ZTO Reports Fourth Quarter 2023 and Full Year 2023 Unaudited Financial Results

Rhea-AI Summary

ZTO Express (Cayman) Inc. reported a strong financial performance for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2023, with a significant increase in adjusted net income, parcel volume, and market share. The company's adjusted net income grew by 32.3% to RMB9.0 billion, while annual parcels expanded, leading to a market share of 22.9%. Additionally, ZTO increased its annual dividend by 68% and upsized its share repurchase program by USD500 million.

Positive

• Adjusted net income grew by 32.3% to reach RMB9.0 billion.
• Annual parcels expanded, increasing market share to 22.9%.
• US$0.62 per share annual dividend increased by 68%.
• Share repurchase program upsized by USD500 million.
• Revenues for Q4 2023 were RMB10,619.4 million, a 7.6% increase year over year.
• Gross profit for Q4 2023 grew by 12.8% to RMB3,128.2 million.
• Net income for Q4 2023 increased by 3.8% to RMB2,209.8 million.
• Adjusted EBITDA for Q4 2023 was RMB3,651.8 million, a 7.5% increase.
• For the fiscal year 2023, revenues reached RMB38,418.9 million, an 8.6% increase.
• Gross profit for FY 2023 increased by 29.0% to RMB11,662.5 million.
• Net income for FY 2023 grew by 31.5% to RMB8,754.5 million.

Negative

• None.

Insights

Financial Analyst

The announced financial results by ZTO Express indicate a considerable growth in adjusted net income and an expansion in market share, which are key metrics for evaluating a company's financial health and competitive position. The 32.3% increase in adjusted net income and market share growth to 22.9% reflect a solid operational performance and efficiency in a competitive market. Additionally, the upsize of the share repurchase program by USD 500 million and the 68% increase in annual dividend suggest a strong balance sheet and confidence in future cash flows. These factors combined could potentially attract investor interest and influence ZTO's stock performance positively.

Market Research Analyst

ZTO's growth in annual parcels to 30.2 billion signifies not only an increase in operational scale but also an enhanced capacity to handle logistics in a high-demand environment. The logistics sector in China is extremely competitive and ZTO's ability to expand its market share suggests that its operational strategies are well-aligned with market needs. This expansion is critical for sustaining long-term growth and could be a sign of robust demand for ZTO's logistics services. Investors may view these operational highlights as indicators of the company's potential to capitalize on the growing e-commerce market in China.

Economist

The positive financials reported by ZTO Express come amidst a challenging macroeconomic environment, indicating resilience and adaptability. The company's focus on data and analytics to drive decisions and improve operational productivity is a strategic move that can lead to cost savings and margin improvements over time. This approach may provide ZTO with a competitive advantage in managing economic uncertainties and industry-specific challenges. The improvement in operating margin rate by 4.1 points to 26% is particularly noteworthy, as it reflects not only growth but also enhanced profitability, a important aspect for long-term investor confidence.

RMB9.0 Billion Full Year Adjusted Net Income Grew 32.3%
30.2 Billion Annual Parcels Expanded Market Share to 22.9%
US$0.62 per Share Annual Dividend Increased 68%
Upsizes Share Repurchase Program by USD500 million

SHANGHAI, March 19, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- ZTO Express (Cayman) Inc. (NYSE: ZTO and SEHK: 2057), a leading and fast-growing express delivery company in China ("ZTO" or the "Company"), today announced its unaudited financial results for the fourth quarter and fiscal year ended December 31, 2023^[1]. The Company grew parcel volume by 5.8 billion, or 23.8% year over year and expanded market share by 0.8 percentage points to 22.9% while maintaining high quality of service and customer satisfaction. Adjusted net income^[2] increased 32.3% to reach RMB9.0 billion. Net cash generated from operating activities was RMB13,361.0 million.

Fourth Quarter 2023 Financial Highlights

• Revenues were RMB10,619.4 million (US$1,495.7 million), an increase of 7.6% from RMB9,871.3 million in the same period of 2022.
• Gross profit was RMB3,128.2 million (US$440.6 million), an increase of 12.8% from RMB2,772.6 million in the same period of 2022.
• Net income was RMB2,209.8 million (US$311.2 million), an increase of 3.8% from RMB2,129.3 million in the same period of 2022.
• Adjusted EBITDA^[3] was RMB3,651.8 million (US$514.3 million), an increase of 7.5% from RMB3,397.5 million in the same period of 2022.
• Adjusted net income was RMB2,214.4 million (US$311.9 million), an increase of 4.4% from RMB2,120.2 million in the same period of 2022.
• Basic and diluted net earnings per American depositary share ("ADS"^[4]) were RMB2.72 (US$0.38) and RMB2.66 (US$0.37), an increase of 1.9% and 1.9% from RMB2.67 and RMB2.61 in the same period of 2022, respectively.
• Adjusted basic and diluted earnings per American depositary share attributable to ordinary shareholders^[5] were RMB2.73 (US$0.38) and RMB2.67 (US$0.38), an increase of 2.6% and 2.7% from RMB2.66 and RMB2.60 in the same period of 2022, respectively.
• Net cash provided by operating activities was RMB3,923.3 million (US$552.6 million), compared with RMB3,769.8 million in the same period of 2022.

