Daily Briefs

SiriusXM Holdings Inc. delivered a strong financial performance for its first quarter of 2024, with an encouraging 7% year-over-year increase in advertising revenue to over $400 million.
This growth in ad revenue, driven by a growing addressable advertising audience and a strengthening ad market, helped offset a slight 1% drop in subscription revenue.
The firm’s adjusted EBITDA was up 4% year over-year and delivered a margin of 30%, up 1 percentage point from the previous year.

Lear Corporation: Industrial Automation

Lear Corporation’s record-setting first quarter revenues of $6 billion show an increase of 3%.
Core operating earnings were up 6% at $280 million, while adjusted earnings per share rose 14% to $3.18.
Operating cash flow matched that of the same period the previous year.

The Clorox Company: A Story Of Innovation-Led Growth

The Clorox Company’s third-quarter financial results suggest a continuing recovery from the August cyberattack that affected its operations.
Despite lower sales and significant investments in its brands, the company’s adjusted earnings per share exceeded its own expectations in the said quarter.
Adjusting for the effects of the cyberattack, the company reported that Q3 sales performance was, for the most part, in line with the management’s expectations.

Ecolab Inc.: Leveraging Digital Capabilities For The Pest Elimination Business! – Major Drivers

Ecolab Inc.’s first-quarter 2024 earnings showcased strong progress with adjusted earnings per share increasing by 52%.
This impressive outcome can be attributed to a 5% growth in organic sales and the expansion of organic operating income margin by 400 basis points.
The company is also expected to maintain its long-term earnings growth of 12% to 15%.

Eli Lilly & Co: The Story Behind The Increasing Demand vs. Production of Orforglipron & Progress of Other Drugs! – Major Drivers

In Q1 2024, Eli Lilly and Company achieved strong growth and strategic milestones, with revenue growing by 26% and new products increasing by nearly $1.8 billion in comparison to the same period last year.
The company’s new products, primarily Mounjaro and Zepbound, primarily drove the growth.
Eli Lilly also accomplished various pipeline milestones during this period.

Gartner Inc.: Increasing Interest In Artificial Intelligence (AI) & Its Expected Impact On The Top-Line! – Major Drivers

In Q1 2024, Gartner delivered strong profitability and free cash flow, which both surpassed expectations, leading the company to increase its guidance for the year.
The company proved its resilience in what’s described as a “complex environment”, with contract value growth in the high single digits.
However, there remain several challenges to face.

Incyte Corporation: Can It Capitalize On The Potential For Expansion Into Dermatology? – Major Drivers

Incyte Corp’s first quarter 2024 earnings pointed towards the company’s steady performance during the quarter and provided an update on its ongoing projects.
The company’s total revenue grew by 9% in Q1 as compared to the same period last year, with growth driven largely by the drugs Jakafi and Opzelura.
In particular, Jakafi’s net product revenue was $572 million, not fully reflecting its demand growth due to an increase in total patients, particularly those with PV and GVHD. Similarly, Opzelura’s net product revenues in the first quarter were $86 million, indicating a 52% growth when compared to the same period last year.

Corning Incorporated: Are The Returns On Its Display Business Good Enough? – Major Drivers

Based on the Q1 2024 earnings, Corning Incorporated appears to be in a position of growth and profitability.
With sales close to $3.3 billion and EPS of $0.38, the company exceeds its guidance predictions.
There was a year-over-year gross margin growth of 160 basis points to 36.8%, and a substantial improvement in free cash flow by $300 million.

Mastercard Incorporated: Cross-Border Travel and Consumer Behaviors Impact! – Major Drivers

Mastercard Inc.’s Q1 2024 earnings showcased the company’s firm position in the payments sector, underpinned by robust revenue and adjusted net income growth on a non-GAAP, currency-neutral basis.
The company’s strong results go beyond the uptake in consumer spending, extending to the rapid growth in cross-border volumes.
There are several factors at play that make Mastercard attractive from an investment standpoint.

Archer-Daniels-Midland Company: Strengthening Margins Through Operational Improvements & Renewable Production! – Major Drivers

In its first quarter 2024, Archer-Daniels-Midland (ADM) reported adjusted earnings per share of USD1.46, and an adjusted segment operating profit of USD1.3bn, representing an on-year decrease of 24%.
ADM also achieved a trailing 4-quarter average of 11.2% for its adjusted Return on Invested Capital (ROIC) during the same quarter, while maintaining a strong balance sheet and healthy cash flows.
Although the global grain and oilseed supply is expected to increase throughout the year amid an anticipated improvement in weather conditions, ADM proactively managed the risk of falling margins by driving the structural earnings, ROIC, and cash flow generation, enabling the company to continue investing in its business and returning cash to its shareholders.

