Group 1 - Mitsubishi Corp. is one of 16 companies in the Conglomerates group and currently ranks 5 within the Zacks Sector Rank [2] - The Zacks Rank system emphasizes earnings estimates and revisions, with Mitsubishi Corp. holding a Zacks Rank of 1 (Strong Buy) [3] - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Mitsubishi Corp.'s full-year earnings has increased by 7.1% in the past quarter, indicating improved analyst sentiment [4] Group 2 - Mitsubishi Corp. has returned 24% year-to-date, significantly outperforming the average gain of 1.7% for Conglomerates stocks [4] - Another Conglomerates stock, Swire Pacific, has returned 2.4% year-to-date and has a Zacks Rank of 2 (Buy) [5] - Both Mitsubishi Corp. and Swire Pacific belong to the Diversified Operations industry, which includes 16 companies and currently ranks 88 in the Zacks Industry Rank [6]

Core Viewpoint - The article emphasizes the importance of timing and sustainability in short-term investing, highlighting that a solid trend can lead to successful investments if supported by strong fundamentals and positive earnings revisions [1][2]. Group 1: Stock Performance - Swire Pacific (SWRAY) has shown a solid price increase of 7.5% over the past 12 weeks, indicating investor confidence in its potential upside [4]. - The stock has also increased by 6.5% over the last four weeks, suggesting that the upward trend is still intact [5]. - SWRAY is currently trading at 88.5% of its 52-week high-low range, indicating a potential breakout opportunity [5]. Group 2: Fundamental Strength - SWRAY holds a Zacks Rank 2 (Buy), placing it in the top 20% of over 4,000 ranked stocks based on earnings estimate revisions and EPS surprises [6]. - The stock has an Average Broker Recommendation of 1 (Strong Buy), reflecting high optimism from the brokerage community regarding its near-term price performance [7]. Group 3: Investment Strategy - The "Recent Price Strength" screen is a useful tool for identifying stocks with sufficient fundamental strength to maintain their upward trends [3]. - The article suggests that investors should consider other stocks that pass through this screening process, as well as explore various Zacks Premium Screens tailored to different investing styles [8].

Summary of Key Points Core Viewpoint - Swire Properties A has been actively repurchasing its shares, indicating a strategy to support its stock price amidst recent declines [2][3]. Share Buyback Activity - The company repurchased 210,000 shares on April 29 at prices ranging from HKD 65.700 to HKD 66.750, totaling HKD 13.9023 million [2]. - Since March 13, the company has conducted buybacks for 31 consecutive days, acquiring a total of 10.9975 million shares for a cumulative amount of HKD 733 million [2]. - The stock has experienced a cumulative decline of 6.73% during this buyback period [2]. Year-to-Date Buyback Summary - Year-to-date, Swire Properties A has completed 76 buyback transactions, acquiring a total of 22.298 million shares for a total expenditure of HKD 1.482 billion [3]. - The buyback details include various dates, share quantities, and price ranges, reflecting a consistent effort to stabilize the stock price [3][4][5].

