Financial Performance - Total revenue for 2024 was $254.9 million, a decrease of 1.9% from $259.9 million in 2023[3] - Gross profit for 2024 was $69.8 million, down 11.0% from $78.4 million in 2023, resulting in a gross margin of 27.4%[3] - Net profit for 2024 plummeted to $0.6 million, a decline of 94.4% compared to $10.7 million in 2023, leading to a net profit margin of 0.2%[3] - Adjusted EBITDA for 2024 was $54.0 million, down 14.6% from $63.2 million in 2023, with an adjusted EBITDA margin of 21.2%[3] - Basic earnings per share (EPS) for 2024 was $0.0004, a decrease of 92.5% from $0.0053 in 2023[3] - The company's revenue decreased by 1.9% from approximately $259.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2023, to approximately $254.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2024[52] - The group's revenue decreased by 1.9% from approximately $259.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2023, to approximately $254.9 million for the year ending December 31, 2024[77] - The group's gross profit decreased by 11.0% from approximately $78.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2023, to approximately $69.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2024, with a gross margin decline from 30.2% to 27.4%[81] - Net profit dropped from approximately $10.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2023, to approximately $0.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2024, with a net profit margin decline from 4.1% to 0.2%[89] Revenue Breakdown - Revenue from the Drug Discovery segment was $31.2 million, down 6.9% from $33.5 million in 2023[18] - Revenue from the Drug Development segment was $81.9 million, a decrease of 13.7% from $95.1 million in 2023[18] - Revenue from the Laboratory Testing segment increased to $132.5 million, up 7.6% from $123.7 million in 2023[18] - Revenue from North America and Europe was $198.2 million, while revenue from China was $56.7 million, contributing to the total revenue[23] - Revenue from drug discovery decreased from approximately $33.5 million to approximately $31.2 million, while revenue from drug development decreased from approximately $95.1 million to approximately $81.9 million[78] - Revenue from China decreased by 5.9% from approximately RMB 428.9 million (approximately $60.8 million) to approximately RMB 403.5 million (approximately $56.7 million)[77] Expenses and Costs - Research and development expenses for 2024 were $5.6 million, slightly reduced from $6.0 million in 2023[5] - Selling and marketing expenses increased by 3.7% from approximately $8.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2023, to approximately $8.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2024, due to increased marketing and business development efforts[84] - Administrative expenses rose by 5.6% from approximately $44.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2023, to approximately $47.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2024, largely due to the consolidation of Nucro and Frontage Europe[85] - Financial costs increased by 35.2% from approximately $7.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2023, to approximately $9.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2024, due to increased borrowing for expansion and operations[87] Assets and Liabilities - Total assets decreased to $553.6 million in 2024 from $571.9 million in 2023[7] - The company's cash and cash equivalents decreased to approximately $44.1 million as of December 31, 2024, down from $53.2 million in 2023, attributed to payments for property, plant, and equipment[101] - The company's asset-liability ratio increased to 33.0% as of December 31, 2024, compared to 26.2% in 2023, mainly due to significant financing activities to support business expansion[107] - The company's lease liabilities decreased to approximately $58.7 million as of December 31, 2024, from $63.7 million in 2023[104] Shareholder Actions - The board of directors did not recommend any final dividend for the reporting period[3] - The company repurchased 50,788,000 shares at a cost of $11,203 thousand in 2024, compared to 15,848,000 shares at a cost of $4,231 thousand in 2023[48] - The company is committed to creating long-term value for shareholders through its share repurchase program, reflecting confidence in its business outlook[113] Strategic Initiatives - The company has restructured its operations into two main divisions: Global Drug Discovery and Development Services, and Global Laboratory Services[15][16] - The strategic adjustment aims to enhance operational efficiency and promote innovation across all business segments[16] - The company aims to enhance service capabilities through organic growth and strategic acquisitions despite macroeconomic fluctuations[53] - The company plans to invest RMB 200 million in new technology development to improve operational efficiency[124] Market Position and Growth - North America holds a 35% market share in the global contract research organization services market, maintaining the company's leading position[54] - The global contract research organization market is projected to grow from $83.49 billion in 2024 to $192.68 billion by 2032, with a CAGR of 11.1%[75] - The company is expanding its market presence in Southeast Asia, targeting a 15% market share by the end of 2025[124] Research and Development - The company established a liposome complex structure analysis system for the world's first liposome T cell engager drug, aiding in its clinical approval[63] - The company enhanced its ADC analysis platform and launched comprehensive biomarker testing services to support new drug development in the biopharmaceutical sector[64] - The Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics Department expanded its product offerings to meet the growing demand from clients for complex discovery and development projects, with successful human absorption, metabolism, and excretion studies using 14C labeled drug substances in 2024[56] Compliance and Governance - The company has adhered to the corporate governance code principles applicable to it during the reporting period[115] - The audit and risk management committee reviewed the accounting principles and policies adopted by the group, confirming that the audited consolidated financial statements fairly reflect the group's financial position and performance for the reporting period[116] - The company adheres to international financial reporting standards, ensuring transparency and accuracy in financial reporting[124]

