Category

Singapore

Brief Singapore: Sharp MoM Decline In January Semi WFE Sales Casts A Spanner In Second Half Recovery Works. and more

By | Singapore

In this briefing:

  1. Sharp MoM Decline In January Semi WFE Sales Casts A Spanner In Second Half Recovery Works.
  2. CSE Global: Gaining Momentum

1. Sharp MoM Decline In January Semi WFE Sales Casts A Spanner In Second Half Recovery Works.

Screen%20shot%202019 02 25%20at%2011.57.55%20am

According to SEMI, North American (NA) WFE sales for January 2019 fell to $1.9 billion, down ~10% sequentially and ~20% YoY. This was an abrupt reversal of the recovery trend implied by the December 2018 sales of $2.1 billion and is the biggest monthly sales YoY decline since June 2013.

Just as declining monthly WFE sales preceded the current semiconductor downturn by some six months, the continuation of December’s MoM WFE decline reversal trend was a prerequisite for a second half recovery in the broader semiconductor sector. With that trend well and truly broken,  we now anticipate a more delayed, gradual and prolonged recovery, one which is now unlikely to materialise until late third, early fourth quarter 2019. 

2. CSE Global: Gaining Momentum

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  • Investors who have bought CSE Global on dips since my last note would have profited ~18%.
  • The upbeat guidance by management and supply-demand environment should give some legs to the recent rebound.
  • While risks of slower global growth may weigh on the stock, the stock is trading below its five-year average PE despite significantly improved cash flow from operations and a healthy order intake (three-year high). 

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Brief Singapore: Sharp MoM Decline In January Semi WFE Sales Casts A Spanner In Second Half Recovery Works. and more

By | Singapore

In this briefing:

  1. Sharp MoM Decline In January Semi WFE Sales Casts A Spanner In Second Half Recovery Works.
  2. CSE Global: Gaining Momentum
  3. Another US LNG Project Goes Ahead: Positive for the Contractors; Negative for Others Looking to FID

1. Sharp MoM Decline In January Semi WFE Sales Casts A Spanner In Second Half Recovery Works.

Screen%20shot%202019 02 25%20at%2011.57.55%20am

According to SEMI, North American (NA) WFE sales for January 2019 fell to $1.9 billion, down ~10% sequentially and ~20% YoY. This was an abrupt reversal of the recovery trend implied by the December 2018 sales of $2.1 billion and is the biggest monthly sales YoY decline since June 2013.

Just as declining monthly WFE sales preceded the current semiconductor downturn by some six months, the continuation of December’s MoM WFE decline reversal trend was a prerequisite for a second half recovery in the broader semiconductor sector. With that trend well and truly broken,  we now anticipate a more delayed, gradual and prolonged recovery, one which is now unlikely to materialise until late third, early fourth quarter 2019. 

2. CSE Global: Gaining Momentum

Cse%20cf

  • Investors who have bought CSE Global on dips since my last note would have profited ~18%.
  • The upbeat guidance by management and supply-demand environment should give some legs to the recent rebound.
  • While risks of slower global growth may weigh on the stock, the stock is trading below its five-year average PE despite significantly improved cash flow from operations and a healthy order intake (three-year high). 

3. Another US LNG Project Goes Ahead: Positive for the Contractors; Negative for Others Looking to FID

Cp pipeline illustration 1e 1

US private LNG company Venture Global is starting construction on its 10 million ton per annum (mtpa) US LNG export facility in Louisiana after gaining approval from the US Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). This is positive for the LNG contractor market and we discuss the companies involved in the project. 

This follows final investment decision taken on Golden Pass (Exxon and Qatar Proceed with US$10bn Golden Pass LNG Terminal: Positive for Chiyoda and MDR US) and supports our thesis of a large wave of new projects that will be sanctioned in the coming months (A Huge Wave of New LNG Projects Coming in the Next 18 Months: Positive for The E&C Companies). This was viewed as a relatively speculative project and with aggressively low cost and timing estimates.

Source: Venture Global

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Brief Singapore: Sharp MoM Decline In January Semi WFE Sales Casts A Spanner In Second Half Recovery Works. and more

By | Singapore

In this briefing:

  1. Sharp MoM Decline In January Semi WFE Sales Casts A Spanner In Second Half Recovery Works.
  2. CSE Global: Gaining Momentum
  3. Another US LNG Project Goes Ahead: Positive for the Contractors; Negative for Others Looking to FID
  4. Bank of Kyoto – Nintendo Sale A Portent of Changes To Come?

1. Sharp MoM Decline In January Semi WFE Sales Casts A Spanner In Second Half Recovery Works.

Screen%20shot%202019 02 25%20at%2011.57.55%20am

According to SEMI, North American (NA) WFE sales for January 2019 fell to $1.9 billion, down ~10% sequentially and ~20% YoY. This was an abrupt reversal of the recovery trend implied by the December 2018 sales of $2.1 billion and is the biggest monthly sales YoY decline since June 2013.

Just as declining monthly WFE sales preceded the current semiconductor downturn by some six months, the continuation of December’s MoM WFE decline reversal trend was a prerequisite for a second half recovery in the broader semiconductor sector. With that trend well and truly broken,  we now anticipate a more delayed, gradual and prolonged recovery, one which is now unlikely to materialise until late third, early fourth quarter 2019. 

2. CSE Global: Gaining Momentum

Cse%20cf

  • Investors who have bought CSE Global on dips since my last note would have profited ~18%.
  • The upbeat guidance by management and supply-demand environment should give some legs to the recent rebound.
  • While risks of slower global growth may weigh on the stock, the stock is trading below its five-year average PE despite significantly improved cash flow from operations and a healthy order intake (three-year high). 

3. Another US LNG Project Goes Ahead: Positive for the Contractors; Negative for Others Looking to FID

Cp pipeline illustration 1e 1

US private LNG company Venture Global is starting construction on its 10 million ton per annum (mtpa) US LNG export facility in Louisiana after gaining approval from the US Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). This is positive for the LNG contractor market and we discuss the companies involved in the project. 

This follows final investment decision taken on Golden Pass (Exxon and Qatar Proceed with US$10bn Golden Pass LNG Terminal: Positive for Chiyoda and MDR US) and supports our thesis of a large wave of new projects that will be sanctioned in the coming months (A Huge Wave of New LNG Projects Coming in the Next 18 Months: Positive for The E&C Companies). This was viewed as a relatively speculative project and with aggressively low cost and timing estimates.

Source: Venture Global

4. Bank of Kyoto – Nintendo Sale A Portent of Changes To Come?

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On Friday 22 February after the close, Nintendo Co Ltd (7974 JP) announced a buyback (E, J), a share cancellation (E, J), and a public equity offering of secondary shares (J-only). This kind of event is not abnormal in a year when profits are weaker and share prices are down. Cross-holders often sell shares into the end of the year in order to realise profits and let unrealised gains from the balance sheet filter into the income statement.

This time it is five sellers from four banks which all hail from the area: Bank Of Kyoto (8369 JP), Nomura Trust (which holds shares in a trust account for the MUFJ Bank pension fund as a beneficiary), Mitsubishi Ufj Financial (8306 JP)‘s MUFJ Bank, Resona Holdings (8308 JP), and Shiga Bank (8366 JP). The MUFJ Bank holdings likely originate from Sanwa Bank which was Osaka-based before merging with BOT-Mitsubishi almost 15 years ago, and Resona is also from Osaka – next door to Kyoto where Nintendo was founded – and Shiga Bank is the prefecture next door.

This would look like a normal sell-down… except for one thing.

There was a note in the announcement to the effect that “in the context of how companies deal with their policy cross-holdings becoming the subject of greater focus, we confirmed that several shareholders desired to sell shares, and as a company subject to such cross-holdings, we are conducting the above-mentioned Offering.”

