H World Group Limited Announces Shareholder Return Plan

Rhea-AI Summary

H World Group (NASDAQ: HTHT, HKEX: 1179) has announced a three-year shareholder return plan with distributions of up to US$2 billion, effective July 23, 2024. The plan includes:

1. An amended dividend policy with semi-annual distributions of at least 60% of annual net income.
2. A US$200 million cash dividend for H1 2024 (US$0.63 per ADS), payable September 3, 2024.
3. A new five-year share repurchase program of up to US$1 billion, effective August 21, 2024.

These initiatives demonstrate H World's commitment to enhancing shareholder value and long-term growth.

Positive

• Announcement of a substantial US$2 billion shareholder return plan over three years
• Implementation of a more generous dividend policy, distributing at least 60% of annual net income
• Declaration of a US$200 million cash dividend for H1 2024
• Introduction of a new US$1 billion share repurchase program over five years

Negative

• None.

Insights

Financial Analyst

Shareholder Return Plan: H World Group's announcement of a $2 billion shareholder return plan is significant. This plan includes semi-annual dividend payments and a substantial share repurchase program. The commitment to distribute at least 60% of net income as dividends reassures investors about predictable returns. By repurchasing shares worth up to $1 billion, the company signals confidence in its financial health. Share buybacks often indicate that management believes the stock is undervalued, which can lead to a boost in stock price as supply diminishes and earnings per share increase. This move can create long-term value, particularly if the company’s earnings remain strong.

Short-Term Implications: In the short term, the announcement of a $200 million cash dividend will likely attract positive investor sentiment. This payout translates to $0.63 per ADS, offering immediate value to shareholders. The upcoming record date and payout dates should also spur trading activity among investors seeking to capitalize on these dividends.

Long-Term Implications: Over the long term, the dual strategy of consistent dividend payouts and share buybacks can enhance shareholder returns and potentially reduce stock price volatility. The company's ability to sustain these financial commitments will depend on its earnings performance and market conditions. Investors should monitor H World's financial reports closely to ensure these plans are supported by robust cash flows and profit margins.

Market Research Analyst

Market Sentiment: H World Group’s comprehensive shareholder return plan is likely to be well-received by the market. Offering both dividends and share repurchases caters to different investor preferences, attracting a broader investor base. Dividends appeal to income-focused investors, while share repurchases are favored by those seeking capital appreciation. This strategy can bolster investor confidence and potentially increase demand for the company’s shares.

Industry Context: In the hotel industry, capital allocation strategies like these are important for maintaining investor interest, particularly in cyclical markets plagued by economic uncertainties. By ensuring regular returns and demonstrating prudent financial management, H World sets a strong competitive benchmark. The success of this plan could influence other companies in the sector to adopt similar strategies, thereby elevating industry standards.

Potential Risks: The effectiveness of this plan hinges on H World's operational performance and its ability to generate sufficient free cash flow. Economic downturns, changes in travel behavior, or unforeseen expenses could strain the company's finances, making it challenging to uphold the return commitments. Investors should be cautious of these risks and watch for any signs of financial strain, such as declining revenue growth or increased debt levels.

Tech Expert

Technological Integration: While not directly mentioned in the shareholder return plan, H World Group’s ability to sustain significant financial commitments is likely underpinned by its technological advancements in operations. Modern hotel management systems, AI-driven customer service and data analytics are important for optimizing operational efficiency and enhancing guest experiences, which can lead to higher occupancy rates and profitability.

Competitive Edge: In a tech-driven hospitality market, continuous investment in technology can provide H World with a competitive edge. Advanced booking platforms, dynamic pricing algorithms and personalized marketing efforts help maximize revenue per available room (RevPAR). By leveraging these technologies, H World can maintain robust financial health, supporting its aggressive shareholder return strategy.

Future Outlook: For investors, it’s essential to consider how H World will continue to integrate technology to drive efficiency and growth. Monitoring the company's tech investments and partnerships will provide insights into its long-term sustainability and ability to deliver on its shareholder return promises.

SINGAPORE and SHANGHAI, China, July 23, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- H World Group Limited (NASDAQ: HTHT and HKEX: 1179) (“H World” or the “Company”), a leading and fast-growing hotel group, today announced that, in order to enhance shareholder value, its board of directors (the “Board”) has approved a three-year shareholder return plan with an aggregate amount of distributions that may be made to the Company’s shareholders of up to US$2,000,000,000, effective from July 23, 2024 (the “Shareholder Return Plan”). Under the Shareholder Return Plan, the Board has the sole discretion to: (i) declare and distribute ordinary dividends semi-annually, the aggregate amount of which for each financial year shall be no less than 60% of the Company’s net income in such financial year (the “Amended Dividend Policy”), and (ii) declare and distribute, from time to time, special dividends and/or make repurchases of American depositary shares (“ADS”) pursuant to the Share Repurchase Program (as defined below), considering the financial position of the Company and otherwise in accordance with its articles of association and Cayman Islands law. The Company has also amended and replaced its existing ordinary dividend policy with the Amended Dividend Policy.

