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  • uSMART Surpasses 1 Million Users, Expands to 10 Physical Service Centres across Hong Kong

    uSMART Securities Limited (uSMART Securities/ the Company), a strategic investment of Chow Tai Fook (Holding) Limited, is thrilled to announce the opening of its seventh physical service centre, the Causeway Bay branch. This expansion marks the Company’s strategic entry into one of Hong Kong’s most vibrant business and tourist districts. Conveniently located on Matheson Street near Times Square, the new branch represents uSMART Securities’ first on-floor presence on Hong Kong Island. It will further extending the customer reach and providing local investors with a welcoming space to learn and experience smart investing.

    Riding on the momentum of active stock market trading and a robust IPO cycle, Mr. Neo Lee, Executive Director of uSMART Securities, stated: “The Group’s user base has surpassed 1 million. As No.1 Hong Kong Funded Fintech Brokerage^, our market penetration continues to grow significantly. Building on this success, we plan to take another leap forward by opening 2 new branches in Tuen Mun and Tai Wai. All branches will create interactive, educational environments offering one-on-one consultation services and promoting inclusive finance for local investors.”

    Following the successful launch of its Lok Ma Chau and West Kowloon branches, uSMART Securities has accelerated its expansion with new openings in Tsuen Wan, Tsim Sha Tsui and Causeway Bay during the second half of this year. Together with its headquarters in Sheung Wan and Sheung Shui, the Company now operates 7 physical service centres across Hong Kong. The expansion continues with uSMART Securities’ first Wealth Centre scheduled to open in January 2026, alongside with upcoming branches in Tuen Mun and Tai Wai, and 4 Group’s overseas service centres in Singapore and New York, bringing the Group’s total network to 14 service centres by the first quarter of 2026. This expansion demonstrates the company strength as the No.1 Hong Kong Funded Fintech Brokerage^ and its long-term commitment to serving local investors.

    “Concurrently, we are delighted to welcome renowned investment strategist Mr Dickie Wong, to join the company as Executive Director of Research. His leadership and expertise will strengthen our research capabilities, creating a powerful “1+1>2” synergy that deliver sharper, forward-looking analysis and generate greater value for our clients,” Neo continued.

    Furthermore, uSMART Securities made its debut at the “Hong Kong FinTech Week 2025”, one of the city’s premier financial events held last week. During the event, the Company showcased its strengths in fintech innovation and diverse investment products. Through in-depth exchanges with numerous industry leaders, uSMART Securities explored cutting-edge technology trends and successfully unlocked multiple opportunities for collaborative innovation and business development. Looking ahead, uSMART Group will remain committed to advancing financial technology innovation through a product-driven approach. By proactively responding to evolving client needs, the Company aims to strengthen its leadership position in the global fintech broker sector while fostering mutual growth with investors.

    Guided by its “client-first” philosophy, uSMART Securities will continue expanding its physical service network, integrating online platforms and offline experiences to deliver a seamless, next-generation investment journey that creates greater value for customers worldwide.

    “No.1 Hong Kong Funded Fintech Brokerage” is based on TradeGo Cloud data, with uSMART Securities ranking first in monthly transaction volume among local Hong Kong-funded internet brokers for over a year as of October 2025.

    About uSMART Securities:
    Strategic investments from Chow Tai Fook (Holding) Limited, uSMART Securities is a leading Hong Kong Funded Fintech Brokerage founded in 2018. Over the past seven years, it has pioneered the fusion of technology and finance, offering stocks trading, asset management, and wealth management solutions. Its proprietary platforms, uSMART HK APP and uSMART SG APP, operated by uSMART Securities (Hong Kong) and uSMART Securities (Singapore) respectively. It supports investments in Hong Kong stocks, US stocks, A-shares (Shanghai, Shenzhen and Hong Kong stock connect), Singapore Stocks, Japan Stocks, UK Stocks, US options, ETFs, Funds, Bonds, Asset Management, Structured Notes, Futures, Crypto, Precious Metals, Gold, and forex. Furthermore, uSMART is equipped with a highly professional research and asset management team that offers asset management, wealth management, securities brokerage, institutional business, LPF services, and investment banking, dedicated to serving ultra-high-net-worth individuals and families, corporations, investment institutions, fund companies, and other brokerage firms with comprehensive asset management solutions.

    For details please visit: https://hk.usmartglobal.com

    Media Enquiries:

    Carrie Wong
    +852 9788 4665
    carriewong@usmart.hk

  • Alta Partners with Straits Trading to Streamline and Fractionalize Investments in Prime Singapore Private Property Space

    • SGX-listed Straits Trading partners Alta for its real estate opportunity, FIR-ST™, a fractionalised investment that provides access to prime private properties in Singapore without the need for hefty upfront expenses.
    • FIR-ST™ aims to provide its investors with stable returns and potential capital appreciation of a property over the tenure of an opportunity.
    • Straits Trading to tap on Alta’s global investor network for prime real estate opportunities.

    Can investments in Singapore’s private property space be as easy as buying shares? FIR-ST™ (Fractional Investment in Real estate – Straits Trading), a new investment opportunity developed by Straits Trading (STC), a conglomerate-investment company with operations and financial interests in resources, property, and hospitality, seeks to do so.

    Known as one of the first companies to list on SGX, Straits Trading initiated the FIR-ST™ scheme, which makes investments in prime private property space in Singapore. Under this collaboration with STC, Alta has established a fund to provide investors easy access to FIR-ST™, which aims to confer economic benefits akin to property ownership in Singapore without the hassle of upfront payments and paperwork.

