Market Overview - US stock markets experienced a collective decline, with the Dow Jones down 0.25%, Nasdaq down 0.83%, and S&P 500 down 0.53%. Notably, Tesla's stock plummeted 14.26%, resulting in a market value loss exceeding $152.5 billion (approximately ¥1.09 trillion) [2] - International oil prices saw an increase, with WTI crude oil rising 0.64% to $63.25 per barrel and Brent crude oil up 0.66% to $65.29 per barrel [3] - European stock indices showed mixed results, with Germany's DAX up 0.19%, France's CAC40 down 0.18%, and the UK's FTSE 100 up 0.11% [5] Corporate Developments - Circle, a major player in the stablecoin market, saw its stock surge 168.48% on its first day of trading, closing at $83.23, with a market capitalization exceeding $18 billion [15] - Huawei announced the launch of its Pura 80 series smartphones, which have garnered significant consumer interest, with over 40,000 reservations within hours of opening [16][17] - Canada Goose appointed Celine Xie as the new president for its China operations, aiming to enhance its market presence in the region [22][23] Regulatory and Policy Updates - The Chinese Ministry of Commerce criticized the US for raising tariffs on steel and aluminum products from 25% to 50%, labeling it as unilateralism and protectionism [8] - The Chinese government announced plans to conduct the fourth national agricultural census in 2026, as part of its statistical and agricultural development efforts [7] Industry Insights - The Chinese government is establishing ten national data element comprehensive pilot zones to promote the integration of the real economy and digital economy [8] - The National Medical Insurance Administration is revising the credit evaluation system for drug pricing and procurement to combat corruption and improve market integrity [10] Stock Market Movements - Notable stock movements included a significant drop in Tesla's stock price, while several Chinese concept stocks saw gains, with the Nasdaq China Golden Dragon Index up 0.54% [2][29] - The latest data showed that the Chinese yuan's exchange rate against the US dollar was 7.1865, reflecting a decrease of 21 basis points [31]

Core Viewpoint - The recent surge in the Hong Kong stock market has led to increased attention on the ability of mainland investors to open accounts with online brokers like Futu Holdings and Tiger International, with both companies adjusting their policies in response to regulatory changes [1][5][6]. Group 1: Company Policies - Futu Holdings has completely stopped allowing new account openings for mainland users, only permitting those who live or work abroad to open accounts, requiring both a mainland ID and proof of residence or employment abroad [1][3]. - Tiger International still allows existing customers to open accounts if they had previously opened accounts with other overseas brokers before May 19, 2023, but does not accept new mainland investors [2][3]. Group 2: Regulatory Environment - The regulatory scrutiny of online brokers like Futu and Tiger began in October 2021, with the China Securities Regulatory Commission (CSRC) declaring their cross-border securities operations as non-compliant with existing laws [2]. - In December 2022, the CSRC formally classified the cross-border operations of these brokers as "illegal" and mandated them to cease new business activities while allowing existing clients to continue trading [2]. Group 3: Market Conditions - The Hong Kong stock market has shown significant recovery, with the Hang Seng Index rebounding from a drop of over 13% in early April to reach a new closing high since March 2025 by June 5, 2023 [5]. - The interest in Hong Kong stocks has been further fueled by successful IPOs of major mainland companies, such as CATL and Heng Rui Pharmaceutical, which saw substantial first-day gains [6]. Group 4: Investment Channels - Mainland investors can access Hong Kong stocks primarily through two channels: the Stock Connect program and Hong Kong-listed ETFs, with different eligibility criteria [7]. - The Stock Connect requires a minimum average asset of 500,000 RMB in the investor's securities and funds accounts over the previous 20 trading days, while the ETF route has no such financial threshold, making it more accessible for retail investors [7].

Core Viewpoint - Futu Securities has completely stopped allowing mainland users to open accounts using proof of existing holdings, now restricting account openings to those who actually work or live abroad [1] Group 1 - Futu Securities no longer accepts account openings based on existing proof for mainland clients [1] - Only clients who can provide a valid mainland ID and recent proof of work or residence in Hong Kong or Macau are eligible to open accounts [1]

