
Financial Performance - For the six months ended June 30, 2024, the group recorded a profit attributable to shareholders of HKD 4.311 billion, an increase of 2% compared to the same period last year[9]. - The board announced an interim dividend of HKD 0.72 per share, up 1.4% from HKD 0.71 per share in the previous year[10]. - The profit contribution from the Australian infrastructure business was HKD 864 million, an increase of 5% compared to the same period last year[14]. - The profit contribution from the Canadian infrastructure business was HKD 301 million, a decrease of 25% year-on-year, primarily due to the absence of high electricity prices seen in the previous year[17]. - The profit contribution from the New Zealand infrastructure business increased by 11% to HKD 80 million, with a 13% increase in local currency[18]. - The profit contribution from the Hong Kong and mainland China business was HKD 96 million, a decline of 6% year-on-year, attributed to low traffic volume on toll roads and low prices and sales in the construction materials sector[19]. - Revenue for the six months ended June 30, 2024, was HKD 19,090 million, a decrease of 2.3% from HKD 19,534 million in 2023[40]. - Profit before tax for the same period was HKD 4,577 million, up 1.5% from HKD 4,509 million in 2023[40]. - Net profit attributable to shareholders was HKD 4,311 million, an increase of 1.7% compared to HKD 4,239 million in 2023[40]. - Earnings per share for the period was HKD 1.71, compared to HKD 1.68 in 2023, reflecting a growth of 1.8%[40]. - Total comprehensive income for the six months was HKD 2,966 million, down from HKD 8,368 million in 2023, indicating a significant decline[41]. - The company reported a foreign exchange loss of HKD 1,339 million, compared to a gain of HKD 3,424 million in the previous year[41]. Investments and Acquisitions - UK Power Networks acquired a renewable energy asset portfolio with a total installed capacity of approximately 69 MW, primarily from solar generation, enhancing the group's renewable energy capacity[12]. - In April 2024, the company completed the acquisition of Phoenix Energy, Northern Ireland's largest gas network, with an enterprise value of approximately HKD 7.4 billion, providing stable cash flow and recurring profits[13]. - The company announced an agreement to acquire a UK onshore wind asset portfolio for approximately GBP 350 million (about HKD 3.5 billion), which includes 32 wind farms with a total installed capacity of 175 MW[22]. - The company is considering strategic acquisitions to bolster its market position, with a budget of 50 million in revenue by the end of the fiscal year[34]. - The company plans to enhance its digital marketing efforts, allocating an additional $10 million to increase brand visibility and customer engagement[32]. - The company plans to continue its market expansion and focus on new product development in the upcoming quarters[40]. Sustainability and Corporate Governance - The management team emphasizes a focus on sustainability initiatives, aiming for a 25% reduction in carbon emissions by 2025[34]. - The company has a sustainability committee to oversee and provide advice on sustainability initiatives and related policies[96]. - The company has implemented comprehensive corporate governance policies, including anti-fraud and anti-bribery measures, to ensure accountability and transparency[88]. - The board is responsible for establishing and monitoring corporate culture, long-term strategic goals, and risk management practices[89]. Risks and Challenges - The global economic environment remains uncertain due to trade protectionism, currency fluctuations, and high inflation pressures, which may impact the group's business and financial performance[102]. - The group faces risks related to economic conditions and interest rates, which may adversely affect its financial status and operational performance[103]. - The company is exposed to risks related to compliance with personal data protection laws, which may lead to regulatory actions or civil claims if not adhered to[117]. - The company must navigate cultural differences and regulatory approvals when pursuing international mergers and acquisitions, which may delay or complicate transactions[115]. - The group faces inherent operational risks in its power generation, distribution, and gas supply businesses, which may adversely affect operational performance and reputation[118]. Shareholder Information - The company has maintained a consistent number of issued shares at 2,519,610,945 for both 2023 and 2024, ensuring stability in earnings per share calculations[58]. - The interim dividend declared is HKD 0.72 per share for the six months ended June 30, 2024, up from HKD 0.71 per share in 2023, totaling HKD 1.814 billion compared to HKD 1.789 billion[59]. - Li Ka-Shing holds a total of 5,655,000 shares in the company, representing approximately 0.22% of the total equity[75].