Daiwa released a research report expecting HK & CHINA GAS (00003.HK) -0.030 (-0.441%) Short selling $20.06M; Ratio 19.707% to see a YoY decline of 0-5% in 1H25 profit, affected by weak demand for sustainable aviation fuel, offset by gas price hike in August 2024. However, the 2H25 outlook is estimated to weaken due to the diminishing impact of gas price increase on 2H24 base effect and the potential disappearance of emergency orders caused by US tariffs. Related NewsBofAS Adds CKI HOLDINGS (01038.HK) TP to $55.1, Expects Interim Profit to Remain Flat YoYThe broker also anticipated that HK & CHINA GAS' gas sales volume in mainland China will grow by 1-2% YoY, missing the guidance of 5% growth, leading to a downward revision in the interim results announcement next month.Daiwa's top picks for Hong Kong utilities are CKI HOLDINGS (01038.HK) -0.450 (-0.851%) Short selling $11.19M; Ratio 13.266% and POWER ASSETS (00006.HK) -0.150 (-0.298%) Short selling $9.94M; Ratio 4.982% , based on the benefits of Northumbrian Water from regulatory reset next month. The GBP/ USD appreciation may trigger higher market earnings forecasts. The broker also predicted CKI HOLDINGS and POWER ASSETS to achieve single-digit net profit growth in 1H25.(HK stocks quote is delayed for at least 15 mins.Short Selling Data as at 2025-07-18 16:25.)