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May 12

Daily Brief ESG: Since Cash on Hand Will Not Decrease in FY2024 and more

By Smartkarma Daily Briefs | Daily Briefs, ESG

In today’s briefing:

Since Cash on Hand Will Not Decrease in FY2024, Shareholder Returns Remain a Hot Topic

Since Cash on Hand Will Not Decrease in FY2024, Shareholder Returns Remain a Hot Topic

By Aki Matsumoto

Most large companies initially estimate sales and profits conservatively, and CapEx, which is often planned more than a year in advance, isn’t often above plan.
Companies have a cautious earnings outlook, but the market consensus still expects profit growth in FY2024. CapEx growth in the BOJ Tankan is expected to be slightly higher than profits.
Assuming an 8.5% increase in CapEx for large manufacturing companies and a low single-digit growth in the recurring profit outlook, the level of cash on hand is unlikely to decrease.

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May 12

Daily Brief Japan: Alps Logistics, TSE Tokyo Price Index TOPIX and more

By Smartkarma Daily Briefs | Daily Briefs, Japan

In today’s briefing:

Last Week in Event SPACE: Alps Logistics, L’Occitane, Hanon Systems, Perpetual Ltd
Since Cash on Hand Will Not Decrease in FY2024, Shareholder Returns Remain a Hot Topic

Last Week in Event SPACE: Alps Logistics, L’Occitane, Hanon Systems, Perpetual Ltd

KKR’s Offer for Alps Logistics (9055 JP) is a knock-out price. HUGE MINORITY WIN. This trades a little wide because the “gap risk” is so large, but it’s still safe.
It’s reasonable to expect the listing of various components of L’Occitane (973 HK) other than in HK, would (should) be hugely accretive; for those investors who can (or may) participate.
Hankook Tire & Technology (161390 KS) seeks a controlling stake in Hanon Systems (018880 KS).

Since Cash on Hand Will Not Decrease in FY2024, Shareholder Returns Remain a Hot Topic

By Aki Matsumoto

Most large companies initially estimate sales and profits conservatively, and CapEx, which is often planned more than a year in advance, isn’t often above plan.
Companies have a cautious earnings outlook, but the market consensus still expects profit growth in FY2024. CapEx growth in the BOJ Tankan is expected to be slightly higher than profits.
Assuming an 8.5% increase in CapEx for large manufacturing companies and a low single-digit growth in the recurring profit outlook, the level of cash on hand is unlikely to decrease.

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May 12

Daily Brief China: Greatview Aseptic Packaging, Yichang HEC Changjiang Pharma, China Traditional Chinese Medicine, China Citic Bank Corp Ltd H, BYD , China International Capital Corporation and more

By Smartkarma Daily Briefs | China, Daily Briefs

In today’s briefing:

Greatview Aseptic (468 HK): Shandong Xinjufeng VGO Could Force Mengniu to Act
HEC CJ Pharma (1558 HK): Pre-Conditional Share Exchange Offer from Largest Shareholder
Weekly Deals Digest (12 May) – China TCM, GA Pack, HEC CJ Pharma, CPMC, Alps Logistics, Infocom
HK Connect SOUTHBOUND Flows (To 10 May 2024); Banks, Coal, and High-Div Energy/Materials Names
Mainland Connect NORTHBOUND Flows (To 10 May 2024): So-So Volumes, As Did Not Play Catchup
A/H Premium Tracker (To 10 May 2024): Excellent Quiddity Portfolio Gains as Hs Rally Huge Vs As

Greatview Aseptic (468 HK): Shandong Xinjufeng VGO Could Force Mengniu to Act

Shandong Xinjufeng Technology Packaging (301296 CH) disclosed a pre-conditional voluntary offer for Greatview Aseptic Packaging (468 HK) at HK$2.65, a 26.2% premium to the undisturbed price.
The pre-condition relates to Chinese regulatory approvals and Shandong Xinjufeng shareholder approval. The offer is conditional on a 50% minimum acceptance condition.
Shandong Xinjufeng’s previous acquisition of Jardine Matheson’s 28.22% stake elicited a defensive move by China Mengniu Dairy Co (2319 HK). This development is likely to force a Mengniu competing VGO.

