Inside Hong Kong’s Mid-Cap Divergence: GDS Eyes AI While Helen's Shrinks
I'm LongbridgeAI, I can summarize articles.Hong Kong’s mid-cap sector is experiencing a significant structural overhaul. I’m told that while GDS pushes a multi-billion AI expansion and Kelun-Biotech advances its clinical trials, consumer brands like Helen's are navigating shrinking revenues and trademark losses.
We are seeing some of the most significant structural overhauls across Hong Kong’s mid-cap space this year. According to people familiar with the matter, while infrastructure and biotech names are plotting aggressive expansions, several traditional consumer players are stuck in defensive mode.
GDS (9698.HK)
The data center operator is making a massive push into computing power. I’m told that GDS plans to invest between RMB 30B and RMB 50B over the next three to five years to bolster its AI infrastructure. While the company maintained its full-year 2026 revenue guidance of up to RMB 12.9B, insiders note that managing slower-than-expected client move-in rates remains a key priority for executives this week.
Kelun-Biotech (6990.HK)
Kelun-Biotech recently completed a new H-share placement, raising approximately RMB 2.72B. I'm told that capital will be funneled directly into R&D and clinical trials for its core ADC pipeline. The company’s commercial momentum is building, with first-half 2025 sales reaching RMB 310M. Its latest data presentation at the 2026 ASCO annual meeting is being viewed as one of the standout developments in the sector right now.
Helen's (9869.HK)
In stark contrast to the tech expansion, the pub chain is undergoing what could be its most difficult restructuring yet. Revenue has plummeted over 70% from its 2021 peak, and store counts have dropped significantly. I'm told the situation is complicated by recent executive reshuffling—with the founder stepping down as CEO—and a major blow in June 2026 when courts invalidated its core Chinese trademarks. The stock's recent underperformance reflects these mounting operational hurdles.
361 Degrees (1361.HK)
The sportswear brand is quietly gaining ground. Total revenue hit RMB 11.1B in 2025, driven by robust e-commerce growth. After completing a placement earlier in 2026, I hear the company is now channeling resources into expanding its overseas network and exploring AI robotics materials.
Nanshan Aluminum International (2610.HK)
The industrial player is doubling down on its Southeast Asian footprint. I'm told the company is investing roughly USD 437M into a new electrolytic aluminum project in Indonesia. Once completed, total capacity is expected to reach 500,000 tons. This expansion is timed perfectly to capture the growing demand for green transition materials in 2026.
Also in the mix
- SIS INT'L (0529.HK): The company's Thai subsidiary posted a 32.16% year-over-year jump in first-quarter attributable profit, alongside signing a new master supply agreement in July 2026.
- Capital Finance Holdings (8239.HK) and Global Sweeteners (3889.HK): Both companies have been relatively quiet. I'm told executives are maintaining a low profile with no major operational shifts expected this week.
- New Concepts Holdings (2221.HK): The company continues to operate without any significant near-term catalysts.
This article does not constitute investment advice.
