The Bank of East Asia, Limited (BEA, stock code: 23) entered into a Framework Agreement with CaixaBank, S.A. on 26 February 2026, governing potential transfers of syndication and trade-related loans and bonds (Loan Transactions). These continuing connected transactions arise due to CaixaBank’s association with Criteria Caixa, a substantial shareholder of BEA. Under Chapter 14A of the Listing Rules, the agreement and accompanying transactions require reporting, annual review, announcement, and independent shareholders’ approval because certain percentage ratios exceed 5%.

BEA’s board established an Independent Board Committee to review the agreement and appointed Gram Capital Limited as the Independent Financial Adviser. According to the announcement, historical transaction amounts were recorded as HK$0.00 in 2023 and 2024, HK$1.18 billion in 2025, and HK$0.00 for the period from 1 January 2026 to 26 February 2026. The proposed Annual Caps stand at HK$5.00 billion for each of the periods from 8 May 2026 to 31 December 2026, for 2027, and for 2028, plus HK$2.00 billion for the period from 1 January 2029 to 7 May 2029. The term of the Framework Agreement starts upon independent shareholders’ approval at the annual general meeting (AGM) slated for 8 May 2026 and continues until 7 May 2029.

BEA reported total consolidated assets of HK$921.00 billion as of 31 December 2025. The bank expects to leverage this agreement to enhance cooperation in loan financing and bond business while diversifying its portfolio. Shareholders will be asked to vote on the Framework Agreement, the related transactions, and the Annual Caps at the AGM, with relevant documentation distributed in or about March 2026.