Zheng Quan Shi Bao·2025-10-09 18:09Core Viewpoint - HSBC Holdings and its subsidiary, HSBC Asia Pacific, proposed to privatize Hang Seng Bank at a price of HKD 155 per share, representing a premium of over 30% [2][3] Group 1: Proposal Details - The proposed acquisition price of HKD 155 per share values Hang Seng Bank at approximately HKD 290 billion [2] - The offer price represents a premium of about 30.3% compared to Hang Seng Bank's last closing price of HKD 119 per share [2] - The offer also exceeds the highest target price of HKD 131 set by market analysts after Hang Seng Bank's mid-2025 earnings report, reflecting a premium of approximately 18.3% [2] Group 2: Strategic Implications - HSBC stated that the premium reflects the potential future value of Hang Seng Bank's business and provides shareholders with immediate investment returns without waiting for future dividends [3] - If the privatization is approved, Hang Seng Bank will become a wholly-owned subsidiary of HSBC Holdings, and its listing on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange will be withdrawn [3] - HSBC plans to retain the Hang Seng Bank brand and enhance investment in product, service, and technology innovation to provide more choices for customers [3] Group 3: Financial and Operational Impact - The privatization aligns with HSBC's strategy to simplify its organizational structure and focus on core markets, particularly in the increasingly competitive Hong Kong market [3] - The move is expected to enhance HSBC's earnings per share by eliminating non-controlling interest deductions from Hang Seng Bank's profits [3] - HSBC reiterated its commitment to maintaining its dividend payout ratio target for 2025 [3] Group 4: Share Buyback Suspension - To facilitate the transaction, HSBC announced that it will not initiate any further share buybacks for three quarters from the date of the announcement [4]