第一财经·2025-11-15 13:45Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the surge in IPO applications from pharmaceutical companies in Hong Kong, highlighting the competitive landscape and the challenges faced by these companies in securing investors amid a crowded market [3][5][10]. Group 1: IPO Market Dynamics - As of November 14, 2023, 23 healthcare companies have successfully listed on the Hong Kong stock market this year, compared to only 8 in the same period last year [3]. - Over 40 healthcare companies have applied for IPOs in Hong Kong this year, with 8 applications submitted in just the first half of November [3]. - The increase in IPO applications has led to heightened competition among companies to attract suitable investors, resulting in a more complex negotiation landscape between companies and institutional investors [3][5]. Group 2: Case Study of Baillie Gifford - Baillie Gifford's planned global offering was delayed due to market conditions, with reports suggesting that investor demand did not meet expectations [4][5]. - The company aimed to attract long-term value investors rather than those focused on short-term price fluctuations, indicating a strategic approach to its IPO [5][6]. - The IPO process involves cornerstone placements, book-building, and public offerings, with cornerstone investors playing a crucial role in validating the company's value [6]. Group 3: Market Sentiment and Trends - The pharmaceutical sector has seen significant stock price increases this year, leading investors to focus on new IPOs rather than existing stocks [7]. - The introduction of new IPO pricing mechanisms by the Hong Kong Stock Exchange has increased the participation of cornerstone investors in pharmaceutical IPOs [9]. - Despite a recent cooling in the secondary market, the enthusiasm for IPO applications remains strong, with expectations of multiple companies going public in the first quarter of the following year [10][11]. Group 4: Investment Focus Areas - Certain sectors within the pharmaceutical industry, such as siRNA and ADC drugs, are attracting more attention from investors, indicating a trend towards specialized investment opportunities [11]. - The competition among major pharmaceutical companies for acquisitions, particularly in the GLP-1 drug space, has heightened interest in related IPOs [11]. - The article notes that while many IPOs are being pursued, the quality of the offerings and their pricing will be critical in attracting investor interest [13].