Fiscal Year 2023 Financial Highlights

• Revenues were RMB38,418.9 million (US$5,411.2 million), an increase of 8.6% from RMB35,377.0 million in 2022.
• Gross profit was RMB11,662.5 million (US$1,642.6 million), an increase of 29.0% from RMB9,039.3 million in 2022.
• Net income was RMB8,754.5 million (US$1,233.0 million), an increase of 31.5% from RMB6,659.0 million in 2022.
• Adjusted EBITDA^[3] was RMB14,107.3 million (US$1,987.0 million), an increase of 25.0% from RMB11,289.1 million in 2022.
• Adjusted net income^[2] was RMB9,005.9 million (US$1,268.5 million), an increase of 32.3% from RMB6,806.0 million in 2022.
• Basic and diluted net earnings per American depositary share ("ADS"^[4]) were RMB10.83 (US$1.53) and RMB10.60 (US$1.49), an increase of 28.8% and 26.8% from RMB8.41 and RMB8.36 in 2022.
• Adjusted basic and diluted net earnings per American depositary share attributable to ordinary shareholders were RMB11.14 (US$1.57) and RMB10.90 (US$1.54), an increase of 29.7% and 27.6% from RMB8.59 and RMB8.54 in 2022.
• Net cash provided by operating activities was RMB13,361.0 million (US$1,881.9 million), compared with RMB11,479.3 million in 2022.

Operational Highlights for Fourth Quarter 2023

• Parcel volume was 8,705 million, an increase of 32.0% from 6,593 million in the same period of 2022.
• Number of pickup/delivery outlets was over 31,000 as of December 31, 2023.
• Number of direct network partners was over 6,000 as of December 31, 2023.
• Number of self-owned line-haul vehicles was over 10,000 as of December 31, 2023.
• Out of the over 10,000 self-owned trucks, over 9,200 were high capacity 15 to 17-meter-long models as of December 31, 2023, compared to approximately 11,000 as of December 31, 2022.
• Number of line-haul routes between sorting hubs was over 3,900 as of December 31, 2023, compared to approximately 3,750 as of December 31, 2022.
• Number of sorting hubs was 99 as of December 31, 2023, among which 91 are operated by the Company and 8 by the Company's network partners.

(1)	An investor relations presentation accompanies this earnings release and can be found at http://zto.investorroom.com.
(2)	Adjusted net income is a non-GAAP financial measure, which is defined as net income before share-based compensation expense and non-recurring items such as gain on disposal of equity investments and subsidiaries and corresponding tax impact which management aims to better represent the underlying business operations.
(3)	Adjusted EBITDA is a non-GAAP financial measure, which is defined as net income before depreciation, amortization, interest expenses and income tax expenses, and further adjusted to exclude the shared-based compensation expense and non-recurring items such as the gain on disposal of equity investments and subsidiaries which management aims to better represent the underlying business operations.
(4)	One ADS represents one Class A ordinary share.
(5)	Adjusted basic and diluted earnings per American depositary share attributable to ordinary shareholders is a non-GAAP financial measure. It is defined as adjusted net income attributable to ordinary shareholders divided by weighted average number of basic and American depositary diluted shares, respectively.

Mr. Meisong Lai, Founder, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of ZTO, commented, "Amidst uncertainties and unexpected shifts in macroeconomic environment as well as in China express delivery industry during 2023, and by focusing on what we can do, ZTO delivered strong results for the year. We stayed ahead of the industry growth with 30.2 billion parcels and achieved 9 billion adjusted net income that grew 32.3% over last year. As we continued to evolve from being heavily dependent on experience to become increasingly assisted by data and analytics, we received positive outcome across many aspects of our business including partner network quality and stability, product and services enrichment, revenue mix improvements, operational productivity gain and last-mile presence."

Mr. Lai added, "The landscape of express delivery industry in China continues to bifurcate between bigger scale and higher profitability versus smaller in size or overcoming losses. ZTO is at the forefront of this divergence. Our strategies and execution have been effective in striking healthy balance amongst competing priorities including service quality, volume growth and earnings expansions throughout the years. Although uncertainties remain in near and longer term macroeconomic and industry specific development, we are certain of our clear competitive strengths that took years to build, and with unrelenting vigilance, we are well prepared to effectively manage risks and seize opportunities, as well as pragmatically raise shareholder returns."

Ms. Huiping Yan, Chief Financial Officer of ZTO, commented, "Moving in the same direction of the industry, ZTO's core express ASP declined 11.3% or ¥16 cents for 2023, out of which, ¥5 cents were associated with volume incentives. Price competition remained intense particularly in ecommerce concentrated markets. The positive news is that our solid base scale and continuous productivity initiatives combined with stable SG&A cost structure altogether helped to offset the negative price impact.  Our operating margin rate improved by 4.1 points for the year to reach 26%. With digitization driving operational decisions and execution process, our ability to deliver on strategic goals have greatly improved."

Ms. Yan added, "Capital spending for 2023 was ¥6.7 billion, and cash flow from operating activities grew 16.4% to reach ¥13.4 billion. The board has approved the establishment of a regular dividend policy starting with a $62 cents per share cash dividend for 2023, and no less than 40% payout ratio for 2024.  Further, the board authorized an additional US$500 million stock repurchase amount to add to the previous total of US$1.5 billion buyback program. Benefiting from the positive long-term growth prospects of Chinese economy, logistics industry, and leveraging the Company's competitive advantage and free cash generation, ZTO is well prepared to steadily increase return to our investors."

Fourth Quarter 2023 Unaudited Financial Results

			Three Months Ended December 31,
	2022				2023
	RMB		%		RMB		US$		%
	(in thousands, except percentages)
Express delivery services	9,168,541		92.9		9,759,253		1,374,562		91.9
Freight forwarding services	254,130		2.6		236,640		33,330		2.2
Sale of accessories	404,683		4.1		579,138		81,570		5.5
Others	43,973		0.4		44,403		6,254		0.4
Total revenues	9,871,327		100.0		10,619,434		1,495,716		100.0

Total Revenues were RMB10,619.4 million (US$1,495.7 million), an increase of 7.6% from RMB9,871.3 million in the same period of 2022. Revenue from the core express delivery business increased by 8.0% compared to the same period of 2022, as a net result of a 32.0% increase in parcel volume and an 18.2% decrease in parcel unit price. KA revenue including delivery fees from direct sales organizations, established to serve core express KA customers, decreased by 47.0% through either re-engagement of partner outlets or rationalization due to loss-making. Revenue from freight forwarding services decreased by 6.9% compared to the same period of 2022 mainly due to declining cross border e-commerce pricing. Revenue from sales of accessories, largely consisted of sales of thermal paper used for digital waybills' printing, increased by 43.1% in line with parcel volume growth. Other revenues were mainly derived from financing services.

