HKT(HK:06823)2025-07-31 01:00Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a 4% growth in total revenue, exceeding USD 2.2 billion, with EBITDA improving by 3% to USD 818 million and AFF growing to USD 328 million [3][20][28] - The interim dividend declared was HKD 33.8 per share [3] - The gross debt decreased to USD 5.57 billion, improving the gross debt to EBITDA ratio to 3.11x [30] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The enterprise segment saw an 11% year-on-year revenue growth, driven by a 14% increase in cloud projects and a 6% growth in high bandwidth fiber lines [10][21] - Mobile services revenue grew by 5%, with a net addition of 45,000 customers and an ARPU increase to USD 193 [7][23] - Fixed broadband subscriber base grew by over 140%, contributing to a 3% increase in fiber users [9][21] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - China revenue grew by 13%, supported by demand for SD WAN services and data center uptake [12] - Roaming revenue increased by 7%, reaching 104% of pre-pandemic levels, with active roaming penetration rising to 59% [7][23] - The number of 5G subscribers reached nearly 1.9 million, representing a 21% year-on-year increase [8][24] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focusing on AI technology to enhance customer offerings and improve operational efficiency, achieving a 7% cost savings across the overall cost base [4][18] - Investments in digital infrastructure, including a 100 terabit core backbone network, are aimed at supporting high bandwidth requirements for AI and cloud computing [5][10] - The company is expanding its digital ecosystem through loyalty platforms and telemedicine services, targeting customer acquisition and retention [15][16] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about enterprise growth, targeting 10% to 12% for the full year, supported by a healthy project pipeline and economic recovery in Hong Kong [35][36] - The company anticipates continued growth in roaming revenue due to increased travel activities and mega events [37][38] - Management highlighted the positive impact of lower interest costs and a strengthened balance sheet on future growth prospects [18][34] Other Important Information - The company received an MSCI AA ESG rating for the fifth consecutive year, reflecting its commitment to sustainability and community engagement [17] - The company is actively managing its working capital, expecting improvements in the second half of the year [41] Q&A Session Summary Question: What is the guidance for interest costs in the second half? - Management expects full-year interest savings to be at least 25% to 30% [34] Question: Will enterprise growth of 11% be maintained for the full year 2025? - Management is optimistic, targeting 10% to 12% growth for the full year [35][36] Question: Do you expect strong roaming revenue growth to be maintained for the remainder of 2025? - Management is positive about maintaining growth in roaming revenue due to increased travel and events [37][38] Question: Is it possible to capitalize on low interest rates through refinancing into more floating debt? - Management indicated a willingness to leverage low rates while maintaining a prudent balance [39][40] Question: What is the outlook for working capital in the second half? - Management expects better working capital management in the second half [41] Question: Is there guidance for full-year growth in AFF? - Management is optimistic that growth will be better than 3% [42]