Investment Rating - The report maintains a positive outlook on the Hong Kong stock market, particularly in the areas of virtual assets and Web3.0 development, suggesting a strong investment opportunity in these sectors [2][9]. Core Insights - The report emphasizes the importance of monitoring global tariff negotiations, particularly the recent developments in U.S.-China trade relations and their potential impact on market dynamics [9]. - There is a notable increase in the quality and risk appetite of Hong Kong assets, with a focus on asset trading platforms as valuable investment opportunities [9]. - The report highlights the active performance of virtual asset-related stocks in Hong Kong, driven by stablecoin policies, and anticipates further regulatory developments in this area [2][9]. Summary by Sections 1. Industry Situation Tracking 1.1 Education - The K12 education sector shows strong growth, with leading institutions reporting over 20% revenue growth for winter training sessions [4]. - Recent product launches in AI education indicate ongoing innovation in the sector [4][17]. 1.2 Luxury Goods - The luxury goods sector is experiencing disruptions due to U.S.-EU tariff policies, with cautious price increases observed among brands [4][19]. - LVMH expresses confidence in the Chinese market despite recent consumption declines, indicating a long-term positive outlook [21]. 1.3 Coffee and Beverage Chains - Coffee and tea remain key categories for delivery platforms, with recent subsidies from platforms like JD.com [4]. - Coffee futures have seen a significant decline, which may alleviate cost pressures for companies like Luckin Coffee [4][27]. 1.4 E-commerce - Major players like Alibaba and JD.com continue to compete aggressively in the delivery and retail sectors, impacting short-term profitability [4]. - The report notes strong performance in the "618" shopping festival, with significant growth in various product categories [32]. 2. Platform & Technology 2.1 Streaming Platforms - The streaming sector shows resilience, with Tencent Music and other platforms benefiting from scale effects [4][33]. - Recent transactions, such as HYBE's sale of SM Entertainment shares to Tencent Music, highlight strategic movements within the industry [34]. 2.2 Virtual Assets & Internet Brokers - The global cryptocurrency market capitalization is reported at $337.44 billion, reflecting a 4% decline [38]. - The introduction of the Stablecoin Regulation in Hong Kong marks a significant step in regulating digital asset activities [41].

Investment Rating - The report maintains a "Buy" rating for the company, Futu Holdings (FUTU US), with a target price of $135.00, indicating a potential upside of 25.7% from the current price of $107.36 [1][6][12]. Core Insights - The company's earnings exceeded market expectations, with a year-on-year net profit growth of 107.0% and a quarter-on-quarter growth of 14.6%. Non-GAAP net profit also showed significant growth of 97.7% year-on-year and 13.6% quarter-on-quarter, outperforming Bloomberg consensus by 6% [2][6]. - The strong profit growth is primarily driven by a 140.1% increase in trading volume, which significantly boosted brokerage commission income by 114%. The average commission rate was 7.17 basis points, down 1.15 basis points year-on-year but stable quarter-on-quarter [2][6]. - The company has seen a robust increase in customer acquisition, with 262,000 new asset-holding customers added in Q1, representing a year-on-year growth of 47.8% and a quarter-on-quarter growth of 21.9% [6][8]. - Wealth management assets grew by 117.7% year-on-year and 25.6% quarter-on-quarter, with wealth management products held by 29% of asset-holding customers, up 1 percentage point from the previous quarter [6][8]. Financial Overview - Revenue projections for the company are as follows: HKD 10,008 million in 2023, HKD 13,590 million in 2024, and HKD 16,778 million in 2025, with a year-on-year growth rate of 48.7% for 2023 and 27.0% for 2024 [5][15]. - The net profit is expected to reach HKD 4,279 million in 2023, HKD 5,433 million in 2024, and HKD 7,203 million in 2025, reflecting a year-on-year growth of 46% for 2023 and 27% for 2024 [5][15]. - The company’s price-to-earnings ratio is projected to decrease from 27.5 in 2023 to 16.3 in 2025, indicating an attractive valuation compared to peers in the U.S. internet brokerage sector [5][15]. Customer and Market Dynamics - The total number of asset-holding customers reached nearly 2.7 million, with a quarter-on-quarter growth of 10.9%. The company has already achieved one-third of its target to add 800,000 new asset-holding customers by 2025 [6][8]. - The average customer acquisition cost was HKD 1,754, showing a year-on-year increase of 6% but a quarter-on-quarter decrease of 19% [2][6]. - The trading volume is expected to continue its upward trend, with projections of HKD 3,220 billion in Q1 2025, reflecting a year-on-year growth of 140% [7][8].

