Media OutReach
Stella’s 2024 Net Profit Up 21%, Exceeding Targets of Three-Year Plan Once Again
Full-Year Dividend Rises to HK171 Cents, Inclusive of Special Dividend of HK56 Cents Distributed under Excess Cash Return Program
Highlights:
- Shipment volumes increased by 8.2%
- Operating profit increased by 15.7% to US$184.5 million
- Operating profit margin increased to 11.9%, from 10.7% last year
- Net profit increased by 21.2% to US$170.1 million
- Solid net cash position of US$417.6 million, representing an increase of 45.3% compared to US$287.4 million as at 31 December 2023
- Recommended payment of final dividend of HK50 cents per share and an additional special dividend of HK56 cents per share under our Excess Cash Return Program. Total dividend for full-year 2024 is HK171 cents
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 20 March 2025 – Stella International Holdings Limited (“Stella” or the “Group”; SEHK: 1836), a leading developer and manufacturer of quality footwear and leather goods products, today announced its annual results for the year ended 31 December 2024.
Three-Year Plan (2023-2025) Delivering Strong Returns and Significant Value
In 2024, for the second consecutive year, we surpassed the dual targets of our Three-Year Plan – achieving a 10% operating margin and delivering low-teens annualized growth in profit after tax.
Revenue and shipment volumes increased by 3.5% and 8.2% respectively to US$1,545.1 million and 53 million pairs, driven by our Sports and Fashion categories. The average selling price (“ASP”) of our footwear products decreased year-on-year, due to a higher proportion of Sports products, which have a lower ASP, as well as raw material price deflation.
Margin Expansion Driven by Enhanced Customer Mix and Optimisation of Capacity Allocation
Our operating margin for the full-year expanded to 11.9% (before changes in fair value of financial instruments), compared to 10.7% in 2023. We accomplished this by executing our strategic initiatives focused on attracting and growing with our new customers, which allowed us to expand and diversify our customer portfolio and optimise the reallocation of our production capacity. The margin expansion was also attributable to enhanced operating leverage and efficiency improvement.
Due to the factors outlined above, the Group’s net profit increased by 21.2% to US$170.1 million. Excluding a net fair value change from its investment in Lanvin Group, the Group recorded an adjusted net profit of US$171.2 million (2023: US$147.6 million). Our adjusted net profit margin was 11.1% (2023: 9.9%).
Working Capital Optimisation Delivers Significant ROIC Improvement
In 2024, we delivered a Return on Invested Capital (ROIC) of 21.6%, more than a double of the 10% ROIC achieved in 2019. This success was driven by our strong working capital optimisation and efficiency, as well as our disciplined approach to capital expenditure and investments focused on maximising returns.
Solid Net Cash Position
We maintained our strong focus on managing our working capital usage and cash flow. As of 31 December 2024, our net cash position was US$417.6 million, an increase of 45.3% compared to a net cash position of US$287.4 million as at 31 December 2023. About US$100 million of the cash is reserved for completing our upcoming new sports footwear factory in Indonesia, and US$180 million is reserved for our Excess Cash Return Program for shareholders announced in August 2024. Therefore, the Group’s net gearing ratio was -37.4% as at 31 December 2024, compared to -26.9% as at 31 December 2023.
Final Dividend in Line With Normal Payout Ratio, With Additional Special Dividend of HK56 Cents Under Excess Cash Return Program
After considering the Group’s free cash flow situation, strong cash level, and pre-funded capital expenditure projects, the Board has resolved to recommend payment of a final dividend of HK50 cents per ordinary share. Combined with the interim dividend of HK65 cents per ordinary share, this maintains the Company’s normal payout ratio of approximately 71% set against our adjusted net profit.
We are also delighted to announce a special dividend of HK56 cents per ordinary share. This special dividend fulfils our promise to return US$60 million annually to our shareholders from 2024 to 2026, as we announced in our Excess Cash Return Program in August 2024, in addition to our normal payout ratio of about 70%.
As a result, the full-year dividend for the year ended 31 December 2024 is HK171 cents per ordinary share.
HSCI Inclusion and Stock Connect Unlock New Avenues for Global Investor Access and Liquidity
2024 marked several milestones that enhanced our market position and investor appeal. We became a constituent of the Hang Seng Composite Index (HSCI), a testament to our growing stature in the market. Additionally, we qualified for the Shanghai-Hong Kong and Shenzhen-Hong Kong Stock Connect programs, unlocking direct access for our mainland Chinese shareholders and broadening liquidity opportunities.