	Three Months Ended December 31,
	2022				2023
			% of						% of
	RMB		revenues		RMB		US$		revenues
	(in thousands, except percentages)
Line-haul transportation cost	3,394,342		34.4		3,964,208		558,347		37.3
Sorting hub operating cost	2,139,620		21.7		2,257,047		317,898		21.3
Freight forwarding cost	238,464		2.4		227,547		32,049		2.1
Cost of accessories sold	147,838		1.5		162,227		22,849		1.5
Other costs	1,178,501		11.9		880,156		123,968		8.3
Total cost of revenues	7,098,765		71.9		7,491,185		1,055,111		70.5

Total cost of revenues was RMB7,491.2 million (US$1,055.1 million), an increase of 5.5% from RMB7,098.8 million in the same period last year.

Line haul transportation cost was RMB3,964.2 million (US$558.3 million), an increase of 16.8% from RMB3,394.3 million in the same period last year. The unit transportation cost decreased 11.5% or 5 cents mainly attributable to better economies of scale, optimized line-haul route planning and decrease in fuel price.

Sorting hub operating cost was RMB2,257.0 million (US$317.9 million), an increase of 5.5% from RMB2,139.6 million in the same period of last year. The increase primarily consisted of (i) RMB55.8 million (US$7.9 million) increase in labor-associated costs, a net result of wage increases partially offset by automation-driven efficiency improvement, and (ii) RMB84.2 million (US$11.9 million) increase in depreciation and amortization costs associated with automation equipment and other facilities. With standardization in operating procedures, improved performance evaluation system, the unit sorting cost decreased by 20.1% or 6 cents. As of December 31, 2023, there were 464 sets of automated sorting equipment were in service, compared to 458 sets as of December 31, 2022, which enhanced overall sorting operational efficiencies.

Cost of accessories sold was RMB162.2 million (US$22.8 million), increased by 9.7% compared with RMB147.8 million in the same period last year.

Other costs were RMB880.2 million (US$124.0 million), a decrease of 25.3% from RMB1,178.5 million in the same period last year. The decrease mainly consisted of (i) RMB273.7 million (US$38.5 million) decrease in dispatching costs associated with serving enterprise customers and (ii) RMB64.1 million (US$9.0 million) decrease in costs associated with expanding last mile business, offset by (iii) RMB34.1 million (US$4.8 million) increase in tax surcharge.

Gross Profit was RMB3,128.2 million (US$440.6 million), increased by 12.8% from RMB2,772.6 million in the same period last year as a combined result of revenues growth and cost productivity gain. Gross margin rate improved to 29.5% from 28.1% for the same period last year.

Total Operating Expenses were RMB373.2 million (US$52.6 million), compared to RMB312.7 million in the same period last year.

Selling, general and administrative expenses were RMB700.4 million (US$98.6 million), increased by 24.9% from RMB560.9 million in the same period last year. The increase primarily consisted of (i) RMB85.6 million (US$12.1 million) provision of losses from a credit loan provided to Shanghai Shuangcaiji Intelligent Technology Co., LTD, an equipment supplier, and (ii) RMB42.6 million (US$6.0 million) in depreciation and amortization expenses.

Other operating income, net was RMB327.2 million (US$46.1 million), compared to RMB248.1 million in the same period last year. Other operating income mainly consisted of (i) RMB191.2 million (US$26.9 million) of government subsidies and tax rebates, (ii) RMB71.8 million (US$10.1 million) of VAT super deduction, and (iii) RMB11.2 million (US$ 1.6 million) of rental income.

Income from operations was RMB2,755.1 million (US$388.0 million), an increase of 12.0% from RMB2,459.8 million for the same period last year. Operating margin rate increased to 25.9% from 24.9% in the same period last year.

Interest income was RMB201.4 million (US$28.4 million), compared with RMB111.8 million in the same period last year.

Interest expenses was RMB61.8 million (US$8.7 million), compared with RMB76.1 million in the same period last year.

Loss from fair value changes of financial instruments was RMB51.2 million (US$7.2 million), compared with a gain of RMB83.5 million in the same period last year. Such gain or loss from fair value changes of the financial instruments are determined by commercial banks according to market-based estimation of future redemption prices. The loss included RMB100.0 million (US$14.1 million) write off of certain trust products managed by Zhongrong International Trust Co. Ltd. (中融) who failed to make redemption payments upon maturity.

Income tax expenses were RMB636.6 million (US$89.7 million) compared to RMB500.5 million in the same period last year. Overall income tax rate increased by 3.0 percentage year over year, mainly due to RMB0.2 billion accrual of withholding tax on dividend payable to ZTO Express (Hong Kong) Limited.

Net income was RMB2,209.8 million (US$311.2 million), which increased by 3.8% from RMB2,129.3 million in the same period last year.

Basic and diluted earnings per ADS attributable to ordinary shareholders were RMB2.72 (US$0.38) and RMB2.66 (US$0.37), compared to basic and diluted earnings per ADS of RMB2.67 and RMB2.61 in the same period last year, respectively.

Adjusted basic and diluted earnings per ADS attributable to ordinary shareholders were RMB2.73 (US$0.38) and RMB2.67 (US$0.38), compared with RMB2.66 and RMB2.60 in the same period last year, respectively.

Adjusted net income was RMB2,214.4 million (US$311.9 million), compared with RMB2,120.2 million during the same period last year.

