Group 1 - The Chief Capital Officer of Affirm, Brooke Major-Reid, has been with the company for over 4 years and oversees capital markets execution, treasury, operational and cash management, bank partnerships, funding origination partnerships, card issuing, and analytics and risk management functions [1] - Affirm has experienced significant growth during the tenure of the Chief Capital Officer, indicating a positive trajectory for the company [1]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The statutory profit after tax for FY '25 was $36.9 million, while cash profit after tax was $52.9 million, reflecting a refined measure of performance [3][19] - Cash earnings per share was $0.01, and return on cash equity for the year was 10% [4] - Operating expenses decreased by 6%, resulting in a cost to income ratio of 51.7% [4][19] - Total dividends declared for FY '25 were $2.00 per share, consistent with FY '24, representing a 4.8% return to shareholders [5][9] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The commercial business generated a cash profit of $45.3 million, with assets under management growing by 12% and net operating income up 11% [22][23] - The consumer finance segment delivered a cash profit of $24.8 million, significantly up from $8.6 million in the prior period [25] - The Australian consumer business improved credit performance due to actions taken 18 months ago, while the Cards New Zealand business generated $15.7 million in cash profit [26][27] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Irish business reported a profit of $11.2 million with a return on cash equity of 29.7%, while the UK business broke even in June [13] - The company anticipates softer volume in the Australian market due to refinements in credit processes and technology platforms [10] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on transforming product platforms and modernizing IT to enhance revenue growth and user experience [12] - There is a commitment to balancing shareholder returns with investments in technology and product platforms [8] - The company aims to restore volumes in the HUM AU business while managing heightened losses in the commercial sector [35][37] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expects continued elevated losses in the commercial business in H1 FY '26 before normalizing [35] - The company is optimistic about the performance in FY '25 and has a clear agenda for FY '26 focused on transformation and growth [37] - Management is confident in the restructuring of the Canadian business and the potential for growth in that market [41] Other Important Information - The company has introduced a new reporting segment for corporate costs to enhance transparency [20] - The repayment of perpetual notes is expected to save approximately $7.7 million in future periods [9] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you tell me about the offshore investment and the progress you are making? - The Irish business is performing well with good returns and low credit loss, while the UK business has achieved breakeven [40] Question: Commercial equipment finance system growth has been slower. How is flexi commercial performing? - The commercial business has maintained flat volume growth year-on-year despite a 5% market decline [43] Question: What is the outlook for volume in the commercial business for 2026? - An increase in volume is expected over the full year, with a potential turnaround in the second half [48] Question: What is the status of the takeover proposal? - An independent board committee has been established, and a due diligence process is underway [72] Question: Ireland ROCE of 29.7% is outstanding. How sustainable is this? - The Irish business has a dominant market position and is expected to continue performing well [73]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a 2.2% increase in service revenue, primarily driven by mobile, with modest growth in fixed services [10][28] - Statutory EBITDA increased by 1%, reaching $618 million, while pro forma EBITDA was $786 million, reflecting a growth of 0.9% compared to the previous year [32][38] - Net profit after tax (NPAT) was significantly up, reaching $32 million, attributed to improved operating performance and lower financing costs [33] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The mobile subscriber base grew by 100,000, with strong growth from digital-first brands TPG and Felix, despite a decline in international arrivals [5][12] - Fixed service revenue saw a slight increase of just under 1%, with fixed wireless now representing 14% of total fixed subscribers [20][21] - Average revenue per user (ARPU) for postpaid increased by 14.5% over the last three years, while total ARPU rose by 7.8% [14] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company gained market share in both metropolitan and regional centers, with domestic growth in postpaid services coming at the expense of competitors [5][12] - The NBN market remains competitive, with intense competition impacting subscriber numbers for larger incumbents [21] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company plans to return $3 billion in cash to shareholders and increase minority ownership through a reinvestment plan [7][48] - A focus on customer well-being and accessibility is part of the company's three-year roadmap to ensure fair access to essential connectivity [24] - The company is committed to maintaining a disciplined approach to operating expenses, targeting flat growth in nominal terms through to 2029 [31] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the momentum in the mobile segment, although they expect a more moderate performance in the second half of the year [63] - The government’s revitalized student visa program for 2026 is expected to positively impact the company’s mobile business [16] - Management acknowledged the challenges in the fixed market but emphasized the importance of maintaining profitability and improving service offerings [82] Other Important Information - The company has taken steps to address a recent cyber incident affecting iINET customers, with ongoing support measures in place [7][9] - The company has successfully canceled $1.7 billion in bank loans as part of its capital management plan [44] Q&A Session Summary Question: Mobile subscriber growth expectations for the second half - Management does not provide specific guidance on customer numbers but remains optimistic about continued growth, albeit at a moderated pace [63] Question: ARPU for digital-first brands - Management indicated that ARPU for digital-first brands is likely in the mid-twenties, with consistent growth across different brands [64] Question: Pricing strategies in the mobile industry - Management acknowledged the challenges posed by tier-two operators and the need for pricing adjustments in the market [62][66] Question: Margin differentials between digital brands and traditional prepaid - Management noted that the margin differential is significant, with digital brands benefiting from lower operational costs [73] Question: CapEx for LEOSAT opportunities - Management highlighted that investments in LEOSAT will be smaller compared to terrestrial networks, with potential for future monetization [79] Question: Fixed subscriber trends and market competition - Management expressed confidence in maintaining profitability in the fixed segment despite competitive pressures [82]

Financial Performance - The net profit for the first half of 2025 reached 36.155 billion yuan, representing a year-on-year increase of 14.8% [2] - The net profit attributable to shareholders was 26.671 billion yuan, up 14.0% [2] - Total investment income surged to 40.758 billion yuan, a growth of 40.2% [2] - Earnings per share increased to 6.47 yuan, reflecting a growth of 6.3% [2] Core Business - The original insurance premium income amounted to 454.625 billion yuan, marking a growth of 6.4% [2] - The market share of PICC Property and Casualty remained at 33.5%, maintaining its industry-leading position [2] - The comprehensive cost ratio improved to 94.8%, a decrease of 1.4 percentage points year-on-year [2] - Underwriting profit reached 13.015 billion yuan, showing a significant increase of 44.6% [2] Life Insurance Transformation - New business value for PICC Life Insurance was 4.978 billion yuan, with a comparable growth of 71.7% [5] - New business value for PICC Health Insurance was 3.837 billion yuan, with a comparable growth of 51.0% [5] - The embedded value for PICC Life Insurance was 13.056 billion yuan, up 9.0% from the end of the previous year [5] - The embedded value for PICC Health Insurance was 3.566 billion yuan, reflecting an 18.4% increase [5] Investment Highlights - Total investment income reached 40.758 billion yuan, a remarkable increase of 40.2%, with an annualized total investment return rate of 5.0% [3] - The net investment income was 29.604 billion yuan, showing a growth of 10.5% [3] - The significant increase in investment income was primarily driven by the recovery of the equity market [3] Asset Structure and Solvency - Total assets amounted to 1,878.102 billion yuan, a growth of 6.3% from the beginning of the year [6] - Net assets reached 390.638 billion yuan, also reflecting a 6.3% increase [6] - The comprehensive solvency adequacy ratio stood at 276%, indicating strong capital strength [6] Capital Management and Shareholder Returns - The company fully redeemed 8 billion yuan of capital supplement bonds, indicating improved capital adequacy [7] - The board proposed an interim dividend of 0.75 yuan per 10 shares, totaling 3.317 billion yuan, a growth of 19.0% [7] - Operating cash inflow was 74.845 billion yuan, up 6.9%, indicating overall stable cash flow [7] Digital Transformation Progress - The company has increased its AI capability usage by 27.2% compared to the end of 2024 [8] - The internet intelligent claims platform for PICC Health has received industry recognition, although the actual business transformation effects require more time to validate [8]

