China started 2025 with a fresh consumer stimulus plan that analysts believe could significantly boost certain stocks. Instead of direct cash payments, the government is providing subsidies for home appliances through a trade-in program. Recently, they expanded the list of eligible products to include microwaves and dishwashers, offering up to 20% off the retail price.
Morningstar analyst Jeff Zhang predicts that this initiative will primarily benefit leading home appliance manufacturers like Midea, Gree, and Haier. He has increased his revenue forecasts for these companies by 2% to 5% for the coming years. Midea’s shares surged nearly 38% last year and could rise another 26% based on Morningstar’s price target. Haier’s shares also performed well, with a potential upside of 48% from their current price.
Citigroup analysts are also optimistic, maintaining their buy ratings for these three stocks following the stimulus announcement. They have set even higher price targets than Morningstar. However, they cautioned that price wars and a weak real estate market could negatively impact stock prices. Consumer demand in China has been sluggish since the pandemic, with home appliance prices falling 3.3% in December compared to the previous year.
China is expected to release retail sales and GDP figures soon. The new policy allows consumers who received subsidies last year to benefit again this year. The government has allocated a substantial 81 billion yuan for these trade-in subsidies through the Spring Festival.