HEC CJ Pharma (1558 HK): Pre-Conditional Share Exchange Offer from Largest Shareholder

Yichang HEC Changjiang Pharma (1558 HK)‘s pre-conditional privatisation from Sunshine Lake Pharma comprises scrip (0.263614 new offeror H Share per HEC CJ Pharma share) and cash (special dividend of HK$1.5).
The pre-condition is regulatory approvals from NDRC, MOFCOM, and SAFE. The key condition is approval by at least 75% of independent H Shareholders (<10% of all independent H Shareholders rejection).
There is valuation uncertainty as the offeror is unlisted, and its valuation hinges on pipeline products. Nevertheless, with no shareholder close to a blocking stake, the deal should get up.

Weekly Deals Digest (12 May) – China TCM, GA Pack, HEC CJ Pharma, CPMC, Alps Logistics, Infocom

A weekly summary of key developments across ECM and Event-Driven names tracked by us across Hong Kong, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Japan, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Korea, India and Chinese ADRs.
ECM developments: HD Hyundai Marine Solution (443060 KS) and ZEEKR (ZK US) have strong IPO debuts.
Event-Driven developments China Traditional Chinese Medicine (570 HK), Greatview Aseptic Packaging (468 HK), Yichang HEC Changjiang Pharma (1558 HK), CPMC Holdings (906 HK), Alps Logistics (9055 JP), Infocom Corp (4348 JP).

HK Connect SOUTHBOUND Flows (To 10 May 2024); Banks, Coal, and High-Div Energy/Materials Names

A-Shares only two days of the week and were up small Monday and Tuesday. H-shares took a breather Wednesday after trailing A-shares, then rallied hard on Thursday and Friday.
Net SOUTHBOUND buying was +HK11.3bn. Thursday saw a break of the SOUTHBOUND buying streak.
The big news in China markets this week was the idea that mainland investors through SOUTHBOUND would no longer be hit with a 20% w/h tax on dividends.

Mainland Connect NORTHBOUND Flows (To 10 May 2024): So-So Volumes, As Did Not Play Catchup

The Quiddity Mainland Connect NORTHBOUND Monitor. Like the A/H Premium Monitor and HK Connect SOUTHBOUND Monitor. Lots of Flows/Position Tables and Charts with which to play.
Last week saw NORTHBOUND net BUY RMB 4.8bn of A-shares on high gross low net volume in the two days. NORTHBOUND bought Kweichow Moutai, banks, Haier Smarthome, etc.
HUGE week in H vs A (since the 30 April close). This may be colouring foreigner activity in As quite a bit.

A/H Premium Tracker (To 10 May 2024): Excellent Quiddity Portfolio Gains as Hs Rally Huge Vs As

The New/Better A-H Premium Tracker has tables, charts, measures galore to track A/H premium positioning, southbound and northbound positioning/volatility in pairs over time, etc.
SOUTHBOUND’s buy streak was interrupted again this past week, but they still net bought, as did NORTHBOUND. HK stocks continued bouncing VERY hard. Hs outperformed As very strongly.
As had a chance to catch up. Did not. Liquid Hs outperformed their As by 4.8% from 30-April through 10-May. Wide premia narrowed more than narrow premia.

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May 12

Daily Brief India: Gravita India, SBI Cards & Payment Services and more

By Smartkarma Daily Briefs | Daily Briefs, India

In today’s briefing:

Gravita India Ltd- Forensic Analysis
Quiddity Leaderboard NIFTY Sep 24: Strong Flow Rationale for LONG Jio Financial – SHORT SBI Cards

Gravita India Ltd- Forensic Analysis

By Nitin Mangal

In FY24, Gravita India (GRAV IN) had faced qualified opinion from the auditors regarding its accounting pertaining to share based payments, which in a way boosted the earnings.
However, the unusual accounting behaviour is not for the company. We have seen some irregular line items in the past as well, w.r.t. gains and losses on commodities and forex.
Other key takeaways include negative free cash flows and difficulty in cash generation, revenues from traded goods not being in sync, fresh contingent liabilities, etc.

Quiddity Leaderboard NIFTY Sep 24: Strong Flow Rationale for LONG Jio Financial – SHORT SBI Cards

By Janaghan Jeyakumar, CFA

NIFTY 50 represents the 50 largest stocks listed in the National Stock Exchange (NSE) of India and the NIFTY Next 50 index tracks the next 50 largest names.
In this insight, we take a look at the names leading the race to become ADDs/DELs during the September 2024 index rebal event.
More than 50% of the 6-month reference period is now complete. There are a couple of changes to the expected ADDs/DELs list since my last insight.

