On June 19, Global Wealth reported that Hang Seng Bank's share buybacks have been well received by investors, but warns that continued decline in net interest spreads, negative loan growth, and pre-provision expenses may pose a downward risk to 2024 performance. The bank has a “hold” rating with a target price of HKD 100. Jeffries Financial predicts that Hang Seng Bank's net interest spreads in fiscal year 2024 may be flat with or slightly narrower than in 2023. The bank forecasted a net interest margin of 2.33% for the first half of the year, indicating a decrease of 18 basis points per half year, and an increase in provisions. The net interest margin for the second half of the year was expected to further narrow to 2.25%. Loans in the first half of the year are expected to decrease by 5% per half year, and are expected to recover moderately by 2% to 3% in the second half of the year. After a 7% decline in loan balances last year, Hang Seng's loan growth may continue to be suppressed due to actively reducing risk and sluggish loan demand. The report stated that the bank is exploring new growth areas, such as new energy and pharmaceuticals, to achieve diversified development from real estate.