Group 1 - The core point of the article is that Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited reported a net profit of HKD 4.08 billion for the first quarter, exceeding the forecast of HKD 3.99 billion [1] - The company's total revenue and other income reached HKD 6.86 billion, surpassing the expected HKD 6.77 billion [1] - Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) amounted to HKD 5.25 billion, slightly above the forecast of HKD 5 billion [1]

智通财经4月30日电，香港交易所第一季度净利润40.8亿港元，预估39.9亿港元。 ...

Financial Performance - The company reported a record quarterly performance for Q1 2025, with total revenue and other income reaching HKD 6.857 billion, a 32% increase compared to Q1 2024[9]. - Major business revenue increased by 36% year-on-year to HKD 6.315 billion, driven by higher trading and settlement fees from increased trading volumes in the spot, derivatives, and commodities markets[9]. - The company’s EBITDA for Q1 2025 was HKD 5.254 billion, reflecting a 42% increase from HKD 3.705 billion in Q1 2024, with an EBITDA margin of 78%[9]. - Shareholder profit attributable to the company was HKD 4.077 billion, a 37% increase compared to HKD 2.970 billion in Q1 2024[9]. - The group's revenue and other income hit a new high of HKD 6.9 billion, a 32% increase compared to Q1 2024, driven by increased trading and settlement fees[14]. - The EBITDA margin improved to 91% in Q1 2025, up from 84% in Q1 2024, with EBITDA increasing by 89%[19]. - Total revenue for the three months ended March 31, 2025, was $5.496 billion, a 43% increase from $3.847 billion for the same period in 2024[76]. - Operating profit for the three months ended March 31, 2025, reached $4.896 billion, compared to $3.360 billion for the same period in 2024, reflecting a 46% increase[76]. - Basic earnings per share for the three months ended March 31, 2025, were $3.23, up from $2.35 in the same period of 2024, representing a 37% increase[76]. - The total comprehensive income for the three months ended March 31, 2025, was $4.238 billion, compared to $2.993 billion for the same period in 2024, indicating a 42% increase[77]. Trading Activity - The average daily trading value for equity securities products reached HKD 225.44 billion, a 153% increase from HKD 89.1 billion in Q1 2024[7]. - The average daily trading value for the Hong Kong Stock Connect was HKD 109.94 billion, up 255% from HKD 31.0 billion in the same period last year[7]. - In Q1 2025, the average daily trading volume in the cash market reached a record high of HKD 242.7 billion, more than double that of Q1 2024 and up 30% from Q4 2024[12]. - The average daily trading volume of derivative contracts reached 1.866 million, a 24% increase from Q1 2024 and a 13% increase from Q4 2024[12]. - Northbound trading fees from the Stock Connect program increased by 41% to HKD 1.57 billion, reflecting a 44% rise in average daily trading volume[17]. - The revenue from the Stock Connect program rose 61% to HKD 942 million, with HKD 757 million coming from trading and settlement activities[21]. - The average daily trading value of ETPs reached a record high of HKD 39.4 billion, up 197% from Q1 2024[26]. - The average daily trading amount for the Southbound trading of the Stock Connect reached HKD 67.34 billion, significantly up from HKD 17.5 billion in Q1 2024[23]. - The average daily trading volume of stock options reached 964,803 contracts, a 50% increase from Q1 2024[42]. - The average daily trading volume for all transactions, including administrative trades, totaled 742,000 lots in Q1 2025, compared to 696,000 lots in Q1 2024[49]. IPO and Listings - The number of new IPO applications in process rose to 120 as of March 31, 2025, compared to 84 applications at the end of December 2024[4]. - The number of new listings in Q1 2025 was 17, raising a total of HKD 18.7 billion through initial public offerings, nearly four times the amount raised in Q1 2024[25]. - The number of IPO applications being processed rose to 120 as of March 31, 2025, compared to 84 on December 31, 2024[12]. - The number of companies listed on the main board as of March 31, 2025, was 2,308, an increase from 2,285 in the previous year[23]. - The number of newly listed derivative warrants reached 2,009 in Q1 2025, up from 1,622 in Q1 2024[40]. Capital Expenditure and Investments - Capital expenditure increased by 73% year-on-year to HKD 481 million, primarily due to upgrades in the spot settlement system and the development of a new trading platform[9]. - The acquisition of multiple floors in the Trading Plaza for a total consideration of 6.3 billion was approved, marking a strategic investment to establish a permanent headquarters[60]. - As of March 31, 2025, margin deposits amounted to 207.6 billion, an increase of 18.7 billion from 188.9 billion on December 31, 2024, due to increased positions in certain futures and options[66]. - The investment income net amount from margin and clearing funds increased by 10 million (1%) in Q1 2025, totaling 817 million compared to 807 million in Q1 2024[64]. - The company plans to expand its data platform offerings, aiming to attract more users and enhance market data services[54]. Operating Expenses and Financial Position - Operating expenses increased by 7% compared to Q1 2024, primarily due to a HKD 90 million fine paid to the UK FCA and increased charitable donations[14]. - The company reported a total operating expenses of $1.516 billion for the three months ended March 31, 2025, compared to $1.411 billion in the same period of 2024[76]. - The company’s financial position showed no significant changes compared to the financial status disclosed in the annual report for the year ended December 31, 2024[73]. - Total assets as of March 31, 2025, amounted to HKD 380.431 billion, a slight decrease from HKD 381.629 billion as of December 31, 2024[78]. - Total liabilities increased to HKD 327.904 billion from HKD 327.222 billion, reflecting a rise of approximately 0.2%[78]. Market Developments and Strategic Initiatives - The Hong Kong stock market saw a significant rebound in equity financing activities, ranking second globally in total financing amount[12]. - The Hong Kong Stock Exchange is preparing for the implementation of a paperless securities market, expected to launch in early 2026, pending regulatory approval[22]. - The company continues to promote sustainable finance through its Core Climate platform and the Hong Kong Sustainable and Green Exchange (STAGE)[62]. - LME introduced new warehouse delivery locations in Hong Kong and Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, enhancing market accessibility[48]. - LME Clear implemented measures to improve market resilience, including changes to margin calculations effective March 3, 2025[51].

