Following the market speculation of 'de-CATLization' triggered by new automakers such as Li Auto (02015) and Xiaomi (01810) launching self-developed battery projects with other battery manufacturers, two more automakers have advanced their battery-related initiatives. NIO (09866) announced it has entered into a formal agreement with certain subsidiaries of Geely Holding Group regarding a strategic transaction on battery swapping and charging services. Geely's subsidiaries will contribute their entire equity interest in Yiyi Hulian Technology (Chongqing), plus RMB 640 million in cash, to subscribe for newly issued shares in NIO Energy.
Upon completion of the transaction, Geely will hold 30% of NIO Energy, while NIO China will continue to hold a controlling stake of 63.6%. Existing investor Wuhan Guangchuang Emerging Fund will hold 6.4%. The post-investment valuation of NIO Energy in this transaction is approximately RMB 16 billion.
NIO noted that Geely's subsidiary's ownership stake will be adjusted after closing based on the achievement of certain operational targets; if performance falls short of expectations, the stake may be reduced, but not below 20%. Geely's subsidiary also has the option to invest an additional RMB 640 million in cash within a specified period. Assuming no post-closing equity adjustments, upon exercising the option, Geely's stake will increase to 34%, while NIO China's stake will decrease to 60%.
On the other hand, NIO China agrees to subscribe for new shares in Haohan Energy, a charging business company under Geely, with cash, and will hold a 10% stake upon completion of the transaction. The cash consideration will be used to purchase certain charging assets from NIO, though the investment amount was not disclosed in the announcement.
Currently, the Hang Seng Index stands at 24,705, up 195 points or 0.8%, with main board turnover nearing HK$12.6 billion. The Hang Seng China Enterprises Index stands at 8,248, up 82 points or 1%. The Hang Seng Tech Index stands at 4,318, up 6 points or 0.1%. The current-month futures index stands at 24,716, up 194 points, at a premium of 11 points. The current-month HSI futures stand at 8,251, up 85 points, at a premium of 2 points. The current-month Tech Index futures stand at 4,322, up 7 points, at a premium of 6 points. (nw)