The “greater focus” comes from the both the change in the Japan Corporate Governance Code which was introduced last spring and went live June 1st (discussed in Japan’s Corporate Governance Code Amendments – A Much Bigger Stick for Activists and Stewards) which raised the bar for disclosure of reasons, and results, of such policy crossholdings in a revised version of Principle 1.4, and an example of how a board should make decisions and execute an unwind of corporate crossholdings. This example was given by Japan Exchange Group (8697 JP) itself regarding the TSE’s stake of 4.95% in Singapore Exchange (SGX SP) and was discussed in Japan Crossholdings: Japan Exchange’s Sale of SGX Shares Sets A Precedent – Watch Closely.  

In the TSE crossholding of SGX situation, the sale was not the most important part. The explanation of how the Board came to its decision and what they decided to do about it was important. 

On the other hand, Japan’s Corporate Governance Code (the Code), which was introduced in 2015, requires listed companies to examine and explain the economic rationale and future outlook of holding shares of other listed companies for reasons other than pure investment purposes. Following a review of the requirements under the Code, JPX reached the conclusion that the existing cooperative relationship with SGX would continue even without holding the shares of SGX.       [my bold]

The Japan Exchange Group had now provided the example for why even companies with cooperative business relationships should not own cross-holdings. And it is, if active stewards of capital choose to make it so, more subtle. Shareholders have even an even better pressure point. IF a company’s cooperative relationship with another company would not survive the unwinding of cross-holdings to improve capital efficiency for both sides, is that company truly independent? Is that company beholden to the company whose shares it holds? Is the cross-holding board doing its job?

And the Japan Exchange Group had said it would unwind its holdings of SGX over three years, so as not to overly impact the market for SGX shares. This provided an example of HOW to unwind, in addition to the WHY to unwind announced above.

The BIG QUESTION (And Nothing Else Matters)

The big question here is whether the reasoning for selling is really because of the new focus on policy cross-holdings, or it is just Bank of Kyoto and other banks trying to top up profit before the end of the fiscal year, using heretofore unrealised gains.

The Nintendo-specific situation is discussed in Nintendo Offering & Buyback: The Import & The Dynamics

An analysis of the Bank of Kyoto-specific situation is discussed below.

Get Straight to the Source on Smartkarma

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Brief Singapore: 2019 Asia Casino Forecast: Highlights by Country and Performance and more

By | Singapore

In this briefing:

  1. 2019 Asia Casino Forecast: Highlights by Country and Performance

1. 2019 Asia Casino Forecast: Highlights by Country and Performance

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  • Headwinds linger, but are beginning to lose velocity as consumers defy macro fears.
  • VIP slowdown should peak by Q3 and begin northward creep as bankrolls replenish.
  • Valuations today do not yet fully reflect the beginnings of a sector recovery.

Get Straight to the Source on Smartkarma

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Brief Singapore: Golden Agri Bull Pivots to Get Involved and more

By | Singapore

In this briefing:

  1. Golden Agri Bull Pivots to Get Involved
  2. ESR Cayman Pre-IPO- First Stab at Valuation
  3. US Lake Charles LNG Liquefaction Plant Tendering for Contractors: Positive for TechnipFMC
  4. Leong Hup Pre-IPO – Hard to Pinpoint What’s Going to Be the Revenue Driver Going Forward
  5. The Week that Was in ASEAN@Smartkarma – Thailand’s Election, Philippine Banks, and Data Junkies

1. Golden Agri Bull Pivots to Get Involved

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Golden Agri Resources (GGR SP) has started a basing process below pivot support at 0.30 as the daily MACD cycle has not been confirming recent lows for a case of underlying supportive bull divergence (sell pressure dwindling as downside momentum tapers off).

Bull divergence outlined in the MACD is supportive on a macro basis, however there is downside risk stemming from the micro rising wedge. A fresh diverging low is expected to market a price low to work into.

Immediate inflection levels at 0.30 and 0.26 will dictate near term direction out of the micro rising wedge. Ideal downside projections are noted along with a bullish resistance threshold.

2. ESR Cayman Pre-IPO- First Stab at Valuation

Fair value gains have been significant fair value gains as of assets held at fair value rhs  chartbuilder

ESR Cayman (ESR HK) aims to raise up to US$1.5bn in its planned Hong Kong listing, as per media reports. The company is backed by Warburg Pincus and counts APG, the Netherlands’ largest pension provider, as one of its main investors.

In my earlier insights: I touched upon the company’s business model and provided an overview of its operations, ESR Cayman Pre-IPO – A Giant in the Making and talk about the financials and the drivers for each of the three segments, ESR Cayman Pre-IPO – Earnings and Segment Analysis.

In this insight, I’ll look at valuing each of the segments.

3. US Lake Charles LNG Liquefaction Plant Tendering for Contractors: Positive for TechnipFMC

Lake%20charles

Energy Transfer LP (ET US) and Royal Dutch Shell (RDSA LN) have signed a Project Framework Agreement to further develop a large-scale LNG export facility in Lake Charles, Louisiana and move toward a potential final investment decision (FID). They have started actively engaging with LNG Engineering, Procurement and Contracting (EPC) companies with a plan to issue an Invitation to Tender (ITT) in the weeks ahead. We look at the potential contract size and winners and also the other US LNG projects that could be negatively impacted. More detail on the LNG project queue for this year in: A Huge Wave of New LNG Projects Coming in the Next 18 Months: Positive for The E&C Companies.

4. Leong Hup Pre-IPO – Hard to Pinpoint What’s Going to Be the Revenue Driver Going Forward

Yoy growth 2016 2017 6m18 chartbuilder

Leong Hup International (LEHUP MK) (LHI) plans to raise up to US$400m in its Malaysian IPO. LHI is one of the largest integrated poultry producer in Southeast Asia. 

LHI was listed on Bursa Malaysia from 1990 to 2012.  Since delisting, it has consolidated  its Southeast Asia operations under a single entity and is now looking to relist the larger entity.

While revenue has been growing steadily, margins have been volatile. In addition, its difficult to pinpoint which products are performing well in which geographies. The feedmills business seems to be a more consistent performer as compared to the livestock business. It’s also a larger revenue contributor in the faster growing regions.

5. The Week that Was in ASEAN@Smartkarma – Thailand’s Election, Philippine Banks, and Data Junkies

This week’s offering of Insights across ASEAN@Smartkarma is filled with another eclectic mix of differentiated, substantive and actionable insights from across South East Asia and includes macro, top-down and thematic pieces, as well as actionable equity bottom-up pieces. Please find a brief summary below, with a fuller write up in the detailed section.

This week’s highlights include value-added comment from CrossASEAN insight provider Prasenjit K. Basu and Dr Jim Walker on the potential impact of Thailand’s elections, an in-depth look at Summarecon Agung (SMRA IJ) fromJessica Irene in part 5 of a Smartkarma Originalsseries on Indonesian property, as well as insights from Daniel Tabbush onPhilippine National Bank (PNB PM) and Tisco Financial Group (TISCO TB), as well as an update onXl Axiata (EXCL IJ)from Angus Mackintosh following a meeting with management. 

Macro Insights

In Thailand: Elections Are Not Irrelevant; This One Too Pits Faster Growth Vs. Military “Stability”, Cross ASEAN Insight provider Prasenjit K. Basu discusses the implications of the result of Thailand’s election, which will likely see the incumbent Prime Minister retain his position, this times as a democratically elected leader (result covered in the discussion stream). 

In Widodo Lead Intact / VP Debate Lacks Impact / Trade Slows / Permitting Impediment / PPP Chair ArrestKevin O’Rourke looks at the most important political and economic developments over the past week and provides his value-added comment. 

In Thailand’s Election – Growth Story Plays Wait and See, Dr. Jim Walker discusses the recent monetary moves by the Bank of Thailand and what the result of the election might mean for growth. 