Outlook: Prioritising Maintaining High Product Quality Levels Through Controlled Expansion
We will likely face some macroeconomic headwinds and geopolitical uncertainties in 2025. Some of these will be partially offset as we ramp up shipments to out-performing customers in the high-end Fashion segment and begin shipments to new customers in the Sports segment, which should support a modest increase in overall shipment volumes in 2025. We will continue to optimise our production allocation between our Luxury and high-end Fashion categories and our non-Sports manufacturing facilities will continue to operate at close to full utilisation.
Our primary focus in 2025 will be maintaining high product quality levels as we gradually ramp up our new facilities in Solo, Indonesia, and Bangladesh. This controlled expansion aligns with our long-term strategy of ensuring quality growth, while increasing our capacity for higher-margin product orders. While we anticipate a moderation in the pace of our profit growth, we are confident about once again meeting our targets of a 10% operating margin and low-teens CAGR in profit after tax as set out under our Three-Year Plan.
Mr. Chi Lo-Jen, Chief Executive Officer of the Group, said, “Despite softening consumer sentiment, we are expanding production capacity to meet solid demand from our diversified customer base. While increased U.S. trade tariffs on China may present challenges to the market, most of our customers are leveraging our diversified production base to produce in multiple countries and adopting ‘China-for-China’ production strategies, which will help mitigate potential material impacts on our business.”
Mr. Lawrence Chen, Chairman of the Group, said, “Having largely achieved the objectives outlined in the Three-Year Plan, including enhancing our category mix, improving working capital, and strengthening cost efficiency, our primary objective in 2025 is to ensure quality growth. We remain fully committed to delivering value for our shareholders and all other stakeholders.”
Hashtag: #StellaInternational
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Stella International Holdings Limited
Stella International (SEHK: 1836) is a leading developer and manufacturer of quality footwear and leather goods. A trusted partner to many of the world’s most sought-after brands, it offers a unique proposition of unparalleled craftsmanship, production flexibility, and strong speed-to-market and commercialization capability, supported by a broad, diverse and proven manufacturing base across China and Southeast Asia.
Stella International was listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange in 2007. It is a constituent of the Hang Seng Composite Index and the MSCI Hong Kong Small Cap Index, and eligible to be traded on the Shanghai-Hong Kong Stock Connect and Shenzhen-Hong Kong Stock Connect.
When One Size Definitely Doesn’t Fit All
XIXILI’s Plus Size Collection flips the narrative that women need to settle for less-than-ideal sizes.
“For too many women, bra shopping has meant settling for sizes that almost fit or styles that prioritise function over fashion,” says XIXILI spokesperson Grace Tan. “Inclusivity is about recognising that every woman deserves access to beautiful, sexy, well-fitted lingerie. That shouldn’t be a problem they have to solve alone.”
To address the challenges of online fitting, XIXILI combines a detailed bra size chart with its pioneering ‘Try-On in 3D’ avatar tool. The feature allows women to generate a personalised digital twin based on specific measurements, enabling them to visualise the fit before purchasing.
Support Without Sacrifice: Plus Size Done Right
The Rufina Full Coverage Full Cup Bra sits at the heart of XIXILI’s Plus Size collection, designed for women who have been told they have to choose between support and style. The Rufina bra offers full coverage support with a contemporary silhouette that works under everything from work blouses to festive party dresses. Engineered specifically for fuller figures, it celebrates natural curves instead of trying to hide or minimise them. It’s the kind of foundation piece that lets you focus on your day, not your discomfort.
“We want every woman to feel supported, comfortable, and beautiful in whatever she’s wearing,” says Grace Tan. “Whether it’s for work, family gatherings, or special occasions, the right fit makes all the difference to daily comfort and confidence.”
Empowering Women With Knowledge, Not Just Options
XIXILI recognises that offering more sizes is only half the equation. Many women have spent years navigating limited options without proper guidance on finding their actual measurements.
The brand addresses this through interactive bra size charts, how-to-measure videos, and one-on-one personalised fittings at boutiques nationwide. By equipping women with the tools and knowledge to identify their true size, XIXILI transforms what can be a frustrating shopping experience into a more confident and informed process.
As Christmas shopping gets underway, the Plus Size Collection offers both a thoughtful gift for loved ones and an opportunity for self-care during the busy holiday season.
For more information and to discover the full range, visit XIXILI’s website.