EBITDA^[1] was RMB3,647.2 million (US$513.7 million), compared with RMB3,406.5 million in the same period last year.

Adjusted EBITDA was RMB3,651.8 million (US$514.3 million), compared to RMB3,397.5 million in the same period last year.

Net cash provided by operating activities was RMB3,923.3 million (US$552.6 million), compared with RMB3,769.8 million in the same period last year.

(1)	EBITDA is a non-GAAP financial measure, which is defined as net income before depreciation, amortization, interest expenses and income tax expenses which management aims to better represent the underlying business operations.

Fiscal Year 2023 Financial Results

	Year Ended December 31,
	2022						2023
	RMB			%			RMB		US$		%
	(in thousands, except percentages)
Express delivery services	32,575,698			92.1			35,488,060		4,998,389		92.4
Freight forwarding services	1,212,677			3.4			906,802		127,720		2.4
Sale of accessories	1,384,674			3.9			1,876,624		264,317		4.9
Others	203,947			0.6			147,429		20,765		0.3
Total revenues	35,376,996			100.0			38,418,915		5,411,191		100.0

Total Revenues were RMB38,418.9 million (US$5,411.2 million), an increase of 8.6% from RMB35,377.0 million last year. Revenue from the core express delivery business increased by 9.8%, as a net result of a 23.8% increase in parcel volume and an 11.3% decrease in parcel unit price. KA revenue including delivery fees from direct sales organizations, established to serve core express KA customers, decreased by 37.3% through either re-engagement of partner outlets for fulfilment or rationalization due to loss-making. Revenue from freight forwarding services decreased by 25.2% compared to last year due to post pandemic e-commerce price decline. Revenue from sales of accessories, largely consisted of sales of thermal paper used for digital waybills, increased by 35.5%, and in line with parcel volume growth. Other revenues were mainly derived from financing services.

	Year Ended December 31,
	2022					2023
			% of								% of
	RMB		revenues			RMB		US$			revenues
	(in thousands, except percentages)
Line-haul transportation cost	12,480,170		35.3			13,591,627		1,914,341			35.4
Sorting hub operating cost	7,845,491		22.2			8,253,522		1,162,484			21.5
Freight forwarding cost	1,137,140		3.2			854,533		120,358			2.2
Cost of accessories sold	463,448		1.3			513,391		72,310			1.3
Other costs	4,411,472		12.4			3,543,316		499,066			9.2
Total cost of revenues	26,337,721		74.4			26,756,389		3,768,559			69.6

Total cost of revenues was RMB26,756.4 million (US$3,768.6 million), an increase of 1.6% from RMB26,337.7 million last year.

Line haul transportation cost was RMB13,591.6 million (US$1,914.3 million), an increase of 8.9% from RMB12,480.2 million last year. The unit transportation cost decreased by 12.1% or 6 cents mainly attributable to better economies of scale, optimized line-haul route planning and decreased fuel price.

Sorting hub operating cost was RMB8,253.5 million (US$1,162.5 million), an increase of 5.2% from RMB7,845.5 million last year. The increase primarily consisted of (i) RMB242.3 million (US$34.1 million) increase in labor-associated costs, a net result of wage increases partially offset by automation-driven efficiency improvement, and (ii)RMB245.7 million (US$34.6 million) increase in depreciation and amortization costs associated with automated equipment and other facilities. With standardization in operating procedures, improved performance evaluation system, the unit sorting cost decreased by 15.0% or 5 cents.

Cost of accessories sold was RMB513.4 million (US$72.3 million), increased by 10.8% compared with RMB463.4 million last year.

Other costs were RMB3,543.3 million (US$499.1 million), a decrease of 19.7% from RMB4,411.5 million in 2022. The decrease mainly consisted of (i) RMB904.7 million (US$127.4 million) decrease in dispatching costs associated with serving enterprise customers, offset by (ii) RMB137.2 million (US$19.3 million) increase in IT charges.

Gross Profit was RMB11,662.5 million (US$1,642.6 million), increased 29.0% from RMB9,039.3 million last year as a combined result of revenues growth and cost productivity gain. Gross margin rate improved to 30.4% from 25.6% last year.

Total Operating Expenses were RMB1,654.6 million (US$233.0 million), compared to RMB1,302.8 million last year.

Selling, general and administrative expenses were RMB2,425.3 million (US$341.6 million), increased by 16.7% from RMB2,077.4 million last year. The increase was primarily due to (i) RMB115.9 million (US$16.3 million) increase in compensation and benefit expenses, (ii) RMB85.6 million (US$12.1 million) provision of losses from a credit loan provided to Shanghai Shuangcaiji Intelligent Technology Co., LTD, an equipment supplier, (iii) RMB80.2 million (US$11.3 million) in headquarter facility expenses, and (iv) RMB74.8 million (US$10.5 million) depreciation and amortization costs associated with administrative equipment and facilities.

Other operating income, net was RMB770.7 million (US$108.5 million), compared to RMB774.6 million last year. Other operating income mainly consisted of (i) RMB397.0 million (US$55.9 million) of government subsidies and tax rebates, (ii) RMB277.4 million (US$39.1 million) of VAT super deduction, and (iii) RMB122.0 million (US$17.2 million) of rental income.

Income from operations was RMB10,007.9 million (US$1,409.6 million), an increase of 29.4% from RMB7,736.5 million last year. Operating margin rate increased to 26.0% from 21.9% last year.

Interest income was RMB706.8 million (US$99.5 million), compared with RMB503.7 million last year.

Interest expenses was RMB289.5 million (US$40.8 million), compared with RMB190.5 million last year.

Gain from fair value changes of financial instruments was RMB164.5 million (US$23.2 million) which included a loss of RMB100.0 million (US$14.1 million) of write off of certain trust products managed by Zhongrong International Trust Co. Ltd. (中融) who failed to make redemption payments upon maturity, compared with RMB46.2 million last year. Such gain or loss from fair value changes of the financial instruments are determined by commercial banks according to market-based estimation of future redemption prices.

