Sou Hu Cai Jing·2025-08-25 00:57Core Viewpoint - After three years of sluggishness, the Hong Kong stock issuance market has rebounded strongly, with expectations to reclaim its position as the largest IPO market globally in 2025 [2][4]. Group 1: Market Performance - In the first half of 2025, Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited (HKEX) reported total revenue of HKD 14.076 billion, a year-on-year increase of 32.53%, and net profit of HKD 8.519 billion, up 39%, both reaching historical highs for a half-year period [2]. - The Hong Kong IPO market welcomed 44 new companies, raising a total of HKD 109.4 billion, a year-on-year increase of 716% [2]. - As of June 30, 2025, there were 207 IPO applications being processed, more than double the 84 applications at the end of the previous year [2]. Group 2: Factors Driving Growth - The resurgence in the IPO market is attributed to a combination of policy support, market conditions, and supply from companies [5]. - Policy measures from mainland China, including increased funding support and interest rate cuts, have bolstered business confidence, while the optimization of listing rules has facilitated the process for new economy companies [5]. - The approval efficiency for IPOs has significantly improved, with regulatory bodies supporting leading companies from the mainland to list in Hong Kong [5]. Group 3: Leading Companies and Trends - Major A-share companies such as CATL, Hengrui Medicine, and Haidilao have contributed significantly to the IPO market, raising over HKD 71.8 billion, accounting for nearly 70% of the total IPO amount [6]. - The "A+H" model has gained traction, allowing companies to broaden their financing channels and leverage Hong Kong's international platform for global expansion [6]. - The rise of AI and innovative sectors has attracted more tech companies, including unprofitable biotech firms, to consider IPOs in Hong Kong [6][7]. Group 4: Market Liquidity and Valuation - Improved liquidity and valuation recovery in the Hong Kong market have enhanced the attractiveness of IPOs, with average daily trading volume reaching HKD 240.2 billion, a year-on-year increase of 118% [8]. - The average daily trading volume for ETFs surged to HKD 33.8 billion, up 184% [8]. - The refinancing function in the Hong Kong market has also been active, with refinancing amounts exceeding IPO sizes, indicating market depth and ease of continued financing for companies [8]. Group 5: Global Capital Trends - The shift in global capital flows, driven by geopolitical risks and inflation concerns, has led international investors to favor Hong Kong as a key IPO destination [9]. - The recent tensions between the U.S. and China have not deterred IPO activities; instead, they have reinforced Hong Kong's position as a preferred market for Chinese companies [9]. - International institutions have recognized Hong Kong's resilience, with foreign capital returning to the market, evidenced by significant participation from global funds in recent IPOs [9]. Group 6: Future Outlook - Hong Kong's unique advantages, such as the absence of capital gains and inheritance taxes, free capital flow, and a legal system aligned with international standards, are expected to continue attracting IPOs [10]. - The transformation of the market from pessimism to enthusiasm within a year signifies a reshaping of the international financial landscape, with Hong Kong poised to play a pivotal role [10].