Investment Rating - The report maintains a "Buy" rating for the company with a target price of $159.87 per ADS [8][9]. Core Insights - The company reported a significant increase in Q1 2025 performance, with revenue of HKD 4.7 billion, up 81% year-over-year, and net profit of HKD 2.1 billion, up 107% year-over-year, driven by accelerated overseas customer acquisition and increased trading volumes in the Hong Kong and US stock markets [1][5]. - The company has achieved one-third of its annual customer acquisition target in Q1 2025, adding 260,000 new funded accounts, a 48% increase year-over-year [2]. - The trading activity in the Hong Kong and US markets remains robust, with total trading volume reaching HKD 3.22 trillion, a 140% increase year-over-year [3]. - Continuous innovation in products and services, including AI-driven investment assistants and new trading options, is strengthening the company's brand and product capabilities [4]. Summary by Sections Financial Performance - For 2025-2027, the company expects net profits of HKD 7.5 billion, HKD 8.4 billion, and HKD 9.2 billion respectively, reflecting an upward revision of 20%-26% from previous estimates [5][7]. - The estimated EPS for 2025 is HKD 6.52, with a projected PE ratio of 24x [5][7]. Customer Acquisition - The company has seen a strong influx of new customers, particularly from Hong Kong, Japan, the US, and Malaysia, with significant participation in recent IPOs [2]. Trading Activity - The trading environment is favorable, with a notable increase in trading volumes and customer asset turnover rates, indicating high market engagement [3]. Innovation and Product Development - The company is actively enhancing its service offerings, including the introduction of new trading products and platforms, which are crucial for attracting overseas customers [4].

Investment Rating - The report maintains a "Buy" rating for the company with a target price of $159.87 per ADS [8][9]. Core Insights - The company reported a significant increase in Q1 2025 performance, with revenue of HKD 4.7 billion, up 81% year-over-year, and net profit of HKD 2.1 billion, up 107% year-over-year, driven by accelerated overseas customer acquisition and increased trading volumes in the Hong Kong and US stock markets [1][5]. - The company has achieved one-third of its annual customer acquisition target in Q1 2025, adding 260,000 new funded accounts, a 48% increase year-over-year [2]. - The trading activity in the Hong Kong and US markets remains robust, with total trading volume reaching HKD 3.22 trillion, a 140% increase year-over-year [3]. - Continuous innovation in products and services, including AI-driven investment assistants and new trading options, is strengthening the company's brand and product capabilities [4]. Summary by Sections Financial Performance - For 2025, the company expects to achieve net profits of HKD 7.45 billion, with an EPS of HKD 6.52, reflecting a 20% to 26% upward revision in profit forecasts for 2025-2027 [5][7]. - The projected revenue for 2025 is HKD 18.02 billion, with a year-over-year growth rate of 32.62% [7]. Customer Acquisition - The company has successfully expanded its customer base, with Hong Kong remaining the primary source of new customers, supported by a rebound in the stock market and IPO activities [2]. Trading Activity - The trading environment is favorable, with a significant increase in trading volumes and customer asset turnover rates, indicating strong market engagement [3]. Innovation and Product Development - The company is focused on enhancing its service offerings, including the introduction of new trading products in various markets, which is crucial for attracting overseas customers [4].

Company Participants - The conference call included key participants such as Daniel Yuan (Chief of Staff to CEO, Head of Strategy and IR), Leaf Li (Chairman and CEO), Arthur Chen (CFO), and Robin Xu (Senior Vice President) [1][3]. Conference Call Overview - The call was organized to discuss Futu Holdings' first quarter 2025 earnings results, with a structured format including prepared remarks followed by a question-and-answer session [1][2]. Forward-Looking Statements - The company provided a reminder that the call may include forward-looking statements, which are inherently uncertain and subject to various risks that could lead to actual results differing from those projected [4].

