Summary by Moomoo AI
Hang Seng Bank announced its financial performance for the first half of 2024, and despite macroeconomic challenges, its business maintained growth. Pre-tax surplus rose 3% from the same period last year to HKD 11.307 billion, with shareholder return on investment at 12.4% and earnings per share increasing by 1%. Net interest income and non-interest income increased by 2% and 4% respectively, showing the effectiveness of diversified business development. The Board of Directors announced an interim dividend of HKD 1.20 per share, with a total dividend payout of HKD 2.40 per share for the first half of the year, an increase of 9% from the same period last year. In addition, Hang Seng Bank announced a share buyback plan of HKD 3 billion in the second quarter, returning a total of HKD 7.6 billion to shareholders, an 80% increase. Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer Winnie Siu expressed optimism about the economic outlook of Hong Kong and promised to continue supporting customers and economic development.