Chang Jiang Shang Bao·2025-10-12 23:34Core Viewpoint - Hang Seng Bank, a long-established bank in Hong Kong, is set to be privatized by HSBC at a price of HKD 155 per share, leading to its delisting from the Hong Kong Stock Exchange after over 53 years of being publicly traded [1][3][4]. Group 1: Privatization Details - HSBC Asia, as the offeror, will pay a total of approximately HKD 1,061.56 million for the privatization, valuing Hang Seng Bank at HKD 2,903.05 million [1][4]. - The privatization price represents a significant premium of about 30.3% over Hang Seng Bank's last trading price of HKD 119 per share [4]. - Following the privatization, HSBC aims to enhance collaboration between HSBC Asia and Hang Seng Bank in the Hong Kong banking sector [1][6]. Group 2: Financial Performance - For the first half of 2025, Hang Seng Bank reported a profit attributable to shareholders of HKD 6.88 billion, a decrease of 31.5% year-on-year, indicating revenue growth without corresponding profit increase [1][7]. - The bank's non-performing loan ratio reached 6.69% by the end of June 2025, with total impaired loans amounting to HKD 55 billion, an increase of HKD 4 billion from the end of 2024 [2][7]. - Hang Seng Bank's net interest income fell by 7% to HKD 14.34 billion, with the net interest margin declining from 1.83% to 1.67% [7][8]. Group 3: Strategic Implications - HSBC's strategy focuses on expanding its business in Hong Kong, leveraging the strengths of both HSBC Asia and Hang Seng Bank to enhance operational efficiency and customer service [6][8]. - The bank plans to maintain Hang Seng Bank's brand identity and operational independence while integrating resources to improve competitiveness [6][8].