In Philippines: El Niño’s Comeback – How Bad? , Jun Trinidad looks at the potential impact from the predicted comeback of El Nino in the economy. 

In Asian Credit Monitor: The Pad Thai Election, Warut Promboon looks at the potential impact of the results from the Thai election and the implications for credit in that country. 

Equity Bottom-up Insights

In Part 5 of a Smartkarma Originals seriesIndonesia Property – In Search of the End of the Rainbow – Part 5 –  Summarecon Agung (SMRA IJ), CrossASEAN Insight Provider Jessica Irenelooks in detail at this leading township developer. The company has over 40 years of track record and a combined development area of over 2,700ha. The company benefits from its exposure to the popular Serpong district, but an over-expansion, coupled with tightening property regulations caused its balance sheet to suffer in the following years. Earnings have declined by -19% Cagr over the past five years as a consequence of lower margins and burgeoning debt levels. The company has plans to divest its retail mall division, which can serve as a positive catalyst in the near term. Improving sentiment and better interest rate environment, as well as positive regulatory tailwinds, should be a driver to SMRA’s share price this year. We see a 44% upside to our target price of IDR1,408 per share.

In XL Axiata (EXCL IJ) – The Crown Prince of Data, CrossASEAN Insight Provider Angus Mackintosh circles back to Indonesia’s most direct play on the rising consumption of mobile data, as pricing in that market starts to look more favourable. 

In Golden Agri: El Nino Back on the Front Burner; Bullish Catalyst for GAR, commodities specialist Charles Spencer zeros on the potential positive impact from an impending El Nino.

In Philippine National Bank – The Beginning of Recognition, Daniel Tabbush circles back to this leading but unappreciated Philippines lender, where he sees greater appreciation from investors starting to transpire. 

In Tisco – A Bright Bank in a Dim Rate World, Daniel Tabbush revisit one of his top financial picks in Thailand. 

In SUTL: Puteri Harbor Construction Started Last Week, Membership Sales to Follow, Cash = 84% of MktCap. CrossASEAN Insight Provider Nicolas Van Broekhoven circles back to this small-cap marina play and finds it to be one of the cheapest stocks listed on the SGX. 

In Delta Electronics (DELTA TB): Thoughts on the IFA’s Valuation RangeDelta Electronics Thai (DELTA TB), Arun George circles back to this ongoing tender offer, which he recommends minorities should accept. 

In After You Looks Beyond Thailand For Opportunities, our Thai Guru Athaporn Arayasantiparb, CFA writes on After You Pcl (AU TB) and Amata Corp Public (AMATA TB) following recent meetings with management. The meetings with the two companies whose industries could not have been more different. 

Sector and Thematic Insights

In Thai Telecoms: Slowdown in Mobile Business Continues., our comrades and collaborators at New Street Research circle back to the Thai Telco sector post 4Q18 results. 

In Snippets #21: Bremen, TMB Rights Issue, Thai guru Athaporn Arayasantiparb, CFA highlights five developments/news flows/trends and their potential impact on Thai equities over the past week or so. 

In Phillippine Gaming Tug of War Disguises Vibrant Sector Potential for 2019-2020, gaming specialist Howard J Klein zeros in on the Philippines gaming sector, which currently flies under investor’s radar but has a lot of future potentials, and more especially Bloomberry Resorts (BLOOM PM)

In Singapore Real Deals (Issue 5): The Largest Condominium in Singapore, Anni Kum presents a fortnightly property digest that takes you through the peculiarities of Singapore’s real estate market. In this issue, she looks at the launch of Treasure at Tampines in District 18, the largest condominium in Singapore to-date. (Official launch last weekend). 

Get Straight to the Source on Smartkarma

Smartkarma supports the world’s leading investors with high-quality, timely, and actionable Insights. Subscribe now for unlimited access, or request a demo below.



Brief Singapore: ESR Cayman Pre-IPO- First Stab at Valuation and more

By | Singapore

In this briefing:

  1. ESR Cayman Pre-IPO- First Stab at Valuation
  2. US Lake Charles LNG Liquefaction Plant Tendering for Contractors: Positive for TechnipFMC
  3. Leong Hup Pre-IPO – Hard to Pinpoint What’s Going to Be the Revenue Driver Going Forward
  4. The Week that Was in ASEAN@Smartkarma – Thailand’s Election, Philippine Banks, and Data Junkies
  5. Gold May Rise on Lower Real Ylds; Canada Leads Fall in Real Ylds; Aust Inflation Expectations Slump

1. ESR Cayman Pre-IPO- First Stab at Valuation

Forecast%20 %20investment%20income

ESR Cayman (ESR HK) aims to raise up to US$1.5bn in its planned Hong Kong listing, as per media reports. The company is backed by Warburg Pincus and counts APG, the Netherlands’ largest pension provider, as one of its main investors.

In my earlier insights: I touched upon the company’s business model and provided an overview of its operations, ESR Cayman Pre-IPO – A Giant in the Making and talk about the financials and the drivers for each of the three segments, ESR Cayman Pre-IPO – Earnings and Segment Analysis.

In this insight, I’ll look at valuing each of the segments.

2. US Lake Charles LNG Liquefaction Plant Tendering for Contractors: Positive for TechnipFMC

Lake%20charles

Energy Transfer LP (ET US) and Royal Dutch Shell (RDSA LN) have signed a Project Framework Agreement to further develop a large-scale LNG export facility in Lake Charles, Louisiana and move toward a potential final investment decision (FID). They have started actively engaging with LNG Engineering, Procurement and Contracting (EPC) companies with a plan to issue an Invitation to Tender (ITT) in the weeks ahead. We look at the potential contract size and winners and also the other US LNG projects that could be negatively impacted. More detail on the LNG project queue for this year in: A Huge Wave of New LNG Projects Coming in the Next 18 Months: Positive for The E&C Companies.

3. Leong Hup Pre-IPO – Hard to Pinpoint What’s Going to Be the Revenue Driver Going Forward

Yoy growth and contribution to 2017 revenue 2016 2017 6m18 of 2017 revenue chartbuilder

Leong Hup International (LEHUP MK) (LHI) plans to raise up to US$400m in its Malaysian IPO. LHI is one of the largest integrated poultry producer in Southeast Asia. 

LHI was listed on Bursa Malaysia from 1990 to 2012.  Since delisting, it has consolidated  its Southeast Asia operations under a single entity and is now looking to relist the larger entity.

While revenue has been growing steadily, margins have been volatile. In addition, its difficult to pinpoint which products are performing well in which geographies. The feedmills business seems to be a more consistent performer as compared to the livestock business. It’s also a larger revenue contributor in the faster growing regions.

4. The Week that Was in ASEAN@Smartkarma – Thailand’s Election, Philippine Banks, and Data Junkies

This week’s offering of Insights across ASEAN@Smartkarma is filled with another eclectic mix of differentiated, substantive and actionable insights from across South East Asia and includes macro, top-down and thematic pieces, as well as actionable equity bottom-up pieces. Please find a brief summary below, with a fuller write up in the detailed section.

This week’s highlights include value-added comment from CrossASEAN insight provider Prasenjit K. Basu and Dr Jim Walker on the potential impact of Thailand’s elections, an in-depth look at Summarecon Agung (SMRA IJ) fromJessica Irene in part 5 of a Smartkarma Originalsseries on Indonesian property, as well as insights from Daniel Tabbush onPhilippine National Bank (PNB PM) and Tisco Financial Group (TISCO TB), as well as an update onXl Axiata (EXCL IJ)from Angus Mackintosh following a meeting with management. 

Macro Insights

In Thailand: Elections Are Not Irrelevant; This One Too Pits Faster Growth Vs. Military “Stability”, Cross ASEAN Insight provider Prasenjit K. Basu discusses the implications of the result of Thailand’s election, which will likely see the incumbent Prime Minister retain his position, this times as a democratically elected leader (result covered in the discussion stream). 

