1157 GMT - Danone could have an improvement in its infant-nutrition segment driven by the rise in birth rates in China, Barclays analysts say in a note. Especially given its material presence and significant market-share gains, the analysts add. After eight years of declines, China's National Bureau of Statistics recorded a birth rate increase of around 6% in 2024, they say. China accounts for roughly 40% of Danone's total infant-nutrition sales, the analysts say. Aptamil is the biggest brand across its entire portfolio, with sales of more than 3 billion euros, they say. China accounts for 50% of the global infant-formula market by value, and Danone currently holds a 13% market share, they say. However, it remains uncertain whether the increasing birth rate is a change in the trend or a mostly horoscope-related effect, as 2024 was the Year of the Dragon--a period which is traditionally associated with good fortune in Chinese culture, Barclays says. Shares are up 0.6% at 65.30 euros. (michael.susin@wsj.com)

(END) Dow Jones Newswires

January 20, 2025 06:57 ET (11:57 GMT)

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