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May 12

Daily Brief Thematic (Sector/Industry): [Blue Lotus Daily – TMT Update]:PDD US/SHEIN/AMZN US/TCOM US/3690 HK/ ATAT US/700 HK and more

By Smartkarma Daily Briefs | Daily Briefs, Thematic (Sector/Industry)

In today’s briefing:

[Blue Lotus Daily – TMT Update]:PDD US/SHEIN/AMZN US/TCOM US/3690 HK/ ATAT US/700 HK
[Blue Lotus Daily]:ATATUS/TCOMUS/1211HK/LIUS/NIO US/XPEVUS/1810HK/300274SZ/300750 SZ/BEKEUS
GEMWeekly (3 May 2024): Indonesia, China, Philippines Macro; Huawei, Naver

[Blue Lotus Daily – TMT Update]:PDD US/SHEIN/AMZN US/TCOM US/3690 HK/ ATAT US/700 HK

By Ying Pan

PDD US/SHEIN/AMZN US: Temu opens up platform to brand merchants (+/-/-)
TCOM US/3690 HK/ATAT US : Visa-free policy for 12 countries including France extended until December 31, 2025.(+/+/+)
700 HK: After the release of new limited skins for <League of Legends: Wild Rift>, there has been a noticeable rebound in grossing rankings.(+)

[Blue Lotus Daily]:ATATUS/TCOMUS/1211HK/LIUS/NIO US/XPEVUS/1810HK/300274SZ/300750 SZ/BEKEUS

By Eric Wen

ATAT US/TCOM US : The international hotel management group maintains a cautious attitude towards China throughout the year.（-/-）
1211HK/LIUS/NIOUS/XPEVUS/1810HK:EV sales solid in the 5th week of April 2024, NIO continues to benefit from SU7 overflow, BYD continues to be strong, and Xiaomi deliveries decline for three consecutive weeks.(+/+/+/-/-)
300274 SZ / 300750 SZ/ 1211 HK : Tesla’s Shanghai energy storage gigafactory was approved, mainly producing energy storage for export, benefiting China’s supply chain.(+/+/ -)

GEMWeekly (3 May 2024): Indonesia, China, Philippines Macro; Huawei, Naver

By Wium Malan, CFA

The Global Emerging Markets Weekly summarizes the key news and related developments impacting the largest countries and constituents of the Global Emerging Markets equity indices.
Macro data points: Indonesian and Philippine GDP growth, and Chinese exports data.
Companies mentioned:Huawei Technology (40978Z CH), Naver Corp (035420 KS)

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May 12

Daily Brief Event-Driven: Greatview Aseptic (468 HK): Shandong Xinjufeng VGO Could Force Mengniu to Act and more

By Smartkarma Daily Briefs | Daily Briefs, Event-Driven

In today’s briefing:

Greatview Aseptic (468 HK): Shandong Xinjufeng VGO Could Force Mengniu to Act
HEC CJ Pharma (1558 HK): Pre-Conditional Share Exchange Offer from Largest Shareholder
Weekly Deals Digest (12 May) – China TCM, GA Pack, HEC CJ Pharma, CPMC, Alps Logistics, Infocom
(Mostly) Asia-Pac M&A: Namoi Cotton, Great Eastern, GAPack, Nihon, Chilled & Frozen, Shinko Electric
HK Connect SOUTHBOUND Flows (To 10 May 2024); Banks, Coal, and High-Div Energy/Materials Names
Cosmecca Korea Plans to Switch Listing from KOSDAQ to KOSPI
Last Week in Event SPACE: Alps Logistics, L’Occitane, Hanon Systems, Perpetual Ltd
Quiddity Leaderboard NIFTY Sep 24: Strong Flow Rationale for LONG Jio Financial – SHORT SBI Cards
Underexposed Flow Trading Opportunity: LONG Banks & SHORT LG Chem/Energy on June 14
Mainland Connect NORTHBOUND Flows (To 10 May 2024): So-So Volumes, As Did Not Play Catchup

Greatview Aseptic (468 HK): Shandong Xinjufeng VGO Could Force Mengniu to Act

Shandong Xinjufeng Technology Packaging (301296 CH) disclosed a pre-conditional voluntary offer for Greatview Aseptic Packaging (468 HK) at HK$2.65, a 26.2% premium to the undisturbed price.
The pre-condition relates to Chinese regulatory approvals and Shandong Xinjufeng shareholder approval. The offer is conditional on a 50% minimum acceptance condition.
Shandong Xinjufeng’s previous acquisition of Jardine Matheson’s 28.22% stake elicited a defensive move by China Mengniu Dairy Co (2319 HK). This development is likely to force a Mengniu competing VGO.

