. If QCOM loses it: 6%.
• Mngt forecasts high Opex control, target at 22% of revenue, which looks aggressive. Opex reached 31% in FY23-24 . At 22% Opex, Operating Profit would grow ~13% Cagr to FY29.
• Android growth looks low, Opex control demanding. As such, we could conclude that 10% Operating Profit Cagr is more likely than 13%. Even with lower growth, the stock is cheap. 

• Honda Motor Co., Ltd.’s financial results for the first quarter of the fiscal year 2025 offer a complex picture of both achievements and challenges.
• The company reported its highest-ever quarterly operating profit of JPY 484.7 billion, marking a significant year-on-year increase by JPY 90.2 billion.
• This improvement was largely driven by increased unit sales in the motorcycle business in India and Brazil, as well as robust sales of hybrid automobile models in Japan and the United States.

• The company is in the business of designing, construction, operation and maintenance of water and wastewater treatment plants and supply schemes with all related services.
• It has an order book worth Rs. 1906+ cr. as of June 30, 2024 and 750Cr+ of operation & maintenance order book in their hand.
• Company has in-house capability to build and design water plants which enhance the margins of the company vs its peers. 

• Freee KK (4478 JP) offers cloud-based online accounting and HR/Payroll software to small and medium businesses (SMBs) in Japan. The company operates a subscription-based revenue model.
• Freee reported its first-ever profits recently and we expect continued improvement in freee’s profitability driven by its strong business model vs MF whose business model has started to breakdown.
• Freee’s current valuation multiples are cheap and there is significant upside to the current share price, hence we recommend making an entry.

• NetEase reported C3Q24 revenue, GAAP operating profit and GAAP net income in line, (3.6%) and (5.3%) vs. our estimates, and in line, (4.4%) and (5.0%) vs. consensus. 
• Mobile game revenue decline is less a concern due to imminent pipeline launches, but PC game’s significantly beat is a positive surprise. 
• We raised the TP to US$118 for the better outlook of new game launches.

• Orla Mining acquired by Newmont in $850 million deal with production assets in Mexico and development assets in the United States
• Orla Mining has strong shareholder support including PL mining 10% of the company, Fairfax, Newmont, and Agnico
• Muscle White mine in Canada has a 6.23 grams per tonne reserve grade with a reserve life until 2030, operating at 1 million tonnes per annum with high recoveries and FIFO operated mine with camp upgrades in progress

This content is sourced through publicly available sources and has been machine generated. Information displayed is for general informational purposes only.

• ASICS has demonstrated exceptional brand rejuvenation and profitability improvements, with an ambitious 2026 plan that capitalizes on high-growth lifestyle categories
• However, the pivot toward fashion and luxury markets introduces heightened execution risk.
• While the upgraded MTP targets are commendable, much of the good news appears to be priced in.

• The stock has risen by 38% since our last buy rate.
• The 3Q24 results are still healthy – both growth rate and operating margin.
• We set a downside of 19% for the end of 2025.

• Amid Samsung Electronics announcing a huge buyback of 10 trillion won, one of the issues that has resurfaced is the potential sale of Samsung Electronics by Samsung Life Insurance.
• The total amount of Samsung Electronics that could be sold by Samsung Life Insurance and Samsung F&M Insurance is 25.6 trillion won (at current prices). 
• We remain Positive on Samsung Electronics. The 10 trillion won buyback program is a positive sign on the company’s willingness to provide higher shareholder returns.

• EFCI Ltd (EFCIL IN) is one of few companies in the Flex Space Operator Business present in the entire value chain providing an unbeatable edge in Cost competitiveness.
• Management target is to double revenue in FY25 capitalising on sector tailwinds driving exponential growth in all business verticals.
• Completed Backward Integration through manufacturing furniture which will help increase margins as furniture comprise  40-50% of total fitout cost.

• It has been a relatively quiet week.
• Bitcoin has outperformed much of the market, resulting in an increase in its dominance, as highlighted in Thursday’s Crypto Moves #52.
• This was most likely driven by the intense buying pressure from MicroStrategy over the past week.

• Spotify Technology S.A. delivered a mixed set of results for the third quarter of 2024, showcasing both achievements and continued challenges as the company navigates through its business strategy.
• On one hand, it marked a milestone by delivering strong growth metrics in both subscribers (net addition of 6 million to reach a total of 252 million) and monthly active users (MAU, rising by 14 million to 640 million).
• These metrics exceeded Spotify’s guidance and reflect its dual focus on product innovation and marketing efficiency.

• NVIDIA, the undisputed leader in AI-driven GPUs, is currently navigating turbulent waters with its latest Blackwell architecture chips.
• While the company has been riding high on record-breaking revenues and a surging demand for AI compute power, reports of overheating issues in Blackwell chips have cast a shadow over its otherwise stellar growth trajectory.
• According to recent disclosures, these state-of-the-art GPUs face severe thermal management challenges when configured in server racks holding up to 72 units.

• The Walt Disney Company’s recent fourth-quarter and full-year 2024 financial results provided a comprehensive overview of both the progress and challenges faced by the company.
• CEO Bob Iger highlighted the company’s strategic positioning for growth, emphasizing their momentum as a result of specific strategies across various business segments.
• However, the commentary also reveals nuances in their operational dynamics and future outlook.

• CJ Cheiljedang announced that it is considering on potentially selling its bio business for about 5-6 trillion won which could be more than its market cap. 
• CJ Cheiljedang’s bio business is expected to have more than 4 trillion won in sales and about 700 billion won in EBITDA in 2024.
• We are positive on the company’s efforts to sell its Bio Business and reinvest it in its food business.

• The recent earnings call for Domino’s Pizza highlighted several key aspects of its financial performance, strategic initiatives, and market dynamics, revealing both promising areas and challenges.
• The company’s Hungry for MORE strategy appears to be yielding positive results domestically, but international markets face significant hurdles.
• Domestically, Domino’s Pizza has successfully leveraged its value-focused Hungry for MORE strategy.

• Mamaearth’s journey to the stock market has been marred by allegations of channel stuffing, inventory mismanagement, and inconsistent communication from management. 
• The company’s struggles in Q2 FY25 have raised concerns about their financial health and transparency. 
• The forensic analysis is a deeper look into the allegations, redflags and bigger problems that require investor’s attention

• Our 2024 High Conviction, the stock of Meituan has risen by 87% in one year.
• We believe the market ignores TME because of its flat revenue.
• However, we expect TME will significantly benefit from its dominant position in the Chinese music market.

• Korea Exchange (KRX) plans to make special changes to the Korea Value-Up Index constituents on 20 December.
• We believe that following five stocks are likely inclusions in the Korea Value Up index rebalance on 20 December (KB Financial, Hana Financial, SK Telecom, KT Corp, and LG Electronics).
• The new companies that will be included in the Korea Value-Up Index include companies that provide detailed corporate value up plans by 6 December.

• Ionis Pharmaceuticals recently reported their third-quarter financial results for 2024, presenting a comprehensive view of its current position in the biotechnology sector.
• The company’s focal points include imminent product launches, ongoing clinical trials, and strategic pipeline developments—all set within the context of their financial performance and future outlook.
• The company is on the verge of launching its first independently marketed product, Olezarsen, for familial chylomicronemia syndrome (FCS), with an anticipated FDA action next month.

• Nvidia’s Blackwell rack design overheating issues causing potential shipment delays
• AMD leading server market in 3Q24, Intel fighting back in PC market
• Trump’s tariff changes impacting Chinese EV makers, with 4 strategies to navigate the changes. Huawei and Xiaomi dominate China’s AI smartphone market with over 50% market share.

• Celsius Holdings Inc.’s third-quarter 2024 earnings reveal a mixture of growth opportunities and challenges.
• The energy drink company has managed to maintain robust consumer demand and retail sales growth despite a dip in total revenue compared to the previous year.
• The company recorded a modest 7.1% increase in retail sales year-over-year for the quarter, with unit sales rising by 7.3%.

• Fortinet’s third-quarter financial results for 2024 showcase robust performance and a strategic focus on growth markets in the cybersecurity landscape.
• The company’s total revenue grew by 13%, a return to product revenue growth bolstered by strong service revenue expansion.
• Fortinet’s strong execution led to record gross and operating margins, with the latter increasing by 830 basis points to over 36%.

