Is HSBC's US$13.6 billion buyout offer good enough for Hang Seng Bank investors?

Core Viewpoint - HSBC Holdings has made a US$13.6 billion bid to acquire the remaining 36.5% stake in Hang Seng Bank, offering HK$155 per share, which represents a 30% premium over the previous closing price, potentially creating long-term value for HSBC [1][2]. Valuation and Market Reaction - The proposal values Hang Seng Bank at HK$290 billion (US$37.3 billion), which is 1.8 times its book value, significantly higher than comparable Hong Kong peers [2]. - Following the announcement, Hang Seng Bank's stock experienced its largest intraday surge on record [3]. Management Perspective - HSBC group CEO Georges Elhedery stated that the acquisition aligns with the criteria set by HSBC in February [4]. - Analysts noted that the acquisition reflects the new management's priorities and aims to create long-term value for shareholders [6]. Analyst Opinions - Some analysts believe the offer could be improved, suggesting a reasonable price-to-book ratio should be between 2.3 and 2.5 times [4]. - Mike Leung Kit-man expressed optimism about Hang Seng Bank's prospects, indicating that the worst may be over for the bank and the Hong Kong market [5]. - Andrew Coombs from Citigroup noted that the valuation fits HSBC's calculations [7].