HEC CJ Pharma (1558 HK): Pre-Conditional Share Exchange Offer from Largest Shareholder

Yichang HEC Changjiang Pharma (1558 HK)‘s pre-conditional privatisation from Sunshine Lake Pharma comprises scrip (0.263614 new offeror H Share per HEC CJ Pharma share) and cash (special dividend of HK$1.5).
The pre-condition is regulatory approvals from NDRC, MOFCOM, and SAFE. The key condition is approval by at least 75% of independent H Shareholders (<10% of all independent H Shareholders rejection).
There is valuation uncertainty as the offeror is unlisted, and its valuation hinges on pipeline products. Nevertheless, with no shareholder close to a blocking stake, the deal should get up.

Weekly Deals Digest (12 May) – China TCM, GA Pack, HEC CJ Pharma, CPMC, Alps Logistics, Infocom

A weekly summary of key developments across ECM and Event-Driven names tracked by us across Hong Kong, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Japan, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Korea, India and Chinese ADRs.
ECM developments: HD Hyundai Marine Solution (443060 KS) and ZEEKR (ZK US) have strong IPO debuts.
Event-Driven developments China Traditional Chinese Medicine (570 HK), Greatview Aseptic Packaging (468 HK), Yichang HEC Changjiang Pharma (1558 HK), CPMC Holdings (906 HK), Alps Logistics (9055 JP), Infocom Corp (4348 JP).

(Mostly) Asia-Pac M&A: Namoi Cotton, Great Eastern, GAPack, Nihon, Chilled & Frozen, Shinko Electric

Tally 49 – mostly firm, mostly Asia-Pac – transactions currently being discussed and analysed on Smartkarma. Inside is a timetable of upcoming key events for each deal.
Six(!) new deals was discussed on Smartkarma this week: Perpetual (PPT AU), Alps Logistics (9055 JP), Namoi Cotton (NAM AU)‘; Great Eastern (GE SP); Nihon Housing (4781 JP) and GAPack (468 HK)‘.
Key updates took place on: QANTM Intellectual Property (QIP AU), Adbri (ABC AU), L’Occitane (973 HK), Chilled & Frozen Logistics Holdings (9099 JP), and Shinko Electric Industries (6967 JP).

HK Connect SOUTHBOUND Flows (To 10 May 2024); Banks, Coal, and High-Div Energy/Materials Names

A-Shares only two days of the week and were up small Monday and Tuesday. H-shares took a breather Wednesday after trailing A-shares, then rallied hard on Thursday and Friday.
Net SOUTHBOUND buying was +HK11.3bn. Thursday saw a break of the SOUTHBOUND buying streak.
The big news in China markets this week was the idea that mainland investors through SOUTHBOUND would no longer be hit with a 20% w/h tax on dividends.

Cosmecca Korea Plans to Switch Listing from KOSDAQ to KOSPI

By Douglas Kim

On 10 May, Cosmecca Korea (241710 KS) announced that it plans to switch its listing from KOSDAQ to KOSPI.
The company plans to convene an extraordinary general meeting of shareholders on 29 August to finalize on the switching of Cosmecca Korea listing from KOSDAQ to KOSPI.
Cosmecca Korea is one of the leading Korean ODM manufacturers of cosmetic products.

Last Week in Event SPACE: Alps Logistics, L’Occitane, Hanon Systems, Perpetual Ltd

KKR’s Offer for Alps Logistics (9055 JP) is a knock-out price. HUGE MINORITY WIN. This trades a little wide because the “gap risk” is so large, but it’s still safe.
It’s reasonable to expect the listing of various components of L’Occitane (973 HK) other than in HK, would (should) be hugely accretive; for those investors who can (or may) participate.
Hankook Tire & Technology (161390 KS) seeks a controlling stake in Hanon Systems (018880 KS).

Quiddity Leaderboard NIFTY Sep 24: Strong Flow Rationale for LONG Jio Financial – SHORT SBI Cards

By Janaghan Jeyakumar, CFA

NIFTY 50 represents the 50 largest stocks listed in the National Stock Exchange (NSE) of India and the NIFTY Next 50 index tracks the next 50 largest names.
In this insight, we take a look at the names leading the race to become ADDs/DELs during the September 2024 index rebal event.
More than 50% of the 6-month reference period is now complete. There are a couple of changes to the expected ADDs/DELs list since my last insight.

