JP Morgan has released a research report estimating that, in the first half of 2026, Mainland Chinese visitor (MCV) insurance income will account for approximately 1% of HSBC Holdings PLC's revenue and about 0.7% of STANCHART's revenue.

Even if the scope of enforcement is expanded, the bank believes that Hong Kong's insurance products remain competitive compared to their mainland Chinese alternatives. Consequently, it expects the impact on the fundamental earnings of HSBC Holdings PLC and STANCHART to be limited, though the news may temporarily weigh on market sentiment and stock prices.

The report notes that any resulting weakness could present a buying opportunity, and it reiterates "Overweight" ratings on both HSBC Holdings PLC and STANCHART. JP Morgan has set price targets of HK$200 and HK$310 for the two banks, respectively.

JP Morgan favors STANCHART due to its strong earnings per share growth, a clearer trajectory for return on equity expansion, and its still-reasonable valuation.