2025-08-07 10:47Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The underlying profit for the company was $5.5 billion, and the recurring underlying profit was $4.7 billion, remaining close to the prior year [6][10] - Statutory profits decreased to $815 million, influenced by changes in the value of investment properties [10] - The company generated strong cash flow from operations, with a net debt of $71.3 billion and a gearing ratio of 23% [11][12] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Property division saw a 15% increase in underlying profit, driven by higher disposal gains, although rental income from Hong Kong offices was soft [14][15] - In Beverages, revenue from the Chinese Mainland increased by 3%, with EBITDA margin improving to 12.8% [20][25] - Aviation division reported a 40% increase in recurring profit for HAECO, with Cathay Pacific's passenger revenue up 14% [27][29] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The retail market in the Chinese Mainland is performing well, offsetting softness in Hong Kong office markets [7][18] - The Chinese Mainland's gross rental income has shown a healthy CAGR of 11% from 2016 to 2024, with retail contributions now surpassing Hong Kong office contributions [18] - Southeast Asia faced challenges, including currency depreciation and intense competition, particularly in Vietnam and Cambodia [22][25] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is committed to investing HKD 100 billion over the next decade, with 67% of that already committed [2][15] - There are seven major property projects under construction in the Chinese Mainland, reflecting strong investment commitment [3][16] - The company is focusing on capital recycling and upgrading existing portfolios, with significant sales in Miami contributing to cash flow for new projects [14][18] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expects uncertainty in core markets to continue, particularly in Hong Kong office and Southeast Asia [34] - The retail market in the Chinese Mainland is anticipated to gradually improve, while challenges in beverage sales are expected due to subdued domestic spending [34] - The aviation sector is expected to maintain robust travel demand, although cargo market conditions remain uncertain [34][35] Other Important Information - The company has a progressive dividend policy, increasing the ordinary dividend per A share by 4% to HKD 1.30 [6][10] - Sustainability efforts are highlighted, with 60% of renewable energy usage in properties and 55% in beverages [12] Q&A Session Summary Question: Beverage ASP growth in Mainland China and outlook - Management noted that revenue grew by 3% and profit by 8% in the Chinese Mainland, driven by pricing initiatives, with a positive sparkling growth rate of 2.7% [39][41] Question: Southeast Asia challenges and share buyback program - Management acknowledged challenges in Southeast Asia but emphasized ongoing efforts to improve performance, while the share buyback program is considered but prioritized behind long-term investments [42][43] Question: Strategic focus for the next 3-5 years - Management highlighted a strong pipeline of investments in core divisions, particularly in aviation and property, with a focus on the Chinese Mainland and potential new projects in healthcare [47][49]