Market Overview - The Hang Seng Index is facing resistance at 24,700 points, with a projected P/E ratio of 11 times over the next 12 months [2] - The US-China trade talks have seen limited progress, and there is a lack of willingness from China to implement further economic stimulus measures [2] - The inflow of capital from the north has slowed down, indicating limited improvement in corporate earnings [2] Macro Focus - The US has announced tariffs on Japan and South Korea at 25%, and on Laos and Myanmar at 40%, effective August 1 [4][8] - The US Treasury Secretary anticipates discussions with Chinese officials to advance trade and other issues [4][8] - The US Federal Reserve has maintained interest rates, with expectations of two rate cuts totaling 0.5% this year, reflecting a cautious stance on inflation uncertainties [4][8] - The Chinese central bank increased its gold reserves by 70,000 ounces in June, continuing a trend of accumulation [4][8] Sector Highlights - The biotechnology sector is expected to benefit from new measures supporting the high-quality development of innovative drugs [7] - Macau's gaming revenue in June increased by 19% year-on-year, exceeding expectations [7] - The power sector is seeing increased demand due to high temperatures [7] Company News - Lens Technology (6613) priced its shares at HKD 18.18, a discount of nearly 28% compared to A-shares [10] - Dongfeng Motor (0489) aims to maintain its annual sales target of 3 million vehicles, with a focus on 1 million new energy vehicles [10] - Xiaomi (1810) reported a 20-fold increase in air conditioner sales in Northeast China due to unprecedented high temperatures [10] - NIO (9866) plans to officially launch its third factory in Hefei in September [10] - JD Logistics (1519) reported a 23.5% year-on-year increase in parcel volume for the second quarter [10]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The group's turnover improved year on year by 6.2% in 2024, driven by the ramp-up of Lee Gardens Shanghai [17] - Turnover of the Hong Kong retail portfolio increased by 9.5% to HKD 1,680 million, with an occupancy rate of 92% [18] - The Hong Kong office portfolio turnover declined by 1.5% to HKD 440 million, maintaining a stable occupancy rate of 90% [19] - The residential leasing portfolio saw turnover increase by 6.3% and occupancy rise to 73% [19] - Shareholders' fund and NAV per share declined by 1.7% and 1.8% respectively, primarily due to fair value measurement of investment property [25] - Full year dividend for 2024 remained stable at HKD 1.08 [26] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The retail segment in Hong Kong experienced a positive rental reversion rate, attributed to asset enhancement work and strong tenant sales potential [20] - The office portfolio's diversified tenant base helped maintain resilience despite market headwinds [24] - The transformation of Hyacinth Place welcomed over 30 international and local brands, enhancing the shopping experience [21] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The second half of 2024 saw strategic additions to the tenant mix at Lee Garden One, including Michelin Green Star certified restaurants [7] - Daily traffic to Lee Gardens exceeded 100,000, indicating strong consumer engagement [9] - The company reported a mid single-digit percentage increase in tenant sales and footfall year on year in early 2025 [38][64] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on rejuvenating the Lee Gardens precinct and expanding its luxury portfolio, aiming to double luxury offerings [6] - A strategic partnership with the Hong Kong Academy of Performing Arts aims to enhance cultural experiences at Lee Garden 8 [14] - The company is diversifying its tenant mix to include co-working spaces, healthcare, and wealth management services [52] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in Hong Kong's economic future, emphasizing the importance of adapting to changing consumer preferences [3] - The company remains cautiously optimistic about future performance, focusing on financial discipline and maintaining liquidity [31][32] - Management acknowledged ongoing uncertainties in the market but highlighted positive trends in tenant sales and footfall [42][64] Other Important Information - The company secured an HKD 8 billion syndicated loan from 20 leading banks, providing a healthy buffer for refinancing activities [29] - The average debt maturity is 3.4 years, indicating a stable financial position [28] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you comment on tenant sales performance in the second half of last year and the Chinese New Year this year? - Management noted that while Hong Kong retail sales were down 7% last year, the company performed slightly better, with significant improvement in the second half of 2024 and positive mid single-digit growth in early 2025 [36][38] Question: What is the magnitude of positive retail rental reversion last year? - The average rental reversion was around a high single-digit percentage, with positive trends continuing throughout 2024 [40] Question: How much of the 35% retail leases expiring have been locked in? - Management did not provide specific figures but indicated ongoing negotiations and positive market sentiment [44] Question: Can you elaborate on the types of tenants being introduced? - The company is focusing on younger, trend-setting brands and diversifying into sectors like healthcare and wealth management [52][56] Question: What is the targeted profile of office tenants for Lee Garden 8? - The company aims to attract multinational companies and those relocating from Central, emphasizing the importance of high-standard sustainable buildings [66]