CICC: ANTA SPORTS (02020.HK) Acquisition of Puma Stake Anticipated to Boost Global Competitiveness; Target Price Set at $110.91
Acquisition Insights: CICC's research report suggests that ANTA SPORTS' acquisition of PUMA is reasonable, enhancing its brand portfolio and international competitiveness.
Market Reaction: Citi maintains a "Buy" rating on ANTA SPORTS, indicating that any negatives from the PUMA acquisition are already reflected in the stock price.
Earnings Forecast Adjustments: CICC has adjusted its earnings per share (EPS) forecasts for ANTA SPORTS downward for 2026 and 2027 due to lower interest income and PUMA's short-term losses.
Stock Performance: ANTA SPORTS shares have seen a decline of 1.155%, with significant short selling activity reported.
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Hong Kong Stock Performance: On February 16, Hong Kong stocks saw a positive half-day session, with the HSI closing up 138 points (0.5%) at 26,705, marking a strong overall performance in the Year of the Snake with a 32% gain.
HSI Quarterly Review Changes: The quarterly review of the HSI included the addition of CATL, CMOC, and LAOPU GOLD, which saw significant gains, while ZHONGSHENG HLDG was removed from the index.
Individual Stock Movements: Notable stock movements included SANDS CHINA LTD rising 2.7% despite a slight decline in property EBITDA, while ANTA SPORTS experienced a minor drop after shareholder approval for a significant acquisition.
US Department of War Update: The US Department of War's withdrawal of the "List of Chinese Military Companies" impacted stock prices, with BABA-W declining 0.5% and BIDU-SW increasing by 1.3%.

US Inflation and Stock Market Update: US inflation was below expectations while core inflation met them; the DJIA rose by 0.1% last Friday.
Hong Kong Stock Market Performance: The Hong Kong bourse opened lower, with the HSI down 0.2% and other indices also showing declines.
HSI Quarterly Review Changes: CATL, CMOC, and LAOPU GOLD were added to the HSI, while ZHONGSHENG HLDG was removed; CATL and CMOC saw slight increases in their stock prices.
Notable Stock Movements: Stocks like BABA-W and BIDU-SW dropped significantly after being listed as Chinese military companies, while ANTA SPORTS received approval for a stake acquisition in PUMA.

ANTA SPORTS Opens First US Store: ANTA SPORTS has launched its first North American flagship store in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, marking its entry into the US market with a direct-operated retail model.
Strategic Shift in Market Approach: The opening aims to move away from the traditional reliance on wholesalers and agents, positioning ANTA SPORTS in a high-end commercial area to enhance brand visibility and direct consumer engagement.

Acquisition Details: ANTA SPORTS has received shareholder approvals for the acquisition of a 29% stake in PUMA, involving its subsidiaries Anta International, Anda Holdings, and Anda Investments.
Shareholder Holdings: The three entities collectively hold approximately 1.4775 billion shares, which accounts for about 52.83% of PUMA's total issued shares.

ANTA SPORTS Acquisition: ANTA SPORTS announced its acquisition of Puma, raising investor questions about its impact on the company's business in China.
Citi Research Insights: Citi Research predicts that the acquisition could lead to rapid revenue growth for Puma in China and suggests potential integration of retail and distribution operations.
Market Recommendations: The broker maintains a "Buy" recommendation for ANTA SPORTS and sets a target price of $107, alongside other companies in the sportswear sector.
Short Selling Data: As of February 10, 2026, ANTA SPORTS has a short selling ratio of 14.717%, while other companies like TOPSPORTS and LI NING also show significant short selling activity.

Acquisition Details: ANTA SPORTS announced the acquisition of a 29.06% stake in Puma for EUR1.5 billion, which was better than market expectations despite prior anticipation of the deal.
Future Outlook: BOCI suggests that Puma's turnaround may take longer compared to other brands like Amer Sports or Fila, and anticipates further M&A activities from ANTA SPORTS in the future.
Market Reaction: Citi maintains a Buy rating on ANTA SPORTS, indicating that any negatives from the Puma acquisition are already reflected in the stock price.
Earnings Forecast: BOCI expects limited impact on ANTA SPORTS' adjusted earnings forecasts for 2026 and 2027, setting a target price of $95.4 for the stock.