In Widodo Lead Intact / VP Debate Lacks Impact / Trade Slows / Permitting Impediment / PPP Chair ArrestKevin O’Rourke looks at the most important political and economic developments over the past week and provides his value-added comment. 

In Thailand’s Election – Growth Story Plays Wait and See, Dr. Jim Walker discusses the recent monetary moves by the Bank of Thailand and what the result of the election might mean for growth. 

In Philippines: El Niño’s Comeback – How Bad? , Jun Trinidad looks at the potential impact from the predicted comeback of El Nino in the economy. 

In Asian Credit Monitor: The Pad Thai Election, Warut Promboon looks at the potential impact of the results from the Thai election and the implications for credit in that country. 

Equity Bottom-up Insights

In Part 5 of a Smartkarma Originals seriesIndonesia Property – In Search of the End of the Rainbow – Part 5 –  Summarecon Agung (SMRA IJ), CrossASEAN Insight Provider Jessica Irenelooks in detail at this leading township developer. The company has over 40 years of track record and a combined development area of over 2,700ha. The company benefits from its exposure to the popular Serpong district, but an over-expansion, coupled with tightening property regulations caused its balance sheet to suffer in the following years. Earnings have declined by -19% Cagr over the past five years as a consequence of lower margins and burgeoning debt levels. The company has plans to divest its retail mall division, which can serve as a positive catalyst in the near term. Improving sentiment and better interest rate environment, as well as positive regulatory tailwinds, should be a driver to SMRA’s share price this year. We see a 44% upside to our target price of IDR1,408 per share.

In XL Axiata (EXCL IJ) – The Crown Prince of Data, CrossASEAN Insight Provider Angus Mackintosh circles back to Indonesia’s most direct play on the rising consumption of mobile data, as pricing in that market starts to look more favourable. 

In Golden Agri: El Nino Back on the Front Burner; Bullish Catalyst for GAR, commodities specialist Charles Spencer zeros on the potential positive impact from an impending El Nino.

In Philippine National Bank – The Beginning of Recognition, Daniel Tabbush circles back to this leading but unappreciated Philippines lender, where he sees greater appreciation from investors starting to transpire. 

In Tisco – A Bright Bank in a Dim Rate World, Daniel Tabbush revisit one of his top financial picks in Thailand. 

In SUTL: Puteri Harbor Construction Started Last Week, Membership Sales to Follow, Cash = 84% of MktCap. CrossASEAN Insight Provider Nicolas Van Broekhoven circles back to this small-cap marina play and finds it to be one of the cheapest stocks listed on the SGX. 

In Delta Electronics (DELTA TB): Thoughts on the IFA’s Valuation RangeDelta Electronics Thai (DELTA TB), Arun George circles back to this ongoing tender offer, which he recommends minorities should accept. 

In After You Looks Beyond Thailand For Opportunities, our Thai Guru Athaporn Arayasantiparb, CFA writes on After You Pcl (AU TB) and Amata Corp Public (AMATA TB) following recent meetings with management. The meetings with the two companies whose industries could not have been more different. 

Sector and Thematic Insights

In Thai Telecoms: Slowdown in Mobile Business Continues., our comrades and collaborators at New Street Research circle back to the Thai Telco sector post 4Q18 results. 

In Snippets #21: Bremen, TMB Rights Issue, Thai guru Athaporn Arayasantiparb, CFA highlights five developments/news flows/trends and their potential impact on Thai equities over the past week or so. 

In Phillippine Gaming Tug of War Disguises Vibrant Sector Potential for 2019-2020, gaming specialist Howard J Klein zeros in on the Philippines gaming sector, which currently flies under investor’s radar but has a lot of future potentials, and more especially Bloomberry Resorts (BLOOM PM)

In Singapore Real Deals (Issue 5): The Largest Condominium in Singapore, Anni Kum presents a fortnightly property digest that takes you through the peculiarities of Singapore’s real estate market. In this issue, she looks at the launch of Treasure at Tampines in District 18, the largest condominium in Singapore to-date. (Official launch last weekend). 

5. Gold May Rise on Lower Real Ylds; Canada Leads Fall in Real Ylds; Aust Inflation Expectations Slump

  • The broad decline in global bond yields and curve flattening suggest that the market has become more concerned about weak global economic growth.
  • The fall in yields is at odds with the rise in equity and commodity prices this year, but the later may have lost upward momentum.
  • Safe haven currencies, gold and JPY, have strengthened this week and are likely to perform well if yields remain low.
  • US real yields have fallen more than nominal yields this year, with a partial recovery in inflation expectations from their fall in Q4 last year. Lower real yields point to weaker fundamental support for the USD, and further support safe havens like gold.
  • Canadian real long term yields have fallen more abruptly than in the USA, into negative territory, suggesting the outlook for the Canadian economy has deteriorated more than most. This may relate to concern over a peaking in the Canadian housing market. The fall in real yields suggests further downside risk for the CAD.
  • Long term inflation breakevens have fallen in Australia sharply since September last year to now well below the RBA’s 2.5% inflation target.
  • Australian leading indicators of the labour market have turned lower, albeit from solid levels, and may be enough, combined with broader evidence of weaker growth, for the RBA to announce an easing bias as soon as April.
  • Asian trade data and flash PMI data for major countries point to ongoing and significant weakness in global trade.

Get Straight to the Source on Smartkarma

Smartkarma supports the world’s leading investors with high-quality, timely, and actionable Insights. Subscribe now for unlimited access, or request a demo below.



Brief Singapore: Another US LNG Project Goes Ahead: Positive for the Contractors; Negative for Others Looking to FID and more

By | Singapore

In this briefing:

  1. Another US LNG Project Goes Ahead: Positive for the Contractors; Negative for Others Looking to FID
  2. Bank of Kyoto – Nintendo Sale A Portent of Changes To Come?
  3. Last Week in GER Research: Best World, Graincorp, Myob and New Century IPO
  4. 2019 Asia Casino Forecast: Highlights by Country and Performance

1. Another US LNG Project Goes Ahead: Positive for the Contractors; Negative for Others Looking to FID

Cp pipeline illustration 1e 1

US private LNG company Venture Global is starting construction on its 10 million ton per annum (mtpa) US LNG export facility in Louisiana after gaining approval from the US Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). This is positive for the LNG contractor market and we discuss the companies involved in the project. 

This follows final investment decision taken on Golden Pass (Exxon and Qatar Proceed with US$10bn Golden Pass LNG Terminal: Positive for Chiyoda and MDR US) and supports our thesis of a large wave of new projects that will be sanctioned in the coming months (A Huge Wave of New LNG Projects Coming in the Next 18 Months: Positive for The E&C Companies). This was viewed as a relatively speculative project and with aggressively low cost and timing estimates.

Source: Venture Global

2. Bank of Kyoto – Nintendo Sale A Portent of Changes To Come?

Screenshot%202019 02 25%20at%204.44.18%20am

On Friday 22 February after the close, Nintendo Co Ltd (7974 JP) announced a buyback (E, J), a share cancellation (E, J), and a public equity offering of secondary shares (J-only). This kind of event is not abnormal in a year when profits are weaker and share prices are down. Cross-holders often sell shares into the end of the year in order to realise profits and let unrealised gains from the balance sheet filter into the income statement.

This time it is five sellers from four banks which all hail from the area: Bank Of Kyoto (8369 JP), Nomura Trust (which holds shares in a trust account for the MUFJ Bank pension fund as a beneficiary), Mitsubishi Ufj Financial (8306 JP)‘s MUFJ Bank, Resona Holdings (8308 JP), and Shiga Bank (8366 JP). The MUFJ Bank holdings likely originate from Sanwa Bank which was Osaka-based before merging with BOT-Mitsubishi almost 15 years ago, and Resona is also from Osaka – next door to Kyoto where Nintendo was founded – and Shiga Bank is the prefecture next door.

