Investment Rating - The investment rating for Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited is "Buy" (maintained) [1] Core Views - The report highlights a significant improvement in ADT-linked business year-on-year, with a recovery in IPOs supporting growth [1] - The expected total revenue and net profit for 2024 are HKD 22.374 billion and HKD 13.050 billion, respectively, representing year-on-year growth of 9% and 10% [1] - The report anticipates a strong performance driven by the recovery of the IPO market and increased activity in the technology sector, suggesting a potential "double boost" in performance and valuation for the exchange [1][3] Summary by Sections Financial Performance - In 2024, the company achieved total revenue of HKD 22.374 billion and net profit of HKD 13.050 billion, with Q4 net profit reaching HKD 3.78 billion, up 46% year-on-year and 20% quarter-on-quarter [1] - Revenue from trading, settlement, and other income showed year-on-year increases of 18%, 21%, and slight declines in other categories [1] - The forecast for net profit for 2025-2027 is HKD 15.775 billion, HKD 15.571 billion, and HKD 16.141 billion, respectively, with corresponding EPS of HKD 12.44, HKD 12.28, and HKD 12.73 [1][4] Market Activity - The report notes a year-on-year increase in ADT for Hong Kong stocks, reaching HKD 1.32 trillion in 2024, up 26%, with northbound and southbound ADT increasing by 39% and 55%, respectively [2] - The IPO market showed signs of recovery, with 71 companies listed in 2024, raising HKD 88 billion, a 90% increase year-on-year [2] - The report emphasizes the role of new economy companies in driving market activity, with significant listings expected in the coming years [3] Valuation Metrics - The current P/E ratios for 2025-2027 are projected at 29.0, 29.4, and 28.4 times, respectively, indicating a favorable valuation outlook [1][4] - The report provides a financial summary indicating a steady growth trajectory in revenue and net profit, with a projected revenue increase of 22.56% in 2025 [4][9]
香港交易所2024年报点评:ADT挂钩业务同比明显改善,IPO回暖支撑成长性