Financial Performance - Revenue for the six months ended June 30, 2024, was $128,475 thousand, a slight increase from $128,356 thousand in the same period of 2023[7]. - Gross profit decreased to $34,842 thousand, down from $38,988 thousand year-over-year, resulting in a gross margin of 27.1% compared to 30.4% in 2023[7]. - The company reported a net loss of $300 thousand for the first half of 2024, contrasting with a profit of $4,558 thousand in the same period last year[7]. - Adjusted net profit for the period was $6,147 thousand, down from $10,223 thousand in 2023, reflecting an adjusted net profit margin of 4.8% compared to 8.0%[7]. - Total comprehensive loss for the period was $2,973 thousand, compared to a comprehensive income of $1,219 thousand in 2023, marking a shift from profit to loss[160]. - The company recorded a net loss of approximately $0.3 million for the six months ended June 30, 2024, compared to a net profit of approximately $4.6 million for the same period in 2023[56]. - Adjusted net profit decreased by 40.2% from approximately $10.2 million to approximately $6.1 million, with an adjusted net profit margin of 4.8% compared to 8.0% in the previous year[61]. - Basic and diluted loss per share was $0.0001 for the six months ended June 30, 2024, compared to earnings of $0.0023 and $0.0022 for the same period in 2023[64]. Assets and Liabilities - Total assets as of June 30, 2024, were $569,024 thousand, a slight decrease from $571,869 thousand at the end of 2023[7]. - Total equity decreased to $337,397 thousand from $345,147 thousand at the end of 2023, while total liabilities increased to $231,627 thousand from $226,722 thousand[7]. - Cash and cash equivalents were reported at $42,998 thousand, down from $53,186 thousand at the end of 2023[7]. - Non-current assets as of June 30, 2024, amounted to $421,799 thousand, a decrease from $430,305 thousand as of December 31, 2023, representing a decline of 2.4%[161]. - Current assets increased to $147,225 thousand as of June 30, 2024, compared to $141,564 thousand at the end of 2023, showing a growth of 4.7%[161]. - Total liabilities decreased to $115,348 thousand as of June 30, 2024, down from $99,580 thousand at the end of 2023, indicating a reduction of 15.9%[162]. - The company's net assets as of June 30, 2024, were $337,397 thousand, a decrease from $345,147 thousand as of December 31, 2023, reflecting a decline of 2.3%[162]. Revenue Breakdown - Revenue from North America and Europe decreased by 0.6% from approximately $100.0 million to approximately $99.4 million during the same period, primarily due to a decline in drug development and discovery services[40]. - Revenue from China increased by 4.4% from approximately RMB 197.8 million (approximately $28.4 million) to approximately RMB 206.5 million (approximately $29.1 million) due to marketing efforts and improved project execution[40]. - Laboratory testing services generated $66.3 million in revenue for 2024, up from $58.5 million in 2023, reflecting a significant increase[41]. - Drug development revenue decreased to $42,797 thousand from $47,097 thousand, a decline of 9.2% compared to the previous year[177]. - Drug discovery services reported revenue of $15,820 thousand, down from $18,524 thousand, indicating a decrease of 14.6% year-over-year[177]. - The pharmaceutical product development segment generated $3,603 thousand, a decrease from $4,242 thousand, reflecting a decline of 15.1% compared to the same period last year[177]. Operational Developments - The company completed the acquisition of Accelera's bioanalytical and drug metabolism and pharmacokinetics business in January 2024, enhancing its service offerings in Europe[22]. - The operational restructuring in 2023 led to the establishment of two main divisions: Global Drug Discovery and Development Services and Global Laboratory Services, aimed at improving efficiency and service integration[19]. - The company has expanded its safety and toxicology department in Chicago, reducing reliance on external partners and enhancing internal capabilities[19]. - The integration of Accelera's services is expected to enhance the company's capabilities and introduce new services to better meet customer needs in Europe[22]. - The company aims to leverage advanced technology and new services to strengthen support for drug development and research services, driving sustainable growth[22]. - The restructuring and service integration are designed to better respond to the evolving demands of the biopharmaceutical industry in 2024[19]. Cost Management and Expenses - Service costs increased by 4.7% from approximately $89.4 million to approximately $93.6 million, mainly due to additional costs from Nucro and Frontage Europe[45]. - Sales and marketing expenses increased by 17.5% from approximately $4.0 million to approximately $4.7 million, attributed to enhanced marketing and business development efforts[49]. - Administrative expenses rose by 7.0% from approximately $22.9 million to approximately $24.5 million, primarily due to the integration of Nucro and Frontage Europe into the consolidated financial statements[52]. - Research and development expenses decreased by 9.7% from approximately $3.1 million to approximately $2.8 million, due to cost reduction measures[53]. - Financial costs increased by 38.7% from approximately $3.1 million to approximately $4.3 million, driven by increased borrowing for expansion and operations[54]. Shareholder Information - The board has decided not to declare an interim dividend for the six months ended June 30, 2024[7]. - The company repurchased a total of 48,410,000 shares at a total cost of approximately HKD 85,849,860 during the six months ending June 30, 2024[82]. - Major shareholders include Hong Kong Tiger with 1,032,964,090 shares (50.74%) and Hangzhou Tiger with 1,258,984,090 shares (61.84%) as of June 30, 2024[96]. - The total number of outstanding shares is 2,035,724,910, with no other significant shareholders disclosed[96]. - The remuneration for Executive Director Dr. Li Song has been adjusted to USD 368,000 per year, effective September 1, 2024[88]. - The remuneration for CEO Dr. Abdul Mutlib has been adjusted to USD 625,000 per year, effective September 1, 2024[88]. Market Trends and Industry Outlook - The global contract research organization market is estimated to be valued between $48.19 billion and $82.55 billion in 2023, projected to reach up to $148.76 billion by 2028[16]. - In 2024, the global and Chinese biopharmaceutical industry continues to experience cyclical downturns, with overall growth remaining slow despite signs of increased financing for biopharmaceutical companies[23]. - The company continues to focus on optimizing its cost structure and promoting technological innovation to navigate market challenges[16].

