0643 GMT - Haidilao International's outlook for 2026 is brighter than the market expects, say Citi analysts in a note. The Chinese hotpot-restaurant operator is upbeat about continued recovery of China's casual-dining sector, which the analysts say matches the view of beer maker China Resources Beer. Haidilao's restaurant table turnover rate over January-March likely expanded by single digits on year, the analysts estimate. The company also plans to increase capital expenditure to drive growth, which is likely the reason it didn't increase its dividend payout in 2025, the analysts say. They reckon Haidilao's revenue could expand by mid-to-high single digit this year. Citi retains its buy rating and HK$19.70 target price. Shares fall 10% to HK$14.33. (megan.cheah@wsj.com)

(END) Dow Jones Newswires

March 25, 2026 02:43 ET (06:43 GMT)

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