Shares of SITC (01308) climbed more than 5% during the morning session, with the stock last trading up 5.52% at HK$46.62, on turnover of HK$110 million.

On August 19, the company released its interim results for the six months ended June 30, 2026. Revenue came in at approximately US$1.842 billion, up about 10.7% year-on-year. Profit attributable to shareholders reached US$677 million, representing a 7.39% increase from the prior-year period. Basic earnings per share stood at US$0.25, with an interim dividend of HK$1.50 per share proposed.

According to CICC, SITC's first-half profitability exceeded expectations, primarily driven by stronger-than-anticipated container volume and freight rate performance. On the operational front, the company sustained robust year-on-year volume growth in the first half of 2026, while freight rates in the second quarter showed significant improvement both quarter-on-quarter and year-on-year.

From an industry perspective, CICC believes that due to geopolitical conflicts this year, demand for small vessels used in transshipment and feeder services has increased, further intensifying supply tightness within regional markets. On the demand side, the Asian regional market, particularly Southeast Asia, is expected to maintain high-growth momentum in import and export volumes, which could further improve the balance of round-trip routes in the region and enhance overall loading efficiency.