Dahua Jixian released a research report stating that it has raised its profit forecast for Cosco Shipping Holdings (01919) for the fiscal year 2025 by 36%, to reflect the higher average marine transportation freight rates in 2025, as well as the high operational leverage of shipping companies. The bank prefers Orient Overseas (00316), maintaining its "buy" rating with a target price of 130 Hong Kong dollars, but downgraded the rating for Cosco Shipping Holdings to "hold" with a target price of 13.28 Hong Kong dollars.

Da Hua Ji Xian Indicators, the latest economic indicators show a weakening global trade outlook, with the sub-index of new export orders further falling into contraction zone. Due to the escalation of tensions in the Middle East, marine transportation freight futures prices have recently rebounded, while the east coast ports of the USA, although temporarily on strike, remain the main uncertain factor.

The bank stated that due to the cheap valuation, stable cash flow, and sustainable dividends, it continues to be bullish on port operators. The bank raised its target price for China Merchants Port (00144).

The profit forecast for 2025 was raised by 1% to reflect its profit from container shipping investments through joint ventures, maintaining its "buy" rating with a target price of 15.34 Hong Kong dollars. Similarly, Cosco Ship Port (01199) also maintained a "buy" rating with a target price of 6.44 Hong Kong dollars.