Financial Performance - The company's return on equity decreased to 1.6% in 2024 from 11.0% in 2023, a decline of 9.4 percentage points[14]. - The total profit attributable to shareholders fell to HKD 4,321 million in 2024, down 85% from HKD 28,853 million in 2023[14]. - Revenue decreased by 14% to HKD 81,969 million in 2024, compared to HKD 94,823 million in 2023[14]. - The basic earnings per share for 'A' shares dropped to HKD 3.06 in 2024, an 85% decrease from HKD 19.96 in 2023[14]. - The net debt increased by 28% to HKD 70,563 million in 2024, up from HKD 55,136 million in 2023[14]. - The consolidated profit attributable to shareholders for 2024 was HKD 43.21 billion, down from HKD 288.53 billion in 2023[16]. - The basic profit attributable to shareholders, excluding losses from fair value changes of investment properties, was HKD 10.47 billion in 2024, compared to HKD 36.17 billion in 2023[16]. - The recurring basic profit, excluding fair value changes and significant non-recurring items, was HKD 9.28 billion in 2024, down from HKD 10.44 billion in 2023[16]. - The operating cash flow from operations was HKD 12,580 million in 2024, a decrease of 13% from HKD 14,479 million in 2023[14]. - The company reported a total operating profit of HKD 1,716 million for 2024, significantly down from HKD 5,141 million in 2023, a decline of 66.66%[76]. - The basic profit attributable to shareholders for 2024 is HKD 6,713 million, compared to HKD 11,531 million in 2023, a decrease of 41.56%[77]. - The investment property fair value loss for 2024 is HKD 5,974 million, compared to HKD 2,860 million in 2023, indicating a significant increase in losses[76]. - The recurring basic profit for 2024, excluding asset sale profits, was HKD 5.727 billion, down from HKD 5.942 billion in 2023[99]. - The rental income from the Hong Kong office property portfolio for 2024 was HKD 5.109 billion, a decrease of 7% compared to 2023, with a rental occupancy rate of 89% as of December 31, 2024[106]. Dividends and Share Buybacks - The company reported a 70% reduction in the 'A' share dividend to HKD 3.35 in 2024, down from HKD 11.32 in 2023[14]. - The board announced a second interim dividend of HKD 2.10 per 'A' share and HKD 0.42 per 'B' share, resulting in a total annual dividend of HKD 3.35 per 'A' share and HKD 0.67 per 'B' share, a 5% increase from 2023[29]. - The group plans to continue its share buyback program with a maximum amount of HKD 6 billion, having repurchased 50,091,000 'A' shares and 54,547,500 'B' shares in 2024[29]. Sustainability and Environmental Impact - The greenhouse gas emissions from direct business operations decreased by 11% to 645 thousand tons of CO2 equivalent in 2024[15]. - Swire Coca-Cola utilized 42% renewable energy in its major operations by the end of 2024, with all eight bottling plants in mainland China using 100% renewable energy[32]. - The group continues to focus on sustainable development through its SwireTHRIVE strategy, achieving recognition in various sustainability indices[31]. - The company aims to achieve its sustainability goals by 2030, integrating these objectives into its business planning and decision-making processes[189]. Business Expansion and Investments - The company aims to expand its business in healthcare, particularly in major urban areas in mainland China and Southeast Asia[13]. - Swire Properties has committed approximately 67% of its HKD 100 billion investment plan, with HKD 50 billion allocated for major retail-led projects in mainland China[19]. - The company is focusing on a HKD 100 billion investment plan, particularly in the Greater Bay Area, to enhance shareholder value by 2025[33]. - The company plans to expand its hotel management business into Tokyo, Japan, and several cities in mainland China, including Beijing, Shenzhen, Shanghai, and Xi'an[62]. - The company is also expanding its residential property transactions in Hong Kong, mainland China, Miami, and Southeast Asia[103]. Market Conditions and Outlook - The Hong Kong office market is expected to remain weak, but the company's properties like Taikoo Place and Taikoo Square are well-positioned for recovery[33]. - Retail sales growth in mainland China is anticipated to accelerate due to improved domestic demand and recent economic stimulus measures[33]. - The hotel business outlook in Hong Kong is cautiously optimistic, depending on the recovery of international and business travelers[169]. - The overall market sentiment for residential properties in Hong Kong has slightly improved due to interest rate cuts, indicating signs of slow recovery[86]. - The residential market in Hong Kong is seeing increased sales due to interest rate cuts, with expectations for improved demand in the medium to long term[168]. Operational Performance - The overall performance of Swire Coca-Cola remained robust in 2024 despite industry and economic challenges faced by Swire Properties[23]. - Swire Coca-Cola recorded a recurring profit of HKD 1.388 billion in 2024, down from HKD 2.394 billion in 2023, with a 20% increase in recurring profit when excluding the impact of the sale of US Swire Coca-Cola[25]. - The recurring profit from mainland China operations increased by 11% due to revenue growth and lower raw material costs[26]. - The company produced and distributed 41 beverage brands in its operating regions, while the U.S. Swire Coca-Cola managed 36 beverage brands with a population coverage of 31.5 million[176]. Acquisitions and Joint Ventures - Swire Coca-Cola agreed to acquire over 55.6% of ThaiNamthip Corporation for approximately THB 42.61 billion (about HKD 9.47 billion) in two phases, completing the first phase in February 2024[21]. - The group completed the acquisition of a controlling stake in Dada Healthcare in April 2024, marking its first major investment in the healthcare sector[28]. - Swire Properties increased its stake in Beijing Taikoo Li from 35% to 49.895% through a transaction valued at approximately RMB 8.91 billion and RMB 29.84 billion[105]. - The company completed the acquisition of the remaining 30% of LCCB's issued share capital by December 27, 2024, further consolidating its market position[175]. Property Development and Projects - Swire Properties is set to complete the redevelopment of Taikoo Place in November 2024, marking a significant milestone in its flagship commercial development[19]. - The total area of completed properties in Hong Kong is 13.4 million square feet, slightly up from 13.2 million square feet in 2023[74]. - The total area of the upcoming Xi'an Taikoo Li project is projected to be 2,896,119 square feet, pending approval[136]. - The total area of the Chengdu Taikoo Li shopping center is 1,314,237 square feet, with additional developments in the Lujiazui area totaling 1,539,252 square feet[135]. - The total area of the Beijing East Corner office project under development is 2,809,103 square feet[127]. Retail Performance - Retail sales in mainland China decreased by 7% in 2024, but increased by 55% compared to 2019 pre-pandemic levels[111]. - Total rental income from retail properties in mainland China increased by 7% to HKD 4.4889 billion in 2024, with a 4% increase excluding currency fluctuations[112]. - Beijing Sanlitun Taikoo Li recorded a record rental income increase of 12% in 2024, with a rental rate of 98% as of December 31, 2024[113]. - The retail property rental income in Hong Kong for 2024 was HKD 2.369 billion, down 3% from 2023, with overall retail sales in the Hong Kong market declining by 7%[108].

