FIRE ROCK released its 2026 interim results (six months ended 30 June), showing revenue of HKD 74.16 million, a 1.8% increase from HKD 72.92 million a year earlier. Growth stemmed mainly from higher contributions by flagship mobile title “Royal World”.
\n\nGross profit edged up 2.4% to HKD 56.73 million, lifting gross margin to 76.4% (1H 2025: 76.0%). Direct costs dropped slightly to HKD 17.43 million thanks to the absence of intangible-asset amortisation, offsetting a HKD 3.13 million rise in maintenance-related staff expenses.
\n\nThe bottom line remained weak. Loss attributable to shareholders widened marginally to HKD 18.26 million (1H 2025: HKD 18.24 million) as the Group accelerated product pipeline investment. R&D outlays surged to HKD 16.02 million from zero, reflecting multiple projects in early-stage development. Distribution costs fell 26.0% to HKD 14.80 million on lower marketing spend, while administrative expenses increased 16.0% to HKD 26.77 million, driven by higher payroll and rental costs.
\n\nOperating loss before tax was HKD 0.23 million, reversing a HKD 1.96 million profit a year ago. Tax charges eased to HKD 6.86 million (1H 2025: HKD 8.63 million) on a lower contribution from the Group’s Thai subsidiary.
\n\nCash and cash equivalents stood at HKD 91.30 million as of 30 June 2026, down HKD 21.62 million from end-2025, reflecting negative operating cash flow of HKD 10.34 million, HKD 1.15 million in capital expenditures and HKD 9.88 million financing outflows, mainly dividend payments to non-controlling interests. The Group remains debt-free; its gearing ratio (total liabilities/total assets) rose to 20.5% from 14.5% at end-2025.
\n\nFollowing the HKD 79.50 million rights issue completed in December 2025, FIRE ROCK has deployed HKD 18.70 million, leaving HKD 60.80 million earmarked for building new R&D teams in the PRC and Indonesia, acquiring 3-4 simulation games, intensified marketing in Southeast Asia and general working capital—all slated for use by end-2026.
\n\nHeadcount expanded to 226 employees (1H 2025: 160) to support development and overseas publishing. No interim dividend was declared.
\n\nManagement reiterates its strategy to prioritise game development and publishing, reduce reliance on self-operation, and launch several new titles across Southeast Asia in the second half of 2026.