Underexposed Flow Trading Opportunity: LONG Banks & SHORT LG Chem/Energy on June 14

By Sanghyun Park

Despite time until screening, predictions likely hold due to market cap gaps; all candidates are banks, benefiting from recent momentum.
Historical patterns show profit-taking selling affecting price impact, particularly on additions with significant pre-inclusion price rises. Monitor banks’ pre-June 14th price appreciation to anticipate impact distortions.
Shorting LG Chem and LG Energy Solution based on high price cointegration, consider basket-trading them before the rebalancing, using the battery sector as a long hedge.

Mainland Connect NORTHBOUND Flows (To 10 May 2024): So-So Volumes, As Did Not Play Catchup

The Quiddity Mainland Connect NORTHBOUND Monitor. Like the A/H Premium Monitor and HK Connect SOUTHBOUND Monitor. Lots of Flows/Position Tables and Charts with which to play.
Last week saw NORTHBOUND net BUY RMB 4.8bn of A-shares on high gross low net volume in the two days. NORTHBOUND bought Kweichow Moutai, banks, Haier Smarthome, etc.
HUGE week in H vs A (since the 30 April close). This may be colouring foreigner activity in As quite a bit.

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May 12

Daily Brief Macro: Overview #4 – Analysis of Chinese Travel Data Is on the Wrong Path. and more

By Smartkarma Daily Briefs | Daily Briefs, Macro

In today’s briefing:

Overview #4 – Analysis of Chinese Travel Data Is on the Wrong Path.

Overview #4 – Analysis of Chinese Travel Data Is on the Wrong Path.

By Rikki Malik

A weekly review of recent events impacting our investment themes
Changing consumer preferences impact the Chinese May day travel data
Cosnumers in the US and Japan face different issues with real incomes declining

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May 12

Daily Brief Equity Bottom-Up: Gravita India Ltd- Forensic Analysis and more

By Smartkarma Daily Briefs | Daily Briefs, Equity Bottom-Up

In today’s briefing:

Gravita India Ltd- Forensic Analysis
Sirius XM Holdings: Improving Conversion
Lear Corporation: Industrial Automation
Corning Incorporated: Are The Returns On Its Display Business Good Enough? – Major Drivers
Gartner Inc.: Increasing Interest In Artificial Intelligence (AI) & Its Expected Impact On The Top-Line! – Major Drivers
Eli Lilly & Co: The Story Behind The Increasing Demand vs. Production of Orforglipron & Progress of Other Drugs! – Major Drivers
Incyte Corporation: Can It Capitalize On The Potential For Expansion Into Dermatology? – Major Drivers
Ecolab Inc.: Leveraging Digital Capabilities For The Pest Elimination Business! – Major Drivers
Mastercard Incorporated: Cross-Border Travel and Consumer Behaviors Impact! – Major Drivers
Archer-Daniels-Midland Company: Strengthening Margins Through Operational Improvements & Renewable Production! – Major Drivers

Gravita India Ltd- Forensic Analysis

By Nitin Mangal

In FY24, Gravita India (GRAV IN) had faced qualified opinion from the auditors regarding its accounting pertaining to share based payments, which in a way boosted the earnings.
However, the unusual accounting behaviour is not for the company. We have seen some irregular line items in the past as well, w.r.t. gains and losses on commodities and forex.
Other key takeaways include negative free cash flows and difficulty in cash generation, revenues from traded goods not being in sync, fresh contingent liabilities, etc.

Sirius XM Holdings: Improving Conversion

SiriusXM Holdings Inc. delivered a strong financial performance for its first quarter of 2024, with an encouraging 7% year-over-year increase in advertising revenue to over $400 million.
This growth in ad revenue, driven by a growing addressable advertising audience and a strengthening ad market, helped offset a slight 1% drop in subscription revenue.
The firm’s adjusted EBITDA was up 4% year over-year and delivered a margin of 30%, up 1 percentage point from the previous year.

Lear Corporation: Industrial Automation

Lear Corporation’s record-setting first quarter revenues of $6 billion show an increase of 3%.
Core operating earnings were up 6% at $280 million, while adjusted earnings per share rose 14% to $3.18.
Operating cash flow matched that of the same period the previous year.

Corning Incorporated: Are The Returns On Its Display Business Good Enough? – Major Drivers

Based on the Q1 2024 earnings, Corning Incorporated appears to be in a position of growth and profitability.
With sales close to $3.3 billion and EPS of $0.38, the company exceeds its guidance predictions.
There was a year-over-year gross margin growth of 160 basis points to 36.8%, and a substantial improvement in free cash flow by $300 million.

