[ET Net News Agency, 29 September 2020] HSBC Global Research lowered its target price
for Champion REIT (02778) to HK$4.4 from HK$4.6 and maintained its "hold" rating.
The research house said office rental decline continued in 3Q, but signs of moderation
were seen in various districts. HSBC sees a high risk of negative reversions to kick in
for office landlords despite their actively managed lease expiry profiles.
HSBC revised down its net property income for FY2020-22 by 0.6-2.9% and DPU by 0.4-3.7%,
incorporating our latest HK office assumptions. It thinks the resurgence of COVID-19 cases
in Hong Kong could fuel more uncertainties and downward rental pressures to the mall.
While its Three Garden Road office could continue to deliver a stable rental income,
HSBC sees a high risk of negative rental reversion to kick in. As a result, it would take
much longer for Champion REIT to regain DPU growth momentum and there will be limited
share price catalysts. (KL)