The annual earnings season in Hong Kong brings a flurry of activity as listed companies release their financial results in compliance with the exchange's disclosure rules. This period provides a valuable opportunity for business journalists to go beyond the surface and delve into the details provided in these disclosures, helping them gain a deeper understanding of the companies they cover and guiding their reporting.
Of particular interest during this earnings season are the rare appearances of executives from Chinese state-owned enterprises (SOEs) at press conferences. These high-ranking officials, some with cabinet minister-level standing in the Communist Party, were previously only accessible online due to the COVID-19 pandemic but have now resumed face-to-face events. The presence of these executives, who are typically hard to reach in mainland China, has drawn attention from journalists, including those from the mainland, eager to hear firsthand from them.
During these press conferences, some SOEs follow a format where only selected reporters can ask pre-approved questions, resembling the controlled environment of press conferences at the National People's Congress in Beijing. However, there are instances where unscripted questions are allowed, offering reporters the chance to inquire beyond the predetermined agenda. Additionally, journalists often seize the opportunity to approach these executives for further comments after the official press sessions, enabling them to gather more insights and perspectives for their reporting.