Hashtag: #XIXILI
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The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
XIXILI
A homegrown Malaysian brand, XIXILI offers beautiful fashion lingerie and shapewear in Malaysia that prioritises fit and comfort. With an extensive range of bra sizes from A to I and bands 65 to 110cm, XIXILI caters to women of all shapes and sizes. Expert fitters are dedicated to helping each customer find the perfect bra, boosting confidence and enhancing silhouettes.
XIXILI became the first Malaysian lingerie brand to introduce a Try-On in 3D avatar tool, allowing customers to virtually try on XIXILI lingerie using a 3D avatar tailored to their specific body type and measurements. Whether for everyday wear or something special, XIXILI ensures women always look and feel amazing.
Preparation Is Key
SIM reviews thousands of applications each year, and incomplete submissions remain one of the primary causes of processing delays. Early preparation of all required documents is essential to ensure a seamless application experience and allow applicants to remain focused on their academic objectives. As stipulated in SIM’s Application Process Guide, all supporting documents must be uploaded at the point of application and submissions lacking these documents will not be processed.
The Core Documents Every Applicant Needs
Prior to applying to the Singapore Institute of Management (SIM), applicants should ensure that all required documents are prepared to prevent processing delays. Scanned copies of academic certificates and transcripts, such as GCE ‘O’ and ‘A’ Levels, diplomas or degrees must be provided, along with certified translations and notarisation for documents not in English.
Proof of English language proficiency, such as IELTS or TOEFL results, is mandatory for applicants whose previous education was not conducted in English. Identification documents are also required, including the NRIC for local applicants and a valid passport for international applicants, accompanied by a recent passport-sized photograph that complies with SIM’s specifications.
International applicants must additionally prepare documentation for the Student’s Pass application, which includes the passport bio-data page, birth certificate, evidence of financial capability, and, where applicable, parent or guardian identification documents.
Quick Tips to Avoid Delays
Submitting an application to the SIM can be a straightforward process with proper preparation. Ensure that all documents are uploaded in the correct format, with PDF being the standard for certificates and transcripts. For documents not in English, certified translations must be provided to prevent rejection or requests for re-submission.
Applicants should also adhere to SIM’s photo specifications by submitting a recent passport-sized photograph that meets official guidelines. International students must pay particular attention to financial documentation, as proof of financial capability is a key requirement for the Student’s Pass application. Bank statements and supporting documents should be prepared in advance to comply with Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) requirements. Following these steps will help avoid unnecessary delays and ensure a smooth application process.
Application Essentials
Prospective students are advised to submit a complete and accurate application to ensure smooth processing. Detailed instructions and programme-specific requirements can be found on SIM’s official application portal. Applications that are incomplete or contain inaccuracies will not be considered. To avoid delays, applicants should make use of the provided checklist and guidelines to confirm compliance before submission.
References:
- SIM Application Process – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/admissions/application-process
Hashtag: #SIMGlobalEducation #SIMGE
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About SIM Global Education
SIM Global Education (SIM GE) is a leading private education institution in Singapore and the region. We offer more than 140 academic programmes ranging from diplomas and graduate diploma programmes to bachelor’s and master’s degree programmes with some of the world’s most reputable universities from Australia, Canada, Europe, United Kingdom, and the United States. SIM GE’s cohort is made up of 16,000 full- and part-time students and adult learners, of which approximately 36% are international students hailing from over 50 countries.
SIM GE’s holistic learning approach and culturally diverse learning environment aim to equip students with knowledge, industry skills and employability competencies, as well as a global perspective to succeed as future leaders in a fast-changing, technologically driven world.
For more information on SIM Global Education, visit sim.edu.sg
Media OutReach
Vinfuture 2025 Honors Four Groundbreaking Scientific Achievements Under The Theme “Rising And Thriving”
The 2025 VinFuture Prize Award Ceremony was broadcast live on VTV1, the national television channel of Vietnam. The event was attended by Mr. Tran Thanh Man, Politburo member and Chairman of the National Assembly, along with leaders of central ministries and agencies, representatives of embassies and international organisations, and distinguished scientists from around the world.
The VinFuture Prize 2025 received 1,705 nominations from scientists, research institutions, and technology enterprises worldwide, representing an almost threefold increase relative to the inaugural year. These submissions highlight impactful cross-border research efforts focused on protecting public health, advancing next-generation intelligent materials, addressing climate change, accelerating novel energy solutions, and strengthening global food security frameworks.
The 2025 VinFuture Grand Prize valued at US$3 million is awarded to Dr. Douglas R. Lowy, Dr. John T. Schiller, Dr. Aimée R. Kreimer and Prof. Maura L. Gillison (USA) for discoveries and development of HPV vaccines for prevention of tumors caused by human papillomaviruses.