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The recurring underlying profit decreased by 11% to HKD 9.3 billion compared to the prior year, but excluding the impact of the U.S. bottler sale in 2023, there was a small gain in recurring underlying profit in 2024 [5][10] - The company increased its dividend by 5%, reflecting confidence in its financial position despite the profit decline [6][11] - Net debt stands at HKD 70 billion with a healthy gearing ratio of 22.1%, and a weighted average cost of debt remains at 4% [14] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Property segment faced lower office rental income in Hong Kong, with a 42% drop in underlying profit primarily due to fewer disposals compared to the previous year [7][19] - Beverages segment saw an overall profit decrease, driven by the disposal of the U.S. bottling business, but recurring profit from the Chinese Mainland increased by 11% due to price increases [8][29] - Aviation division reported strong results, with Cathay Pacific achieving a profit of HKD 9.9 billion in 2024, reflecting robust demand for passenger travel and cargo [9][34] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Retail sales in both the Chinese Mainland and Hong Kong began to normalize towards the end of 2024 [7] - The Chinese Mainland is becoming a significant growth engine for the company, with retail contributions nearly equal to those from the Hong Kong office portfolio [24] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company continues to invest confidently in various sectors, including a commitment of HKD 100 billion over the next seven years for aviation and HKD 100 billion for property investments [3][4] - The focus remains on expanding in the Greater Bay Area and Southeast Asia, with significant investments in residential projects and beverage franchises [4][18][26] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management characterized the operating environment as challenging but expressed confidence in future growth due to ongoing investments [3] - The outlook for 2025 includes expectations of continued revenue growth in the Chinese Mainland and normalization of yields in aviation, while challenges in the Hong Kong office market are anticipated to persist [41][42] Other Important Information - The company is committed to sustainability, with Swire Properties recognized as a leader in the Dow Jones Best in Class World Index for real estate management [15][19] - The beverage segment is focusing on price increases and market execution to maintain revenue growth in a deflationary environment [50] Q&A Session Summary Question: Thoughts on renewing the buyback program and pressure from credit rating metrics - Management indicated that the share buyback program is relatively small and part of a broader shareholder return strategy, with a decision to be made in May [44][48] Question: Outlook on EBITDA trend in the Chinese Mainland - Management expects steady EBITDA growth in the Chinese Mainland, driven by revenue management and operational efficiency [52][54] Question: Comfortable gearing level for Swire Pacific - Management stated a comfortable gearing level of 30%, with both Swire Properties and Swire Pacific well under that level [58][60] Question: Opportunities for capital recycling - Management confirmed ongoing capital recycling as part of their portfolio strategy, with a focus on timing and market conditions [66][67]