This would look like a normal sell-down… except for one thing.

There was a note in the announcement to the effect that “in the context of how companies deal with their policy cross-holdings becoming the subject of greater focus, we confirmed that several shareholders desired to sell shares, and as a company subject to such cross-holdings, we are conducting the above-mentioned Offering.”

The “greater focus” comes from the both the change in the Japan Corporate Governance Code which was introduced last spring and went live June 1st (discussed in Japan’s Corporate Governance Code Amendments – A Much Bigger Stick for Activists and Stewards) which raised the bar for disclosure of reasons, and results, of such policy crossholdings in a revised version of Principle 1.4, and an example of how a board should make decisions and execute an unwind of corporate crossholdings. This example was given by Japan Exchange Group (8697 JP) itself regarding the TSE’s stake of 4.95% in Singapore Exchange (SGX SP) and was discussed in Japan Crossholdings: Japan Exchange’s Sale of SGX Shares Sets A Precedent – Watch Closely.  

In the TSE crossholding of SGX situation, the sale was not the most important part. The explanation of how the Board came to its decision and what they decided to do about it was important. 

On the other hand, Japan’s Corporate Governance Code (the Code), which was introduced in 2015, requires listed companies to examine and explain the economic rationale and future outlook of holding shares of other listed companies for reasons other than pure investment purposes. Following a review of the requirements under the Code, JPX reached the conclusion that the existing cooperative relationship with SGX would continue even without holding the shares of SGX.       [my bold]

The Japan Exchange Group had now provided the example for why even companies with cooperative business relationships should not own cross-holdings. And it is, if active stewards of capital choose to make it so, more subtle. Shareholders have even an even better pressure point. IF a company’s cooperative relationship with another company would not survive the unwinding of cross-holdings to improve capital efficiency for both sides, is that company truly independent? Is that company beholden to the company whose shares it holds? Is the cross-holding board doing its job?

And the Japan Exchange Group had said it would unwind its holdings of SGX over three years, so as not to overly impact the market for SGX shares. This provided an example of HOW to unwind, in addition to the WHY to unwind announced above.

The BIG QUESTION (And Nothing Else Matters)

The big question here is whether the reasoning for selling is really because of the new focus on policy cross-holdings, or it is just Bank of Kyoto and other banks trying to top up profit before the end of the fiscal year, using heretofore unrealised gains.

The Nintendo-specific situation is discussed in Nintendo Offering & Buyback: The Import & The Dynamics

An analysis of the Bank of Kyoto-specific situation is discussed below.

3. Last Week in GER Research: Best World, Graincorp, Myob and New Century IPO

In this version of the GER weekly research wrap, we assess the controversy surrounding potentially inflated revenue concerns for Best World International (BEST SP) . Secondly, we dig into the latest M&A situation for Graincorp Ltd A (GNC AU) amidst a testy AGM and a slow resolution to a binding bid which may limit a bump. In addition, we update on the KKR bid for MYOB Group Ltd (MYO AU) which Arun contends is unlikely to receive a counter bid due to KKR’s blocking stake. Finally, we initiate on the IPO of hotelier Zhejiang New Century Hotel Management Group (ZHEKAIH HK).  A calendar of upcoming catalysts is also attached. 

More details can be found below. 

Best of luck for the new week – Rickin, Venkat and Arun

4. 2019 Asia Casino Forecast: Highlights by Country and Performance

120053371

  • Headwinds linger, but are beginning to lose velocity as consumers defy macro fears.
  • VIP slowdown should peak by Q3 and begin northward creep as bankrolls replenish.
  • Valuations today do not yet fully reflect the beginnings of a sector recovery.

Get Straight to the Source on Smartkarma

Smartkarma supports the world’s leading investors with high-quality, timely, and actionable Insights. Subscribe now for unlimited access, or request a demo below.



Brief Singapore: US Lake Charles LNG Liquefaction Plant Tendering for Contractors: Positive for TechnipFMC and more

By | Singapore

In this briefing:

  1. US Lake Charles LNG Liquefaction Plant Tendering for Contractors: Positive for TechnipFMC
  2. Leong Hup Pre-IPO – Hard to Pinpoint What’s Going to Be the Revenue Driver Going Forward
  3. The Week that Was in ASEAN@Smartkarma – Thailand’s Election, Philippine Banks, and Data Junkies
  4. Gold May Rise on Lower Real Ylds; Canada Leads Fall in Real Ylds; Aust Inflation Expectations Slump
  5. RRG Weekly – Fed Highlights Headwinds – Greece Greases Growth – Thai Election Sun Too Close to Call

1. US Lake Charles LNG Liquefaction Plant Tendering for Contractors: Positive for TechnipFMC

Lake%20charles

Energy Transfer LP (ET US) and Royal Dutch Shell (RDSA LN) have signed a Project Framework Agreement to further develop a large-scale LNG export facility in Lake Charles, Louisiana and move toward a potential final investment decision (FID). They have started actively engaging with LNG Engineering, Procurement and Contracting (EPC) companies with a plan to issue an Invitation to Tender (ITT) in the weeks ahead. We look at the potential contract size and winners and also the other US LNG projects that could be negatively impacted. More detail on the LNG project queue for this year in: A Huge Wave of New LNG Projects Coming in the Next 18 Months: Positive for The E&C Companies.

2. Leong Hup Pre-IPO – Hard to Pinpoint What’s Going to Be the Revenue Driver Going Forward

Margins have been volatile as of revenue apart from ocf 2015 2016 2017 6m18 chartbuilder

Leong Hup International (LEHUP MK) (LHI) plans to raise up to US$400m in its Malaysian IPO. LHI is one of the largest integrated poultry producer in Southeast Asia. 

LHI was listed on Bursa Malaysia from 1990 to 2012.  Since delisting, it has consolidated  its Southeast Asia operations under a single entity and is now looking to relist the larger entity.

While revenue has been growing steadily, margins have been volatile. In addition, its difficult to pinpoint which products are performing well in which geographies. The feedmills business seems to be a more consistent performer as compared to the livestock business. It’s also a larger revenue contributor in the faster growing regions.

3. The Week that Was in ASEAN@Smartkarma – Thailand’s Election, Philippine Banks, and Data Junkies

This week’s offering of Insights across ASEAN@Smartkarma is filled with another eclectic mix of differentiated, substantive and actionable insights from across South East Asia and includes macro, top-down and thematic pieces, as well as actionable equity bottom-up pieces. Please find a brief summary below, with a fuller write up in the detailed section.

This week’s highlights include value-added comment from CrossASEAN insight provider Prasenjit K. Basu and Dr Jim Walker on the potential impact of Thailand’s elections, an in-depth look at Summarecon Agung (SMRA IJ) fromJessica Irene in part 5 of a Smartkarma Originalsseries on Indonesian property, as well as insights from Daniel Tabbush onPhilippine National Bank (PNB PM) and Tisco Financial Group (TISCO TB), as well as an update onXl Axiata (EXCL IJ)from Angus Mackintosh following a meeting with management. 

Macro Insights

In Thailand: Elections Are Not Irrelevant; This One Too Pits Faster Growth Vs. Military “Stability”, Cross ASEAN Insight provider Prasenjit K. Basu discusses the implications of the result of Thailand’s election, which will likely see the incumbent Prime Minister retain his position, this times as a democratically elected leader (result covered in the discussion stream). 

In Widodo Lead Intact / VP Debate Lacks Impact / Trade Slows / Permitting Impediment / PPP Chair ArrestKevin O’Rourke looks at the most important political and economic developments over the past week and provides his value-added comment. 

In Thailand’s Election – Growth Story Plays Wait and See, Dr. Jim Walker discusses the recent monetary moves by the Bank of Thailand and what the result of the election might mean for growth. 