As part of the Shareholder Return Plan, on the same date, the Board declared a cash dividend (the “Cash Dividend”) for the first half of 2024 in the aggregate amount of approximately US$200 million, of US$0.063 per ordinary share, or US$0.63 per ADS. Holders of the Company’s ordinary shares or ADSs as of the close of business on August 14, 2024 will be entitled to receive the Cash Dividend. Dividends to holders of the Company’s ordinary shares are expected to be distributed on or about August 27, 2024. Citibank, N.A. (“Citi”), depositary bank for the Company’s ADS program, expects to pay out dividends to ADS holders on or about September 3, 2024. Dividends to be paid to the Company’s ADS holders through Citi will be subject to the terms of the deposit agreement by and among the Company and Citi, and the holders and beneficial owners of ADS issued thereunder, including the fees and expenses payable thereunder.

Additionally, on the same date, the Board approved a five-year share repurchase program of its ADSs with an aggregate amount of up to US$1,000,000,000, effective from August 21, 2024, pursuant and subject to applicable laws and the Company’s securities trading policy (the “Share Repurchase Program”). The Share Repurchase Program replaced the share repurchase program previously approved and adopted on August 21, 2019 with an aggregate amount of up to US$750,000,000. Repurchases made under the Share Repurchase Program shall be funded from the Company’s profits, cash or share premium account. The Company expects to effect the share repurchases through open market transactions at prevailing market prices or in privately negotiated transactions from time to time as market conditions warrant and in compliance with applicable requirements of Rule 10b5-1 and Rule 10b-18 under the U.S. Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, at times and in such amounts as the Company deems appropriate. The Board will review the Share Repurchase Program periodically, and may authorize adjustment of its terms and size or suspend or discontinue the program.

H World remains committed to delivering sustainable shareholder value and will continue to enhance long-term value creation.

About H World Group Limited

Originated in China, H World Group Limited is a key player in the global hotel industry. As of March 31, 2024, H World operated 9,817 hotels with 955,657 rooms in operation in 18 countries. H World’s brands include Hi Inn, Elan Hotel, HanTing Hotel, JI Hotel, Starway Hotel, Orange Hotel, Crystal Orange Hotel, Manxin Hotel, Madison Hotel, Joya Hotel, Blossom House, Ni Hao Hotel, CitiGO Hotel, Steigenberger Hotels & Resorts, MAXX, Jaz in the City, IntercityHotel, Zleep Hotels, Steigenberger Icon and Song Hotels. In addition, H World also has the rights as master franchisee for Mercure, Ibis and Ibis Styles, and co-development rights for Grand Mercure and Novotel, in the pan-China region.

H World’s business includes leased and owned, manachised and franchised models. Under the lease and ownership model, H World directly operates hotels typically located on leased or owned properties. Under the manachise model, H World manages manachised hotels through the on-site hotel managers that H World appoints, and H World collects fees from franchisees. Under the franchise model, H World provides training, reservations and support services to the franchised hotels, and collects fees from franchisees but does not appoint on-site hotel managers. H World applies a consistent standard and platform across all of its hotels. As of March 31, 2024, H World operated 11 percent of its hotel rooms under the lease and ownership model, and 89 percent under the manachise and franchise model.

For more information, please visit H World’s website: https://ir.hworld.com.

Safe Harbor Statement Under the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995: The information in this release contains forward-looking statements which involve risks and uncertainties. Such factors and risks include our anticipated growth strategies; our future results of operations and financial condition; economic conditions; the regulatory environment; our ability to attract and retain customers and leverage our brands; trends and competition in the lodging industry; the expected growth of demand for lodging; and other factors and risks detailed in our filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Any statements contained herein that are not statements of historical fact may be deemed to be forward-looking statements, which may be identified by terminology such as “may,” “should,” “will,” “expect,” “plan,” “intend,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “predict,” “potential,” “forecast,” “project” or “continue,” the negative of such terms or other comparable terminology. Readers should not rely on forward-looking statements as predictions of future events or results.

H World undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, unless required by applicable law.

Contact Information
Investor Relations
Tel: +86 (21) 6195 9561
Email: ir@hworld.com
https://ir.hworld.com

FAQ

What is H World Group's (HTHT) new shareholder return plan?

H World Group (HTHT) announced a three-year shareholder return plan on July 23, 2024, with distributions of up to US$2 billion. It includes an amended dividend policy, a US$200 million cash dividend for H1 2024, and a new US$1 billion share repurchase program.

How much is H World Group's (HTHT) cash dividend for H1 2024?

H World Group (HTHT) declared a cash dividend of US$0.63 per ADS for the first half of 2024, totaling approximately US$200 million.

When will H World Group (HTHT) pay the H1 2024 dividend?

H World Group (HTHT) expects to pay the H1 2024 dividend to ADS holders on or about September 3, 2024. The record date for eligibility is August 14, 2024.

What is the size and duration of H World Group's (HTHT) new share repurchase program?

H World Group (HTHT) approved a new five-year share repurchase program of up to US$1 billion, effective from August 21, 2024.