Foreign currency exchange Gain, before tax was RMB93.5 million (US$13.2 million), mainly due to the appreciation of the onshore U.S. dollar-denominated bank deposits against the Chinese Renminbi.

Income tax expenses were RMB1,938.6 million (US$273.0 million) compared to RMB1,633.3 million last year. Overall income tax rate decreased by 1.6% for the year ended December 31, 2023 compared with the same period in 2022 due to an income tax refund of RMB207.1 million received in the third quarter by Shanghai Zhongtongji Network Technology Co., Ltd.(上海中通吉网络技术有限公司), a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company, for being recognized as a "Key Software Enterprise" that was qualified for a preferential tax rate of 10% for tax year 2022. Income tax expenses included RMB0.2 billion accrual of withholding tax on dividend payable to ZTO Express (Hong Kong) Limited.

Net income was RMB8,754.5 million (US$1,233.0 million), which increased by 31.5% from RMB6,659.0 million last year.

Basic and diluted earnings per ADS attributable to ordinary shareholders were RMB10.83 (US$1.53) and RMB10.60 (US$1.49), compared to basic and diluted earnings per ADS of RMB8.41 and RMB8.36 last year, respectively.

Adjusted basic and diluted earnings per ADS attributable to ordinary shareholders were RMB11.14 (US$1.57) and RMB10.90 (US$1.54), compared with RMB8.59 and RMB8.54 last year, respectively.

Adjusted net income was RMB9,005.9 million (US$1,268.5 million), compared with RMB6,806.0 million last year.

EBITDA^[1] was RMB13,857.8 million (US$1,951.8 million), compared with RMB11,153.4 million last year.

Adjusted EBITDA was RMB14,107.3 million (US$1,987.0 million), compared to RMB11,289.1 million last year.

Net cash provided by operating activities was RMB13,361.0 million (US$1,881.9 million), compared with RMB11,479.3 million last year.

Recent Developments

Declaration of Dividend Payment

The board of directors (the "Board") has approved a cash dividend of US$0.62 per ADS and ordinary share for the fiscal year 2023, representing a 68% increase compared to the dividend for the fiscal year 2022, to holders of its ordinary shares and ADSs as of the close of business on April 10, 2024. The dividend payment represents a 40% dividend payout ratio. For holders of Class A ordinary shares, in order to qualify for entitlement to the dividend, all valid documents for the transfer of shares accompanied by the relevant share certificates must be lodged for registration with the Company's Hong Kong branch share registrar, Computershare Hong Kong Investor Services Limited, at Shops 1712-1716, 17th Floor, Hopewell Centre, 183 Queen's Road East, Wanchai, Hong Kong no later than 4:30 p.m. on April 10, 2024 (Hong Kong Time). The payment date is expected to be April 22, 2024 for holders of Class A ordinary shares, and April 29, 2024 for holders of ADSs.

Adoption of Semi-Annual Regular Dividend Policy

The Board has approved a semi-annual regular cash dividend policy starting from 2024. Under the semi-annual dividend policy, starting from 2024, the Company will declare and distribute a recurring cash dividend semi-annually, in which the aggregate amount of the semi-annual dividend for each year is equivalent to no less than 40% of the Company's distributable profit in such fiscal year, or as otherwise authorized by the Board. The determination to make dividend distributions and the exact amount of such distributions in any particular semi-annual period will be based upon the Company's operations and earnings, cash flow, financial condition, and other relevant factors, and subject to adjustment and determination by the Board.

Upsize and Extension of Share Repurchase Program

The Board has approved its share repurchase program in November 2018 and made subsequent modifications, whereby the latest modification increased the aggregate value of shares that may be repurchased to US$1.5 billion and extended the effective time through June 30, 2024. As of December 31, 2023, the Company had purchased an aggregate of 42,501,325 ADSs for US$1,063.0 million on the open market, including repurchase commissions. The remaining funds available under the share repurchase program is US$437.0 million.

The Board has approved to upsize the share repurchase program with US$500 million to increase the aggregate value of shares that may be repurchased to US$2.0 billion, and to extend the effective time by one year through June 30, 2025.

Business Outlook

Based on current market conditions and current operations, the Company's parcel volume for 2024 is expected to be in the range of 34.73 billion to 35.64 billion, representing a 15% to 18% increase year over year. Such estimates represent management's current and preliminary view, which are subject to change.

Exchange Rate

This announcement contains translation of certain Renminbi amounts into U.S. dollars at specified rates solely for the convenience of readers. Unless otherwise noted, all translations from Renminbi to U.S. dollars were made at the exchange rate of RMB7.0999 to US$1, the noon buying rate on December 29, 2023 as set forth in the H.10 statistical release of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve Systems.

Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measures

The Company uses EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA, adjusted net income, adjusted net income attributable to ordinary shareholders, and adjusted basic and diluted earnings per American depositary share attributable to ordinary shareholders, each a non-GAAP financial measure, in evaluating ZTO's operating results and for financial and operational decision-making purposes.

Reconciliations of the Company's non-GAAP financial measures to its U.S. GAAP financial measures are shown in tables at the end of this earnings release, which provide more details about the non-GAAP financial measures.

The Company believes that EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA, adjusted net income, adjusted net income attributable to ordinary shareholders and adjusted basic and diluted earnings per American depositary share attributable to ordinary shareholders help identify underlying trends in ZTO's business that could otherwise be distorted by the effect of the expenses and gains that the Company includes in income from operations and net income. The Company believes that EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA, adjusted net income, adjusted net income attributable to ordinary shareholders and adjusted basic and diluted earnings per American depositary share attributable to ordinary shareholders provide useful information about its operating results, enhance the overall understanding of its past performance and future prospects and allow for greater visibility with respect to key metrics used by ZTO's management in its financial and operational decision-making.

EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA, adjusted net income, adjusted net income attributable to ordinary shareholders and adjusted basic and diluted earnings per American depositary share attributable to ordinary shareholders should not be considered in isolation or construed as an alternative to net income or any other measure of performance or as an indicator of the Company's operating performance. Investors are encouraged to compare the historical non-GAAP financial measures to the most directly comparable GAAP measures. EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA, adjusted net income, adjusted net income attributable to ordinary shareholders and adjusted basic and diluted earnings per American depositary share attributable to ordinary shareholders presented here may not be comparable to similarly titled measures presented by other companies. Other companies may calculate similarly titled measures differently, limiting their usefulness as comparative measures to ZTO's data. ZTO encourages investors and others to review the Company's financial information in its entirety and not rely on a single financial measure.

Conference Call Information

ZTO's management team will host an earnings conference call at 8:30 PM U.S. Eastern Time on Tuesday, March 19, 2024 (8:30 AM Beijing Time on Wednesday, March 20, 2024).

Dial-in details for the earnings conference call are as follows:

United States:	1-888-317-6003
Hong Kong:	800-963-976
Mainland China:	4001-206-115
Singapore:	800-120-5863
International:	1-412-317-6061
Passcode:	2471294

Please dial in 15 minutes before the call is scheduled to begin and provide the passcode to join the call.

A replay of the conference call may be accessed by phone at the following numbers until March 26, 2024:

United States:	1-877-344-7529
International:	1-412-317-0088
Passcode:	6936390

Additionally, a live and archived webcast of the conference call will be available at http://zto.investorroom.com.

About ZTO Express (Cayman) Inc.

ZTO Express (Cayman) Inc. (NYSE: ZTO and SEHK:2057) ("ZTO" or the "Company") is a leading and fast-growing express delivery company in China. ZTO provides express delivery service as well as other value-added logistics services through its extensive and reliable nationwide network coverage in China.

ZTO operates a highly scalable network partner model, which the Company believes is best suited to support the significant growth of e-commerce in China. The Company leverages its network partners to provide pickup and last-mile delivery services, while controlling the mission-critical line-haul transportation and sorting network within the express delivery service value chain.

For more information, please visit http://zto.investorroom.com.

Safe Harbor Statement

This announcement contains statements that may constitute "forward-looking" statements pursuant to the "safe harbor" provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as "will," "expects," "anticipates," "aims," "future," "intends," "plans," "believes," "estimates," "likely to," and other similar expressions. Among other things, the business outlook and quotations from management in this announcement contain forward-looking statements. ZTO may also make written or oral forward-looking statements in its periodic reports to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") and The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited (the "HKEX"), in its interim and annual reports to shareholders, in announcements, circulars or other publications made on the website of the HKEX, in press releases and other written materials, and in oral statements made by its officers, directors, or employees to third parties. Statements that are not historical facts, including but not limited to statements about ZTO's beliefs, plans, and expectations, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement, including but not limited to the following: risks relating to the development of the e-commerce and express delivery industries in China; its significant reliance on certain third-party e-commerce platforms; risks associated with its network partners and their employees and personnel; intense competition which could adversely affect the Company's results of operations and market share; any service disruption of the Company's sorting hubs or the outlets operated by its network partners or its technology system; ZTO's ability to build its brand and withstand negative publicity, or other favorable government policies. Further information regarding these and other risks is included in ZTO's filings with the SEC and the HKEX. All information provided in this announcement is as of the date of this announcement, and ZTO does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statement, except as required under applicable law.

 

UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL DATA

Summary of Unaudited Consolidated Comprehensive Income Data:
		Three Months Ended December 31,						Year Ended December 31,
		2022		2023				2022		2023
		RMB		RMB		US$		RMB		RMB		US$
		(in thousands, except for share and per share data)
Revenues		9,871,327		10,619,434		1,495,716		35,376,996		38,418,915		5,411,191
Cost of revenues		(7,098,765)		(7,491,185)		(1,055,111)		(26,337,721)		(26,756,389)		(3,768,559)
Gross profit		2,772,562		3,128,249		440,605		9,039,275		11,662,526		1,642,632
Operating (expenses)/income:
Selling, general and administrative		(560,859)		(700,357)		(98,643)		(2,077,372)		(2,425,253)		(341,590)
Other operating income, net		248,132		327,203		46,086		774,578		770,651		108,544
Total operating expenses		(312,727)		(373,154)		(52,557)		(1,302,794)		(1,654,602)		(233,046)
Income from operations		2,459,835		2,755,095		388,048		7,736,481		10,007,924		1,409,586
Other income/(expenses):
Interest income		111,768		201,383		28,364		503,722		706,765		99,546
Interest expense		(76,147)		(61,804)		(8,705)		(190,521)		(289,533)		(40,780)
Gain/(loss) from fair value changes of
financial instruments		83,504		(51,247)		(7,218)		46,246		164,517		23,172
Gain/(loss) on disposal of equity
investees and subsidiaries
and others		9,083		(4,589)		(646)		69,598		5,485		773
Impairment of investment in equity
investee		-		-		-		(26,328)		-		-
Foreign currency exchange gain
before tax		9,064		17,972		2,531		147,254		93,543		13,175
Income before income tax, and share of
loss in equity method		2,597,107		2,856,810		402,374		8,286,452		10,688,701		1,505,472
Income tax expense		(500,518)		(636,621)		(89,666)		(1,633,330)		(1,938,600)		(273,046)
Share of gain/(loss) in equity method
investments		32,696		(10,376)		(1,461)		5,844		4,356		614
Net income		2,129,285		2,209,813		311,247		6,658,966		8,754,457		1,233,040
Net loss/(gain) attributable to non-controlling interests		33,326		(17,507)		(2,466)		150,090		(5,453)		(768)
Net income attributable to ZTO Express
(Cayman) Inc.		2,162,611		2,192,306		308,781		6,809,056		8,749,004		1,232,272
Net income attributable to ordinary
shareholders		2,162,611		2,192,306		308,781		6,809,056		8,749,004		1,232,272
Net earnings per share attributed to
ordinary shareholders
Basic		2.67		2.72		0.38		8.41		10.83		1.53
Diluted		2.61		2.66		0.37		8.36		10.60		1.49
Weighted average shares used in
calculating net earnings per ordinary
share/ADS
Basic		809,601,049		806,082,185		806,082,185		809,442,862		807,739,616		807,739,616
Diluted		841,226,602		837,291,253		837,291,253		820,273,531		838,948,683		838,948,683
Net income		2,129,285		2,209,813		311,247		6,658,966		8,754,457		1,233,040
Other comprehensive income/
(expenses), net of tax of nil:
Foreign currency translation adjustment		35,752		70,677		9,955		155,432		(104,052)		(14,655)
Comprehensive income		2,165,037		2,280,490		321,202		6,814,398		8,650,405		1,218,385
Comprehensive loss/(income)
attributable to non-controlling
interests		33,326		(17,507)		(2,466)		150,090		(5,453)		(768)
Comprehensive income attributable to
ZTO Express (Cayman) Inc.		2,198,363		2,262,983		318,736		6,964,488		8,644,952		1,217,617