In Philippines: El Niño’s Comeback – How Bad? , Jun Trinidad looks at the potential impact from the predicted comeback of El Nino in the economy. 

In Asian Credit Monitor: The Pad Thai Election, Warut Promboon looks at the potential impact of the results from the Thai election and the implications for credit in that country. 

Equity Bottom-up Insights

In Part 5 of a Smartkarma Originals seriesIndonesia Property – In Search of the End of the Rainbow – Part 5 –  Summarecon Agung (SMRA IJ), CrossASEAN Insight Provider Jessica Irenelooks in detail at this leading township developer. The company has over 40 years of track record and a combined development area of over 2,700ha. The company benefits from its exposure to the popular Serpong district, but an over-expansion, coupled with tightening property regulations caused its balance sheet to suffer in the following years. Earnings have declined by -19% Cagr over the past five years as a consequence of lower margins and burgeoning debt levels. The company has plans to divest its retail mall division, which can serve as a positive catalyst in the near term. Improving sentiment and better interest rate environment, as well as positive regulatory tailwinds, should be a driver to SMRA’s share price this year. We see a 44% upside to our target price of IDR1,408 per share.

In XL Axiata (EXCL IJ) – The Crown Prince of Data, CrossASEAN Insight Provider Angus Mackintosh circles back to Indonesia’s most direct play on the rising consumption of mobile data, as pricing in that market starts to look more favourable. 

In Golden Agri: El Nino Back on the Front Burner; Bullish Catalyst for GAR, commodities specialist Charles Spencer zeros on the potential positive impact from an impending El Nino.

In Philippine National Bank – The Beginning of Recognition, Daniel Tabbush circles back to this leading but unappreciated Philippines lender, where he sees greater appreciation from investors starting to transpire. 

In Tisco – A Bright Bank in a Dim Rate World, Daniel Tabbush revisit one of his top financial picks in Thailand. 

In SUTL: Puteri Harbor Construction Started Last Week, Membership Sales to Follow, Cash = 84% of MktCap. CrossASEAN Insight Provider Nicolas Van Broekhoven circles back to this small-cap marina play and finds it to be one of the cheapest stocks listed on the SGX. 

In Delta Electronics (DELTA TB): Thoughts on the IFA’s Valuation RangeDelta Electronics Thai (DELTA TB), Arun George circles back to this ongoing tender offer, which he recommends minorities should accept. 

In After You Looks Beyond Thailand For Opportunities, our Thai Guru Athaporn Arayasantiparb, CFA writes on After You Pcl (AU TB) and Amata Corp Public (AMATA TB) following recent meetings with management. The meetings with the two companies whose industries could not have been more different. 

Sector and Thematic Insights

In Thai Telecoms: Slowdown in Mobile Business Continues., our comrades and collaborators at New Street Research circle back to the Thai Telco sector post 4Q18 results. 

In Snippets #21: Bremen, TMB Rights Issue, Thai guru Athaporn Arayasantiparb, CFA highlights five developments/news flows/trends and their potential impact on Thai equities over the past week or so. 

In Phillippine Gaming Tug of War Disguises Vibrant Sector Potential for 2019-2020, gaming specialist Howard J Klein zeros in on the Philippines gaming sector, which currently flies under investor’s radar but has a lot of future potentials, and more especially Bloomberry Resorts (BLOOM PM)

In Singapore Real Deals (Issue 5): The Largest Condominium in Singapore, Anni Kum presents a fortnightly property digest that takes you through the peculiarities of Singapore’s real estate market. In this issue, she looks at the launch of Treasure at Tampines in District 18, the largest condominium in Singapore to-date. (Official launch last weekend). 

4. Gold May Rise on Lower Real Ylds; Canada Leads Fall in Real Ylds; Aust Inflation Expectations Slump

  • The broad decline in global bond yields and curve flattening suggest that the market has become more concerned about weak global economic growth.
  • The fall in yields is at odds with the rise in equity and commodity prices this year, but the later may have lost upward momentum.
  • Safe haven currencies, gold and JPY, have strengthened this week and are likely to perform well if yields remain low.
  • US real yields have fallen more than nominal yields this year, with a partial recovery in inflation expectations from their fall in Q4 last year. Lower real yields point to weaker fundamental support for the USD, and further support safe havens like gold.
  • Canadian real long term yields have fallen more abruptly than in the USA, into negative territory, suggesting the outlook for the Canadian economy has deteriorated more than most. This may relate to concern over a peaking in the Canadian housing market. The fall in real yields suggests further downside risk for the CAD.
  • Long term inflation breakevens have fallen in Australia sharply since September last year to now well below the RBA’s 2.5% inflation target.
  • Australian leading indicators of the labour market have turned lower, albeit from solid levels, and may be enough, combined with broader evidence of weaker growth, for the RBA to announce an easing bias as soon as April.
  • Asian trade data and flash PMI data for major countries point to ongoing and significant weakness in global trade.

5. RRG Weekly – Fed Highlights Headwinds – Greece Greases Growth – Thai Election Sun Too Close to Call

  • US: Fed Sees Tailwinds from Global Growth Shifting to Headwinds from China and Europe.
  • Greece: Growth supported by ‘Golden Visa’ (5-year visa for investing 250,000 Euro) and strong tourism arrivals. 2.3% GDP in 2020.
  • Thailand: Sunday election between Shinawatra-linked Pheu Thai Party and military backed Palang Pracharat Party. Too close to call.
  • Brazil: Former Brazilian President Michel Temer has been arrested in São Paulo as part of the Car Wash corruption investigation. Brazil stocks fell on the news.

Get Straight to the Source on Smartkarma

Smartkarma supports the world’s leading investors with high-quality, timely, and actionable Insights. Subscribe now for unlimited access, or request a demo below.



Brief Singapore: Bank of Kyoto – Nintendo Sale A Portent of Changes To Come? and more

By | Singapore

In this briefing:

  1. Bank of Kyoto – Nintendo Sale A Portent of Changes To Come?
  2. Last Week in GER Research: Best World, Graincorp, Myob and New Century IPO
  3. 2019 Asia Casino Forecast: Highlights by Country and Performance
  4. Nintendo Offering & Buyback: The Import & The Dynamics

1. Bank of Kyoto – Nintendo Sale A Portent of Changes To Come?

Screenshot%202019 02 25%20at%204.44.18%20am

On Friday 22 February after the close, Nintendo Co Ltd (7974 JP) announced a buyback (E, J), a share cancellation (E, J), and a public equity offering of secondary shares (J-only). This kind of event is not abnormal in a year when profits are weaker and share prices are down. Cross-holders often sell shares into the end of the year in order to realise profits and let unrealised gains from the balance sheet filter into the income statement.

This time it is five sellers from four banks which all hail from the area: Bank Of Kyoto (8369 JP), Nomura Trust (which holds shares in a trust account for the MUFJ Bank pension fund as a beneficiary), Mitsubishi Ufj Financial (8306 JP)‘s MUFJ Bank, Resona Holdings (8308 JP), and Shiga Bank (8366 JP). The MUFJ Bank holdings likely originate from Sanwa Bank which was Osaka-based before merging with BOT-Mitsubishi almost 15 years ago, and Resona is also from Osaka – next door to Kyoto where Nintendo was founded – and Shiga Bank is the prefecture next door.

This would look like a normal sell-down… except for one thing.

There was a note in the announcement to the effect that “in the context of how companies deal with their policy cross-holdings becoming the subject of greater focus, we confirmed that several shareholders desired to sell shares, and as a company subject to such cross-holdings, we are conducting the above-mentioned Offering.”

