2026-01-30 09:02Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The leasing revenue decreased by 1% year-on-year, primarily due to the depreciation of the renminbi, while operating profit increased by 1% and underlying profit improved by 3% [8][9] - The net gearing ratio decreased to 32.7%, lower than the previous year, aided by a scrip dividend arrangement and reduced capital expenditures [29][66] - Overall finance costs declined by 8% due to lower borrowing costs, while net finance costs increased by 3% due to a lower capitalization ratio [30] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Mainland rental revenue remained flat year-on-year, with retail revenue up by 1% and office revenue facing headwinds, down by 8% [9][19] - In Hong Kong, retail revenue decreased by 2%, but the company managed to mitigate a larger decline from 4% in the first half [9][24] - New letting increased by 15% and renewals by 5%, indicating active management efforts [14] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a record high footfall and occupancy rates, with significant growth in non-luxury segments, particularly in F&B and experiential offerings [16][54] - The mainland office market is expected to face challenges for another 18 to 24 months due to high supply and tenant bargaining power [20][22] - Hong Kong's retail landscape is seen as more structural, with a slower recovery expected compared to the cyclical nature of mainland retail [62] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company introduced its V.3 strategy, focusing on faster project execution with minimal capital expenditure, leveraging existing resources and relationships [3][5] - The strategy aims to enhance market share in key cities like Shanghai, Hangzhou, Wuxi, and Kunming, with a focus on community and physical footprint [5][36] - The company plans to continue its emphasis on both luxury and non-luxury segments, adapting to changing consumer behaviors [59][60] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged ongoing corrections in both Hong Kong and mainland markets, with a cautious outlook for luxury retail but optimism for non-luxury segments [6][53] - The company expects to stabilize its performance in 2026, with a focus on enhancing customer engagement and capturing growth opportunities [55][61] - The management remains cautious about the luxury market's recovery, despite a strong fourth quarter performance [54][55] Other Important Information - The company plans to celebrate its 66th anniversary with increased consumer-focused marketing efforts [17] - The CapEx guidance for 2026 is around HKD 3.1 billion, decreasing in subsequent years as the company moves past its peak CapEx cycle [63][65] Q&A Session Summary Question: CEO succession plans and qualities sought in a new CEO - The outgoing CEO expressed a personal goal to retire at 55, emphasizing family time and the board was informed a year in advance about his decision [43][45][46] - The chairman indicated that the search for a new CEO is ongoing, with no specific timeline announced yet [51] Question: Outlook for Mainland China retail and tenant sales - Management remains cautiously optimistic about tenant sales growth, with a strong performance in non-luxury segments noted [44][52] - January sales figures are expected to be comparable to last year, with the timing of Chinese New Year impacting results [58] Question: Performance of Wuhan and Shenyang malls post-repositioning - The company is monitoring the repositioning process in these markets, with expectations for stabilization in performance by 2026 or 2027 [72]