Gartner Inc.: Increasing Interest In Artificial Intelligence (AI) & Its Expected Impact On The Top-Line! – Major Drivers

In Q1 2024, Gartner delivered strong profitability and free cash flow, which both surpassed expectations, leading the company to increase its guidance for the year.
The company proved its resilience in what’s described as a “complex environment”, with contract value growth in the high single digits.
However, there remain several challenges to face.

Eli Lilly & Co: The Story Behind The Increasing Demand vs. Production of Orforglipron & Progress of Other Drugs! – Major Drivers

In Q1 2024, Eli Lilly and Company achieved strong growth and strategic milestones, with revenue growing by 26% and new products increasing by nearly $1.8 billion in comparison to the same period last year.
The company’s new products, primarily Mounjaro and Zepbound, primarily drove the growth.
Eli Lilly also accomplished various pipeline milestones during this period.

Incyte Corporation: Can It Capitalize On The Potential For Expansion Into Dermatology? – Major Drivers

Incyte Corp’s first quarter 2024 earnings pointed towards the company’s steady performance during the quarter and provided an update on its ongoing projects.
The company’s total revenue grew by 9% in Q1 as compared to the same period last year, with growth driven largely by the drugs Jakafi and Opzelura.
In particular, Jakafi’s net product revenue was $572 million, not fully reflecting its demand growth due to an increase in total patients, particularly those with PV and GVHD. Similarly, Opzelura’s net product revenues in the first quarter were $86 million, indicating a 52% growth when compared to the same period last year.

Ecolab Inc.: Leveraging Digital Capabilities For The Pest Elimination Business! – Major Drivers

Ecolab Inc.’s first-quarter 2024 earnings showcased strong progress with adjusted earnings per share increasing by 52%.
This impressive outcome can be attributed to a 5% growth in organic sales and the expansion of organic operating income margin by 400 basis points.
The company is also expected to maintain its long-term earnings growth of 12% to 15%.

Mastercard Incorporated: Cross-Border Travel and Consumer Behaviors Impact! – Major Drivers

Mastercard Inc.’s Q1 2024 earnings showcased the company’s firm position in the payments sector, underpinned by robust revenue and adjusted net income growth on a non-GAAP, currency-neutral basis.
The company’s strong results go beyond the uptake in consumer spending, extending to the rapid growth in cross-border volumes.
There are several factors at play that make Mastercard attractive from an investment standpoint.

Archer-Daniels-Midland Company: Strengthening Margins Through Operational Improvements & Renewable Production! – Major Drivers

In its first quarter 2024, Archer-Daniels-Midland (ADM) reported adjusted earnings per share of USD1.46, and an adjusted segment operating profit of USD1.3bn, representing an on-year decrease of 24%.
ADM also achieved a trailing 4-quarter average of 11.2% for its adjusted Return on Invested Capital (ROIC) during the same quarter, while maintaining a strong balance sheet and healthy cash flows.
Although the global grain and oilseed supply is expected to increase throughout the year amid an anticipated improvement in weather conditions, ADM proactively managed the risk of falling margins by driving the structural earnings, ROIC, and cash flow generation, enabling the company to continue investing in its business and returning cash to its shareholders.

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May 12

Most Read: Fast Retailing, Deep Yellow Ltd, Shenyang Xingqi Pharmaceutical, Eoflow, Greatview Aseptic Packaging, Yichang HEC Changjiang Pharma, China Traditional Chinese Medicine, OCBC, Korea Stock Exchange KOSPI 200, Cosmecca Korea and more

By Smartkarma Daily Briefs | Daily Briefs, Most Read

In today’s briefing:

Nikkei 225 Index Rebalance Preview (Sep 2024): Ranking, Capping, Funding & Other Changes
ASX200 Index Rebalance Preview: Potential Changes Prior to the June Rebalance
ChiNext/ChiNext50 Index Rebalance Preview: Outperformance Continues
Eoflow Announced that US Federal Court Has Decided to Suspend the Effect of 1st Injunction Decision
Greatview Aseptic (468 HK): Shandong Xinjufeng VGO Could Force Mengniu to Act
HEC CJ Pharma (1558 HK): Pre-Conditional Share Exchange Offer from Largest Shareholder
Weekly Deals Digest (12 May) – China TCM, GA Pack, HEC CJ Pharma, CPMC, Alps Logistics, Infocom
(Mostly) Asia-Pac M&A: Namoi Cotton, Great Eastern, GAPack, Nihon, Chilled & Frozen, Shinko Electric
EQD | KOSPI 200 Ready to Pullback
Cosmecca Korea Plans to Switch Listing from KOSDAQ to KOSPI