Foundational studies on HPV capsid proteins by Drs. Douglas Lowy and John Schiller led to the development of highly effective HPV vaccines, preventing millions of cervical cancer cases, especially in developing countries. Furthermore, the single-dose vaccination regimen developed by Dr. Aimée Kreimer – now recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) – has significantly expanded vaccine access for populations worldwide.
In parallel, laboratory and epidemiological studies by Prof. Maura Gillison and Dr. Aimée Kreimer established the link between HPV and head-and-neck cancers, which represent an emerging cancer threat expected to be mitigated by HPV vaccination efforts. The achievements of Dr. Douglas Lowy, Dr. John Schiller, Dr. Aimée Kreimer, and Prof. Maura Gillison have already saved millions of lives and will keep lowering the global cancer burden for decades to come.
In addition to the Grand Prize, the 2025 VinFuture Prizes will also present three Special Prizes, each valued at US$500,000, recognizing Innovators from Developing Countries, Women Innovators, and Innovators with Outstanding Achievements in Emerging Fields.
The 2025 VinFuture Special Prize for Innovators from Developing Countries is awarded to Prof. María Esperanza Martínez-Romero (Mexico) for advances in microbial ecology and symbiotic nitrogen fixation in the tropics. Prof. Martínez-Romero has discovered and described numerous new Rhizobium species, significantly expanding scientific understanding of microbial taxonomy and plant-microbe interactions in agriculture. Her work has opened new directions in the study of bacterial-plant symbiosis, with profound implications for sustainable agriculture in resource-limited settings.
The 2025 VinFuture Special Prize for Women Innovators is awarded to Prof. Mary-Claire King (USA) for identification of the breast and ovarian cancer susceptibility gene BRCA1, laying the foundation for genetic testing, screening programs, and personalized treatment. Her landmark identification of the BRCA1 locus on chromosome 17q21 in 1990, before the human genome was sequenced, is considered a historic milestone, demonstrating the genetic basis of cancer risk and transforming prevention and treatment strategies worldwide.
The 2025 VinFuture Special Prize for Innovators with Outstanding Achievements in Emerging Fields has honored Prof. Venkatesan Sundaresan (USA), Prof. Raphaël Mercier (Germany), Dr. Emmanuel Guiderdoni (France), Dr. Imtiyaz Khanday (USA) and Dr. Delphine Mieulet (France) for innovations in the development of clonal hybrid crops. Hybrid seed production for rice, the staple food for more than half of humankind, is a laborious and costly procedure resulting in a high seed cost. The team’s work has enabled rice plants to produce seeds that retain all the superior traits of the parent plant through self-pollination, grounded in new insights into developmental biology and genetics. This groundbreaking research improves yields, reduces seed production costs, and advances sustainable global food security.
Sharing his reflections on this year’s honored works, Prof. Sir. Richard Friend, Chair of the VinFuture Prize Council, stated: “The 2025 VinFuture Prize Laureates have made big advances in science that have brought direct benefits to human health and to global sustainable food crop production. From new vaccines and new understanding of genetic susceptibility to disease to new approaches for plant breeding and new protocols for healthy crop growth, these achievements exemplify the power of science driven by compassion and cross-border collaboration – showing that when knowledge serves humanity, it not only deepens our understanding of the world but also strengthens and sustains the very foundations of life itself.”
After five consecutive and widely acclaimed award cycles, the VinFuture Prize has been securing recognition among the world’s most prestigious science and technology awards, receiving 6,132 nominations from nearly 110 countries and territories across five continents, and honoring 48 outstanding laureates. The awarded innovations—spanning clean energy, artificial intelligence, biomedical technologies, and transformative advances in agriculture—are elevating quality of life, strengthening human well-being, and shaping strategic pathways for the future of humanity.
The VinFuture Prize Ceremony and VinFuture Sci-Tech Week have evolved into an established global platform for scientific exchange, bringing together scientists, policymakers, and business leaders to advance collaborations toward a sustainable, humane, and prosperous future.
Notably, after five award seasons driven by persistent efforts to connect global scientific excellence with the Vietnamese research community, the VinFuture Foundation and the VinFuture Prize have not only fostered new opportunities and momentum for national science, but have also strengthened Vietnam’s standing as a trusted destination for the world’s scientific community—where innovation is widely shared and amplified for the collective prosperity of humankind.
Hashtag: #Vinfuture
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
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