The UK-based Z/Yen Group and the Shenzhen-based China Development Institute recently unveiled the 37th edition of the Global Financial Centres Index on Thursday. The latest rankings show that Hong Kong’s overall score has risen by 11 points, reaching 760 and securing its position as the third globally while continuing to dominate the Asia-Pacific region.
Financial Secretary Paul Chan Mo-po highlighted that Hong Kong is leading globally in several key financial sectors. It ranks first in “investment management,” “insurance industry,” and “financing,” showcasing a significant competitive edge. Additionally, in the sub-sectors of “human capital,” “infrastructure,” and “financial sector development,” Hong Kong has climbed to the second position worldwide, which Chan described as encouraging. These achievements underscore the ongoing enhancement of Hong Kong’s stature and competitiveness as an international financial hub, earning widespread international recognition.
On social media, Chan emphasized the importance of sustaining this positive momentum through continuous innovation and reform. This strategy includes promoting new financial products, penetrating new markets, attracting fresh funds, and expanding connectivity with mainland markets as well as with the emerging economies of the Global South.
Chan also pointed out the potential benefits of tapping into the rapid growth of innovation and technology industries and the international expansion of mainland enterprises’ industry and supply chains. These factors are expected to introduce new themes and investment opportunities into the financial market, thereby fostering the swift development of both the financial and technology sectors. Moreover, the strategy aims to attract more “patient capital” and long-term investments.
A government spokesperson affirmed that with robust support from the central government, Hong Kong will continue to capitalize on the benefits of the ‘one country, two systems’ framework. The region is set to actively integrate into the national development agenda and deepen international exchanges and cooperation, positioning itself as a ‘super connector’ and a ‘super value-adder.’ The spokesperson also noted that finance plays a crucial role in supporting the real economy’s development.
Further, the spokesperson revealed that a series of policy initiatives aimed at promoting the high-quality development of Hong Kong’s international financial market were announced in the 2025-26 budget. These initiatives are designed to spur new growth areas, reinforcing Hong Kong’s leading position in the global financial landscape.
