ASMPT (00522) rose more than 5% during the morning trading session. As of the time of writing, the stock was up 4.46%, trading at HK$104.3, with a turnover of HK$75.1585 million. The move follows recent news that ASMPT is evaluating strategic options for its Surface Mount Technology (SMT) business, which could potentially involve a sale, joint venture, spin-off, or public listing. Management indicated that the divestment of the SMT unit would free up cash flow and managerial resources, which are planned to be channeled into R&D efforts to enhance competitiveness in the core semiconductor packaging sector. Citigroup commented that a potential spin-off of the SMT business would allow the company to concentrate on its semiconductor equipment and advanced packaging operations, potentially unlocking shareholder value.