    The projected growth rate for Singapore’s real estate market in 2025 is estimated to be around 4.5%, driven by strong demand in both residential and commercial sectors. According to PropNex Research, sales activity in Singapore’s landed homes market remained resilient in 1H 2024, with 681 transactions totalling $3.7 billion, outpacing the previous half-year. Despite high interest rates and market uncertainties, buyers continue to show strong demand, driving prices upward. The Good Class Bungalow (GCB) segment also saw increased activity, with nine high-value deals totalling $219 million.

    What is FIR-ST™?
    The FIR-ST™ scheme introduces a new and innovative way to participate in the real estate market with fractionalised investing. Investors in FIR-ST™ may access economic benefits like owning a property in prime areas found in District 10 in Singapore. This innovative model provides investors with a unique opportunity which may allow them to partake in the upside of property ownership without the burdens of landlord responsibilities, property acquisition, additional buyer’s stamp duty, or cumbersome paperwork, as well as a market-adjusted dividend. Operational costs are seamlessly managed by Straits Trading, ensuring a hassle-free investment experience unparalleled in the industry.

    “Real estate remains a steadfast choice for investors aiming to strengthen their portfolios. With FIR-ST™, our partnership with Straits Trading breaks new frontiers in property investment, making exclusive opportunities and tangible economic benefits accessible through fractional investing. It’s a game-changer for those seeking a flexible and innovative way to grow their portfolios,” said Benjamin Twoon, Chief Commercial Officer at Alta Alternative Investments.

    Eric Teng, Group Chief Operating Officer, Straits Trading added, “We are pleased to partner with Alta to introduce FIR-ST™. FIR-ST™ provides investors with a unique opportunity in fractional investment that mimic the experience of buying a physical property with potentially stable returns and upside over time.”

    About Alta

    As the leading licensed digital securities exchange for alternative investments in Asia, we are building critical capital market infrastructure backed by some of the most active securities brokerages and bookrunners on the Singapore Exchange – Phillip Securities, PrimePartners and Nomura Holdings (Japan).

    Empowering Private Markets: Through our Digital Exchange, we enable the tokenization and digital custody of alternative assets. This end-to-end solution simplifies and expedites the trading of smaller asset blocks, ultimately facilitating access and liquidity in private markets. We believe that access to capital markets are pivotal in all economies, we recognize that our role in building this critical infrastructure goes beyond facilitating trades; it paves the way for entrepreneurship, job creation, financial inclusion, and economic resilience, fostering a brighter future for emerging markets and economies.

    Innovative Financial Ecosystem: Our journey has seen us transition from securities trading and distribution of comprehensive products, including equities, private credit, funds, and asset-backed securities representing real world assets like whiskies and wines, to include fund management and digital custody.

    Visit us on https://alta.exchange/

    About The Straits Trading Company Limited
    Incorporated in 1887, The Straits Trading Company Limited is a conglomerate-investment company with operations and financial interests in resources, property, and hospitality. These include strategic stakes in one of the world’s leading tin producer, Malaysia Smelting Corporation Berhad, which is dual listed on Bursa Malaysia and the Singapore Exchange Securities Trading Limited, ESR Group Limited and Far East Hospitality Holdings as well as a diversified property portfolio that is wholly owned by the Group.

    For media inquiries, please contact:
    Deeksha Kakkar, Marketing Communications Lead, Alta
    deeksha.kakkar@alta.exchange

  • Digital Transformation Summit 2024 to Launch Qatar into Smart City Era.

    Digital Transformation Summit 2024 to Launch Qatar into Smart City Era.

    Physical conference on September 19th in Doha, Qatar at Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Hotel.

    A prominent financial institution in Qatar has undergone a major digital transformation, significantly enhancing customer experience and maintaining its competitive edge in the banking industry. At the core of this transformation is a cutting-edge mobile banking app designed for seamless account management, money transfers, bill payments, and mobile wallet services. This app features a user-friendly interface and robust security measures, ensuring that customers have convenient and secure access to their financial services anytime and anywhere.

    Additionally, advanced chatbot solutions and AI-driven virtual assistants offer immediate support and personalized product recommendations, further enriching the overall customer experience. The organization has also streamlined its internal operations by automating critical back-office tasks such as loan processing and document management. This automation not only boosts operational efficiency but also promotes greater financial inclusion by making banking services accessible to a broader audience. By embracing cutting-edge technology and innovation, the institution continues to set the standard for digital banking in Qatar, underscoring its commitment to providing sophisticated, effective, and accessible banking solutions.

    These digital transformations are directly contributing to Qatar’s Vision 2030, which aims to build a knowledge-based economy driven by innovation and technological advancement. By enhancing financial services through digitalization, the institution is playing a crucial role in fostering economic development, improving financial literacy, and ensuring that the benefits of digital banking reach all segments of the population.

    Our upcoming Digital Transformation Summit Qatar is poised to further support Vision 2030 by bringing together industry leaders, technology experts, and policymakers to share insights, strategies, and innovations. The summit will facilitate discussions on how digital transformation can continue to drive economic growth, enhance public services, and improve quality of life. By providing a platform for collaboration and knowledge exchange, the summit will help pave the way for achieving the ambitious goals set out in Vision 2030.

    Overview of the event:

    Qatar has actively pursued digital transformation to modernise its economy and enhance public service delivery. