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Daily Briefs

Daily Brief Event-Driven: Zhihu (ZH US/2390 HK): Negative EV Play Launches a Share Buyback at HK$9.11/US$3.50 and more

By | Daily Briefs, Event-Driven

In today’s briefing:

  • Zhihu (ZH US/2390 HK): Negative EV Play Launches a Share Buyback at HK$9.11/US$3.50
  • (Mostly) Asia-Pac M&A: AIS/Thaicom, Capitol Health, Alumina, Ansarada, TCM, CPMC, Fancl, Hollysys
  • Last Week in Event SPACE: Gulf Energy/Intouch, CK Infra, Zhongsheng, Thai Beverage, Fraser & Neave
  • Weekly Deals Digest (21 Jul) – Intouch/Gulf, China TCM, Huafa, Samson, Zhihu, Asics, Kokusai, Timee
  • Examining Market Interest in the Potential Samsung C&T and SDS Restructuring


Zhihu (ZH US/2390 HK): Negative EV Play Launches a Share Buyback at HK$9.11/US$3.50

By Arun George

  • Zhihu Technology (ZH US) has launched a conditional share buyback offer to acquire a maximum of 46.9m Class A ordinary shares (15.93% of outstanding shares) at HK$9.11 (US$3.50 per ADS).
  • The offer is conditional on shareholder approval by a majority of votes cast at the EGM. There is no minimum acceptance condition. The EGM vote is done due to irrevocables. 
  • Zhihu’s share buyback returns 19% of cash not subject to government controls, below Douyu International Holdings (DOYU US)’s comparable 34%. The minimum pro-ration is expected to be around 34%. 

(Mostly) Asia-Pac M&A: AIS/Thaicom, Capitol Health, Alumina, Ansarada, TCM, CPMC, Fancl, Hollysys

By David Blennerhassett


Last Week in Event SPACE: Gulf Energy/Intouch, CK Infra, Zhongsheng, Thai Beverage, Fraser & Neave

By David Blennerhassett


Weekly Deals Digest (21 Jul) – Intouch/Gulf, China TCM, Huafa, Samson, Zhihu, Asics, Kokusai, Timee

By Arun George


Examining Market Interest in the Potential Samsung C&T and SDS Restructuring

By Sanghyun Park

  • Maximizing Lee Jae-yong’s dividend income is crucial, making Samsung SDS’s ₩5.5T cash assets key, thus prompting the merger of Samsung C&T and Samsung SDS’s BPO division.
  • With no legal risks for Lee Jae-yong, Samsung C&T needs the merger to increase assets and avoid forced holding company conversion, making the acquisition of Samsung SDS’s BPO division necessary.
  • We should target a setup for likely appraisal rights for C&T. Monitor and capture the spread between the stock price and appraisal rights exercise price.

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Most Read: Honda Motor, Red 5 Ltd, Kokusai Electric , Zhihu Technology, CK Infrastructure Holdings, Brilliance China Automotive, Thai Beverage, Fancl Corp, Nikkei 225 and more

By | Daily Briefs, Most Read

In today’s briefing:

  • Big Honda (7267) Offering – Flow Timing Matters
  • S&P/​​​​​​​​​ASX Index Rebalance Preview: Potential Changes from Now to September
  • Kokusai Electric (6525 JP): The Current Playbook
  • Zhihu (ZH US/2390 HK): Negative EV Play Launches a Share Buyback at HK$9.11/US$3.50
  • The Heat Is On: News Flow and Sentiment in CHINA / HONG KONG (July 19)
  • Over Capacity in Chinese Auto Market
  • Consumer Tales & Trends #July 11-20: THBEV SP Swap Deal, Bad Debts in Thailand, AI in Beauty.
  • (Mostly) Asia-Pac M&A: AIS/Thaicom, Capitol Health, Alumina, Ansarada, TCM, CPMC, Fancl, Hollysys
  • EQD | Where/When Will the Nikkei Index Reach a Bottom And Bounce?
  • Last Week in Event SPACE: Gulf Energy/Intouch, CK Infra, Zhongsheng, Thai Beverage, Fraser & Neave


Big Honda (7267) Offering – Flow Timing Matters

By Travis Lundy

  • The ¥500bn Offering of Honda shares is now priced (¥1,664.5/share) making it ¥497.46bn. Bookbuilding for retail – 80% of the book – is now. The price today closed at ¥1,665/share. 
  • The Offering has follow-on “non-discretionary” demand which is non-negligible. It is worth understanding the amounts and timing.
  • The lockups and non-discretionary demand, along with Honda’s relative cheapness as a large cap OEM and likely upcoming offerings on competitors means it has support.

S&P/​​​​​​​​​ASX Index Rebalance Preview: Potential Changes from Now to September

By Brian Freitas

  • With nearly 80% of the review period complete, there could be 28 adds/deletes across the S&P/ASX family of indices in September.
  • There is a lot of stocks for passive trackers to trade on the index changes with the largest impacts on the potential changes to the S&P/ASX 200 (AS51 INDEX)
  • The potential adds have outperformed the potential deletions by a LOT over the last few months and continued positioning could lead to further gains.

Kokusai Electric (6525 JP): The Current Playbook

By Arun George

  • Since the US$2.0 billion secondary placement announcement, Kokusai Electric (6525 JP)’s shares are down 5.6% from the undisturbed price of JPY5,520 per share (8 July).
  • Looking at recent large Japanese placements is instructive to understand the potential trading pattern. So far, Kokusai’s shares have followed the pattern of previous large placements.
  • The offering will likely be priced on 22 July. Investors who have participated in previous large Japanese placements tend to secure positive returns.

Zhihu (ZH US/2390 HK): Negative EV Play Launches a Share Buyback at HK$9.11/US$3.50

By Arun George

  • Zhihu Technology (ZH US) has launched a conditional share buyback offer to acquire a maximum of 46.9m Class A ordinary shares (15.93% of outstanding shares) at HK$9.11 (US$3.50 per ADS).
  • The offer is conditional on shareholder approval by a majority of votes cast at the EGM. There is no minimum acceptance condition. The EGM vote is done due to irrevocables. 
  • Zhihu’s share buyback returns 19% of cash not subject to government controls, below Douyu International Holdings (DOYU US)’s comparable 34%. The minimum pro-ration is expected to be around 34%. 

The Heat Is On: News Flow and Sentiment in CHINA / HONG KONG (July 19)

By David Mudd


Over Capacity in Chinese Auto Market

By Alex Ng

  • News show that European car makers such as BMW is moving out of China, leaving the Auto market to the local players
  • Stocks like Brilliance China will suffer losses as they lose some of the most famous co-brand.
  • Foreign firm exits may give relief to local auto makers as it resolves part of the over-capacity problems

Consumer Tales & Trends #July 11-20: THBEV SP Swap Deal, Bad Debts in Thailand, AI in Beauty.

By Devi Subhakesan

  • Welcome to Consumer Tales & Trends, your weekly roundup of the latest corporate developments, investment reports and sector events in the consumer industry.
  • Thai Beverage (THBEV SP)‘s proposed swap deal with promoter company raises several questions for shareholders. Start with the back story about how Fraser And Neave (FNN SP) joined the group.
  • Bigger weddings could become a trend in India – Read why we like Kalyan Jewellers(KALYANKJ IN) . Also, household debt in Thailand as % of GDP is highest in ASEAN.

(Mostly) Asia-Pac M&A: AIS/Thaicom, Capitol Health, Alumina, Ansarada, TCM, CPMC, Fancl, Hollysys

By David Blennerhassett


EQD | Where/When Will the Nikkei Index Reach a Bottom And Bounce?

By Nico Rosti

  • The Nikkei 225 INDEX pulled back last week, and it may continue to fall for another 1-2 weeks.
  • Make sure you read the Market Reversal Matrix – Charts Analysis section below: we are introducing a possibile new Premium Service using our trend prediction models in algorithmic trading format.
  • The price support area to buy the Nikkei 225 would be between 39800 and 39300, this coming week (or the next).

Last Week in Event SPACE: Gulf Energy/Intouch, CK Infra, Zhongsheng, Thai Beverage, Fraser & Neave

By David Blennerhassett


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Daily Brief Singapore: Thai Beverage, MoneyHero and more

By | Daily Briefs, Singapore

In today’s briefing:

  • Thai Bev to Get F&N Stake from Promoters At Book Value than Fair Market Value
  • MoneyHero Group: A Promising Q1 2024 Result With Lots To Look Forward To!!


Thai Bev to Get F&N Stake from Promoters At Book Value than Fair Market Value

By Devi Subhakesan

  • Thai Beverage(THBEVSP)‘s  proposed swap deal involves acquiring a 41.3% stake in F&N from promoters, seemingly at book value than fair market value, expected in case of an arms length transaction.
  • Fraser And Neave (FNN SP)  holds a 20.3% stake in Vietnam Dairy(VNM VN), Vietnam’s leading dairy player, which is now trading at nearly a 40% discount to the investment value.
  • Understanding TCC Assets’ ownership history of F&N may help clarify the deal’s valuation rationale.

MoneyHero Group: A Promising Q1 2024 Result With Lots To Look Forward To!!

By Baptista Research

  • This is a follow-up research note on MoneyHero Group, a leading personal finance aggregation and comparison entity in Greater Southeast Asia.
  • In its most recent Q1 2024 result, the company continues to demonstrate exceptional growth and strategic agility.
  • MoneyHero Group has seen a significant uptick in revenues and improved margins and was also in the news for an important strategic sale of CompareHero in Malaysia that could prove to be another game changer.

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Daily Brief United States: TotalEnergies, Bitcoin, Cara Therapeutics, Intuitive Surgical, Zuora Inc, Ormat Technologies, Alliant Energy, Five9 Inc, Enovix , Idacorp Inc and more

By | Daily Briefs, United States

In today’s briefing:

  • TotalEnergies Hits Roadblock with Lower Gas Prices and Refining Margins
  • Crypto Liquidity Watch: The Current Crypto Versus Tech Correlation Is a Must Watch
  • Cara Therapeutics Exploring A Potential Sale But Can It Really Get Acquired? – Financial Forecasts
  • Intuitive Surgical (ISRG US): Beat-And-Raise 2Q24; Strong Procedure Growth; Solid Da Vinci 5 Rollout
  • Zuora Inc (ZUO) – Thursday, Apr 18, 2024
  • Ormat Technologies Inc.: Initiation of Coverage – Can They Capitalize On The Advancements in Energy Storage Solutions? – Major Drivers
  • Alliant Energy Corporation: Initiation of Coverage – What Is Their Core Business Strategy? – Major Drivers
  • Five9 Under Pressure From Anson Funds To Explore A Potential Sale! 4 Reasons Why It Could Be An Attractive Acquisition Target! – Financial Forecasts
  • Sustainable Investing Surveyor – Focus on Enovix Corporation (ENVX)
  • IDACORP Inc.: Initiation of Coverage – Resource Procurement & Infrastructure Expansion & 3 Other Major Drivers


TotalEnergies Hits Roadblock with Lower Gas Prices and Refining Margins

By Suhas Reddy

  • TotalEnergies’ robust hydrocarbon production in Q2 2024 will be offset by lower gas realizations and refining margins.
  • Higher utilisation rates are expected to partially mitigate reduced refining margins in Europe and the Middle East.
  • Seasonal factors are expected to lower the Integrated Power segment’s adjusted net operating income by 18.2% QoQ to USD 500 million.

Crypto Liquidity Watch: The Current Crypto Versus Tech Correlation Is a Must Watch

By Andreas Steno

  • My great colleague, Mads Eberhardt, is off on a well-deserved mini-summer break, accordingly handing me the keys to the weekly crypto editorial.
  • As Mads is probably currently stuck with the same feeling I have when I hand the iPad to my almost 80-year-old dad, I’ll stick to connecting the dots between liquidity, the recent sell-off in crypto, and the current sell-off in technology.
  • Do current developments square, or can we find value trades here?

Cara Therapeutics Exploring A Potential Sale But Can It Really Get Acquired? – Financial Forecasts

By Baptista Research

  • Cara Therapeutics has been trending all over the internet after the company recently decided to explore a potential sale.
  • Recent, Cara Therapeutics’ management announced a focus shift toward its most promising project, oral difelikefalin for treating notalgia paresthetica (NP), a chronic neuropathic condition with no currently approved therapies.
  • The reallocation of resources toward this program enables Cara Therapeutics to extend its cash runway into 2026, potentially covering all crucial value inflection milestones for the NP program.

Intuitive Surgical (ISRG US): Beat-And-Raise 2Q24; Strong Procedure Growth; Solid Da Vinci 5 Rollout

By Tina Banerjee

  • Intuitive Surgical (ISRG US) posted another strong quarterly result, with key performance indicators including total revenue, procedure growth, system placement, and EPS beating consensus.
  • 2Q24 procedure volume growth was 17% (estimate 15.5%) and accelerated from 16% in 1Q24. Intuitive narrowed full-year 2024 procedure growth forecast to 15.5–17.0%. The company raised gross margin guidance.
  • Despite phased rollout, 70 da Vinci 5 systems placement in 2Q24 seems impressive. It represents almost half of the total U.S. placement. In 2H24, placement is expected to increase modestly.

Zuora Inc (ZUO) – Thursday, Apr 18, 2024

By Value Investors Club

  • Zuora is considering a potential sale after receiving acquisition interest, with Qatalyst Partners hired to facilitate the process
  • Founder and CEO Tien Tzuo and other large shareholders may participate in the transaction
  • Potential deal price of $13-15 per share, offering 40-60% upside from current levels, with downside protection due to low valuation and improving cash flow outlook

This content is sourced through publicly available sources and has been machine generated. Information displayed is for general informational purposes only. This article was originally published 3 months ago on Value Investors Club.


Ormat Technologies Inc.: Initiation of Coverage – Can They Capitalize On The Advancements in Energy Storage Solutions? – Major Drivers

By Baptista Research

  • Ormat Technologies showcased robust results in the first quarter of 2024, reflecting significant financial and operational progress.
  • The company, which operates across electricity, product, and energy storage segments, reported a 21% increase in total revenues and a 25.5% rise in earnings per diluted share year-over-year.
  • The adjusted EBITDA also increased by 14.4%, fueled by organic growth, efficiency improvements at operational facilities, and contributions from newly acquired assets from Enel Green Power North America.

Alliant Energy Corporation: Initiation of Coverage – What Is Their Core Business Strategy? – Major Drivers

By Baptista Research

  • Alliant Energy has begun 2024 with a balance of strategic advancements and challenges, as outlined in their most recent performance and strategy update.
  • The company has made notable progress in expanding its renewable energy capacity, particularly in solar power.
  • Their completion of a significant 1.1 gigawatts of solar investment in Wisconsin and advances in Iowa’s solar projects demonstrate a solid commitment to reducing dependency on non-renewable energy sources.

Five9 Under Pressure From Anson Funds To Explore A Potential Sale! 4 Reasons Why It Could Be An Attractive Acquisition Target! – Financial Forecasts

By Baptista Research

  • Five9, a noted leader in cloud contact center solutions, has been facing activist pressure in order to explore a potential sale of the company after a decent quarterly result.
  • Positively, Five9 reported a solid increase in subscription revenue, growing 20% year-over-year, which underscores its successful transition and dominance in the cloud-based contact center market.
  • This growth trajectory is supported by three key trends: the ongoing shift to cloud-based platforms, heightened focus on customer experience enhancement, and revolutionary impacts of AI on customer services.

Sustainable Investing Surveyor – Focus on Enovix Corporation (ENVX)

By Water Tower Research

  • The WTR Sustainable Index was up 7.0% W/W versus the S&P 500 Index (up 0.9%), the Russell 2000 Index (up 6.0%), and the Nasdaq Index (down 0.3%).
  • Energy Technology (15.1% of the index) was up 15.5%, while Industrial Climate and Ag Technology (58.5% of the index) was up 4.7%, ClimateTech Mining was down 3.4% and Advanced Transportation Solutions (21.2% of index) was up 9.0%.
  • Top 10 Performers: ARVL, ZAPP, NAAS, VMC, PEGY, QS, LCID, OUST, EVGO, COMM

IDACORP Inc.: Initiation of Coverage – Resource Procurement & Infrastructure Expansion & 3 Other Major Drivers

By Baptista Research

  • IDACORP’s first quarter 2024 performance manifests a mixed financial landscape, characterized by both challenges and strategic advancements in its operational and regulatory domains.
  • The company reported a decline in diluted earnings per share from $1.11 in the first quarter of the previous year to $0.95 in the current reporting period.
  • This decrease is attributed primarily to milder weather which lowered energy consumption, and heightened operational and maintenance costs driven by increases in wildfire mitigation expenses and labor.

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Daily Brief India: Ola Electric and more

By | Daily Briefs, India

In today’s briefing:

  • India Channel Insight | What Is the EV Scene in India?


India Channel Insight | What Is the EV Scene in India?

By Pranav Bhavsar

  • We spoke with multiple channels covering 3Ws, 2Ws, and 4Ws to understand the current dynamics of the Electric Vehicle (EV) scene in India.
  • Adoption of E-3 and E-4 Wheelers is hindered by high prices, range issues, inadequate charging infrastructure, and platform stability concerns.
  • E-2 Wheelers show resilience with stable sales led by aggressive pricing from Ola Electric (1700674D IN)

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Daily Brief China: Alibaba Group Holding , CK Infrastructure Holdings and more

By | China, Daily Briefs

In today’s briefing:

  • [Blue Lotus E-Commerce Sector Update]: Tax Reform a Light at the End of the Tunnel for Ecommerce
  • The Heat Is On: News Flow and Sentiment in CHINA / HONG KONG (July 19)


[Blue Lotus E-Commerce Sector Update]: Tax Reform a Light at the End of the Tunnel for Ecommerce

By Ying Pan

  • Early 6/18 pulled June sales into May, leading to disappointing June NBS data. Combined, online retail grew 5.1% yoy in May/June, and 6.4% yoy in 2Q24. 
  • PDD remained the top shelf-ecommerce platform with GMV growing ~20%, followed by Taobao/Tmall (TTG) at ~6-7%, and JD and VIPS at ~2-3% yoy. 
  • We expect JD and BABA to report slight earnings beats and guide upbeat on continued profitability improvement in 2H24. 

The Heat Is On: News Flow and Sentiment in CHINA / HONG KONG (July 19)

By David Mudd


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Daily Brief Japan: Kokusai Electric , Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group, Nikkei 225, TSE Tokyo Price Index TOPIX and more

By | Daily Briefs, Japan

In today’s briefing:

  • Kokusai Electric (6525 JP): The Current Playbook
  • Rotation Continues; Bullish Outlook Intact; Buys in Global Financials, Industrials, Discretionary
  • EQD | Where/When Will the Nikkei Index Reach a Bottom And Bounce?
  • In Addition to Efforts by Individual Companies Values Endorsing Gender Inequality Must Be Removed


Kokusai Electric (6525 JP): The Current Playbook

By Arun George

  • Since the US$2.0 billion secondary placement announcement, Kokusai Electric (6525 JP)’s shares are down 5.6% from the undisturbed price of JPY5,520 per share (8 July).
  • Looking at recent large Japanese placements is instructive to understand the potential trading pattern. So far, Kokusai’s shares have followed the pattern of previous large placements.
  • The offering will likely be priced on 22 July. Investors who have participated in previous large Japanese placements tend to secure positive returns.

Rotation Continues; Bullish Outlook Intact; Buys in Global Financials, Industrials, Discretionary

By Joe Jasper

  • Our bullish outlook (since early-November 2023) remains intact. Continue to ride this trend higher and buy dips as long as ACWI-US and EEM-US remain above supports at $110 and $41-$42.
  • In our previous Int’l Compass (June 27) we discussed the rotation that we believed was starting, whereby global Technology (IXN-US) would consolidate as investors rotate to laggard areas.
  • This rotation has continued while Technology goes through a healthy consolidation. Continue to focus on other more value-oriented Sectors while Technology/growth consolidates

EQD | Where/When Will the Nikkei Index Reach a Bottom And Bounce?

By Nico Rosti

  • The Nikkei 225 INDEX pulled back last week, and it may continue to fall for another 1-2 weeks.
  • Make sure you read the Market Reversal Matrix – Charts Analysis section below: we are introducing a possibile new Premium Service using our trend prediction models in algorithmic trading format.
  • The price support area to buy the Nikkei 225 would be between 39800 and 39300, this coming week (or the next).

In Addition to Efforts by Individual Companies Values Endorsing Gender Inequality Must Be Removed

By Aki Matsumoto

  • High ratio of female non-regular workers and low ratio of women in management positions are factors behind the gender wage gap. Government expects to correct the gap in individual companies.
  • Companies should improve making it easier for employees returning jobs after temporary leave for childcare/childbirth, and treating them in the same position they were before leaving after temporary leave.
  • In order for women to have access to higher education and for women to work without leaving the workforce temporarily, the values that endorse gender inequality must be removed.

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Daily Brief Industrials: ICTSI, Edenred, Enovix , Pyxis Tankers and more

By | Daily Briefs, Industrials

In today’s briefing:

  • International Container – Tear Sheet – Lucror Analytics
  • International Container – ESG Report – Lucror Analytics
  • Edenred Se (EDEN) – Friday, Apr 19, 2024
  • Sustainable Investing Surveyor – Focus on Enovix Corporation (ENVX)
  • Pyxis Tankers Inc (PXS) – Friday, Apr 19, 2024


International Container – Tear Sheet – Lucror Analytics

By Leonard Law, CFA

We view International Container (ICTSI) as “Low Risk” on the LARA scale. This reflects the company’s: [1] leading position in Philippine container terminal operations; [2] geographically diversified operations, with port terminal assets across 19 countries; and [3] sound business capability to execute its expansion plans, as evidenced by its track record of healthy revenue growth and margin expansion. These are balanced against the risks associated with: [1] a potential increase in competitive pressures in the container shipping industry; [2] the Port of Manila’s small scale (in terms of annual throughput) compared to major ports worldwide; and [3] exposure to political and event risks arising from the company’s operations in frontier markets.

Our fundamental Credit Bias on ICTSI is “Stable”. The company’s leverage has improved over the years, supported by earnings growth and strong OCF generation. That said, FCF may be tempered by high capex and dividend payouts.

Controversies are “Material”. In 2017, ICTSI was accused by the International Transport Workers Federation (ITF) of violating various labour rights. This included the illegal sacking of outsourced workers at its Madagascar terminal, paying “poverty wages” at the company’s terminals in Indonesia and Madagascar, discrimination against unionised workers, as well as safety breaches at various terminals. The ITF also accused ICTSI of profiting off dictatorships, by working with authoritarian governments in Sudan, Syria and the Democratic Republic of Congo. In March 2023, the Organised Crime and Corruption Reporting Project accused the company of bribing two officials from the PNG Ports Corporation in relation to concession awards for its terminals in Papua New Guinea. That said, ICTSI does not appear to be materially impacted by the controversies. Overall, the ESG Impact on Credit is “Neutral”.


International Container – ESG Report – Lucror Analytics

By Leonard Law, CFA

Lucror Analytics’ ESG Scores are based on a 3-tiered scale and are adjusted for Controversies (if applicable).
We assess International Container’s ESG as “Adequate”, in line with its Environmental, Social and Governance scores. Controversies are “Immaterial” and Disclosure is “Adequate”. 


Edenred Se (EDEN) – Friday, Apr 19, 2024

By Value Investors Club

  • Edenred SE is a global payment solutions company with a strong financial performance and dominant industry position
  • Company’s stock has declined -19.50% year-to-date due to a legal investigation in Italy
  • Despite challenges, Edenred has a strong balance sheet, cash flow generation, and growth potential, making it a long opportunity for investors.

This content is sourced through publicly available sources and has been machine generated. Information displayed is for general informational purposes only. This article was originally published 3 months ago on Value Investors Club.


Sustainable Investing Surveyor – Focus on Enovix Corporation (ENVX)

By Water Tower Research

  • The WTR Sustainable Index was up 7.0% W/W versus the S&P 500 Index (up 0.9%), the Russell 2000 Index (up 6.0%), and the Nasdaq Index (down 0.3%).
  • Energy Technology (15.1% of the index) was up 15.5%, while Industrial Climate and Ag Technology (58.5% of the index) was up 4.7%, ClimateTech Mining was down 3.4% and Advanced Transportation Solutions (21.2% of index) was up 9.0%.
  • Top 10 Performers: ARVL, ZAPP, NAAS, VMC, PEGY, QS, LCID, OUST, EVGO, COMM

Pyxis Tankers Inc (PXS) – Friday, Apr 19, 2024

By Value Investors Club

  • Pyxis Tankers is a small illiquid microcap company that owns and operates charter tankers and dry bulk vessels
  • Trading at a discount to liquidation value of vessels and lower EV/FCF ratio compared to peers
  • Strong inside ownership and disciplined capital allocation, with bull thesis based on optimistic outlook for tanker rates in near term

This content is sourced through publicly available sources and has been machine generated. Information displayed is for general informational purposes only. This article was originally published 3 months ago on Value Investors Club.


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Daily Brief Utilities: Idacorp Inc, Ormat Technologies, Alliant Energy, CK Infrastructure Holdings, Edison International, National Grid , New Jersey Resources, Nisource Inc, Oge Energy Corp, One Gas Inc and more

By | Daily Briefs, Utilities Sector

In today’s briefing:

  • IDACORP Inc.: Initiation of Coverage – Resource Procurement & Infrastructure Expansion & 3 Other Major Drivers
  • Ormat Technologies Inc.: Initiation of Coverage – Can They Capitalize On The Advancements in Energy Storage Solutions? – Major Drivers
  • Alliant Energy Corporation: Initiation of Coverage – What Is Their Core Business Strategy? – Major Drivers
  • The Heat Is On: News Flow and Sentiment in CHINA / HONG KONG (July 19)
  • Edison International: Initiation of Coverage – What Is Their Competitive Advantage In Their Domain? – Major Drivers
  • National Grid Plc: Initiation of Coverage
  • New Jersey Resources Corporation: Initiation of Coverage – Infrastructure Expansion and Capital Investments Driving Growth! – Major Drivers
  • NiSource Inc.: Initiation of Coverage – Renewable Energy Initiatives & Project Investments Catapulting Their Growth? – Major Drivers
  • OGE Energy Corp.: Initiation of Coverage – Can They Make The Most Out Of The Advancements in Renewable Energy and Grid Modernization? – Major Drivers
  • ONE Gas Inc.: Initiation of Coverage – How Are They Executing The Expansion of Customer Base and Economic Development! – Major Drivers