• Secure Energy Services (SES) operates in the waste management and energy services industry, focusing on recurring revenue and pipeline businesses.
• The company has potential for growth through acquisitions, with a strong focus on tuck-in acquisitions in the metals recycling sector.
• Despite potential risks such as safety concerns and regulatory changes, Secure Energy Services has a strong dividend yield, free cash flow yield, and growth prospects, making it an attractive investment opportunity.

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• Hong Kong market sectors outperforming since the stimulus in September are Consumer Discretionary and Healthcare as Utilities, Telecom and Energy lag.
• CRRC Corp Ltd H (1766 HK) gets BUY recommendations as its results point to continued strength in the rail equipment sector with passenger volume surging.
• Tencent Music Entertainment Group (1698 HK) reported solid results as it shifts to a pay-to-stream subscription model. Xiaomi Corp (1810 HK) had a blowout quarter with EV sales surging.

• TSMC cash dividend has increased by 65% in 2 years or NT$2.75 in 4Q22 to NT$4.50 in 3Q24. It will keep increasing.
• TSMC is spinning cash. 2nm-16A could increase Capex intensity but still we estimate that quarterly dividend can increase to NT$5.50 in 2025 and NT$6.00 in 2026.
• Consensus forecasts similar EPS growth for TSMC and ASML: 30% in 2025, 20% in 2026. TSMC is 50% cheaper than ASML. 2025 PEx: TSMC 18x and ASML 28x.

• TSMC: +16.7% Premium; Further Market Weakness Could Soon Open Up Good Long Level
• UMC: -2.1% Discount; Good Level to Go Long the ADR Spread
• ASE: -0.1% Discount; Premium Completely Broken Down & Local Short Interest Continues to Surge

• Hon Hai, Pegatron, and Quanta Gear Up for Potential U.S. Investment Surge Amid Trump Policy Speculation
• PC Monitor: Asustek & Lenovo Signal Strong PC Growth, AI PC Expansion in Process
• Semiconductor Memory Q324 Revenue Close To Historic Highs Even As Decoupling Intensifies 

• TSMC: more restrictions on export to China. TSMC can’t make 2nm in US before 2028-29. Lawsuit in Arizona.
• Korea: special chips act to give chipmakers subsidies and an exemption from a national cap on working hours. Korean engineers only work 52 hours / week. That’s a problem.
• Amazon more in-house AI chips. Super Micro trying to avoid delisting. Smartphone ASP keep increasing because chip prices are increasing (ie Mediatek, Qualcomm). AI PC reaching 20% in 3Q214. 

• In this insight, we provide some of the main highlights of the book “The Real Anthony Fauci”, which was written by Robert F. Kennedy Jr. (RFK Jr) in 2021.
• We discuss how the appointment of RFK Jr could impact some of the major health care stocks in Korea, especially those that are involved in developing and producing vaccines.
• Although the share prices of many Korean vaccines related stocks have declined materially in the past 2-3 years, RFK Jr becoming the next US Health Secretary could pose further headwinds.

• Asustek Guides for 20%+ YoY PC Revenue Growth in 4Q24E;  Lenovo Delivers 17% YoY PC Revenue Growth in CY3Q24
• AI PCs: A Multi-Year Upgrade Cycle with Rising Average Selling Prices; AI PCs 80% of the PC Market by 2027E
• Maintain Structural Long View for AI PC Up-Cycle; Asustek, Acer, & Lenovo Well-Positioned Through 2025E

• Oriental Watch reported H1 FY25 revenues/profits down 2.6%/-13.7 % YoY despite the tough retail sales environment, especially in HK (25% of revenues).
• The company declared a 24.6 HKD cents dividend, equivalent to a 14% dividend yield annualized on the current price.
• With 62% of the market capitalization in cash, a 7x PE, and a 14% dividend yield (assuming a consistent 100% payout), this is a name to look at.

