A2 Milk (ASX:A2M) share price lifts on China child policy change

An increase from two to three in China's child policy pushed infant formula shares higher today.

| More on:
Glass of milk

Image Source: Getty Images

You’re reading a free article with opinions that may differ from The Motley Fool’s Premium Investing Services. Become a Motley Fool member today to get instant access to our top analyst recommendations, in-depth research, investing resources, and more. Learn More

It's shaping up to be a positive day for the A2 Milk Company Ltd (ASX: A2M) share price following a shift in China's child policy.

At the time of writing, the milk and infant formula company's shares are trading 2.54% higher to $5.66.

China upgrades the infant formula market potential

The A2 Milk share price is not alone in today's rejuvenated optimism. Other infant formula makers are enjoying some green on the back of China's government revising its policy limiting couples to two children.

China will now support couples to have a third child, according to a meeting of the Political Bureau held on Monday. The policy change is in response to China's aging population, with people aged over 60 accounting for 18.7% of the country's population in 2020.

Obviously, an increase in the fertility rate for what was already considered to be the biggest growth engine for infant formula producers pre-COVID bodes well for associated companies.

Today's reaction is a little déjà vu. Back in late 2015, China increased its child policy from one to two. Shares in publicly traded infant formula companies received a boost following the change.

Interestingly, smaller players like Bubs Australia Ltd (ASX: BUB) have done particularly well out of the news. The Bubs share price surged over 20% following the development.

Doesn't break the A2 Milk share price drought

Much like one good downpour of rain, the gains from today doesn't dispel the months of losses.

COVID-induced demand waning has forced A2 Milk and others to downgrade its FY21 guidance. The last month was no exception, with the A2 Milk share price souring by 23%.

Unfortunately for shareholders, the company's full-year revenue estimate is now NZ$1.2 billion to NZ$1.25 billion. Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation, and amortisation (EBITDA) suffered the same fate – lowered to between NZ$132 million to NZ$150 million.

Even with today's gain, the A2 Milk share price 71.7% down from its all-time high of $20.05 a share. As they say, "When it rains it pours" – shareholders would be hoping the same applies for positive news.

Motley Fool contributor Mitchell Lawler has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended A2 Milk and BUBS AUST FPO. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Bruce Jackson.

More on Share Gainers

Young girl drinking milk showing off muscles.
Share Gainers

Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today

It was a great end to the trading week for ASX investors today.

Read more »

A man sits thoughtfully on the couch with a laptop on his lap.
Share Gainers

3 ASX 200 stocks smashing the benchmark this week

These three ASX 200 stocks are leading the charge this week. Here’s how.

Read more »

A young woman holding her phone smiles broadly and looks excited, after receiving good news.
Share Gainers

Why A2 Milk, EOS, GQG, and Mineral Resources shares are racing higher today

These shares are ending the week strongly. But why?

Read more »

A man wearing a red jacket and mountain hiking clothes stands at the top of a mountain peak and looks out over countless mountain ranges.
Share Gainers

Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today

It was another disappointing day for ASX investors this Thursday.

Read more »

two men smiling with a laptop in front of them, symbolising a rising share price.
Share Gainers

Why Pinnacle, PWR, Race Oncology, and Vulcan shares are flying today

These shares are having a good session on Thursday. But why?

Read more »

A beautiful woman holds up one finger with one hand and has her hand on her waist with the other as she smiles widely as though she is very pleased about something.
Share Gainers

Why Boss Energy, Emeco, Mineral Resources, and Plenti shares are pushing higher today

These shares are having a good time on hump day. But why?

Read more »

Three small children reach up to hold a toy rocket high above their heads in a green field with a blue sky above them.
Share Gainers

3 ASX 300 shares going gangbusters on Wednesday

Investors are bidding up these three ASX 300 shares today. But why?

Read more »

Man raising both his arms in the air with a piggy bank on his lap, symbolising a record high.
Share Gainers

Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today

It was a huge Tuesday for ASX shares, with the index resetting its record high.

Read more »