15th January 2025 – (Hong Kong) At the Asia Private Equity Forum 2025, held today, Financial Secretary Paul Chan delivered a keynote address emphasising Hong Kong’s robust recovery as a premier financial hub. This event, hosted by the Hong Kong Venture Capital and Private Equity Association, brought together industry leaders to discuss the evolving landscape of private equity in the region.
Chan noted the recent success of the Asian Financial Forum, which attracted approximately 3,600 professionals from around the globe, reaffirming Hong Kong’s status as an international financial centre. He reported that, over the past year, Hong Kong has regained its position as Asia’s leading financial centre and ranks among the top three worldwide, alongside New York and London.
The Financial Secretary highlighted significant financial metrics, including a six per cent increase in bank deposits, amounting to around US$130 billion, and a 14 per cent rise in stock market capitalisation, now at US$4.5 trillion. Notably, Hong Kong has seen a resurgence in initial public offerings, raising US$11 billion in 2024, with further growth anticipated this year.
Chan elaborated on new measures announced by the People’s Bank of China to bolster Hong Kong’s financial connectivity, including enhanced mutual market access and increased asset allocation of foreign reserves in the city. He acknowledged the dual challenges and opportunities facing investors in 2025, citing geopolitical tensions and climate change, but expressed confidence in the growth potential of the Chinese economy and emerging markets in the Global South.
Turning to the private equity sector, Chan reported that capital under management reached over US$230 billion, marking a five per cent growth from the previous year. He announced the government’s commitment to enhancing the sector through tax incentives and initiatives aimed at improving liquidity for private equity funds.
The Financial Secretary concluded by outlining ongoing efforts to diversify investments within the Mandatory Provident Fund system and to attract more family offices to Hong Kong, with over 2,700 now established in the city
The post Hong Kong’s Financial Secretary highlights growth opportunities at Asia Private Equity Forum 2025 appeared first on Dimsum Daily.
English (US) ·