Morningstar has released a report stating it maintains its fair value estimate of HK$34 for HUA HONG SEMI (01347), a company it rates as having no economic moat. The firm believes the stock is significantly overvalued due to the need for external financing to expand capacity and intensifying competition in the foundry sector. On March 16, shares of HUA HONG SEMI surged as much as 12%, before pulling back on March 17, following overseas media reports suggesting the company was preparing for 7-nanometer chip manufacturing. However, Morningstar does not believe this scenario will materialize. If true, such a move would fundamentally alter the company's business model. Morningstar's fair value estimate and "no moat" rating for HUA HONG SEMI are predicated on the company's focus on specialized processes rather than the pursuit of cutting-edge technology. The firm sees no incentive for the company to chase 7nm chip production. In February, HUA HONG SEMI approved the acquisition of over 97.5% of Shanghai Huali Microelectronics' equity, a move aimed at addressing concerns from Chinese regulators regarding competition among related parties. HUA HONG SEMI will focus on specialized technologies on behalf of the Hua Hong Group, avoiding the development of leading-edge products.