[ET Net News Agency, 10 October 2019] HSBC Global Research raised its target price for
CITIC Securities (CITICS)(06030) to HK$22.4 from HK$20 and maintained its "buy" rating.
The research house said CITICS' net profit grew 16% in 1H, driven by broad declines in
opex. The company has maintained leading positions across different business lines and has
a strong capital base. The sector-topping 6.8% provision of SPL (stock-pledged lending)
balance reflects its prudent risk controls.
HSBC also noted CITICS ranks the third in IPO pipeline of the STAR market. With a
strong, innovative business franchise, CITICS is set to benefit from the long-term growth
of China's capital markets. (KL)