HENLIUS (02696) climbed nearly 7% in early trading on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, last up 5.86% at HK$72.3, with turnover reaching HK$14.17 million.

The biopharmaceutical company released its interim results, posting first-half revenue of RMB 3.59 billion, a 27% year-on-year increase, with net profit of RMB 430 million, up 10%. Research and development expenses rose 41% to RMB 826 million due to accelerated development progress.

During the period, global product sales revenue reached RMB 2.94 billion, an increase of 14.9% year-on-year. Notably, overseas product sales revenue surged 159.4% to RMB 105.3 million, while overseas product profits of RMB 59.5 million more than quadrupled compared with the same period last year.

Citi issued a research report expressing optimism about the company's organic growth and business expansion potential, citing its strong internal innovation capabilities. The bank has adjusted its revenue forecasts for this year and next by 8% and 3% respectively, raising earnings per share estimates to RMB 1.52 and RMB 1.79. Citi also slightly increased its target price from HK$95 to HK$95.2, while maintaining a "Buy" rating.