Cindy Cheung [Call Starts Abruptly] Swire Pacific 2024 Annual Results Analyst Briefing. Joining us at the briefing today are, Mr. . Guy Bradley, Chairman of Swire Pacific; Mr. . Martin Murray, Finance Director of Swire Pacific, as well as Ms. . Karen So, Managing Director of Swire Coca-Cola. Before we take a detailed look at a detailed look at our annual results for the year, we’d like to show you a short video highlighting Swire Pacific’s key developments and achievements in the year. Enjoy the video. [Vid ...

Financial Performance - The company's equity return decreased to 1.6% in 2024 from 11.0% in 2023, a decline of 9.4 percentage points[4]. - The basic profit attributable to shareholders fell by 85% to HKD 4,321 million in 2024 from HKD 28,853 million in 2023[4]. - Revenue decreased by 14% to HKD 81,969 million in 2024 compared to HKD 94,823 million in 2023[4]. - The group reported a loss attributable to shareholders of HKD 751 million, compared to a profit of HKD 2,599 million in 2023[49]. - Basic profit attributable to shareholders was HKD 6,713 million, down 41.5% from HKD 11,531 million in 2023[49]. - The total revenue decreased by 27% to HKD 37.932 billion, with a volume decline of 7% to 1.796 billion standard cases[134]. - The company recorded a profit attributable to shareholders of HKD 2.039 billion in 2024, including non-recurring income of HKD 650 million[133]. - The operating profit for Cathay Pacific Group was HKD 40 million in 2024, a decrease of 82.1% from HKD 224 million in 2023[160]. Debt and Liquidity - The net debt increased by 28% to HKD 70,563 million in 2024 from HKD 55,136 million in 2023[4]. - The group maintained a strong financial position with available liquidity of HKD 43.1 billion and a net debt-to-capital ratio of 22.1% as of the end of 2024[30]. Dividends and Shareholder Returns - The company reported a 70% reduction in 'A' share dividends to HKD 3.35 in 2024 from HKD 11.32 in 2023[4]. - The board announced a progressive dividend policy, with total dividends for 2024 amounting to HKD 3.35 per 'A' share, a 5% increase from 2023[29]. Investment and Expansion Plans - The company plans to continue seeking investment opportunities in the private healthcare sector, particularly in major urban areas in mainland China and Southeast Asia[12]. - Swire Properties has committed approximately 67% of its HKD 100 billion investment plan, with HKD 50 billion allocated for major retail-led projects in mainland China[17]. - The group plans to launch its first residential development project in Shanghai, with strong sales performance reported[19]. - Swire Properties plans to continue its HKD 100 billion investment program, focusing on core markets and expanding business opportunities, particularly in the Greater Bay Area[34]. - The company is expanding its hotel management business into Tokyo and several cities in mainland China, including Beijing and Shenzhen[39]. Operational Performance - Cathay Pacific and its subsidiaries operated a total of 236 aircraft by the end of 2024, providing passenger services to 88 destinations globally[12]. - Cathay Pacific Group achieved a profit of HKD 9.89 billion in 2024, including special income of HKD 750 million, compared to HKD 9.79 billion in 2023, driven by strong travel demand and cargo performance[26]. - The group completed the acquisition of a controlling stake in Dada Healthcare in April 2024, marking its first major investment in the healthcare sector[28]. Sustainability and Environmental Impact - The company's sustainable development performance showed a 12% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions to 638 thousand tons in 2024 from 723 thousand tons in 2023[4]. - Swire Coca-Cola utilized 42% renewable energy in its major operations by the end of 2024, with all eight bottling plants in mainland China using 100% renewable energy[33]. - The company has set sustainability goals for 2030, integrating them into its business planning[126]. Market Conditions and Challenges - The Hong Kong office market is expected to remain weak, but Swire's office portfolio in Taikoo Place is well-positioned for recovery[34]. - The hotel business in Hong Kong is recovering slower than expected, while the performance of hotels in mainland China remains stable[60]. - The competitive landscape in Thailand and Laos remains challenging, with potential adverse financial impacts from further sugar tax legislation[151]. Revenue and Profitability by Segment - In 2024, the beverage segment reported revenues of HKD 36,609 million, a decrease of 29.3% from HKD 51,844 million in 2023[127]. - The hotel segment reported an operating loss of HKD 154 million, compared to a loss of HKD 103 million in 2023[46]. - The recurring basic profit attributable to the property investment segment decreased to HKD 5.727 billion in 2024 from HKD 5.942 billion in 2023, reflecting a decline in rental income from Hong Kong office properties[60]. Employee and Workforce - The company employs over 87,000 people globally, with more than 40,000 in Hong Kong and over 36,000 in mainland China[13]. - The group employed over 30,100 staff as of December 31, 2024, with approximately 84% based in Hong Kong[155].

