China International Capital (CICC) has released a research report indicating that CHINA LESSO (02128) reported financial results for 2025 that fell short of the institution's expectations. Revenue declined by 10% year-on-year to RMB 24.3 billion, while net profit dropped 25% year-on-year to RMB 1.26 billion.
The company's earnings were below CICC's forecasts, potentially due to the concentrated booking of non-operating items in the second half of the year, such as goodwill impairments, asset impairments, and foreign exchange losses. Furthermore, a decline in the price of raw material PVC led to a more significant than anticipated decrease in the company's selling prices.
The report suggests that CHINA LESSO's overseas operations may gradually begin to contribute as a new growth driver. Based on projected 2027 earnings, CICC has raised its target price by 40% to HK$5.9. This new target implies a price-to-earnings ratio of 11 times for forecasted 2026 earnings and 6 times for 2027 earnings. The firm maintains an "Outperform" rating on the stock.
The report also notes that, considering a significant price increase for some raw materials like PE/PPR in 2026 and the potential release of some previously recognized impairments, CICC has lowered its earnings per share forecast for CHINA LESSO for 2026 by 40% to RMB 0.48. The EPS forecast for 2027 remains unchanged at RMB 0.83.
Looking ahead, the report highlights that China's planned investment in underground pipeline networks during the "15th Five-Year Plan" period, potentially exceeding RMB 5 trillion, is expected to support medium-term demand for the company's core business. Additionally, the risk of further asset impairments for the company is likely to be gradually reduced.
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