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Stock Analysis & ValuationShenzhen Gas Corporation Ltd. (601139.SS)

Professional Stock Screener
Previous Close
$6.89
Sector Valuation Confidence Level
Moderate
Valuation methodValue, $Upside, %
Artificial intelligence (AI)57.54735
Intrinsic value (DCF)16.04133
Graham-Dodd Method2.93-57
Graham Formula0.05-99

Strategic Investment Analysis

Company Overview

Shenzhen Gas Corporation Ltd. is a leading natural gas utility company based in Shenzhen, China, operating as a critical infrastructure provider in China's energy sector. Founded in 1982, the company has grown into a comprehensive gas service provider with extensive operations across multiple Chinese provinces. Shenzhen Gas serves approximately 4.3 million pipeline gas customers through an extensive network of 7,300 kilometers of pipelines, holding exclusive operating rights in 57 cities under the Shenzhen Gas brand. The company's diversified business model encompasses pipeline gas distribution, vehicle and vessel refueling services, petroleum gas operations, and bottled liquefied petroleum gas retail. With 23 natural gas refueling stations, 84 direct-sale stores, and significant LPG storage and distribution infrastructure including 80,000 cubic meters of storage capacity, Shenzhen Gas plays a vital role in China's transition to cleaner energy sources. As China continues to prioritize natural gas as a bridge fuel in its carbon neutrality goals, Shenzhen Gas Corporation stands positioned as a key player in the nation's utilities sector with strategic geographic coverage and established infrastructure.

Investment Summary

Shenzhen Gas Corporation presents a stable utility investment with defensive characteristics, evidenced by its low beta of 0.49 and consistent revenue stream of CNY 28.3 billion. The company maintains reasonable profitability with net income of CNY 1.46 billion and positive operating cash flow of CNY 3.7 billion, supporting its dividend payment of CNY 0.16 per share. However, investors should note the significant capital expenditure requirements (CNY -3.37 billion) typical of infrastructure-intensive utilities, alongside substantial total debt of CNY 11.2 billion. The company's extensive pipeline network and exclusive operating rights in 57 cities provide regulatory moats, but growth may be constrained by China's economic conditions and energy transition policies. The utility's defensive nature makes it suitable for income-oriented investors seeking exposure to China's essential energy infrastructure, though currency and regulatory risks specific to Chinese markets should be considered.

Competitive Analysis

Shenzhen Gas Corporation operates in a regulated natural gas utility sector characterized by regional monopolies and significant barriers to entry. The company's competitive advantage stems from its exclusive operating rights across 57 cities in multiple Chinese provinces, creating geographic moats that protect its market position. Its extensive infrastructure network of 7,300 km of pipelines represents a substantial capital investment that would be difficult for new entrants to replicate. The company benefits from the regulated nature of the gas utility business in China, which provides predictable revenue streams and limited direct competition within its service territories. However, Shenzhen Gas faces competition from other regional gas utilities expanding their operations, as well as alternative energy sources including electricity and renewable energy initiatives promoted by the Chinese government. The company's scale and established customer base of 4.3 million users provide operational efficiencies, while its diversified operations across pipeline gas, LPG, and refueling stations create multiple revenue streams. The competitive landscape is evolving as China pushes for energy market reforms and greater interconnection between regional gas networks, potentially increasing competitive pressures over the long term.

Major Competitors

  • Towngas China Company Limited (1083.HK): Towngas China is one of China's largest piped city-gas suppliers with operations across multiple provinces. Its strengths include extensive experience in gas distribution, strong technical capabilities, and a diversified portfolio including town gas production. However, Towngas operates primarily in different geographic regions than Shenzhen Gas, reducing direct competition. The company faces similar regulatory environments but may have different growth prospects based on its specific service territories.
  • China Gas Holdings Limited (384.HK): China Gas Holdings is one of China's largest natural gas operators with extensive pipeline networks across numerous cities. Its strengths include nationwide coverage, significant scale advantages, and diversified operations including LNG import terminals. The company competes directly with Shenzhen Gas in several regional markets and has aggressive expansion strategies. However, China Gas carries higher debt levels and has faced regulatory scrutiny in some regions, presenting both competitive threats and operational risks.
  • ENN Energy Holdings Limited (2688.HK): ENN Energy is a leading natural gas distributor in China with strong technological capabilities and digital operations. Its strengths include advanced smart grid technology, efficient operations, and strong customer growth. ENN competes in similar markets and has been expanding its renewable energy offerings. However, the company's focus on technology integration requires significant ongoing investment, and its expansion pace may create integration challenges in newly acquired territories.
  • Kunlun Energy Company Limited (135.HK): Kunlun Energy, a subsidiary of CNPC, has strong upstream integration and pipeline assets across China. Its strengths include access to natural gas resources through its parent company, extensive pipeline infrastructure, and integrated operations from production to distribution. However, as a state-owned enterprise, it may face different operational efficiencies compared to more commercially focused companies like Shenzhen Gas. The company's scale provides advantages but may also limit flexibility in adapting to market changes.
  • Tian Lun Gas Holdings Limited (1600.HK): Tian Lun Gas operates city gas projects across multiple Chinese provinces with a focus on mid-sized cities. Its strengths include strategic positioning in developing urban areas, steady growth trajectory, and reasonable financial metrics. The company competes in some overlapping regions with Shenzhen Gas but generally targets different city tiers. Tian Lun's smaller scale compared to Shenzhen Gas may limit its bargaining power with suppliers and infrastructure investment capabilities.
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