Investment Rating - The report maintains a Buy rating for HKEX with a target price of HKD411.00, unchanged from previous assessments, indicating a potential upside of 21.7% from the current share price of HKD337.80 [5][6][21]. Core Insights - HKEX announced the purchase of its permanent headquarters from Hong Kong Land for HKD6.3 billion, which includes enhancement works valued at HKD400 million for a total area of 147,025 sq. ft. The implied cost per square foot is HKD40,129 [2][11]. - The management indicated that the deal could be financed by reallocating their external investment portfolio, which may lead to a decline in net investment income by HKD217 million to HKD434 million. This could impact HKEX's net profit by 1.4% to 2.8% in 2025 [3][4]. - Despite the negative impact on investment income, the management views the purchase as a strategic commitment to enhance Hong Kong's status as a global financial center [4][11]. Financial Overview - For the fiscal year ending December 2024, total revenue is projected at HKD22.374 billion, with a growth rate of 9.1% year-on-year. By 2027, total revenue is expected to reach HKD27.554 billion [14]. - The earnings per share (EPS) for 2025 is estimated at HKD11.15, with a projected dividend yield of 3.0% [7][14]. - The report highlights a cost-to-income ratio of 27.2% for 2025, indicating operational efficiency [14]. Market Position - HKEX is positioned as a key platform connecting capital between Hong Kong and mainland China, benefiting from elevated average daily turnover (ADT) and improved initial public offering (IPO) flows [5][21]. - The report emphasizes HKEX's strategic role as a super-connector between global east and west, which is expected to drive long-term growth [4][5].

