Financial Performance - The company's profit attributable to shareholders increased by 2% to HK$256 million compared to HK$251 million in the same period last year[11]. - The group reported a 2% increase in net profit attributable to shareholders, reaching HK$256 million for the first half of 2022/23, compared to HK$251 million in the same period last year[17]. - Total revenue increased by 1% to HK$3.809 billion, compared to HK$3.792 billion in the same period last year[17]. - The net profit attributable to shareholders for the period was HKD 255,832, up from HKD 252,077, indicating a growth of 1.1%[57]. - Basic and diluted earnings per share for the period were both HKD 23.1, compared to HKD 22.6 in the previous year, marking an increase of 2.2%[57]. - The total comprehensive income for the period was HKD 246,947, slightly down from HKD 249,716 in the same period last year, a decrease of 1.1%[60]. - The total tax expense for the six months ended December 31, 2022, was HK$100,133,000, up from HK$83,436,000 in 2021, representing an increase of 20.0%[95]. Revenue Growth - Service revenue grew by 4%, with the mobile service ARPU rising by 6% year-on-year, driven by the continuous increase in 5G users[11]. - Service revenue rose by 4% to HK$2.333 billion, driven by an increase in 5G users and recovering roaming revenue[17]. - Revenue recognized over time for the six months ended December 31, 2022, was HKD 2,333,030, compared to HKD 2,242,404 for the same period in 2021[81]. Customer Metrics - As of February 2023, 35% of the company's customers are using 5G services, with strong growth momentum continuing[11]. - The number of total customers in Hong Kong slightly decreased by 100,000 to 2.6 million, attributed to the impact of real-name registration requirements[17]. - The average revenue per user (ARPU) for mobile service plans increased by 6% to HK$223, up from HK$210 in the previous year[17]. 5G Network Expansion - The company has expanded its 5G network coverage to over 99% of the population in Hong Kong[6]. - The company is focused on upgrading customers to 5G services, which has positively impacted customer numbers and ARPU[11]. - The company's 5G home broadband service has seen significant growth, providing faster speeds at lower costs for households without fiber coverage[11]. Operational Investments - The company continues to invest in high-growth areas to enhance service and network quality despite rising operational costs[11]. - The company plans to continue investing in 5G infrastructure to enhance network quality and customer experience[14]. - The government has committed to supporting mobile communication investments, which is expected to help control operational costs[14]. Financial Position - As of December 31, 2022, the total equity of the group was $5,230,000,000, with total borrowings amounting to $1,495,000,000[20]. - The cash and bank balances, including short-term bank deposits, were $2,402,000,000 as of December 31, 2022, up from $2,141,000,000 on June 30, 2022[20]. - The net cash position of the group was $1,298,000,000 as of December 31, 2022, compared to $1,021,000,000 on June 30, 2022[20]. - The group generated a net cash inflow from operating activities of $1,245,000,000 for the period ending December 31, 2022[20]. Employee and Management Costs - The total employee costs for the period ending December 31, 2022, were $361,000,000, an increase from $320,000,000 in the same period of the previous year[27]. - As of December 31, 2022, the group had 1,865 full-time employees, an increase from 1,737 employees as of June 30, 2022[27]. - Total remuneration for key management personnel was HKD 14,011,000 for the six months ended December 31, 2022, compared to HKD 11,176,000 for the same period in 2021[126]. Corporate Governance - The audit committee reviewed the interim financial statements for the six months ending December 31, 2022, and found the accounting policies appropriate and consistent with industry standards[156]. - The company adhered to the corporate governance code principles during the six-month period, with a noted absence of some non-executive directors at the annual general meeting[158]. - All directors confirmed compliance with the standard code of conduct for securities transactions during the six-month period ending December 31, 2022[159]. Community and Employee Engagement - SmarTone is committed to community support through various activities aimed at helping those in need and fostering a harmonious society[51]. - The company offers diverse training and career development opportunities for employees, including cross-departmental exchanges and skill training[52]. - SmarTone promotes work-life balance by creating a relaxed work environment and organizing festive celebrations and care activities for employees[53]. Strategic Initiatives - The company has implemented a trial program for 40,000 customers to interact with staff via WhatsApp, receiving positive feedback and plans to expand the service[11]. - The company has partnered with Sun Hung Kai Properties' membership program "The Point," allowing customers to earn points on all spending for various benefits[11]. - The company is exploring international business development opportunities, particularly in the internet and technology sectors[33].
数码通电讯(00315) - 2023 - 中期财报