Financial Performance - Total revenues for Q1 2025 were HK$4,694.6 million (US$603.4 million), an increase of 81.1% from HK$2,592.5 million in Q1 2024[8] - Net income increased by 107.0% year-over-year to HK$2,142.7 million (US$275.4 million), with a net income margin of 45.6%[16] - Non-GAAP adjusted net income rose by 97.7% year-over-year to HK$2,216.9 million (US$285.0 million)[17] - Total revenues for the three months ended March 31, 2025, increased to HK$4,694,637, representing a 81% growth compared to HK$2,592,459 for the same period in 2024[36] - Net income for the three months ended March 31, 2025, was HK$2,142,704, up 107% from HK$1,035,133 in the prior year[36] - The company reported a basic net income per share of HK$1.93 for the three months ended March 31, 2025, compared to HK$0.94 for the same period in 2024, marking a 105% increase[39] - Adjusted net income for the three months ended March 31, 2025, was HK$2,216,903, reflecting a 97% increase from HK$1,121,071 in the prior year[42] Client Growth and Assets - Total funded accounts increased by 41.6% year-over-year to 2,673,119 as of March 31, 2025, with approximately 262 thousand new funded accounts added in Q1 2025, representing a 47.8% year-over-year growth[4] - Total client assets reached HK$829.8 billion, up 60.2% year-over-year and 11.6% quarter-over-quarter, driven by record net asset inflow[7] - Daily average client assets were HK$790.4 billion in Q1 2025, an increase of 64.7% from the same period in 2024[6] - Wealth management client assets grew by 117.7% year-over-year to HK$139.2 billion, with 29% of funded accounts holding wealth management products[7] - The number of clients increased significantly, with cash held on behalf of clients rising to HK$88,246,095 as of March 31, 2025, compared to HK$68,639,816 as of December 31, 2024, reflecting a 29% increase[30] Trading Volume - Total trading volume in Q1 2025 increased by 140.1% year-over-year to HK$3.22 trillion, with U.S. stock trading volume at HK$2.25 trillion[6] Expenses and Liabilities - Operating expenses for the three months ended March 31, 2025, were HK$1,260,426, a 35% increase from HK$929,486 in the same period of 2024[36] - Total liabilities increased to HK$150,348,296 as of March 31, 2025, from HK$130,752,472 as of December 31, 2024, representing a 15% rise[33] Retained Earnings and Future Plans - The company’s retained earnings grew to HK$16,798,269 as of March 31, 2025, up from HK$14,652,946 as of December 31, 2024, indicating a 15% increase[33] - The company plans to continue expanding its market presence and investing in new technologies to drive future growth[36] Research and Development - Research and development expenses increased by 15.1% year-over-year to HK$386.0 million, primarily due to investments in AI capabilities[13] Future Targets - The company aims to achieve 800 thousand net new funded accounts in 2025, having already reached one-third of this target in Q1 2025[4]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total revenue for Q1 2025 was HKD 4.7 billion, an increase of 81% from HKD 2.6 billion in Q1 2024 [15] - Net income increased by 107% year over year and 15% quarter over quarter to HKD 2.1 billion, with a net income margin of 45.6% [23] - Total client assets reached HKD 830 billion, marking a 60% increase year over year and a 12% increase quarter over quarter [10] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Brokerage commission and handling charge income was HKD 2.3 billion, up 113% year over year and 12% quarter over quarter [16] - Interest income was HKD 2.1 billion, a 53% year over year increase and a 2% quarter over quarter increase [17] - Wealth management client assets reached HKD 139.2 billion, up 18% year over year and 26% quarter over quarter [12] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Approximately 262,000 new funded accounts were added in Q1 2025, up 48% year over year and 22% quarter over quarter [5] - The US market saw a pickup in funded account growth, while Malaysia delivered the fastest sequential growth in new funded accounts [6] - Total trading volume reached HKD 3.22 trillion in Q1 2025, up 40% year over year and 11% quarter over quarter [11] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to expand market share through product localization and brand investment, with a focus on enhancing user experience and execution capabilities [6] - The launch of AI-powered tools, such as Futu BOL AI, is part of the strategy to improve client engagement and satisfaction [9] - The company is committed to building brand equity and maintaining a competitive edge in the market despite increasing competition [68] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in achieving the target of 800,000 new funded accounts for 2025, despite expected sequential decreases in new funded accounts in Q2 [28] - The company noted that client trading activity remains high amid market volatility, with expectations for continued strong net asset inflows [29] - Management remains optimistic about the potential of the crypto trading business and plans to enhance product capabilities in this area [36] Other Important Information - The effective tax rate for Q1 2025 was 18.6%, influenced by the profitability of overseas markets and changes in international tax regulations [58] - The company has launched membership programs aimed at wealth management clients, although the current penetration is still low [30] - The company is actively pursuing a VATP license, with ongoing validations required for final approval [74] Q&A Session Summary Question: Trading velocity and margin financing balance in Q2 - Management expects a double-digit sequential decrease in new funded accounts but maintains strong client acquisition momentum and high trading activity [28] Question: Business model for membership programs - The membership program targets wealth management clients with higher assets and trading velocity, with current penetration being small [30] Question: Timeline for crypto trading business and implications of stablecoin regulations - Management noted a rebound in crypto trading interest and plans to enhance product offerings, including crypto deposit and withdrawal functionalities [34][36] Question: Impact of HIBOR on net interest income and client behavior - The company has seen continued growth in interest income despite HIBOR declines, with increased trading activity benefiting commission revenues [42] Question: Client asset inflows by region and engagement metrics for AI tools - Strong inflow momentum was observed across markets, with Hong Kong and Singapore being major contributors [46] - Preliminary feedback on AI tools indicates increased engagement and activity on the platform [48] Question: Customer acquisition cost and New Zealand market entry - The average customer acquisition cost decreased due to strong market conditions, and the New Zealand expansion is expected to have favorable ROI [51][54] Question: Effective tax rate and blended commission fee rate trends - The effective tax rate is expected to remain between 17% and 18%, while the blended commission rate has stabilized due to changes in product mix [58][59]