The “greater focus” comes from the both the change in the Japan Corporate Governance Code which was introduced last spring and went live June 1st (discussed in Japan’s Corporate Governance Code Amendments – A Much Bigger Stick for Activists and Stewards) which raised the bar for disclosure of reasons, and results, of such policy crossholdings in a revised version of Principle 1.4, and an example of how a board should make decisions and execute an unwind of corporate crossholdings. This example was given by Japan Exchange Group (8697 JP) itself regarding the TSE’s stake of 4.95% in Singapore Exchange (SGX SP) and was discussed in Japan Crossholdings: Japan Exchange’s Sale of SGX Shares Sets A Precedent – Watch Closely.  

In the TSE crossholding of SGX situation, the sale was not the most important part. The explanation of how the Board came to its decision and what they decided to do about it was important. 

On the other hand, Japan’s Corporate Governance Code (the Code), which was introduced in 2015, requires listed companies to examine and explain the economic rationale and future outlook of holding shares of other listed companies for reasons other than pure investment purposes. Following a review of the requirements under the Code, JPX reached the conclusion that the existing cooperative relationship with SGX would continue even without holding the shares of SGX.       [my bold]

The Japan Exchange Group had now provided the example for why even companies with cooperative business relationships should not own cross-holdings. And it is, if active stewards of capital choose to make it so, more subtle. Shareholders have even an even better pressure point. IF a company’s cooperative relationship with another company would not survive the unwinding of cross-holdings to improve capital efficiency for both sides, is that company truly independent? Is that company beholden to the company whose shares it holds? Is the cross-holding board doing its job?

And the Japan Exchange Group had said it would unwind its holdings of SGX over three years, so as not to overly impact the market for SGX shares. This provided an example of HOW to unwind, in addition to the WHY to unwind announced above.

The BIG QUESTION (And Nothing Else Matters)

The big question here is whether the reasoning for selling is really because of the new focus on policy cross-holdings, or it is just Bank of Kyoto and other banks trying to top up profit before the end of the fiscal year, using heretofore unrealised gains.

The Nintendo-specific situation is discussed in Nintendo Offering & Buyback: The Import & The Dynamics

An analysis of the Bank of Kyoto-specific situation is discussed below.

2. Last Week in GER Research: Best World, Graincorp, Myob and New Century IPO

In this version of the GER weekly research wrap, we assess the controversy surrounding potentially inflated revenue concerns for Best World International (BEST SP) . Secondly, we dig into the latest M&A situation for Graincorp Ltd A (GNC AU) amidst a testy AGM and a slow resolution to a binding bid which may limit a bump. In addition, we update on the KKR bid for MYOB Group Ltd (MYO AU) which Arun contends is unlikely to receive a counter bid due to KKR’s blocking stake. Finally, we initiate on the IPO of hotelier Zhejiang New Century Hotel Management Group (ZHEKAIH HK).  A calendar of upcoming catalysts is also attached. 

More details can be found below. 

Best of luck for the new week – Rickin, Venkat and Arun

3. 2019 Asia Casino Forecast: Highlights by Country and Performance

120053371

  • Headwinds linger, but are beginning to lose velocity as consumers defy macro fears.
  • VIP slowdown should peak by Q3 and begin northward creep as bankrolls replenish.
  • Valuations today do not yet fully reflect the beginnings of a sector recovery.

4. Nintendo Offering & Buyback: The Import & The Dynamics

Screenshot%202019 02 23%20at%208.31.13%20pm

On Friday 22 February 2019 after the close, Nintendo Co Ltd (7974 JP)announced (J) a Secondary Shares Uridashi Offering of 2,428,700 shares by five shareholder banks, with an overallotment of 364,300 shares. This will be a little bit over 2% of shares outstanding. 

Applying a hypothetical 4% discount to the last traded price of ¥30,030/share, this is an ¥80bn Offering including greenshoe. 

On the same day, Nintendo announced (E) a share buyback program to buy up to 1 million shares or up to ¥33 billion worth (whichever is reached first) to last from the business day immediately following the delivery date of the Offering shares (practically speaking, a day on or between 13 March and 18 March 2019) to 12 April 2019. Based on an average daily volume traded of 2.2mm shares, 10% participation would mean the buyback would take 5 days to complete. 5% would take 9 days. The company also announced (E) it would cancel 10 million shares on 29 March 2019. That may only be 45% of the post-buyback treasury share position, but it leads to another event investors should watch.

This is the first buyback Nintendo has announced in five years. The Nikkei article discussing the situation suggests that the possibility of supply/demand being weak is the reason for the buyback. The stated reason for the Offering as proposed by Nintendo in its Offering announcement, suggested a goal of increasing and diversifying the shareholder base.

The real reason why this selldown is happening – also noted in the Offering Document “reason for the offering” – is because of the heightened focus on policy cross-holdings highlighted in the changes to the Corporate Governance Code (especially Principle 1.4) which went live June 1 2018. The major changes were discussed in Japan’s Corporate Governance Code Amendments – A Much Bigger Stick for Activists and Stewards at that time, but the hint of how this might play out was discussed in Japan Crossholdings: Japan Exchange’s Sale of SGX Shares Sets A Precedent – Watch Closely from 1 April 2018. In an announcement after the close on the last day of the last fiscal year, Japan Exchange Group (8697 JP) announced it would sell down its 4.95% stake in Singapore Exchange (SGX SP) over the space of three years. 

The fact that JPX was selling the shares was not important. The reasoning was. And JPX provided an example of how it should be done (as explained in the insight). 

My words then still stand.

And JPX provided an example of how it should be done (as explained in the insight). The ramifications are significant.

The ramifications of this Offering are significant too. This is a lot more than just an offering by entities looking to take profits.

Get Straight to the Source on Smartkarma

Smartkarma supports the world’s leading investors with high-quality, timely, and actionable Insights. Subscribe now for unlimited access, or request a demo below.



Brief Singapore: Leong Hup Pre-IPO – Hard to Pinpoint What’s Going to Be the Revenue Driver Going Forward and more

By | Singapore

In this briefing:

  1. Leong Hup Pre-IPO – Hard to Pinpoint What’s Going to Be the Revenue Driver Going Forward
  2. The Week that Was in ASEAN@Smartkarma – Thailand’s Election, Philippine Banks, and Data Junkies
  3. Gold May Rise on Lower Real Ylds; Canada Leads Fall in Real Ylds; Aust Inflation Expectations Slump
  4. RRG Weekly – Fed Highlights Headwinds – Greece Greases Growth – Thai Election Sun Too Close to Call
  5. Singapore Real Deals (Issue 5): The Largest Condominium in Singapore

1. Leong Hup Pre-IPO – Hard to Pinpoint What’s Going to Be the Revenue Driver Going Forward

Price%20change

Leong Hup International (LEHUP MK) (LHI) plans to raise up to US$400m in its Malaysian IPO. LHI is one of the largest integrated poultry producer in Southeast Asia. 

LHI was listed on Bursa Malaysia from 1990 to 2012.  Since delisting, it has consolidated  its Southeast Asia operations under a single entity and is now looking to relist the larger entity.

While revenue has been growing steadily, margins have been volatile. In addition, its difficult to pinpoint which products are performing well in which geographies. The feedmills business seems to be a more consistent performer as compared to the livestock business. It’s also a larger revenue contributor in the faster growing regions.

2. The Week that Was in ASEAN@Smartkarma – Thailand’s Election, Philippine Banks, and Data Junkies

This week’s offering of Insights across ASEAN@Smartkarma is filled with another eclectic mix of differentiated, substantive and actionable insights from across South East Asia and includes macro, top-down and thematic pieces, as well as actionable equity bottom-up pieces. Please find a brief summary below, with a fuller write up in the detailed section.

This week’s highlights include value-added comment from CrossASEAN insight provider Prasenjit K. Basu and Dr Jim Walker on the potential impact of Thailand’s elections, an in-depth look at Summarecon Agung (SMRA IJ) fromJessica Irene in part 5 of a Smartkarma Originalsseries on Indonesian property, as well as insights from Daniel Tabbush onPhilippine National Bank (PNB PM) and Tisco Financial Group (TISCO TB), as well as an update onXl Axiata (EXCL IJ)from Angus Mackintosh following a meeting with management. 

