LG Household and Health Care’s earnings will continue to improve next year on the back of solid sales in China and duty-free sector, said Meritz Securities on Nov. 19 maintaining a “buy” recommendation and 1.60 million won (US$1,419) target price.
Its third-quarter earnings were in line with market consensus with 1.74 trillion won revenue and 277.5 billion won operating profit. It is strengthening its position in China where the cosmetics market, especially in luxury and premium categories, is expanding significantly. At home, its mid- to lower-priced brands are noticeably advancing and it is seeking growth through M&As and strategic partnerships, said analyst Yang Ji-hye.
In the fourth quarter it will maintain growth momentum bolstered by solid advance in duty-free sales and Chinese operations. The expanding consumption of luxury goods in China will sustain its earnings momentum next year, she forecast.