 

 

Unaudited Consolidated Balance Sheets Data:
		As of
		December 31,		December 31,
		2022		2023
		RMB		RMB		US$
		(in thousands, except for share data)
ASSETS
Current assets
Cash and cash equivalents		11,692,773		12,333,884		1,737,191
Restricted cash		895,483		686,568		96,701
Accounts receivable, net		818,968		572,558		80,643
Financing receivables		951,349		1,135,445		159,924
Short-term investment		5,753,483		7,454,633		1,049,963
Inventories		40,537		28,074		3,954
Advances to suppliers		861,573		821,942		115,768
Prepayments and other current assets		3,146,378		3,772,377		531,328
Amounts due from related parties		314,483		148,067		20,855
Total current assets		24,475,027		26,953,548		3,796,327
Investments in equity investee		3,950,544		3,455,119		486,643
Property and equipment, net		28,813,204		32,181,025		4,532,603
Land use rights, net		5,442,951		5,637,101		793,969
Intangible assets, net		29,437		23,240		3,273
Operating lease right-of-use assets		808,506		672,193		94,676
Goodwill		4,241,541		4,241,541		597,409
Deferred tax assets		750,097		879,772		123,914
Long-term investment		7,322,545		12,170,881		1,714,233
Long-term financing receivables		1,295,755		964,780		135,886
Other non-current assets		816,839		701,758		98,841
Amounts due from related parties-non current		577,140		584,263		82,292
TOTAL ASSETS		78,523,586		88,465,221		12,460,066
LIABILITIES AND EQUITY
Current liabilities
Short-term bank borrowing		5,394,423		7,765,990		1,093,817
Accounts payable		2,202,692		2,557,010		360,147
Notes payable		200,000		-		-
Advances from customers		1,374,691		1,745,727		245,881
Income tax payable		228,422		333,257		46,938
Amounts due to related parties		49,138		234,683		33,054
Operating lease liabilities		229,718		186,253		26,233
Dividends payable		1,497		1,548		218
Other current liabilities		6,724,743		7,236,716		1,019,271
Total current liabilities		16,405,324		20,061,184		2,825,559
Non-current operating lease liabilities		510,349		455,879		64,209
Deferred tax liabilities		346,472		638,200		89,889
Convertible senior bond		6,788,971		7,029,550		990,091
TOTAL LIABILITIES		24,051,116		28,184,813		3,969,748
Shareholders' equity
Ordinary shares (US$0.0001 par value; 10,000,000,000 shares authorized; 826,943,309
shares issued and 809,247,109 shares outstanding as of December 31, 2022; 812,866,663 shares issued and 804,719,252 shares outstanding as of December 31, 2023)		535		525		74
Additional paid-in capital		26,717,727		24,201,745		3,408,744
Treasury shares, at cost		(2,062,530)		(510,986)		(71,971)
Retained earnings		29,459,491		36,301,185		5,112,915
Accumulated other comprehensive loss		(86,672)		(190,724)		(26,862)
ZTO Express (Cayman) Inc. shareholders' equity		54,028,551		59,801,745		8,422,900
Noncontrolling interests		443,919		478,663		67,418
Total Equity		54,472,470		60,280,408		8,490,318
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND EQUITY		78,523,586		88,465,221		12,460,066

 

 

Summary of Unaudited Consolidated Cash Flow Data:
	Three Months Ended December 31,						Year Ended December 31,
	2022		2023				2022		2023
	RMB		RMB		US$		RMB		RMB		US$
	(in thousands)
Net cash provided by operating activities	3,769,838		3,923,285		552,583		11,479,308		13,360,967		1,881,851
Net cash used in investing activities	(4,380,805)		1,181,169		166,364		(16,041,890)		(12,252,751)		(1,725,762)
Net cash (used in) / provided by financing
activities	(1,707,120)		(2,166,101)		(305,089)		7,058,202		(769,836)		(108,429)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash,
cash equivalents and restricted cash	(59,220)		4,450		627		338,106		109,843		15,471
Net (decrease) / increase in cash, cash
equivalents and restricted cash	(2,377,307)		2,942,803		414,485		2,833,726		448,223		63,131
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted
cash at beginning of period	14,980,394		10,108,507		1,423,753		9,769,361		12,603,087		1,775,107
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted
cash at end of period	12,603,087		13,051,310		1,838,238		12,603,087		13,051,310		1,838,238