Financial Performance and Key Metrics - The company achieved double-digit growth across key financial metrics, with new business profit and adjusted operating profit per share both growing by 12% [6][13] - Gross operating free surplus generation increased by 14%, and dividends per share rose by 13% [6][14] - The return on embedded value improved to 15%, with net operating free surplus generation up by 20% [13][14] Business Line Performance - The Hong Kong market saw a 16% growth in new business profit, while Indonesia experienced a remarkable 34% growth [10][12] - The agency channel contributed 55% to new business profit growth, with active agents in Hong Kong up by 11% and productivity per active agent increasing by 4% [26][29] - The company is focusing on quality recruitment and productivity improvements in the agency business, particularly in Mainland China and ASEAN markets [26][41] Market Performance - The company reported strong performance across its core markets, with a notable increase in new business profit in both Hong Kong and Indonesia [10][12] - The agency strategy is being enhanced through targeted recruitment and training, with a focus on high-quality growth [11][41] Company Strategy and Industry Competition - The company is halfway through its strategic transformation initiated in August 2023, focusing on value creation and operational effectiveness [8][9] - Investments of $400 million have been made in technology and capabilities to drive growth and improve customer engagement [9][10] - The company aims to return over $5 billion to shareholders between 2024 and 2027, reflecting confidence in its capital generation and strategic progress [8][16] Management Commentary on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in achieving 2027 financial objectives, citing strong performance in new business and effective management of in-force books [18][41] - The macro environment remains volatile, but the company is well-positioned due to its multi-channel and multi-market franchise [10][12] - Regulatory changes in Mainland China are expected to enhance agent retention and income stability, aligning with the company's focus on quality recruitment [26][28] Other Important Information - The company has settled the dividend claim in Malaysia, which is expected to positively impact future operations [6][64] - The potential IPO of the asset management business in India is under regulatory review, with updates to be provided in due course [4][8] Q&A Session Summary Question: Outlook on agency business in Mainland China and Hong Kong - Management highlighted a strong focus on quality recruitment in Mainland China, with active agents up by 6% and a change management program in place [26][28] - In Hong Kong, agency new business value growth remains solid, with a good balance between agency and bank assurance [29][100] Question: Capital management framework and future buybacks - The capital management update reflects confidence in the business model, with a focus on sustainable returns and regular reviews of excess capital for potential buybacks [31][34] Question: Key drivers of confidence in achieving 2027 objectives - Management cited strong performance metrics, quality business focus, and strategic investments as key drivers of confidence [40][41] Question: Margin improvement potential - Management sees opportunities for margin improvement through repricing, operating leverage, and improved health contributions [44][56] Question: Variances and historical levels - Management expects to return to historic positive levels of variances by 2027, driven by improved claims experience and cost containment [62][63] Question: Exits in Africa and Malaysian dividend issue - The company is focused on deploying capital in markets with growth potential, with ongoing evaluations of its presence in Africa [63][64] Question: New business appetite and product margins - Demand for US dollar-denominated products remains strong, with no significant impact from geopolitical factors [71][72]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company achieved double-digit growth across key financial metrics, with new business profit and adjusted operating profit per share both growing by 12% [5][12] - Gross operating free surplus generation increased by 14%, and dividends per share rose by 13% [5][12] - The return on embedded value improved to 15%, with net operating free surplus generation up by 20% [12][15] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The agency business remains a primary acquisition channel, contributing to 55% of new business profit growth [23] - New business profit in Hong Kong grew by 16%, while Indonesia saw a remarkable 34% growth [8] - The NBP margin expanded by two percentage points to 38% compared to the previous year [16] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Hong Kong market showed strong performance with a 15% growth rate in the first half, while the second quarter saw an increase to around 20% [91][92] - The company reported a 45% increase in new agency recruits in Mainland China, indicating strong growth potential despite regulatory changes [20][23] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is halfway through its