Jefferies published a research report stating that HUA HONG GRACE (01347) met expectations in the second quarter, but the gross margin and earnings before interest and taxes outperformed forecasts thanks to a higher average selling price and cost-control measures. Net profit underperformed due to lower-than-expected other income.
The third-quarter performance remained in line with expectations, while the gross margin also met forecasts. Jefferies maintained its 'Hold' rating for HUA HONG GRACE, raising the target price from HK$91 to HK$140. The firm has increased its gross margin forecasts for 2026 to 2027 by 3.8 percentage points, reflecting a faster-than-expected recovery in gross margins. However, intense competition in mature process nodes and overcapacity issues may still pressure overall profitability.