Mei Ri Jing Ji Xin Wen·2025-08-14 13:45Core Viewpoint - The company reported a profit of HKD 11.32 billion for the first half of 2025, representing an 11% year-on-year increase, despite a decline in EBITDA by 9% to HKD 56.98 billion [2][5]. Financial Performance - Total revenue for the first half of 2025 was HKD 240.66 billion, up 3% from HKD 232.64 billion in the same period of 2024 [3][5]. - EBITDA decreased to HKD 56.98 billion from HKD 63.42 billion, a decline of 9% year-on-year [3][5]. - EBIT also fell to HKD 23.16 billion from HKD 30.96 billion, indicating a significant drop in operational profitability [3][5]. - Basic earnings per share were reported at HKD 0.22, down from HKD 2.66 in the previous year [6]. Port Business Performance - The port business generated revenue of HKD 235.97 billion, a 9% increase compared to the previous year, driven by growth in throughput at key ports [8]. - EBITDA for the port segment was HKD 87.19 billion, up 10%, while EBIT rose by 12% to HKD 65.08 billion [8]. - The growth in the port business was attributed to increased throughput and effective cost management [8]. Strategic Developments - The company completed a major strategic transaction by merging its UK telecommunications business with Vodafone UK, which is expected to enhance operational efficiency [5][9]. - The company is currently in discussions regarding the sale of its port business, which is subject to regulatory approvals and is anticipated to take longer than initially planned [4][10]. - The company has invited major investors from mainland China to participate in the discussions to facilitate the approval process [10]. Financial Position - The company holds over HKD 120 billion in cash, with total cash and liquid investments amounting to HKD 1372.68 billion [9]. - Total debt stands at HKD 2565.89 billion, with a net debt ratio of 14.7%, down from 16.2% at the end of 2024 [9]. Market Performance - The company's stock price has increased by over 30% year-to-date, closing at HKD 52 on August 14, 2025, with a total market capitalization nearing HKD 199.2 billion [9].