strategic transformation launched in August 2023, focusing on high-quality new business and operational effectiveness [6][11] - Investments of $400 million have been made in technology and capabilities to enhance customer engagement and operational efficiency [7] - The company aims to return over $5 billion to shareholders between 2024 and 2027, with additional returns expected from the potential IPO of the asset management business in India [6][15] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in achieving 2027 financial objectives, citing strong momentum and a focus on quality business [11][17] - The macro environment remains volatile, but the company is well-positioned due to its multichannel and multimarket franchise [8] - Management highlighted the importance of addressing underperformance in certain markets, particularly Malaysia and Vietnam, while capitalizing on growth opportunities in others [37][38] Other Important Information - The company has settled the dividend claim in Malaysia, which is expected to enhance shareholder returns [5][6] - The capital management update reflects a shift to a total return orientation, with a focus on sustainable cash returns [12][14] Q&A Session Summary Question: Outlook on Mainland China agency business - Management noted a strong focus on quality recruitment, with active agents up by 6% and a change management program in place to improve performance [23][24] Question: Capital management framework and future buybacks - The CFO explained that the capital management update reflects confidence in the business model, with a focus on sustainable annual net capital generation [28][30] Question: Key drivers of confidence in achieving 2027 objectives - Management cited a strong balance between agency and bank assurance, with specific change management programs in place to address underperformance in certain markets [36][37] Question: Margin improvement potential - The CFO highlighted opportunities for margin improvement through repricing, operating leverage, and improved health contributions [39][52] Question: Active agents and productivity metrics - Management acknowledged a 7% year-on-year decline in active agents but projected a growth rate of 7% to 10% for 2026 and 2027 [80][81] Question: Timing of remaining investment in capabilities - Management indicated that an additional $100 million to $120 million is expected to be invested by the end of the year, with further investments planned for 2026 [78][79] Question: Impact of regulatory changes on Hong Kong business - Management confirmed that the regulatory changes have not significantly impacted demand, with robust product margins maintained [92][98]

Core Viewpoint - Morgan Stanley maintains a "Market Perform" rating for Lao Pu Gold (06181) while raising the earnings per share (EPS) forecast for the company from 0% to 2% for the years 2023 to 2027 [1] Financial Summary - Target price is adjusted from HKD 1,055 to HKD 925, reflecting a projected price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio of 22 times for next year [1] - EPS growth is forecasted to decrease from over 245% this year to 30% next year, indicating lower visibility for EPS growth [1] Company Performance and Strategy - The company demonstrates strong brand power and execution capabilities, with a solid growth outlook for the second half of the year [1] - Focus is shifting towards capital management and next year's growth outlook due to a slowdown in domestic expansion [1] - The company has significant potential for overseas expansion, but execution will be critical [1] Market Sentiment and Stock Performance - Lao Pu Gold's stock price has dropped 31% since its peak in early July, and the valuation is not yet attractive considering stock volatility and short-term profit risks [1] - Since its listing in June last year, the stock has increased 19 times, with a year-to-date increase of 211% [1] - The market may be concentrating on mid-term growth visibility amid unclear macro trends and company strategies [1]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported net income of $20 million or $0.18 per diluted common share, with operating net income of $14 million or $0.12 per diluted common share, resulting in an annualized operating return on average equity (ROAE) of 2.3% [20][21] - Gross written premiums increased by 9% year-to-date to $2.9 billion, with a quarterly growth of 2% to $1.2 billion [20][21] - The combined ratio for the quarter was 103.7%, impacted by the English High Court judgment related to Russia-Ukraine litigation [7][21] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - In the Insurance segment, gross premiums written increased by 7% in the quarter, driven by asset-backed finance and portfolio credit, as well as political risk lines [21][10] - The Reinsurance segment saw gross premiums written of $317 million for the quarter, down from $346 million in the prior year [21] - The attritional loss ratio improved to 24.7% for the quarter, compared to 25.9% in 2024, indicating strong underlying portfolio performance [22] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company maintained high retention levels, around 90% for the year, despite competitive pressures in certain markets [66] - The property market is experiencing significant pricing differentials compared to subscription market players, allowing the company to achieve favorable terms [11][10] - The aviation sector remains challenging, with the company not willing to write business that does not meet underwriting standards [12][104] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to balance profitable underwriting with capital returns to shareholders, having delivered a gross written premium growth of 54% since 2022 [5] - A focus on deploying capital to attractive risk-reward opportunities is emphasized, with ongoing expansion of strategic partnerships [6][38] - The company plans to continue share repurchases and has renewed its common share repurchase authorization to $200 million [18][29] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the business's strength and the ability to capitalize on profitable opportunities, particularly as the uncertainty from Russia-Ukraine litigation is resolved [38] - The company expects underwriting growth for the full year to be approximately 6% to 10%, with a strong pipeline in asset-backed finance and portfolio credit [34][35] - Management remains cautious about the aviation market but is hopeful for improvements in pricing [104] Other Important Information - The company announced an increase in its quarterly dividend to $0.15 per share, reflecting a dividend yield of 3.6% [29] - The effective tax rate for the first half of the year was 18.9%, expected to remain around 19% for the full year [27][28] Q&A Session Summary Question: Impact of wind season on property pricing - Management indicated that a significant capital event would be necessary to impact overall profit cap pricing, noting that recent losses have not affected the broader market [44][46] Question: Demand for political risk coverage - Management reported an uptick in deal activity in political risk, with new and repeat customers indicating a strong pipeline [48][50] Question: Explanation for discount valuation - Management acknowledged the stock is undervalued and emphasized strong performance excluding Russia-Ukraine impacts, indicating confidence in the portfolio's profitability [54][56] Question: Future expectations for return on equity - Management expressed confidence in achieving through-the-cycle targets, with a reasonable expectation of 15% return on equity in the current environment [59][60] Question: Pricing levels in property D and F - Management noted that while pricing is under pressure, they are maintaining high retention rates and are not willing to write inadequately priced business [66][68] Question: Reserve releases in property - Management indicated that positive prior year development is driven by actual claims experience, with consistent results expected in the reinsurance segment [80][82] Question: Tax rate guidance - Management clarified that the increase in the effective tax rate is due to the geographic distribution of income, with expectations for a similar rate in 2026 [110][112]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Group NPAT increased by over 9% to $131 million, driven by cash flows in wealth businesses and efficiency improvements despite absorbing over 3% inflation [2][10] - EPS improved by 18% in the half, positively impacted by operating performance and share buybacks [2][10] - Total revenue rose to $632 million, with controllable costs decreasing by over 4% to $300 million, resulting in a 14% EBIT improvement [10][25] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Platforms AUM grew over 11% to $83.2 billion, with margin holding steady at 43 basis points [11][12] - Superannuation and Investments AUM increased by over 8% to $58.5 billion, with a slight margin decrease to 62 basis points [12][17] - AMP Bank NPAT rose to $36 million, reflecting careful management of volume and margin, with NIM growing by 2 basis points [19][20] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - New Zealand AUM increased by 9.6% to $12.2 billion, driven by market movements despite modest margin compression [12][22] - Partnerships in China delivered strong results, with NPAT up 35% to $27 million, while other partnerships saw a decline due to property valuations [22][24] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to innovate in retirement solutions and enhance advisor efficiency through AI [5][32] - Focus on scaling AMP Bank Go while seeking niche lending opportunities to improve margins [32] - Continued emphasis on cost discipline and business simplification, with a target to maintain controllable costs at $600 million [28][90] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management remains optimistic about the growth potential in China, expecting a 10% growth rate through the cycle [38][39] - The economic environment in New Zealand is challenging, but diversified income streams provide some protection [7][22] - Management is cautious about maintaining NIM