Financial Performance - Revenue for the six months ended June 30, 2024, was $128.5 million, a slight increase of 0.1% compared to $128.4 million in the same period of 2023[2] - Gross profit decreased to $34.8 million with a gross margin of 27.1%, down from $39.0 million and 30.4% in the prior year, representing a decline of 10.8%[2] - Adjusted EBITDA for the period was $25.8 million, with an adjusted EBITDA margin of 20.1%, down from $29.8 million and 23.2% in the previous year, a decrease of 13.4%[2] - The company reported a net loss of $0.3 million, translating to a net loss margin of 0.2%, compared to a net profit of $4.6 million and a margin of 3.6% in the same period last year[2] - Adjusted net profit was $6.1 million, with an adjusted net profit margin of 4.8%, down 40.2% from $10.2 million and 8.0% in the prior year[2] - Total comprehensive loss for the period was $2.973 million, compared to a comprehensive income of $1.219 million in the same period of 2023[4] Assets and Liabilities - Non-current assets as of June 30, 2024, totaled $421.8 million, a decrease from $430.3 million as of December 31, 2023[6] - Current liabilities increased to $115.3 million from $99.6 million in the previous period, indicating a rise in short-term financial obligations[6] - Cash and cash equivalents decreased to $43.0 million from $53.2 million, reflecting a reduction in liquidity[6] - Non-current liabilities decreased from $127,142,000 as of December 31, 2023, to $116,279,000 as of June 30, 2024, a reduction of approximately 8.5%[7] - Net asset value decreased from $345,147,000 to $337,397,000, reflecting a decline of about 2.2%[7] Operational Changes - The company has restructured its operations into two main divisions: Global Laboratory Services and Global Drug Discovery and Development Services, aimed at improving efficiency[12] - The company operates primarily in North America, Europe, and China, with all consolidated assets and liabilities located in these regions[14] - The company has not presented segment assets and liabilities as they are not regularly provided to the chief operating decision maker for performance evaluation[14] Revenue Breakdown - Revenue breakdown includes laboratory testing services at $66,255,000, drug development at $42,797,000, drug discovery at $15,820,000, and pharmaceutical product development at $3,603,000[13] - Revenue from laboratory testing in North America and Europe was $45,500,000, while in China it was $12,993,000, totaling $58,493,000 for this segment[16] - Revenue from North America and Europe decreased by 0.6% from approximately $100.0 million to approximately $99.4 million during the same period[56] - Revenue from China increased by 4.4% from approximately RMB 197.8 million (approximately $28.4 million) to approximately RMB 206.5 million (approximately $29.1 million)[56] Expenses - Research and development expenses amounted to $22,877,000 for the six months ended June 30, 2024, compared to $24,507,000 in the same period of 2023, indicating a decrease of 6.6%[16] - Sales and marketing expenses increased by 17.5% from approximately $4.0 million to approximately $4.7 million due to enhanced marketing and business development efforts[63] - Administrative expenses rose by 7.0% from approximately $22.9 million to approximately $24.5 million, primarily due to the integration of Nucro and Frontage Europe into the group's financial statements[64] - Financial costs increased by 38.7% from approximately $3.1 million to approximately $4.3 million due to increased borrowings for expansion and operations[66] Cash Flow and Financing - The group recorded a net cash outflow from operating activities of $4.6 million for the six months ended June 30, 2024, compared to $11.4 million for the same period in 2023[76] - Capital expenditures for the six months ended June 30, 2024, were approximately $16.4 million, an increase of 42.6% from approximately $11.5 million for the same period in 2023, mainly due to increased spending on North American facilities[77] - As of June 30, 2024, total bank borrowings amounted to $95.5 million, up from $81.4 million on December 31, 2023, with actual interest rates ranging from 2.75% to 7.42%[78] Strategic Initiatives - The company completed the acquisition of Accelera S.r.l. for a cash consideration of €6,835,000 (approximately $7,357,000), with goodwill recognized at $6,275,000[42] - The acquisition of Accelera is expected to enhance the company's capabilities in bioanalysis and drug metabolism services, with a focus on expanding scientific expertise and facilities[45] - The company launched a commercial diagnostic service for Alzheimer's disease, focusing on advanced diagnostic testing methods to meet the growing demand for early and accurate diagnosis[49] - The company plans to launch a high-standard eye drop production line by the end of 2024, expanding its service offerings and enhancing competitive advantage[54] Market Trends and Challenges - The contract research organization market is projected to grow from an estimated value of $48.19 billion to $148.76 billion by 2028, driven by advancements in pharmaceutical and medical device R&D[47] - The company is addressing challenges in the contract research organization market, including high clinical trial costs and increased regulatory complexity, by optimizing cost structures and promoting technological innovation[47] - In 2024, the global and Chinese biopharmaceutical industry continues to experience cyclical downturns, with overall growth remaining slow despite signs of increased financing for biopharmaceutical companies[51] Governance and Compliance - The company's financial statements are prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards, ensuring compliance with applicable disclosure requirements[9] - The board confirmed compliance with the standard code of conduct for securities transactions by all directors during the reporting period[89] - The audit and risk management committee reviewed the interim performance and confirmed that the financial statements fairly reflect the group's financial position[91]