Macro Insights

In Thailand: Elections Are Not Irrelevant; This One Too Pits Faster Growth Vs. Military “Stability”, Cross ASEAN Insight provider Prasenjit K. Basu discusses the implications of the result of Thailand’s election, which will likely see the incumbent Prime Minister retain his position, this times as a democratically elected leader (result covered in the discussion stream). 

In Widodo Lead Intact / VP Debate Lacks Impact / Trade Slows / Permitting Impediment / PPP Chair ArrestKevin O’Rourke looks at the most important political and economic developments over the past week and provides his value-added comment. 

In Thailand’s Election – Growth Story Plays Wait and See, Dr. Jim Walker discusses the recent monetary moves by the Bank of Thailand and what the result of the election might mean for growth. 

In Philippines: El Niño’s Comeback – How Bad? , Jun Trinidad looks at the potential impact from the predicted comeback of El Nino in the economy. 

In Asian Credit Monitor: The Pad Thai Election, Warut Promboon looks at the potential impact of the results from the Thai election and the implications for credit in that country. 

Equity Bottom-up Insights

In Part 5 of a Smartkarma Originals seriesIndonesia Property – In Search of the End of the Rainbow – Part 5 –  Summarecon Agung (SMRA IJ), CrossASEAN Insight Provider Jessica Irenelooks in detail at this leading township developer. The company has over 40 years of track record and a combined development area of over 2,700ha. The company benefits from its exposure to the popular Serpong district, but an over-expansion, coupled with tightening property regulations caused its balance sheet to suffer in the following years. Earnings have declined by -19% Cagr over the past five years as a consequence of lower margins and burgeoning debt levels. The company has plans to divest its retail mall division, which can serve as a positive catalyst in the near term. Improving sentiment and better interest rate environment, as well as positive regulatory tailwinds, should be a driver to SMRA’s share price this year. We see a 44% upside to our target price of IDR1,408 per share.

In XL Axiata (EXCL IJ) – The Crown Prince of Data, CrossASEAN Insight Provider Angus Mackintosh circles back to Indonesia’s most direct play on the rising consumption of mobile data, as pricing in that market starts to look more favourable. 

In Golden Agri: El Nino Back on the Front Burner; Bullish Catalyst for GAR, commodities specialist Charles Spencer zeros on the potential positive impact from an impending El Nino.

In Philippine National Bank – The Beginning of Recognition, Daniel Tabbush circles back to this leading but unappreciated Philippines lender, where he sees greater appreciation from investors starting to transpire. 

In Tisco – A Bright Bank in a Dim Rate World, Daniel Tabbush revisit one of his top financial picks in Thailand. 

In SUTL: Puteri Harbor Construction Started Last Week, Membership Sales to Follow, Cash = 84% of MktCap. CrossASEAN Insight Provider Nicolas Van Broekhoven circles back to this small-cap marina play and finds it to be one of the cheapest stocks listed on the SGX. 

In Delta Electronics (DELTA TB): Thoughts on the IFA’s Valuation RangeDelta Electronics Thai (DELTA TB), Arun George circles back to this ongoing tender offer, which he recommends minorities should accept. 

In After You Looks Beyond Thailand For Opportunities, our Thai Guru Athaporn Arayasantiparb, CFA writes on After You Pcl (AU TB) and Amata Corp Public (AMATA TB) following recent meetings with management. The meetings with the two companies whose industries could not have been more different. 

Sector and Thematic Insights

In Thai Telecoms: Slowdown in Mobile Business Continues., our comrades and collaborators at New Street Research circle back to the Thai Telco sector post 4Q18 results. 

In Snippets #21: Bremen, TMB Rights Issue, Thai guru Athaporn Arayasantiparb, CFA highlights five developments/news flows/trends and their potential impact on Thai equities over the past week or so. 

In Phillippine Gaming Tug of War Disguises Vibrant Sector Potential for 2019-2020, gaming specialist Howard J Klein zeros in on the Philippines gaming sector, which currently flies under investor’s radar but has a lot of future potentials, and more especially Bloomberry Resorts (BLOOM PM)

In Singapore Real Deals (Issue 5): The Largest Condominium in Singapore, Anni Kum presents a fortnightly property digest that takes you through the peculiarities of Singapore’s real estate market. In this issue, she looks at the launch of Treasure at Tampines in District 18, the largest condominium in Singapore to-date. (Official launch last weekend). 

3. Gold May Rise on Lower Real Ylds; Canada Leads Fall in Real Ylds; Aust Inflation Expectations Slump

  • The broad decline in global bond yields and curve flattening suggest that the market has become more concerned about weak global economic growth.
  • The fall in yields is at odds with the rise in equity and commodity prices this year, but the later may have lost upward momentum.
  • Safe haven currencies, gold and JPY, have strengthened this week and are likely to perform well if yields remain low.
  • US real yields have fallen more than nominal yields this year, with a partial recovery in inflation expectations from their fall in Q4 last year. Lower real yields point to weaker fundamental support for the USD, and further support safe havens like gold.
  • Canadian real long term yields have fallen more abruptly than in the USA, into negative territory, suggesting the outlook for the Canadian economy has deteriorated more than most. This may relate to concern over a peaking in the Canadian housing market. The fall in real yields suggests further downside risk for the CAD.
  • Long term inflation breakevens have fallen in Australia sharply since September last year to now well below the RBA’s 2.5% inflation target.
  • Australian leading indicators of the labour market have turned lower, albeit from solid levels, and may be enough, combined with broader evidence of weaker growth, for the RBA to announce an easing bias as soon as April.
  • Asian trade data and flash PMI data for major countries point to ongoing and significant weakness in global trade.

4. RRG Weekly – Fed Highlights Headwinds – Greece Greases Growth – Thai Election Sun Too Close to Call

  • US: Fed Sees Tailwinds from Global Growth Shifting to Headwinds from China and Europe.
  • Greece: Growth supported by ‘Golden Visa’ (5-year visa for investing 250,000 Euro) and strong tourism arrivals. 2.3% GDP in 2020.
  • Thailand: Sunday election between Shinawatra-linked Pheu Thai Party and military backed Palang Pracharat Party. Too close to call.
  • Brazil: Former Brazilian President Michel Temer has been arrested in São Paulo as part of the Car Wash corruption investigation. Brazil stocks fell on the news.

5. Singapore Real Deals (Issue 5): The Largest Condominium in Singapore

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Singapore Real Deals is a fortnightly property digest that takes you through the peculiarities of Singapore’s real estate market. In this issue, we look at the launch of Treasure at Tampines in District 18, the largest condominium in Singapore to-date. (Official launch this weekend)

Treasure at Tampines is a 99-year leasehold development by Sim Lian Group, to be built on the site of former Tampines Court, a 560-unit privatized HUDC. Sim Lian Group acquired Tampines Court in a collective sale in August 2017 for S$970mn (or S$676 psf ppr).  

The 2,203-unit Treasure at Tampines features one- to five-bedroom units and is priced affordably at indicative S$1,280 psf on average. The sales gallery of the condominium opened for preview to a strong turnout last weekend. Prospective buyers deposited blank cheques with property agents for the priority to choose their preferred units this weekend. However, it remains to be seen if there is enough demand to fully take up this massive project within five years.  

Competition is keen as several “mega condominiums” had been launched since a year ago and there are a few more in the pipeline in 2019.

Developers have to sell all of the units within 5 years of acquiring a site to avoid paying a hefty 25% additional buyer stamp duties (ABSD) rate. Effectively from July 2018, there is also a new 5% rate that is not to be remitted.

There are 110 five-bedroom units in the Treasure at Tampines. These units are the usually the last to move and can remain unsold for a very long time. Sim Lian Group had better be ready to pay the ABSD.

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