due to competitive pressures in the banking sector [40][43] Other Important Information - An interim dividend of $0.02 per share was announced, franked at 20% [2] - The business simplification program is expected to conclude slightly later than anticipated but remains within the guided investment envelope of $150 million pretax [28][29] Q&A Session Summary Question: Earnings growth outlook for China partnerships - Management expects continued strong growth in the China partnerships, supported by government pension reforms and a favorable macro backdrop [38][39] Question: NIM trajectory and full-year expectations - Management maintains a cautious outlook for NIM, expecting it to remain around 1.3% for the full year due to competitive pressures and deposit volume fluctuations [40][43] Question: S and I business margin outlook - Management indicated that margin dynamics are influenced by customer mix and retention, with a focus on onboarding new clients to improve margins [52][53] Question: Capital management and future outlook - Management is optimistic about capital position but remains cautious due to ongoing uncertainties, including class action litigation [48][49] Question: AMP Bank Go performance and target market - The initial focus has been on personal banking, but management expects to see a shift towards SME offerings as more products are launched [58]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported an annualized Return on Equity (ROE) of approximately 15% for the first half of 2025, with expectations upgraded to high teens for the year [3][4]. - Insurance revenue increased by 8.9% year-over-year to $930 million, driven by growth in gross premiums written [19][20]. - The undiscounted combined ratio was 97.8%, reflecting disciplined underwriting despite significant industry losses [21]. Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The reinsurance business saw stable market conditions, with growth in property reinsurance and a largely scaled casualty book [13][14]. - The insurance segment faced headwinds in property insurance, prompting adjustments in the portfolio, while marine and energy classes showed good momentum [15][16]. - Premiums grew nearly 6% in the first half of 2025, indicating a focus on disciplined growth ahead of rate [12]. Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The global insured natural catastrophe losses reached about $80 billion in the first half of 2025, the second highest recorded for that period [9]. - The insurance market remains favorable, with most lines well-priced, although early signs of a softening market are emerging [11][12]. - The company noted that terms and conditions in the market are broadly holding steady, which bodes well for future underwriting results [11]. Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company continues to focus on disciplined growth and active capital management to deliver sustainable returns [5][6]. - There is an emphasis on maintaining a healthy balance sheet to pursue selective growth opportunities [6]. - The strategy includes expanding capabilities in specialty reinsurance and building out the U.S. platform, particularly in energy liability [17][48]. Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the ability to deliver strong returns through the remainder of 2025 and beyond, despite the competitive market conditions [32]. - The company remains cautious about the impact of potential losses during the peak hurricane season on future market conditions [38]. - Management highlighted that losses do not move markets; rather, margins do, indicating a stable outlook despite significant losses in the first half [98]. Other Important Information - The investment portfolio generated a return of 3.7% in the first half of 2025, benefiting from higher yields and falling treasury rates [27][29]. - The company remains well-capitalized, with a BSCR ratio of over 257%, allowing for flexibility in underwriting and capital returns [29][30]. Q&A Session Summary Question: How do you expect the combined ratios to develop into 2026? - Management indicated that it is premature to predict the combined ratios for 2026, as the market will be influenced by loss activity during the peak hurricane season [38]. Question: Can you clarify the reserve releases related to Hurricane Ian? - Management confirmed that Hurricane Ian has not been specifically called out in reserve releases, and the timing of reserve releases can vary based on new information [40][41]. Question: What are the underlying drivers for the updated ROE target? - The updated ROE target is a reflection of the strong Q2 performance, not related to expectations for the second half of the year [47]. Question: What areas are you looking to grow in? - The company is focusing on expanding its specialty reinsurance and U.S. platform, particularly in energy liability, while remaining selective in other areas [48][49]. Question: How do large loss events impact pricing? - Management stated that large loss events do not necessarily move markets; rather, it is the margins that are more significant [98][99].