Financial Performance - Revenue for 2023 reached $259.855 million, a 3.0% increase from $250.360 million in 2022[4] - Gross profit for 2023 was $78.394 million, resulting in a gross margin of 30.2%, down from 35.6% in 2022[4] - Adjusted net profit for 2023 was $23.974 million, compared to $36.168 million in 2022, reflecting a decrease of 33.6%[4] - The company reported a net profit margin of 4.1% for 2023, a decline from 10.3% in 2022[4] - The adjusted net profit margin for 2023 was 9.2%, compared to 14.4% in 2022[4] - The group's net profit decreased by 58.7% from approximately $25.9 million to approximately $10.7 million, resulting in a net profit margin of 4.1% compared to 10.3% in the previous year[45] - EBITDA decreased by 18.2% from approximately $69.9 million in 2022 to about $57.2 million in 2023, resulting in an EBITDA margin of 22.0%, down from 27.9%[48] - Adjusted EBITDA fell by 13.7% from approximately $73.2 million in 2022 to about $63.2 million in 2023, with an adjusted EBITDA margin of 24.3% compared to 29.3% in the prior year[49] Assets and Liabilities - Total assets as of December 31, 2023, were $571.869 million, an increase from $550.594 million in 2022[4] - Total liabilities increased to $226.722 million in 2023, up from $214.746 million in 2022[4] - Cash and cash equivalents decreased significantly to $53.186 million in 2023, down from $87.433 million in 2022[4] - Property, plant, and equipment increased by 8.4% from approximately $115.0 million in 2022 to about $124.7 million in 2023, primarily due to expansion in R&D and manufacturing capabilities[52] - Trade and other receivables increased by 6.4% from approximately $57.6 million in 2022 to about $61.3 million in 2023, driven by business growth[55] - Goodwill increased by 23.3% from approximately $149.2 million in 2022 to about $183.9 million in 2023, mainly due to the acquisition of Nucro-Technics[54] Operational Developments - The company plans to focus on new product development and market expansion strategies in the upcoming year[4] - Management highlighted ongoing investments in technology and potential acquisitions to drive future growth[4] - The company completed the acquisition of Nucro-Technics Inc. in August 2023, enhancing its market share in North America and expanding service offerings globally[8] - The company aims to enhance operational synergies and optimize resource allocation through a new global business structure, improving flexibility, reliability, and cost-effectiveness[12] - The company integrated Biotranex's operations into its drug metabolism and pharmacokinetics unit in Pennsylvania, enhancing its service offerings[15] - The company has established a collaborative network of interdisciplinary teams in North America, providing comprehensive one-stop solutions in drug metabolism and pharmacokinetics, chemistry, manufacturing, and regulatory compliance[15] Market and Strategic Focus - In 2023, the company achieved a revenue growth of 3.8% year-over-year, continuing to expand its business in North America, Asia, Europe, and other regions[8] - The North American biopharmaceutical financing environment showed signs of stabilization in the second half of 2023, with increased biotech financing activities and venture capital investments[13] - The company continues to face challenges in the Chinese biopharmaceutical financing landscape, impacting business demand in that region[13] - The strategic adjustment aims to ensure sustainable growth in the global drug discovery and development services sector[12] - The company is focused on expanding its market presence and enhancing its product offerings through strategic investments and partnerships[70] Employee and Talent Management - As of December 31, 2023, the company employed 1,759 staff across over 23 locations in three countries, emphasizing the importance of talent acquisition and retention[9] - Employee costs for the year ended December 31, 2023, were approximately $112.2 million, compared to $102.9 million in 2022, reflecting an increase of 9.5%[62] - The company emphasizes the importance of employee training and competitive compensation to retain talent and foster leadership development[159] Compliance and Governance - The company has not received any non-compliance reports from the USDA or FDA during the reporting period, indicating strong compliance with regulatory standards[26] - The company has established compliance policies to ensure adherence to applicable laws and regulations, with no known violations during the reporting period[155] - The company is committed to high governance standards through its audit and risk management committees[67] - The board of directors consists of seven members, ensuring a balanced mix of executive and independent non-executive directors[170] Risks and Challenges - Major risks include potential loss of contracts, inability to convert backlog orders into revenue, and operational efficiency challenges[134] - The company faces risks related to acquisition strategies, including the inability to realize expected synergies and financial benefits[135] - The company's operational performance is significantly dependent on the demand for its outsourcing services, which is influenced by clients' financial performance and regulatory environments[133] - Cybersecurity risks are significant for Frontage Labs, as any breach of confidential data could severely damage its reputation and operations[141] Shareholder Information - The board has resolved not to recommend any final dividend for the reporting period[84] - As of December 31, 2023, the total distributable reserves available for shareholders amount to approximately $108.1 million[84] - The company repurchased a total of 15,848,000 shares at a total cost of approximately HKD 33,009,920 during the year ending December 31, 2023[153] Future Outlook - The company plans to strengthen and expand its R&D services in the U.S., China, and other countries through strategic investments and acquisitions[10] - The company aims to improve profitability in its China operations through the continued operation of advanced facilities and high-quality service platforms[21] - The company is committed to sustainable growth and adapting its business strategies to meet changing market demands[166]

Investment Rating - The report maintains an "Outperform" rating for Frontage Holdings (1521 HK) with a target price of HK$1.89, down from a previous target of HK$3.40, reflecting a 44% reduction [3][6]. Core Insights - In 2023, Frontage Holdings reported revenue of $259.9 million, a 3.8% increase year-on-year, with a gross profit margin of 30.2%, down 5.4 percentage points. Net profit was $10.7 million, a decrease of 58.7%, while adjusted net profit was $24.0 million, down 33.7% [14][15]. - The North American market's revenue remained stable at $199.1 million, accounting for 76.6% of total revenue, with laboratory testing revenue increasing by 13% to $96 million. In contrast, drug discovery revenue fell by 33% to $22 million [4][15]. - Revenue from China grew by 12.6% to $60.8 million, representing 23.4% of total revenue, with laboratory testing revenue increasing by 27% to $28 million [4][15]. - The company has restructured its CRO business into four main units: drug discovery, drug development, pharmaceutical product development, and laboratory testing, aiming to enhance operational efficiency and market competitiveness [4][15]. - Future revenue projections for 2024-2026 are adjusted to $300 million, $360 million, and $422 million, with year-on-year growth rates of 15%, 20%, and 17% respectively. Adjusted net profit for the same period is projected at $34 million, $43 million, and $52 million, with growth rates of 40%, 28%, and 20% [6][16]. Financial Summary - The financial outlook includes a projected revenue increase to $300 million in 2024, with a net profit forecast of $20 million, and adjusted net profit of $34 million [11][16]. - The gross profit margin is expected to improve to 32.9% in 2024, with net profit margins gradually increasing in subsequent years [11][12]. - The company plans to continue investing in endogenous growth, strategic mergers and acquisitions, and talent development to enhance its market position [4][15].

