Shares of the Swire Pacific group continued their upward trend in Hong Kong trading. As of press time, SWIRE PACIFIC A (00019) rose 4.4% to HK$103.3, while SWIRE PACIFIC B (00087) gained 2.42% to HK$15.65.

The group recently released its 2026 interim results. The company reported revenue of HK$49.446 billion, an increase of 8% year-on-year. Underlying profit attributable to shareholders was HK$7.843 billion, up 43% year-on-year. Profit attributable to shareholders as shown in the financial statements reached HK$6.769 billion, a surge of 731% compared to the same period last year. An interim dividend of HK$1.5 per 'A' share and HK$0.3 per 'B' share was declared.

UBS released a research report noting that Swire Pacific's recurring underlying profit for the first half was HK$7 billion, representing a 48% year-on-year increase and exceeding the bank's forecast by 9%. The interim dividend grew 15% year-on-year to HK$1.5 per share, with a payout ratio of 29%. The bank stated that both the company's net debt and net debt ratio improved compared to six months ago, primarily driven by strong cash flow from its aviation and beverages businesses. This is believed to be the reason for the company's commitment to maintaining a 50% payout ratio. UBS raised its earnings forecasts for Swire Pacific for the 2026 to 2028 period by 11% to 13%, maintaining a "Neutral" rating and increasing the target price by 9% from HK$87 to HK$95.