Core Viewpoint - Hong Kong Stock Exchange (HKEX) achieved record high revenue and profit in the first half of 2025, driven by increased trading volumes in spot and derivatives markets, as well as the success of the Stock Connect programs with mainland China [1][3]. Financial Performance - HKEX reported a total revenue (including other income) of HKD 14.1 billion, a year-on-year increase of 33% [3]. - Main business revenue reached HKD 13 billion, up 32% year-on-year [3]. - Net profit after tax was HKD 8.5 billion, reflecting a 39% increase compared to the previous year [3]. - Average daily trading volume increased by 95% year-on-year, leading to a 39% rise in spot revenue and a 29% increase in stock and financial derivatives revenue [3]. IPO and Financing Activity - The Hong Kong market saw strong IPO activity with 44 new listings, raising HKD 109.4 billion, which is over eight times the amount from the same period last year [4]. - The refinancing scale exceeded HKD 240 billion, marking the highest semi-annual record since 2021 [4]. - HKEX approved 50 IPO applications in the first half of the year, with over 230 IPO applications currently in the pipeline [4]. Strategic Initiatives - HKEX has introduced the "Tech Company Fast Track," resulting in 50 new applications under the 18A and 18C categories [5]. - The exchange is preparing for a potential influx of international funds returning to Chinese assets, as global investors seek diversified investment opportunities [6]. - HKEX plans to optimize its mechanisms, including shortening the settlement cycle for the spot market to enhance efficiency [7]. Market Dynamics - The average daily trading volume for the Stock Connect programs reached new highs, with the Shanghai-Hong Kong Stock Connect daily average increasing by 32% year-on-year, and the Hong Kong Stock Connect averaging HKD 111 billion, nearly three times the amount from the previous year [3]. - International investors currently dominate the secondary market, with retail investors accounting for only 10% of the market [6].

Core Viewpoint - Hong Kong's IPO market has rebounded significantly, reclaiming its position as the world's top fundraising hub in the first half of 2025, driven by strong policy support and a surge in high-quality listings [3][5][9]. Group 1: IPO Market Recovery - In the first half of 2025, Hong Kong's IPO count reached 43, with a fundraising amount exceeding 1,067.1 billion HKD, marking a 708.4% increase year-on-year [5][9]. - Notable IPOs include CATL, which raised 353 billion HKD, making it the largest IPO globally for the year [5][10]. - The resurgence of the IPO market is attributed to strong policy backing from the Chinese government, including measures to support leading companies from the mainland to list in Hong Kong [5][15][16]. Group 2: Market Dynamics - The Hang Seng Index saw a 20% increase in the first half of 2025, ranking third among major global markets, indicating a healthy cycle between primary and secondary markets [5][9]. - Southbound capital has become a significant driver of the Hong Kong market, accounting for 20% of total trading volume, enhancing its influence [7][22]. - The influx of international long-term capital is evident, with notable participation from sovereign wealth funds and institutional investors in major IPOs [13][21]. Group 3: Future Outlook - There are currently 190 companies in the pipeline for IPOs, reflecting the market's attractiveness and potential for continued growth [5][9]. - Analysts predict that the IPO boom will persist into the second half of 2025, supported by ongoing capital inflows and favorable market conditions [21][22]. - The Hong Kong Stock Exchange is actively reforming its systems to attract more high-quality listings and enhance investor experience [8][19][36]. Group 4: Investment Trends - The demand for new economy companies, particularly in sectors like technology and healthcare, is driving the current IPO frenzy [19][27]. - The market is witnessing a shift in investor preferences towards companies with clear profitability paths and innovative capabilities [26][27]. - The strong performance of new consumer brands and innovative pharmaceutical companies is attracting significant attention from both domestic and international investors [28][29].