Investment Rating - The report maintains a "Neutral" rating for the company with a target price adjusted to HKD 1.50 [4][11]. Core Views - The company's 2023 performance was below expectations, with revenue increasing by only 3.8% year-on-year to USD 260 million, while gross profit declined by 12.1% to USD 78.39 million. Net profit attributable to shareholders fell significantly by 58.0% to USD 10.81 million [2][3]. - The report indicates that the company faces short-term challenges, leading to a downward revision of revenue forecasts for 2024 and 2025 by 15.3% and 18.9%, respectively. This is attributed to lower-than-expected new orders in the second half of 2023 and a slow recovery in global pharmaceutical financing [3][4]. - The management noted a decrease in demand for research outsourcing services due to reduced R&D spending by pharmaceutical companies, impacting the company's capacity utilization and profit margins [2][3]. Summary by Sections Financial Performance - In 2023, the company reported a revenue of USD 260 million, which was 6.4% lower than previous forecasts. The gross margin and net profit margin decreased by 5.4 percentage points and 6.1 percentage points, respectively, compared to the previous year [2][3]. - The backlog of orders at the end of 2023 was USD 340 million, showing a slight year-on-year increase of 0.1% [2]. Revenue and Profit Forecasts - The revenue forecasts for 2024 and 2025 have been revised downwards to USD 288.2 million and USD 320.4 million, reflecting a decrease of 15.3% and 18.9% from previous estimates [3][7]. - The net profit forecasts for 2024 and 2025 have also been adjusted downwards to USD 18.6 million and USD 23.6 million, representing decreases of 27.8% and 32.6% [3][7]. Valuation Metrics - The report provides a DCF model with a perpetual growth rate assumption adjusted to 3.0%, leading to a calculated equity value of HKD 3,149 million, translating to an intrinsic value of HKD 1.50 per share [7][9].

Revenue and Financial Performance - Revenue increased by 3.8% to $259.9 million in 2023 compared to $250.4 million in 2022[2] - Total revenue for 2023 was $259.855 million, compared to $250.360 million in 2022[14] - Total revenue for 2023 reached $259.855 million, up from $250.360 million in 2022[18][19] - The company's revenue increased by 3.8% YoY, from USD 250.4 million in 2022 to USD 259.9 million in 2023[69] - Total revenue increased from $250.36 million in 2022 to $259.86 million in 2023, with the U.S. contributing 70.8% ($183.79 million) and China contributing 19.0% ($49.45 million)[72] - Revenue from the top 5 customers decreased by 12.2% from $49.0 million in 2022 to $43.0 million in 2023, accounting for 16.5% of total revenue[72] - Revenue from the top 10 customers decreased by 5.4% from $63.3 million in 2022 to $59.9 million in 2023, accounting for 23.0% of total revenue[73] - North America contributed $199.065 million to revenue in 2023, while China contributed $60.790 million[18] - North American revenue grew by 1.4% YoY to USD 199.1 million, while China revenue increased by 17.5% YoY to CNY 428.9 million (USD 60.8 million)[70] - Revenue from drug discovery decreased to $33.456 million in 2023 from $46.596 million in 2022[14] - Revenue from drug development increased to $95.132 million in 2023 from $85.922 million in 2022[14] - Revenue from pharmaceutical product development decreased to $7.615 million in 2023 from $10.948 million in 2022[14] - Revenue from laboratory testing increased to $123.652 million in 2023 from $106.894 million in 2022[14] - Laboratory testing services generated the highest revenue at $123.652 million in 2023[18] - Laboratory testing services contributed the largest share of revenue at USD 123.7 million in 2023, up from USD 106.9 million in 2022[71] Profitability and Margins - Gross profit decreased by 12.1% to $78.4 million with a gross margin of 30.2% in 2023, down from 35.6% in 2022[2] - EBITDA declined by 18.2% to $57.2 million with an EBITDA margin of 22.0% in 2023, compared to 27.9% in 2022[2] - Adjusted EBITDA decreased by 13.7% to $63.2 million with an adjusted EBITDA margin of 24.3% in 2023, down from 29.3% in 2022[2] - Net profit dropped significantly by 58.7% to $10.7 million in 2023 from $25.9 million in 2022[2] - Adjusted net profit decreased by 33.7% to $24.0 million with an adjusted net profit margin of 9.2% in 2023, compared to 14.4% in 2022[2] - Basic EPS declined by 57.9% to $0.0053 in 2023 from $0.0126 in 2022[2] - Adjusted basic EPS decreased by 33.0% to $0.0118 in 2023 from $0.0176 in 2022[2] - Pre-tax profit decreased to $14.577 million in 2023 from $36.096 million in 2022[18][19] - Gross profit decreased by 12.1% from $89.2 million in 2022 to $78.4 million in 2023, with gross margin declining from 35.6% to 30.2%[75] - Net profit decreased by 58.7% from $25.9 million in 2022 to $10.7 million in 2023, with net profit margin declining from 10.3% to 4.1%[83] - Adjusted net profit decreased by 33.7% from $36.2 million in 2022 to $24.0 million in 2023, with adjusted net profit margin declining from 14.4% to 9.2%[84] - EBITDA decreased by 18.2% from $69.9 million in 2022 to $57.2 million in 2023, with EBITDA margin declining from 27.9% to 22.0%[85] - Adjusted EBITDA decreased by 13.7% from $73.2 million in 2022 to $63.2 million in 2023, with adjusted EBITDA margin declining from 29.3% to 24.3%[86] - Basic earnings per share decreased by 57.9% from $0.0126 in 2022 to $0.0053 in 2023, and diluted earnings per share decreased by 57.7% from $0.0123 in 2022 to $0.0052 in 2023[87] - Adjusted basic earnings per share decreased by 33.0% from $0.0176 in 2022 to $0.0118 in 2023, and adjusted diluted earnings per share decreased by 32.9% from $0.0173 in 2022 to $0.0116 in 2023[87] Costs and Expenses - Service costs increased to $181.461 million in 2023 from $161.166 million in 2022[18][19] - R&D expenses increased by 55.5% to $6.0 million in 2023 compared to $3.9 million in 2022[4] - R&D expenses rose to $6.038 million in 2023, compared to $3.884 million in 2022[18][19] - Service costs increased by 12.6% from $161.2 million in 2022 to $181.5 million in 2023, driven by capacity expansion in North America and China[74] - R&D expenses increased by 53.8% from $3.9 million in 2022 to $6.0 million in 2023, reflecting increased investment in new technologies and platforms[80] - Employee costs rose to $122.971 million in 2023, including $112.179 million in salaries and benefits[26] - Employee costs for the year ending December 31, 2023, were $112.2 million, compared to $102.9 million in the previous year[100] Assets and Liabilities - Total assets increased to $472.3 million in 2023 from $453.1 million in 2022[6] - Non-current assets grew to $418.803 million in 2023, up from $368.004 million in 2022[22] - Property, plant, and equipment increased by 8.4% from $115.0 million in 2022 to $124.7 million in 2023, driven by R&D and manufacturing capacity expansion[89] - Goodwill increased by 23.3% from $149.2 million in 2022 to $183.9 million in 2023, primarily due to the acquisition