The following table provides a reconciliation of cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash reported within the condensed consolidated balance sheets that sum to the total of the same such amounts shown in the condensed consolidated statements of cash flows:

	As of
	December 31,		December 31,
	2022		2023
	RMB		RMB		US$
	(in thousands)
Cash and cash equivalents	11,692,773		12,333,884		1,737,191
Restricted cash, current	895,483		686,568		96,701
Restricted cash, non-current	14,831		30,858		4,346
Total cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash	12,603,087		13,051,310		1,838,238

 

 

Reconciliations of GAAP and Non-GAAP Results
	Three Months Ended December 31,						Year Ended December 31,
	2022		2023				2022		2023
	RMB		RMB		US$		RMB		RMB			US$
	(in thousands, except for share and per share data)
Net income	2,129,285		2,209,813		311,247		6,658,966		8,754,457			1,233,040
Add:
Share-based compensation expense [1]	-		-		-		178,980		254,976			35,913
Impairment of investment in equity    investee [1]	-		-		-		26,328		-			-
(Gain) / Loss on disposal of equity    investees and subsidiaries and    others, net of income taxes	(9,083)		4,589		646		(58,275)		(3,513)			(495)
Adjusted net income	2,120,202		2,214,402		311,893		6,805,999		9,005,920			1,268,458
Net income	2,129,285		2,209,813		311,247		6,658,966		8,754,457			1,233,040
Add:
Depreciation	665,400		705,117		99,314		2,540,899		2,740,819			386,037
Amortization	35,199		33,855		4,768		129,647		134,390			18,928
Interest expenses	76,147		61,804		8,705		190,521		289,533			40,780
Income tax expenses	500,518		636,621		89,666		1,633,330		1,938,600			273,046
EBITDA	3,406,549		3,647,210		513,700		11,153,363		13,857,799			1,951,831
Add:
Share-based compensation expense	-		-		-		178,980		254,976			35,913
Impairment of investment in equity    investee	-		-		-		26,328		-			-
(Gain) / Loss on disposal of equity    investees and subsidiaries and    others, before income taxes	(9,083)		4,589		646		(69,598)		(5,485)			(773)
Adjusted EBITDA	3,397,466		3,651,799		514,346		11,289,073		14,107,290			1,986,971
(1)   Net of income taxes of nil

 

 

Reconciliations of GAAP and Non-GAAP Results
	Three Months Ended December 31,						Year Ended December 31,
	2022		2023				2022		2023
	RMB		RMB		US$		RMB		RMB			US$
	(in thousands, except for share and per share data)
Net income attributable to ordinary     shareholders	2,162,611		2,192,306		308,781		6,809,056		8,749,004			1,232,272
Add:
Share-based compensation expense [1]	-		-		-		178,980		254,976			35,913
Impairment of investment in equity    investee [1]	-		-		-		26,328		-			-
(Gain) / Loss on disposal of equity    investees and subsidiaries and    others, net of income taxes	(9,083)		4,589		646		(58,275)		(3,513)			(495)
Adjusted Net income attributable to    ordinary shareholders	2,153,528		2,196,895		309,427		6,956,089		9,000,467			1,267,690
Weighted average shares used in calculating net earnings    per ordinary share/ADS
Basic	809,601,049		806,082,185		806,082,185		809,442,862		807,739,616			807,739,616
Diluted	841,226,602		837,291,253		837,291,253		820,273,531		838,948,683			838,948,683
Net earnings per share/ADS attributable    to ordinary shareholders
Basic	2.67		2.72		0.38		8.41		10.83			1.53
Diluted	2.61		2.66		0.37		8.36		10.60			1.49
Adjusted net earnings per share/ADS    attributable to ordinary shareholders
Basic	2.66		2.73		0.38		8.59		11.14			1.57
Diluted	2.60		2.67		0.38		8.54		10.90			1.54
(1)   Net of income taxes of nil

 

For investor and media inquiries, please contact:

ZTO Express (Cayman) Inc.
Investor Relations
E-mail: ir@zto.com
Phone: +86 21 5980 4508

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/zto-reports-fourth-quarter-2023-and-full-year-2023-unaudited-financial-results-302093211.html

SOURCE ZTO Express (Cayman) Inc.

FAQ

What was ZTO Express's adjusted net income growth percentage for the fiscal year 2023?

ZTO Express's adjusted net income grew by 32.3% to reach RMB9.0 billion for the fiscal year 2023.

What was the increase in annual parcels for ZTO Express in the fiscal year 2023?

ZTO Express expanded its annual parcels, leading to a market share of 22.9% in the fiscal year 2023.

By how much did ZTO Express increase its annual dividend?

ZTO Express increased its annual dividend by 68%.

What was the change in the share repurchase program amount for ZTO Express?

ZTO Express upsized its share repurchase program by USD500 million.

What was the revenue growth percentage for ZTO Express in Q4 2023?

ZTO Express's revenues for Q4 2023 increased by 7.6% year over year.

How much did ZTO Express's gross profit increase by in Q4 2023?

ZTO Express's gross profit for Q4 2023 grew by 12.8% to RMB3,128.2 million.

What was the net income growth percentage for ZTO Express in Q4 2023?

ZTO Express's net income for Q4 2013 increased by 3.8% to RMB2,209.8 million.

What was the adjusted EBITDA growth percentage for ZTO Express in Q4 2023?

ZTO Express's adjusted EBITDA for Q4 2013 increased by 7.5% to RMB3,651.8 million.

What was the revenue growth percentage for ZTO Express in the fiscal year 2023?

ZTO Express's revenues for the fiscal year 2023 increased by 8.6%.

How much did ZTO Express's net income grow by in the fiscal year 2023?

ZTO Express's net income for the fiscal year 2023 grew by 31.5% to RMB8,754.5 million.