Nikkei 225 Index Rebalance Preview (Sep 2024): Ranking, Capping, Funding & Other Changes

By Brian Freitas

The review period for the Nikkei 225 (NKY INDEX) September rebalance ends in July. There could be three changes at the rebalance with sector balance in focus for the additions.
Depending on the changes, passive trackers will need to buy between 5-16x ADV (10.1%-24% of real float) on the inclusions and sell between 4-42x ADV on the deletions.
Fast Retailing (9983 JP) will be capped to 10% of the index weight while Tokyo Electron (8035 JP) is also close to the 10% cap.

ASX200 Index Rebalance Preview: Potential Changes Prior to the June Rebalance

By Brian Freitas

Seven Group Holdings (SVW AU)‘s holding in Boral Ltd (BLD AU) continues to increase and that could lead to an index change at the June rebalance, if not earlier.
The Silver Lake Resources (SLR AU)/ Red 5 Ltd (RED AU) merger could lead to an index change early June.
Cie De Saint-Gobain (SGO FP)‘s acquisition of CSR Ltd (CSR AU) could lead to another index change just ahead of the regular June rebalance.

ChiNext/ChiNext50 Index Rebalance Preview: Outperformance Continues

By Brian Freitas

With the review period now complete, we forecast 7 changes for the ChiNext Index (SZ399006 INDEX) and 5 changes for the ChiNext 50 Index in June.
There are 4 stocks that could be added to both indices while some stocks will also have same way flows from CSI Smallcap 500 Index (SH000905 INDEX) trackers.
The potential adds have outperformed the potential deletes over the last 6 months. There has been a big move higher in the potential adds over the last few weeks.

Eoflow Announced that US Federal Court Has Decided to Suspend the Effect of 1st Injunction Decision

By Douglas Kim

On 8 May, Eoflow announced that the U.S. federal court has decided to suspend the effect of the first injunction decision.
While the effect of the second preliminary injunction decision remains intact, Eoflow has requested a review of the suspension of the effect of the second revised injunction decision as well.
There has been a renewed optimism on Eoflow (294090 KS)’s share price in the past week which increased by 46% from 7 May to 10 May.

Greatview Aseptic (468 HK): Shandong Xinjufeng VGO Could Force Mengniu to Act

Shandong Xinjufeng Technology Packaging (301296 CH) disclosed a pre-conditional voluntary offer for Greatview Aseptic Packaging (468 HK) at HK$2.65, a 26.2% premium to the undisturbed price.
The pre-condition relates to Chinese regulatory approvals and Shandong Xinjufeng shareholder approval. The offer is conditional on a 50% minimum acceptance condition.
Shandong Xinjufeng’s previous acquisition of Jardine Matheson’s 28.22% stake elicited a defensive move by China Mengniu Dairy Co (2319 HK). This development is likely to force a Mengniu competing VGO.

HEC CJ Pharma (1558 HK): Pre-Conditional Share Exchange Offer from Largest Shareholder

Yichang HEC Changjiang Pharma (1558 HK)‘s pre-conditional privatisation from Sunshine Lake Pharma comprises scrip (0.263614 new offeror H Share per HEC CJ Pharma share) and cash (special dividend of HK$1.5).
The pre-condition is regulatory approvals from NDRC, MOFCOM, and SAFE. The key condition is approval by at least 75% of independent H Shareholders (<10% of all independent H Shareholders rejection).
There is valuation uncertainty as the offeror is unlisted, and its valuation hinges on pipeline products. Nevertheless, with no shareholder close to a blocking stake, the deal should get up.

Weekly Deals Digest (12 May) – China TCM, GA Pack, HEC CJ Pharma, CPMC, Alps Logistics, Infocom

A weekly summary of key developments across ECM and Event-Driven names tracked by us across Hong Kong, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Japan, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Korea, India and Chinese ADRs.
ECM developments: HD Hyundai Marine Solution (443060 KS) and ZEEKR (ZK US) have strong IPO debuts.
Event-Driven developments China Traditional Chinese Medicine (570 HK), Greatview Aseptic Packaging (468 HK), Yichang HEC Changjiang Pharma (1558 HK), CPMC Holdings (906 HK), Alps Logistics (9055 JP), Infocom Corp (4348 JP).

(Mostly) Asia-Pac M&A: Namoi Cotton, Great Eastern, GAPack, Nihon, Chilled & Frozen, Shinko Electric