Hong Kong affirms its status as a global financial center amid exponential growth in listings and expansion of asset classes

This year, Hong Kong’s financial market experienced an unprecedented surge, reflecting the region’s long-term strategy to transform into a fully functional international financial hub. According to RTHK, the development momentum remains steady, attracting both local and global investments across various market segments.

Explosive Growth in Listings: HKD 80 Billion Raised by New Companies

Market activity reached significant levels, with about 20 companies going public and raising approximately HKD 80 billion. This demonstrates growing investor confidence in the Hong Kong market. Impressive trading volumes confirm a lively trading environment: the average daily turnover exceeded HKD 270 billion, with peak sessions surpassing HKD 300 billion per day.

The future outlook appears even more promising — RTHK reports around 480 companies in the queue for listing, including 10 major international players. This pipeline of new issuers creates sustained demand for trading services and attracts financial industry professionals.

Diversification of Asset Classes: Hong Kong Market Expands Beyond Stocks

Finance Secretary Christopher Hui emphasized that the current strength of Hong Kong’s financial market is not luck but the result of coordinated efforts by the government, regulators, and market participants. Collective resolve and systemic support have created conditions for innovative development.

The government actively promotes diversification of offerings, advancing bond instruments, commodity derivatives, and specialized funds. This strategy aims to turn Hong Kong into a comprehensive financial center where traditional financial services seamlessly integrate with the real economy.

A notable achievement is the recognition of Hong Kong’s market by the London Metal Exchange, leading to the creation of 15 modern warehouse facilities with a total capacity of over 20,000 tons of non-ferrous metals. This highlights Hong Kong’s growing role in the global commodity finance system.

Family Offices as a New Economic Driver: 3,384 Wealth Management Centers

One of the most dynamic segments is the family office industry. The number of family offices in Hong Kong has grown to 3,384 institutions, an increase of over 25% since 2003. These entities serve the multifaceted needs of high-net-worth clients, including accounting, investment portfolio management, and comprehensive legal services.

The sector’s economic contribution is significant — family offices annually inject about HKD 13 billion into the regional economy. Moreover, they generate demand for skilled labor and attract tax revenues to the local budget.

Hong Kong as a Magnet for International Capital: Strategy to Attract Funds

Hui expressed confidence that Hong Kong can attract both regional and global funds and asset management companies. Such capital inflows will have a multiplier effect on the local economy, the financial sector’s labor market, and the service industry overall.

The success of this strategy depends on maintaining three key factors: investor confidence in political and legal stability, government resolve in implementing progressive policies, and persistence in long-term vision. Hui also noted that the development of the national economy and advanced technologies provides a solid foundation for strengthening Hong Kong’s position.

Systemic Advantage: “One Country, Two Systems” as a Competitive Asset

The established political and economic system creates unique advantages, allowing Hong Kong to maintain an international legal regime while benefiting from integration with the national market. This dual model positions Hong Kong as a natural bridge between Eastern and Western financial systems.

Together, these trends enable Hong Kong to redefine its role in the global financial architecture, shifting from a traditional trading and monetary center to a more comprehensive financial ecosystem that combines innovative instruments, professional services, and human capital.