Core Viewpoint - Morgan Stanley reports that CK Hutchison (00001) has shown robust growth in its core business for the first half of the year, with a year-on-year increase in underlying profit of 11% and a 3% growth in interim dividends [1] Financial Performance - EBITDA growth in various sectors: Ports increased by 10%, Retail by 12%, Infrastructure by 6%, and Telecommunications by 12% [1] - As of June 30, CK Hutchison's net debt ratio decreased from 16.2% at the end of last year to 14.7% [1] Strategic Developments - Management indicated that the port asset transaction is progressing smoothly, with expectations that it may be completed by next year, entering a new phase of introducing strategic investors from China [1] - Morgan Stanley raised the target price from HKD 54 to HKD 58, maintaining an "Overweight" rating, while noting that current price levels reflect market expectations for the approval of the port transaction [1] Future Outlook - It is anticipated that even if the port transaction is completed, only about 10% to 20% of the proceeds will be used for special dividend distribution [1] - Management prefers to allocate funds towards value-added potential acquisitions in European infrastructure projects but will maintain a cautious financial approach due to geopolitical uncertainties [1]

Core Viewpoint - Citigroup's research report indicates that Cheung Kong's operational performance across various businesses in the first half of the year is strong, with management reaffirming discussions with major strategic investors in mainland China regarding port asset transactions, although completion of these transactions is expected to be complicated and unlikely within the year due to multi-national regulatory approvals [1] Group 1 - Cheung Kong's management is in talks with major strategic investors in mainland China regarding port asset transactions [1] - The complexity of the regulatory approval process across multiple countries is expected to delay the completion of these transactions until next year [1] Group 2 - Citigroup has revised Cheung Kong's net asset value (NAV) per share forecast from HKD 118.31 to HKD 138.69 [1] - The target price for Cheung Kong has been increased from HKD 53 to HKD 61, maintaining a "buy" rating [1]