Nan Fang Du Shi Bao·2025-08-08 03:19Core Viewpoint - Hang Seng Bank's interim results for the first half of 2025 show a significant decline in net profit and net interest income, reflecting challenges in the current economic environment and the bank's strategic focus on diversifying income sources to drive future growth [1][9]. Financial Performance - The bank reported a net profit attributable to shareholders of HKD 6.88 billion, a decrease of 30.46% year-on-year [1]. - Net interest income fell by 7.39% to HKD 14.339 billion, primarily due to a 3% reduction in average total customer loans and a decline in market interest rates [2][3]. - Total operating income increased by 3% to HKD 20.975 billion, but pre-tax profit dropped by 28.39% to HKD 8.097 billion [2][4]. Income Diversification - Non-interest income grew significantly, with service fees and other income rising by 34% to HKD 6.636 billion, now accounting for 31.6% of total income [4][5]. - Wealth management and investment services saw a remarkable increase of 43% in revenue, while securities brokerage income surged by 60% [5]. Strategic Initiatives - The bank is focusing on expanding its wealth management services and enhancing cross-border financial capabilities, with a 75% increase in new affluent clients and an 81% rise in new retail clients from mainland China [7][9]. - A sustainable development financing fund of HKD 80 billion has been launched, with over two-thirds already disbursed, indicating a commitment to green finance [6]. Shareholder Returns - Despite the decline in net profit, the bank announced an 8% increase in interim dividends, totaling HKD 2.60 per share, and initiated a HKD 3 billion share buyback program [7][8]. - The bank's capital adequacy ratios improved, with a common equity tier 1 capital ratio of 21.3%, reflecting its ability to manage future risks [8]. Leadership Transition - The recent appointment of new Chairman Zheng Weixin marks a strategic shift for the bank, emphasizing a focus on core strategies and the importance of adapting to the evolving economic landscape [1][9].