According to the Futubull financial app, sporting goods stocks rose in early trading, as of press time, Xtep International (01368) rose 6.29% to HKD 5.07; Li Ning (02331) rose 3.93% to HKD 18.52; Topsports (06110) rose 3.61% to HKD 4.59; and Yue Yuen Ind (00551) rose 2.55% to HKD 16.1.

On the news front, the sports and outdoor industry continues to see growth during this year's 618 shopping festival. It is reported that 361°'s e-commerce channel sales increased by 94% YoY, ranking third among domestic brands. During 618, the e-commerce channel sales grew by 99% YoY, the largest increase in the industry. Donghai Securities pointed out that the growth rate of 618 promotion has slowed down, but the performance of the sports and outdoor industry is remarkable. The bank said that the improvement in brand sales combined with a lower base is expected to perform well YoY in Q4. The sports apparel industry benefits from the catalyst of sports events and the increase in diversified outdoor activities after the pandemic, with a high degree of prosperity.

Everbright Securities pointed out that the May clothing retail data showed a slight improvement in terminal sales. In addition, considering the performance of the '618' promotion, head brands maintained their advantageous position in the industry, and it is expected that industry market share will further concentrate towards head brands in the future. With the arrival of summer, the increase in sports and outdoor activities and the catalyst of the Paris Olympics, sports and outdoor and sun protection clothing/equipment-related categories are expected to benefit relatively more.