Hong Kong's Financial Market Strategy Supporting the Real Economy—Diversification and Accelerated Growth

Hong Kong’s financial market has achieved nearly 20 new listings and raised over HKD 80 billion this year, rapidly increasing its presence as a financial hub. Overall, about 480 companies are waiting to go public, including plans for 10 international firms to enter. This progress is not coincidental but should be understood as the result of government strategies centered on linking the financial system with the real economy.

This Year’s Listing Achievements and Market Expansion

Last month, the stock market continued to thrive, with average daily trading volume exceeding HKD 270 billion and a single-day trading volume reaching HKD 300 billion. According to RTHK reports, these figures are the result of policy efforts to position Hong Kong as an international financial center and to build market participant confidence.

Government Strategic Support Promoting Diversification of Financial Functions

Hong Kong Financial Secretary Christopher Hui stated that the current market performance is the result of ongoing efforts by the government and regulatory agencies, as well as society at large. He emphasized that trust, patience, and technological advancements driving productivity improvements form the foundation supporting both the financial market and the real economy. The institutional advantages provided by the “One Country, Two Systems” framework and opportunities arising from national development are key factors strengthening Hong Kong’s financial intermediation functions.

The government is actively expanding beyond stock markets to include emerging asset classes such as bonds and commodities. This diversification strategy is paving the way for Hong Kong to become a comprehensive international financial center connecting financial services with the real economy. Since receiving recognition from the London Metal Exchange last year, 15 storage facilities have been established, holding over 20,000 tons of non-ferrous metals—an example of integrating trade flows and metal flows.

Growth of Family Offices and Regional Economic Impact

The number of family offices in Hong Kong has reached 3,384, representing over 25% growth since 2003. These entities have diverse needs including accounting, investment management, and legal services, contributing approximately HKD 13 billion annually to the economy. Strengthening the financial center’s functions through this related industry expansion has created ripple effects across the real economy, driving regional employment and industrial development.

Hui expects that continued attraction of domestic and international capital inflows will benefit the local economy, service industries, and the labor market. Achieving a virtuous cycle where financial market growth stimulates real economic activity remains a strategic goal for Hong Kong.