Investment Rating - The report maintains a "Buy" rating for ZTO Express-W (02057) [4][6] Core Views - ZTO Express released its Q3 2024 results with revenue of RMB 10.675 billion, up 17.6% YoY, and adjusted net profit of RMB 2.39 billion, up 2.0% YoY [4] - The company's performance was slightly below expectations due to intense price competition during the off-season and strategic adjustments [4] - ZTO Express is shifting its strategy to prioritize market share, focusing on network policy optimization, enhancing network confidence, and accelerating scale advantages [5] - The company's cost structure improved, with single-ticket sorting costs decreasing by RMB 0.02 to RMB 0.25 and single-ticket transportation costs decreasing by RMB 0.04 to RMB 0.39 [5] - The report revised downward the company's profit forecasts for 2024-2026, with adjusted net profit expected to be RMB 10.104 billion, RMB 11.067 billion, and RMB 12.686 billion, respectively [6] Financial Performance and Forecasts - ZTO Express's business volume in Q3 2024 was 8.723 billion parcels, up 15.9% YoY, but lower than the industry average of 20.1% [5] - The company's single-ticket revenue increased by 2.6% YoY, driven by higher-value parcels and growth in direct customer business [5] - Revenue for 2024E is projected at RMB 42.704 billion, with an 11% YoY growth, while adjusted net profit is expected to grow 12% YoY to RMB 10.104 billion [6][8] - The company's market share is expected to decline slightly from 22.9% in 2023 to 21.3% in 2024E [11] - ZTO Express's PE ratio for 2024E is 11x, compared to the industry average of 15x, indicating potential upside [6] Strategic Adjustments and Market Position - ZTO Express is focusing on expanding its high-quality customer base through its parcel business, leveraging e-commerce platforms and reverse logistics partnerships [5] - The company is optimizing its cost structure through facility upgrades and standardization reforms, which have contributed to a core cost reduction of RMB 0.06 per ticket [5] - ZTO Express's strategy to regain market share includes stabilizing network policies, enhancing network confidence, and ensuring reasonable profitability [5]
中通快递-W：经营战略调整，回归市占率优先