Dahua Jixian released a research report pointing out that the latest economic indicators show a weakening global trade outlook, with China and global manufacturing purchasing managers' indices (PMIs) both below 50, and their sub-indices for new export orders further contracting. Due to the escalation of tensions in the Middle East, marine transportation futures prices have rebounded in recent days, while the US East Coast ports, although currently experiencing temporary strikes, remain a major uncertainty factor.

Dahua Jixian has raised its profit forecast for Cosco Shipping Holdings (01919.HK) and Orient Overseas (00316.HK) for the 2025 fiscal year by 36%, reflecting higher average marine transportation fees in 2025 and the high operational leverage of shipping companies. The bank prefers Orient Overseas, maintaining its 'buy' rating with a target price of 130 yuan, but downgraded its rating for Cosco Shipping Holdings to 'hold' with a target price of 13.28 yuan.

The bank stated that due to cheap valuations, stable cash flows, and sustainable dividends, it continues to be bullish on port operators. The bank has raised its profit forecast for China Merchants Port (00144.HK) by 1% for the year 2025, reflecting its profitability from container shipping investments through joint ventures, maintaining its 'buy' rating with a target price of 15.34 yuan. Similarly, Cosco Shipping Ports (01199.HK) has also been maintained with a 'buy' rating and a target price of 6.44 yuan.