of Nucro-Technics[90] - Trade and other receivables and prepayments increased by 6.4% from $57.6 million in 2022 to $61.3 million in 2023, reflecting business growth[91] - Unbilled revenue increased by 6.2% from $17.7 million in 2022 to $18.8 million in 2023, driven by business growth[92] - Bank balances and cash decreased from $87.4 million in 2022 to $53.2 million in 2023, due to payments for property, plant, and equipment and subsidiary acquisitions[93] - Total bank borrowings increased from $48.9 million in 2022 to $81.4 million in 2023, with $56.4 million in USD and $25.0 million in RMB[96] - The asset-liability ratio increased from 8.2% in 2022 to 26.2% in 2023, driven by significant financing activities to support business expansion[99] Restructuring and Strategic Initiatives - The company restructured in 2023 to form two main divisions: Global Drug Discovery and Development Services and Global Laboratory Services[13] - The company restructured its global operations into two main divisions: Global Drug Discovery and Development Services and Global Laboratory Services to enhance efficiency and consistency[47] - The restructuring aims to provide standardized top-tier services, improve market competitiveness, and optimize resource allocation across North America and China[47] - The company expanded its presence in Canada through the acquisition of Nucro-Technics Inc. in August 2023, establishing strategic bases in both Toronto and Vancouver[48] - The company plans to focus on high-growth areas such as pathology and genotoxicity, leveraging its dual operations in North America and China[69] - Future strategies include exploring business opportunities in Japan, South Korea, Europe, and South America to expand its global client base[69] - Fangda launched new global drug discovery and development services, unifying operations in chemistry, biology, ADME/PK, and pharmacology across the US and Canada[53] - Fangda established a centralized global laboratory services system, covering logistics, lab testing, and biomarker services to ensure efficient service delivery[53] - Fangda completed the acquisition of Nucro-Technics, a Canadian contract research organization, expanding its presence in Toronto and Vancouver, Canada[54] - Fangda operates 11 laboratories and production facilities in China, totaling 810,000 square feet, enhancing its diversified service platform[55] - Fangda's Suzhou safety evaluation center, spanning 215,000 square feet, received GLP certification from China's NMPA in June 2023[55] - Fangda developed a BSEP research platform using human liver cells and implemented a high-throughput PAMPA screening platform to improve compound membrane permeability assessment[56] - Fangda expanded its pharmacodynamics services to include over 50 new enzymatic test targets and established more than 30 cell lines, including GPCRs and ion channels[56] - Fangda's Suzhou clinical sample production facility, covering 89,000 square feet, began partial operations, enabling the production of various dosage forms for clinical trials[56] - Fangda's Wuhan drug development center Phase 1 commenced operations in May 2023, featuring 50 advanced drug chemistry labs and 4 process R&D labs[57] Tax and Regulatory Environment - The effective weighted average tax rate for 2023 was 25.77%, up from 24.95% in 2022[28] - BRI Biopharmaceutical Research, Inc. is subject to a flat tax rate of 27%[29] - Nucro Technics, Inc. is subject to an effective corporate tax rate of 26.5%[29] - Fangda Pharmaceutical Technology (Shanghai) Co., Ltd. enjoys a preferential tax rate of 15% from 2023 onwards for another three years[29] - Fangda Pharmaceutical Technology (Suzhou) Co., Ltd. enjoys a preferential tax rate of 15% from 2021 onwards for three years[30] - Heya Pharmaceutical Technology (Shanghai) Co., Ltd. enjoys a preferential tax rate of 15% from 2022 onwards for three years[31] - Wuhan Heyan Biopharmaceutical Technology Co., Ltd. enjoys a preferential tax rate of 15% from 2023 onwards for another three years[31] - The company's operations are influenced by the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, which introduced significant changes to U.S. corporate tax policies[112] Employee and Human Resources - The company has a total of 1,759 employees, with 851 in North America and 908 in China. 81% of employees hold a bachelor's degree or higher, and 540 employees have advanced degrees (master's or higher)[100] - The company has established a comprehensive training system for employees, including onboarding and ongoing training, with a focus on technical skills, management development, and compliance[100] - The company has adopted various equity incentive plans, including the Pre-IPO Share Incentive Plan, 2018 Share Incentive Plan, and 2021 Share Incentive Plan, to reward eligible participants[100] Acquisitions and Investments - The company acquired Nucro-Technics Inc. for approximately CAD 70 million (HKD 410.4 million) in August 2023, enhancing its capabilities in drug metabolism, pharmacokinetics, and preclinical safety[67] - Frontage Labs completed the acquisition of Accelera's bioanalytical and drug metabolism business for EUR 6.835 million, effective January 1, 2024[67] - The company utilized the entire net proceeds of $193.2 million from its IPO for planned purposes, including capacity expansion (20%), potential acquisitions (40%), and working capital (10%)[102] - The company repurchased 15,848,000 shares in 2023 for a total consideration of HK$33,009,920, reflecting confidence in its business outlook[105] Regulatory Compliance and Quality Assurance - The company's quality assurance team ensures compliance with protocols, SOPs, and regulatory codes, safeguarding subject safety and data integrity[61] - The company's facilities in the US and Canada have undergone inspections by FDA, DEA, CNSC, PHAC, CLIA/CAP, DOH, AAALAC, and USDA without any significant adverse findings[62] - The company's facilities in China have been inspected by NMPA without any significant adverse findings[62] - The company has implemented SOPs and high-quality animal care programs to ensure humane treatment of animals in compliance with relevant laws and regulations[63] - The company has not received any non-compliance reports from USDA and FDA regarding animal welfare during the reporting period[63] - The company's Chicago facility successfully completed AAALAC accreditation, USDA inspections, and FDA inspections, receiving positive feedback[52] Market and Customer Engagement - The company's global business development team strategically operates in the US, China, and Canada, focusing on expanding services across all stages of drug development[64] - The marketing team drives customer engagement through digital marketing, conferences, and high-profile publications, aiming to increase demand for the company's service portfolio[65] - Frontage Labs received multiple awards in 2023, including recognition as a top 20 CRO enterprise in China at the 2023 Healthcare Industry High-Quality Development Conference[66] Financial