IDACORP Inc.: Initiation of Coverage – Resource Procurement & Infrastructure Expansion & 3 Other Major Drivers

By Baptista Research

  • IDACORP’s first quarter 2024 performance manifests a mixed financial landscape, characterized by both challenges and strategic advancements in its operational and regulatory domains.
  • The company reported a decline in diluted earnings per share from $1.11 in the first quarter of the previous year to $0.95 in the current reporting period.
  • This decrease is attributed primarily to milder weather which lowered energy consumption, and heightened operational and maintenance costs driven by increases in wildfire mitigation expenses and labor.

Ormat Technologies Inc.: Initiation of Coverage – Can They Capitalize On The Advancements in Energy Storage Solutions? – Major Drivers

By Baptista Research

  • Ormat Technologies showcased robust results in the first quarter of 2024, reflecting significant financial and operational progress.
  • The company, which operates across electricity, product, and energy storage segments, reported a 21% increase in total revenues and a 25.5% rise in earnings per diluted share year-over-year.
  • The adjusted EBITDA also increased by 14.4%, fueled by organic growth, efficiency improvements at operational facilities, and contributions from newly acquired assets from Enel Green Power North America.

Alliant Energy Corporation: Initiation of Coverage – What Is Their Core Business Strategy? – Major Drivers

By Baptista Research

  • Alliant Energy has begun 2024 with a balance of strategic advancements and challenges, as outlined in their most recent performance and strategy update.
  • The company has made notable progress in expanding its renewable energy capacity, particularly in solar power.
  • Their completion of a significant 1.1 gigawatts of solar investment in Wisconsin and advances in Iowa’s solar projects demonstrate a solid commitment to reducing dependency on non-renewable energy sources.

The Heat Is On: News Flow and Sentiment in CHINA / HONG KONG (July 19)

By David Mudd


Edison International: Initiation of Coverage – What Is Their Competitive Advantage In Their Domain? – Major Drivers

By Baptista Research

  • Edison International has demonstrated a solid start to the year in its first quarter 2024 results, showcasing both strengths and areas of cautious consideration.
  • The company reported a core EPS of $1.13 and reaffirmed its 2024 core EPS guidance range of $4.70 to $5.05.
  • This performance reflects the company’s robust operational strategy and ongoing investments in infrastructure and safety measures, particularly in response to the persistent threat of wildfires in its service areas.

National Grid Plc: Initiation of Coverage

By Baptista Research

  • National Grid PLC recently reported substantial developments in its Full Year Results Presentation, signaling a transformative phase with aggressive capital investment plans, strategic priorities, and updates related to its financial framework.
  • This presentation highlighted various aspects, ranging from financial outcomes to operational updates and strategic initiatives aimed at solidifying the company’s role as a predominant player in network energy distribution.
  • 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.

New Jersey Resources Corporation: Initiation of Coverage – Infrastructure Expansion and Capital Investments Driving Growth! – Major Drivers

By Baptista Research

  • New Jersey Resources recently disclosed its second-quarter results, affirming the company’s continuing momentum in fiscal 2024.
  • Key highlights include net financial earnings (NFE) of $1.41 per share, with a reaffirmed NFEPS guidance range of $2.85 to $3 for the fiscal year.
  • This outperformance is primarily due to robust contributions from the Energy Services segment and solid earnings from its core business segments, portraying a strong financial posture.

NiSource Inc.: Initiation of Coverage – Renewable Energy Initiatives & Project Investments Catapulting Their Growth? – Major Drivers

By Baptista Research

  • NiSource, in its Q1 2024 investor update, provided an exhaustive look into their operational and financial dynamics, reinforcing their strategic route toward realizing significant growth through diligent initiatives and regulatory alignments.
  • The company marked the period with a robust financial upswing, posting a first-quarter 2024 adjusted earnings per share (EPS) of $0.85— showcasing a 10% rise from the previous year’s $0.77.
  • Such fruitful results were buoyed by contributions from regulatory activities and other income sectors while being slightly offset by escalated operations and maintenance (O&M) and depreciation costs.