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - HKEX reported record-breaking trading volumes and exceptional financial results for 2024, with a revenue increase of 32% compared to the previous quarter and a profit after tax increase of 37% [12][56]. Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company highlighted a robust IPO pipeline and strong daily market turnover despite recent market volatility, indicating stability in its business lines [13]. Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - HKEX's market has remained stable with strong daily turnover, reflecting resilience in the face of macroeconomic and geopolitical challenges [12][13]. Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to focus on its strengths in China, drive international connectivity, and foster innovation and sustainability across its markets to position itself for sustained growth [12]. - HKEX has made a strategic investment by purchasing office floors at Exchange Square to establish its permanent headquarters, enhancing stakeholder engagement and providing long-term cost savings [13]. Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in HKEX's ability to navigate challenges and emphasized the importance of continuous improvement in trading systems to remain competitive [46]. - The CEO noted that despite an increase in profit tax from around 10% to approximately 16%, the company is focused on increasing turnover to offset the impact [51][52]. Other Important Information - HKEX achieved carbon neutrality across its operations by the end of 2024, demonstrating its commitment to sustainability [9]. - The company is considering changes to its auditor for the 2026 financial year, emphasizing the importance of corporate governance [27]. Q&A Session Summary Question: Concerns about PwC's quality of work due to team changes - Management acknowledged the concern and stated that they are evaluating the situation and will consider changing auditors for the 2026 financial year [27][28]. Question: Inquiry about capitalization costs and profit tax impact - The CEO confirmed an investment of approximately HKD 1 billion in system improvements and noted that profit tax is expected to rise to around 16% [48][51]. Question: Suggestion for increasing dividends for family offices - Management reiterated the company's tradition of paying 90% of profit attributable to shareholders and emphasized that dividend increases depend on profit growth [55][56]. Question: Concerns about minority shareholder interests and stock price manipulation - Management acknowledged the issue and stated that they monitor practices related to placements and are open to feedback [60][61]. Question: Inquiry about the recent property purchase price and AGM participation for Mainland investors - Management defended the property purchase as a strategic investment and indicated that they are considering system upgrades to allow Mainland investors to participate in AGMs [64][66].

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - HKEX reported record-breaking trading volumes and exceptional financial results for 2024, with revenue increasing by 32% compared to the previous quarter and profit after tax rising by 37% [13][56] - The company achieved carbon neutrality across its operations by the end of 2024 [9] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The market remained stable despite recent volatility, with strong daily market turnover and a robust IPO pipeline [14] - HKEX signed an agreement to establish its permanent group headquarters at Exchange Square, which will enhance stakeholder engagement and provide long-term cost savings [14] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company emphasized its focus on China strengths and driving international connectivity to foster innovation and sustainability across its markets [13] Company Strategy and Development Direction - HKEX aims to solidify and elevate Hong Kong's position as an international financial center and a super connector between China and the rest of the world [15] - The company plans to invest approximately HKD 1 billion in improving its trading and transaction systems to remain competitive [49] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in sustained growth despite challenging macroeconomic and geopolitical conditions [13] - The company acknowledged the need to adapt to changes in profit tax, projecting an increase from around 10% to approximately 16% [51] Other Important Information - HKEX has a tradition of paying out 90% of its profit attributable to shareholders, which is considered high compared to global peers [55] - The company is considering system upgrades to allow Mainland investors to participate in AGMs [66] Q&A Session Summary Question: Concerns about PwC's quality of work due to team changes - Management acknowledged the importance of corporate governance and stated that they would evaluate the need for a new auditor for the 2026 financial year [27][28] Question: Inquiry about capitalization costs and profit tax impact - Management confirmed an investment of about HKD 1 billion for system improvements and projected an increase in profit tax from around 10% to 16% [49][51] Question: Suggestion to increase dividends for family offices - Management reiterated the 90% payout ratio and emphasized that dividends depend on profit levels [55][56] Question: Concerns about minority shareholders' interests during placements - Management acknowledged the issue and stated that they would consider feedback regarding placements and related practices [60][61] Question: Inquiry about the property purchase price and AGM participation for Mainland investors - Management defended the property purchase as a strategic investment and confirmed ongoing discussions to allow Mainland investors to participate in AGMs [64][66]

智通财经4月28日电，香港交易所信息显示，贝莱德在哔哩哔哩-W的持股比例于04月22日从5.05%降至 4.79%。 ...