Reporting and Governance - The company's Annual General Meeting (AGM) will be held on May 28, 2024, with share transfer registration suspended from May 23 to May 28, 2024[104] - The company's Audit and Risk Management Committee reviewed and approved the audited financial statements, confirming compliance with applicable accounting standards[109] - The company's auditor, BDO Limited, compared the preliminary financial data with the audited financial statements and found them to be consistent[110] - Frontage Labs' 2023 annual report and performance announcement were published on the HKEX website and the company's official website[111] - The company's board of directors includes executive and non-executive directors, with Dr. Li Song serving as an executive director[119] Operational and Service Capabilities - The company has successfully managed multi-center BE studies, providing comprehensive support including protocol development, project supervision, clinical and medical monitoring, data management, statistical analysis, pharmacokinetic evaluation, and timely report submission[58] - The company has secured multiple integrated service contracts covering drug chemistry, API development, pharmacodynamics, drug metabolism and pharmacokinetics, safety and toxicology, CMC formulation development, and bioanalysis[58] - The company has established 12 facilities in North America and 11 facilities in China as of December 31, 2023[60] - The company's service portfolio covers drug discovery to late-stage approval, including lead compound quantification, formulation development, GLP toxicology studies, and commercial product release[114] - Frontage Labs has subsidiaries in Shanghai and Suzhou, established in 2005 and 2014 respectively, focusing on pharmaceutical technology[115] - The company's major shareholders include Hangzhou Tigermed and Hong Kong Tigermed, both listed on the Shenzhen and Hong Kong stock exchanges[115] - Frontage Labs adopted the 2021 Share Award Plan, granting 22,950,500 shares to selected participants[112] - The company operates under the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) and is listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange[115] - Frontage Labs' subsidiaries include BRI Biopharmaceutical Research, Inc., registered in Canada in 2003[112] - The company's shares are denominated in USD with a par value of $0.00001 per share[118]

Financial Performance - Revenue for the six months ended June 30, 2023, was $128.356 million, an increase from $118.933 million in the same period of 2022, representing a growth of 10.7%[4] - Gross profit decreased to $38.988 million, down from $44.200 million year-over-year, resulting in a gross margin of 30.4%, compared to 37.2% in 2022[4] - Profit before tax was $7.407 million, significantly lower than $17.930 million in the prior year, indicating a decline of 58.8%[4] - Net profit for the period was $4.558 million, down from $13.102 million, reflecting a net margin of 3.6%, compared to 11.0% in 2022[4] - Adjusted net profit was $10.223 million, compared to $18.768 million in the previous year, with an adjusted net margin of 8.0% versus 15.8%[4] - The group's revenue increased by 8.0% from approximately $118.9 million for the six months ended June 30, 2022, to approximately $128.4 million for the six months ended June 30, 2023[8] - North American business revenue rose by 5.9% from approximately $94.4 million to approximately $100.0 million during the same period[18] - Revenue from China increased by 24.2%, from approximately RMB 159.3 million (approximately $24.5 million) to approximately RMB 197.8 million (approximately $28.4 million)[18] - The net profit decreased by 64.9% from approximately $13.1 million for the six months ended June 30, 2022, to approximately $4.6 million for the six months ended June 30, 2023, with a net profit margin of 3.6% compared to 11.0% in the prior period[30] - Adjusted net profit decreased by 45.7% from approximately $18.8 million for the six months ended June 30, 2022, to approximately $10.2 million for the six months ended June 30, 2023, with an adjusted net profit margin of 8.0% compared to 15.8% in the prior period[32] Assets and Liabilities - Total assets as of June 30, 2023, were $537.048 million, a decrease from $550.594 million at the end of 2022[4] - Total liabilities decreased to $198.089 million from $214.746 million, indicating improved financial stability[4] - Cash and cash equivalents were $77.526 million, down from $87.433 million at the end of 2022[4] - Current liabilities decreased to $80,249 thousand from $97,472 thousand, a reduction of 17.7%[96] - Trade and other receivables increased by 3.5% from approximately $57.6 million on December 31, 2022, to approximately $59.6 million on June 30, 2023, primarily due to business growth[39] - Unbilled revenue rose by 5.1% from approximately $17.7 million on December 31, 2022, to approximately $18.6 million on June 30, 2023, also driven by business growth[39] - Total bank borrowings increased to $51.5 million on June 30, 2023, from $48.9 million on December 31, 2022[43] - The leverage ratio increased to 10.3% on June 30, 2023, from 8.2% on December 31, 2022, primarily due to significant financing activities to support business expansion[44] Expenses and Costs - The group's service costs rose by 19.7% from approximately $74.7 million to approximately $89.4 million, primarily due to capacity expansion in North America and China[23] - Research and development expenses increased by 93.8% from approximately $1.6 million to approximately $3.1 million, reflecting enhanced investment in new technologies and platforms[27] - Sales and marketing expenses rose by 17.6% from approximately $3.4 million to approximately $4.0 million due to increased activities post-COVID-19[25] - Administrative expenses increased by 6% from approximately $21.6 million to approximately $22.9 million, with a notable rise in operational costs[26] - Financial costs increased by 121.4% from approximately $1.4 million for the six months ended June 30, 2022, to approximately $3.1 million for the six months ended June 30, 2023, primarily due to increased borrowings for expansion and operations[28] Shareholder Information - The board has resolved not to declare an interim dividend for the six months ended June 30, 2023[4] - The company repurchased a total of 2,000,000 shares at a total cost of approximately HKD 4,745,680 during the six months ended June 30, 2023[51] - The highest repurchase price per share was HKD 2.4, while the lowest was HKD 2.31[52] - The company aims to attract and retain employees through its share option plans, with options having a contract term of 5 to 10 years[64] - The total number of issued shares as of June 30, 2023, is 2,058,579,910 shares[60] - The company has granted a total of 7,990,000 share options under the 2015 Share Incentive Plan at an exercise price of $2.00[64] Strategic Initiatives - The company aims to expand its global presence and enhance service quality in the contract research