Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported an underlying profit of HKD 4.4 billion, an increase of 15% year on year, primarily due to capital recycling of non-core assets in Miami [4] - Recurring underlying profit decreased by 4% to HKD 3.4 billion, largely due to softness in the Hong Kong office market, offset by resilient rental income from the retail portfolio and contributions from the Chinese Mainland [5][20] - The interim dividend per share was declared at HKD 0.35, a 3% increase from the previous year, marking nine consecutive years of sustainable dividend growth [5][23] - The valuation of the investment properties portfolio stood at HKD 169.4 billion, reflecting a 1% decrease from December 2024, primarily due to fair value losses in Hong Kong and the Chinese Mainland [24] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Hong Kong office sector saw a 5% decline in attributable gross rental income, reflecting ongoing market headwinds and pressure from new supply, with overall occupancy at 91% [11][21] - The retail portfolio in Hong Kong maintained 100% occupancy, with a slight 2% decrease in attributable gross rental income year on year [12][22] - In the Chinese Mainland, retail rental income increased by 1% in renminbi terms, with a steady CAGR of 11% over the past decade, now contributing 42% of the company's attributable gross rental income [13][22] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The office market in Hong Kong remains challenging due to oversupply, but there are signs of a capital markets-led recovery, with increased inquiries, especially at Pacific Place [10][11] - Retail sales in the Chinese Mainland grew by 1% year on year, significantly ahead of 2019 levels, with high occupancy rates across the portfolio [15][16] - The hotel portfolio performance has improved, particularly in the Chinese Mainland, despite a slower recovery in Hong Kong [19] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on active capital recycling and has committed 67% of its HKD 100 billion investment plan across core markets, with a strong pipeline of retail-led mixed-use projects [9][28] - The strategy includes maintaining a balanced portfolio with a focus on premium residential projects in Hong Kong, Shanghai, and Southeast Asia [10][17] - The company aims to enhance shareholder value through sustainable dividend growth and continuous investment in core markets [35][38] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's resilience despite the uncertain operating environment, highlighting the strength of the balance sheet and quality of properties [35] - The retail business in the Chinese Mainland is expected to stabilize, with improved consumer sentiment anticipated [36] - The office sector is expected to remain subdued, but the company is focused on tenant retention and anticipates a recovery for premium office space in the medium term [37] Other Important Information - The company has achieved significant sustainability milestones, including being named number one globally in the Dow Jones Best in Class Wealth Index 2024 and reaching the top 1% in the S&P Global CSA score [29][30] - The company is committed to achieving net zero emissions by 2050 and has made substantial progress in reducing carbon emissions [30] Q&A Session Summary Question: Future capital recycling plans - Management confirmed ongoing efforts in capital recycling, including the divestment of non-core assets in Hong Kong and Miami [41][43] Question: Share buyback strategy - Management emphasized that share buybacks are part of a broader capital allocation strategy, prioritizing sustainable dividend growth [45][46] Question: Investment plan and project completions - Management indicated a focus on quality execution of projects under the HKD 100 billion investment plan, with ongoing evaluations for opportunities in Shenzhen and Hong Kong [49][51] Question: Tenant sales performance in Mainland China - Management noted strong retail sales performance in the Chinese Mainland, attributing it to effective management and continuous upgrades to shopping malls [56] Question: Hong Kong office inquiries - Management reported a 30% increase in inquiries, with interest coming from various sectors, including financial services and retail [62] Question: Upcoming new Mainland retail malls - Management highlighted strong interest from luxury brand partners for new retail centers, with positive developments expected in Sanya [71][72]