• In 3Q2024, Sea Ltd demonstrated its ability to turn a profit at Shopee, whilst booking strong growth, with sales & marketing kept well in check and active users increasing substantially.
• E-Commerce registered higher take rates, through higher commissions, more paid advertising, and increasing levels of self-fulfilment through SPX Express, whilst Digital Financial Services saw a rapid acceleration in loan growth.
• Digital Entertainment was back on form with strong growth in bookings, active users, ARPU, and adjusted EBITDA. Management remains confident about 4Q2024 and the outlook for 2025.

• Tencent reported C3Q24 revenue, IFRS operating profit, and IFRS net income in-line, in-line, 11% vs. our estimates and in-line, in-line, 18% vs. consensus. 
• The bright spot is fintech transaction volume grew 10% YoY showing gain in market share, which coupled with rebound in consumption since October should rive recovery.
• We raise TP by 2% to HK$518. Tencent is still our TOP PICK in an uncertain geopolitical environment with an upswing fundamental story.

• Asahi Intecc (7747 JP) recorded 9% YoY revenue growth to ¥31B in Q1FY25. Revenue growth is attributable to the continued strong trajectory of medical division, which reported 10% YoY growth.
• Strong rebound in China is key highlight for medical division performance. Revenue from China increased by a whopping 36% YoY and 44% QoQ to a record high of ¥9.3B.
• Despite a better-than-expected Q1FY25, the company maintains full-year FY25 guidance, due to external factors such as currency movements as well as uncertainties in trends for net sales, productivity, and expenditure.

• GXO Logistics’ latest earnings for the third quarter of 2024 painted a mixed yet informative picture of its financial performance and strategic positioning.
• The company reported record revenues of $3.2 billion, marking a substantial year-over-year increase of 28%.
• This robust top-line growth is partially attributed to an organic revenue growth of 3%, which has shown a sequential upward trend throughout the fiscal year.

• Howmet Aerospace’s third quarter 2024 results demonstrate significant performance gains amidst a complex operating environment.
• The company’s revenue growth was substantial at 11% year-over-year, with commercial aerospace driving much of this improvement with a 17% increase in revenue.
• The engine products and fasteners segments excelled, supported by robust structures performance.

• Toyota Motor Corporation has announced its fiscal year 2025 second-quarter financial results.
• The company achieved an operating income of JPY 2.4642 trillion for the first half of the fiscal year, which was maintained close to the previous year despite some setbacks in production and increases in expenses.
• While sales revenue touched JPY 23.2824 trillion, the net income of JPY 1.9071 trillion saw a significant decrease from the prior year, primarily due to exchange rate fluctuations which caused valuation losses in foreign currency assets.

• Cleveland-Cliffs presented its third-quarter 2024 results during a challenging period of weaker steel demand and pricing, largely attributed to reduced automotive production and high interest rates affecting consumer decisions.
• The company’s acquisition of Stelco, a Canadian steelmaker, was a notable development during this period, promising operational agility and cost efficiency.Cleveland-Cliffs reported a quarterly adjusted EBITDA of $124 million on 3.8 million tons of shipments.
• This was a decline from previous performance levels, which the company attributed to reduced activity in the automotive industry.

• Cirrus Logic has reported strong financial performance for the second quarter of fiscal year 2025.
• The company achieved record revenue and earnings per share, with revenue reaching $541.9 million.
• This figure was near the upper end of their guidance range and reflects strong demand for components used in smartphones.

• AppLovin’s latest earnings for the third quarter ending September 2024 provides a comprehensive overview of the company’s performance, strategic initiatives, and future growth prospects.
• The company reported strong financial metrics with total revenue reaching $1.2 billion, marking a 39% year-over-year increase.
• Adjusted EBITDA also rose significantly to $722 million, reflecting a 72% increase from the same period last year, and achieving a 60% adjusted EBITDA margin.

• Duolingo, a prominent player in the online language learning space, has reported its financial results for the third quarter of 2024, outlining both strengths and areas to watch.
• The company demonstrated robust growth in key metrics, including a 54% year-over-year increase in daily active users (DAUs), with its Family Plan onboarding 21% of its subscriber base.
• This impressive user growth, particularly after a high growth rate in previous years, suggests that Duolingo continues to successfully engage its expanding user base.