Approval Granted for HANG SENG BANK's Proposed Privatization; Delisting Scheduled for January 27

The analyst rating from UBS for HSBC HOLDINGS (00005.HK) is maintained at Neutral with a target price of GBP10.35. The reason for this rating is that while UBS is more positive on the privatization deal involving Hang Seng Bank, they did not alter the ultimate value of HSBC HOLDINGS. This suggests that UBS sees potential benefits from the transaction but does not expect it to significantly change the overall valuation of HSBC in the long term.

The analyst rating from Citi Research for HSBC HOLDINGS is based on several key factors: 1. Lowered EPS Forecasts: Citi Research has slightly reduced its EPS forecasts for 2025-2027 by 0-1%, primarily due to the expectation of an additional Federal Reserve rate cut in 2026. 2. Higher Revenue Assumptions: Despite the slight decline in EPS forecasts, Citi's projections remain 2-9% higher than the latest market consensus for the company's profit before tax. This is attributed to expectations of strong revenue growth, particularly in non-interest income from the Asian wealth business. 3. Positive Return on Tangible Equity (RoTE): Citi believes that HSBC can achieve a RoTE of approximately 19-20% in 2027-2028, indicating strong profitability potential. 4. Increased Target Price: With the introduction of a 2028 forecast and an extended terminal year in its valuation model, Citi raised its target price for HSBC from $127.8 to $138.3. 5. Reiterated Buy Rating: Given these factors, Citi Research has maintained a "Buy" rating on HSBC HOLDINGS, reflecting confidence in the company's future performance despite the minor adjustments to EPS forecasts.

The analyst rating from UBS is maintained as Neutral for HSBC Holdings (HSBA.L) with a target price of GBP10.35. The reason for this rating is that while UBS is more positive on the privatization deal involving Hang Seng Bank than the market, it did not alter the ultimate value of HSBC Holdings. This suggests that UBS sees potential benefits from the transaction but does not believe it significantly changes the overall valuation of HSBC.