HKT(HK:06823)2025-07-31 01:02Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a 4% growth in revenue, exceeding USD 2.2 billion, with EBITDA improving by 3% to USD 818 million [3][20] - The Adjusted Funds From Operations (AFF) grew by 3% to USD 328 million, leading to an interim dividend declaration of HKD 33.8 per share [3][20] 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 [11][20] - Mobile services revenue grew by 5%, with a significant increase in roaming revenue by 7%, reaching 104% of pre-pandemic levels [8][24] - Fixed broadband subscriber base grew by over 140%, contributing to a 3% overall growth in fiber users [10][21] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The China revenue grew by 13%, supported by demand for SD WAN services and data center uptake by Mainland Chinese entities [13] - The mobile business added 45,000 new customers, with a 21% increase in 5G subscribers, reaching a penetration rate of 54% [9][25] 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] - Continued investment in digital infrastructure, including a 100 terabit core backbone network and expansion of 5G capabilities [5][8] 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 sustained growth in roaming revenue due to increased consumer outbound travel and commercial activities [37][38] Other Important Information - The company achieved a stable EBITDA margin of 37% and improved its gross debt to EBITDA ratio to 3.11x [20][31] - The company maintains a BBB investment grade rating and has sufficient liquidity to manage upcoming bond maturities [32][33] 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% assuming no significant spikes in interest rates [34] Question: Will enterprise growth of 11% be maintained for the full year 2025? - Management is optimistic about maintaining 10% to 12% growth for the full year, supported by a healthy pipeline and economic recovery [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 consumer and commercial activities [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 between fixed and floating debt [40] Question: What is the outlook for working capital in the second half? - Management expects better working capital management in the second half, as the first half typically requires higher funding [41] Question: Is there guidance for full-year growth in AFF? - Management is optimistic that AFF growth will exceed 3% for the full year [42]