Bank of China (Hong Kong) announced a 7.1% year-on-year increase in net profit for the first half, reaching HK$23.74 billion (approximately US$3 billion), with earnings per share of HK$2.2453. This was primarily driven by lower impairment charges and an expanded net interest margin, which offset the persistent pressure on loan profitability caused by declining Hong Kong Interbank Offered Rates. The results exceeded analysts' expectations.