sector, particularly in North America and China[7] - The company is committed to improving its technical capabilities, including strengthening its R&D team and laboratory facilities in China[12] - The company is actively expanding its service platforms' technical capabilities to meet the increasing demand for drug development outsourcing services[12] - The company is committed to enhancing its position as a value-added partner, focusing on solving complex drug discovery and development issues for clients in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology sectors[47] - The company plans to continue focusing on market expansion and new product development to drive future growth[100] Acquisitions and Investments - The company entered into a share purchase agreement to acquire 100% of Nucro-Technics Inc. for a cash consideration of CAD 70 million (approximately HKD 410.4 million) on August 15, 2023[46] - The company has capital commitments of $2,495,000 for the purchase of property, plant, and equipment as of June 30, 2023[165] Market and Industry Trends - The overall market for biopharmaceuticals continues to expand, despite a decline in investment activities in the global and Chinese biopharmaceutical capital markets[12] - The company continues to focus on providing laboratory and related services to pharmaceutical and pesticide companies, maintaining its core business strategy[102] Compliance and Reporting - The report references the International Financial Reporting Standards for its financial reporting[182] - The company is subject to the listing rules of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, which may be amended from time to time[183]

Financial Performance - Revenue for the six months ended June 30, 2023, was $128.4 million, an increase of 8.0% from $118.9 million in the same period of 2022[2]. - Gross profit decreased to $39.0 million with a gross margin of 30.4%, down from $44.2 million and a gross margin of 37.2% in 2022, representing a decline of 11.8%[2]. - Adjusted EBITDA for the period was $29.8 million, a decrease of 14.1% compared to $34.7 million in the prior year[2]. - Net profit for the six months was $4.6 million, a significant decline of 64.9% from $13.1 million in the same period last year[2]. - Basic earnings per share decreased to $0.0023, down 63.5% from $0.0063 in 2022[2]. - The company reported a total comprehensive income of $4.6 million for the period, down from $13.1 million in the previous year[4]. - Adjusted net profit for the six months ended June 30, 2023, was $10,223 thousand, a decrease of 45.7% from $18,768 thousand in the same period last year[68]. - The company’s EBITDA for the six months ended June 30, 2023, was $27,500 thousand, a decrease of 15.4% from $32,500 thousand in the prior year[70]. - Adjusted EBITDA decreased by 14.1% from approximately $34.7 million for the six months ended June 30, 2022, to approximately $29.8 million for the six months ended June 30, 2023, with an EBITDA margin decline from 29.2% to 23.2%[71]. Revenue Breakdown - Laboratory testing services generated $51.909 million in revenue, up from $45.867 million in the previous year, reflecting a growth of about 13.4%[17]. - Early clinical/bioequivalence services saw significant growth, with revenue increasing to $9.672 million from $3.448 million, marking an increase of approximately 180.5%[17]. - Preclinical research services contributed $50.849 million, slightly up from $48.878 million, indicating a growth of about 4%[17]. - Chemical, manufacturing, and control services reported a decline in revenue to $10.826 million from $13.191 million, a decrease of approximately 18.0%[17]. - North America contributed $99,983 thousand to total revenue, while China contributed $28,373 thousand, indicating North America's dominance in revenue generation[19]. - Revenue from the United States was $95,030 thousand, accounting for 74.0% of total revenue, compared to $89,113 thousand and 74.9% in the prior year[58]. Assets and Liabilities - Total assets as of June 30, 2023, were $456.8 million, compared to $453.1 million as of December 31, 2022[6]. - Current liabilities decreased to $80.2 million from $97.5 million at the end of 2022, improving the net current asset position[6]. - The total equity attributable to owners of the company was $336.323 million, compared to $333.079 million in the previous period, showing a slight increase[8]. - Total equity reached $338.959 million, up from $335.848 million, reflecting an increase of approximately 0.6%[8]. - Trade receivables from third parties amounted to $53,610,000 as of June 30, 2023, compared to $50,081,000 as of December 31, 2022[33]. - Trade payables to third parties increased to $11,209 thousand as of June 30, 2023, compared to $10,923 thousand as of December 31, 2022[37]. Operational Highlights - The company continues to focus on enhancing operational efficiency and exploring market expansion opportunities[3]. - The company continues to focus on providing laboratory and related services to pharmaceutical and pesticide companies, with a strong emphasis on research and development[9]. - The company aims to leverage its growing expertise to become a global contract research organization, providing high-quality services to clients[46]. - The company has established a total of 11 laboratories and production facilities in China, covering an area of 810,000 square feet, enhancing its service capabilities[52]. - The company has initiated new services in cell and gene therapy (CGT), providing analytical development and GMP analysis services for large molecules and CGT products[50]. Governance and Compliance - The company has adhered to the corporate governance code principles, except for the separation of roles between the Chairman and CEO as per code C.2.1[92]. - The Audit and Risk Management Committee reviewed the interim performance and confirmed that the financial statements fairly reflect the group's financial position[94]. - The company is committed to maintaining compliance with the listing rules and has made necessary disclosures regarding director changes[93]. - The company has a strong governance framework in place, ensuring effective risk management and internal controls[94]. Future Outlook - The company plans to expand and enhance existing capacity to meet anticipated growth service demands, allocating approximately 20% of the net proceeds for this purpose[88]. - The company has recognized the importance of market trends in shaping its business outlook, particularly in the evolving life sciences industry[86]. - Despite a significant decline in investment activities in the global and Chinese biopharmaceutical capital markets since 2023, the demand for R&D outsourcing services remains on the rise[51].

Share Award Scheme - The weighted average closing price of shares prior to the vesting date under the 2021 Share Award Scheme was HKD 3.90[1] - A total of 5,362,374 shares were vested to grantees under the 2021 Share Award Scheme for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2022[1]