Summary of Key Points Core Viewpoint - On February 25, 18 Hong Kong-listed companies conducted share buybacks, totaling 17.63 million shares and an aggregate amount of HKD 81.29 million [1][2]. Group 1: Buyback Details - Swire Pacific A repurchased 300,000 shares for HKD 19.46 million, with a highest price of HKD 65.20 and a lowest price of HKD 64.35, accumulating HKD 528 million in buybacks for the year [1][2]. - Bosideng repurchased 5 million shares for HKD 19.05 million, with a highest price of HKD 3.83 and a lowest price of HKD 3.77, accumulating HKD 164 million in buybacks for the year [1][2]. - AAC Technologies repurchased 291,500 shares for HKD 13.86 million, with a highest price of HKD 48.35 and a lowest price of HKD 46.35, accumulating HKD 227 million in buybacks for the year [1][2]. Group 2: Buyback Rankings - The highest buyback amount on February 25 was Swire Pacific A at HKD 19.46 million, followed by Bosideng at HKD 19.05 million [1][2]. - In terms of share quantity, Bosideng led with 5 million shares repurchased, followed by China Eastern Airlines with 250,000 shares and Guoquan with 240,040 shares [1][2].

Group 1 - The core point of the article is that Swire Pacific Company A has been actively repurchasing its shares, indicating a strategy to support its stock price amidst a recent decline [1] - On February 20, the company repurchased 311,000 shares at a price range of HKD 63.050 to HKD 64.000, totaling HKD 19.7651 million [1] - Since January 2, the company has conducted share buybacks for 33 consecutive days, acquiring a total of 6.897 million shares for a cumulative amount of HKD 458 million [1] Group 2 - The stock closed at HKD 63.500 on the day of the buyback, with a total trading volume of HKD 77.9122 million [1] - During the buyback period, the stock has experienced a cumulative decline of 9.87% [1]

其间该股累计下跌6.60%。 证券时报•数据宝统计，太古股份公司A在港交所公告显示，2月17日以每股65.200港元至66.300港元的 价格回购32.00万股，回购金额达2107.07万港元。 该股当日收盘价65.800港元，上涨0.92%，全天成交额6738.72万港元。 自1月2日以来公司已连续30日进行回购，合计回购584.60万股，累计回购金额3.92亿港元。 （数据宝） 太古股份公司A回购明细 ...