OGE Energy Corp.: Initiation of Coverage – Can They Make The Most Out Of The Advancements in Renewable Energy and Grid Modernization? – Major Drivers

By Baptista Research

  • OGE Energy Corp. reported solid first-quarter earnings for 2024, affirming its strong positioning and operational reliability despite facing a competitive and dynamic business environment.
  • As outlined in the update, the company delivered consolidated earnings of $0.09 per share, encompassing $0.12 per share from OG&E and a holding company loss of $0.03 per share.
  • This start to the year aligns well with annual projections, setting a confident tone for the following quarters.

ONE Gas Inc.: Initiation of Coverage – How Are They Executing The Expansion of Customer Base and Economic Development! – Major Drivers

By Baptista Research

  • ONE Gas Inc. reported a solid first quarter of 2024, navigating through economic headwinds, including warm weather conditions, elevated interest rates, and persistent inflationary pressures.
  • Notably, the company’s proactive measures to manage operating and maintenance (O&M) expenses and strategic in-house functions have paid off, helping it remain on track to meet the midpoint of its 2024 financial guidance.
  • Baptista Research looks to evaluate the different factors that could influence the company’s price in the near future and attempts to carry out an independent valuation of the company using a Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) methodology.

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Daily Brief Energy/Materials: TotalEnergies, GCC SAB de CV, New Fortress Energy LLC, Talos Energy Inc, VAALCO Energy and more

By | Daily Briefs, Energy & Materials Sector

In today’s briefing:

  • TotalEnergies Hits Roadblock with Lower Gas Prices and Refining Margins
  • Actinver Research – Cement Sector: Attractive Valuations Strengthened Potential Returns (Sector Update)
  • New Fortress Energy Inc.: Initiation of Coverage – Strategic Customer Contracts & Market Positioning Driving Our Bullish Thesis! – Major Drivers
  • Talos Energy Inc. – Estimate Update/Stepping Up to the Plate
  • VAALCO Energy, Inc. – Estimate Update Including Cote D’Ivoire Contribution


TotalEnergies Hits Roadblock with Lower Gas Prices and Refining Margins

By Suhas Reddy

  • TotalEnergies’ robust hydrocarbon production in Q2 2024 will be offset by lower gas realizations and refining margins.
  • Higher utilisation rates are expected to partially mitigate reduced refining margins in Europe and the Middle East.
  • Seasonal factors are expected to lower the Integrated Power segment’s adjusted net operating income by 18.2% QoQ to USD 500 million.

Actinver Research – Cement Sector: Attractive Valuations Strengthened Potential Returns (Sector Update)

By Actinver

  • The Cement Industry is an essential activity with an attractive growth perspective since cement is one of the most relevant commodities worldwide, especially for emerging economies.
  • Cement companies such as CEMEX and GCC are well positioned to continue capturing the potential growth in their markets through differentiated products and clear targets to reduce CO2 emissions.
  • Although we expect 2Q24 quarterly results to be weaker, with total EBITDA +1% YoY, any weakness in results is more than priced in at current prices, in our view.

New Fortress Energy Inc.: Initiation of Coverage – Strategic Customer Contracts & Market Positioning Driving Our Bullish Thesis! – Major Drivers

By Baptista Research

  • New Fortress Energy (NFE) reported a solid set of financial results for the first quarter of 2024, reflecting strong operational performance and strategic growth initiatives.
  • The company reported EBITDA of $340 million, aligning with management’s expectations and consistent with the company’s guidance for the year.
  • This performance indicates a robust financial framework and clear visibility into the company’s path forward for the remainder of the year.

Talos Energy Inc. – Estimate Update/Stepping Up to the Plate

By Water Tower Research

  • We are updating our estimates to reflect actual 2Q24 NYMEX reference prices of $80.66/bbl for oil and $2.32/MMBtu for natural gas.
  • We have also increased our 2Q24 lease operating cost estimate to reflect workover activity and bumped our DD&A estimate.
  • Talos’s latest guidance and our updated estimates are outlined in Figures 1 – 4.

VAALCO Energy, Inc. – Estimate Update Including Cote D’Ivoire Contribution

By Water Tower Research

  • Our updated estimates include the impact of the Svenska acquisition, which closed on April 30, 2024, and was included in management’s latest guidance update following the release of 1Q24 financial and operating results.
  • The acquisition added a 27.39% non- operated working interest in the CI-40 license located offshore Côte d’Ivoire.
  • On May 7, 2024, management increased the midpoint of FY24 working interest (WI) production guidance to ~25.0 MBOE/d from 22.1 MBOE/d.

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