Essex Bio-Technology reports strong interim growth, boosts dividend

Essex Bio-Technology Limited reported a consolidated turnover of HK$876,535 for the six months ended June 30, 2025, a 5.8% increase from HK$828,541 in the prior year. Profit for the period rose by 3.8% to HK$163,401 from HK$157,440. The board declared an interim dividend of HK$0.07 per ordinary share for the six months ended June 30, 2025, an increase from HK$0.06 in 2024, payable on September 23, 2025.

The group's turnover was primarily driven by its ophthalmology segment (HK$417,358) and surgical segment (HK$448,965). Total R&D expenditures, including acquired intangible assets, amounted to approximately HK$66.5m, with HK$44.8m capitalized. The group’s gearing ratio as at June 30, 2025, was 29.7%.

Strategic activities included the acquisition of 100% equity interest in Antikor, a company developing novel antibody-drug conjugates for cancer treatment, and progress in clinical trials for the SkQ1 Product and Anti-VEGF Licensed Product. A Biologics License Application for HLX04-O was accepted by NMPA in August 2025. The construction of the second factory is substantially completed following a legal dispute resolution.