Macro Dynamics - The Ministry of Finance allocated 47.1 billion yuan for water conservancy development in 2025, focusing on ensuring water safety, enhancing people's well-being, and promoting county economic development [2] - The People's Bank of China will conduct a 600 billion yuan MLF operation on April 25, 2025, to maintain liquidity in the banking system, with a net injection of 500 billion yuan [3] - The Ministry of Commerce responded to the U.S. claims of tariff reduction, emphasizing that unilateral tariffs harm international trade order and should be removed through dialogue [4] Financial Institutions - China Ping An plans to issue domestic bond financing tools, with a total amount not exceeding 50 billion yuan, subject to shareholder approval on May 13 [5][6] Market Data - On April 24, A-shares showed mixed performance with the Shanghai Composite Index up 0.03% and the Shenzhen Component down 0.58%, amid a total trading volume of 1.11 trillion yuan [8] - The financing balance of the two exchanges increased by 2.75 billion yuan and 17.71 billion yuan respectively, totaling 1.7945 trillion yuan [9] - The Hang Seng Index fell by 0.74%, with notable declines in major tech stocks [10] Company Dynamics - Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing announced a strategic investment of 6.3 billion HKD in the purchase of a commercial building for its headquarters [11][12] - Heng Rui Pharmaceutical reported a 36.9% year-on-year increase in net profit for Q1 2025, driven by a licensing payment of 75 million USD [13] - Mu Yuan Co. turned a profit in Q1 2025 with a net profit of 4.491 billion yuan, compared to a loss in the same period last year, attributed to increased pig prices and sales [14] - Tesla's sales in Europe dropped by 45% in Q1 2025, amidst a broader decline in traditional fuel vehicle registrations [15] - Coca-Cola Japan announced price increases for its products starting October 1, 2025, due to rising costs [16] - The first three-valent HPV vaccine application has been accepted for review, aimed at preventing related infections and cervical cancer [18]

第一期物业及平台物业位于交易广场。交易广场是位处香港中环核心商业区的优质甲级写字楼及商场综 合物业，共有交易广场一、二及三期及富临阁。交易广场是由香港置地发展兴建，香港置地或其附属公 司目前拥有交易广场大部分的权益。 香港交易所扎根交易广场近四十年。本收购交易为香港交易所提供一个难得的战略投资机会，购入交易 广场的相关楼层作为其永久办事处，并彰显香港交易所支持香港作为国际领先金融中心发展的长期承 诺。交易广场是位处香港中环核心商业区的优质甲级写字楼，眺望维多利亚港，并享有便捷交通连接。 交易广场亦是香港金融大会堂的所在地，以及举办香港新股上市活动及其他重要金融相关会议和展览的 地点。连同相关优化项目工程，本收购交易将有助香港交易所作为香港重要的金融市场基础设施，满足 集团的长期业务发展和营运需求，进一步促进香港交易所与持份者的联系，并反映香港交易所作为全球 交易所的地位。本收购交易为香港交易所提供一个长久的办事处地点，将有助提升香港交易所应对不同 房地产周期的韧性，让香港交易所可以受惠于拥有自置物业资产所带来的最大效益和价值，并同时继续 透过租用交易广场若干楼层来维持其营运的灵活性。本收购交易亦将有助香港交易 ...

该投资也是香港交易所与置地公司长期战略合作的一部分，根据协议，置地公司将额外投入4亿港元， 用于优化与香港交易所相关的周边设施，新增带有香港交易所品牌的标志和设计主题。 香港交易所将自资从置地公司购买交易广场第一座最高的九层办公楼，以及在交易广场一及二楼与香港 金融大会堂相邻的部分区域，投资总额为63亿港元。此外，香港交易所将与置地公司签署新的长期租 约，涉及香港交易所现已租用的位于交易广场第二座的几个楼层。 4月24日，香港交易所宣布与置地控股有限公司（置地公司）达成协议，购买交易广场第一座多层商业 楼面作为集团总部。 ...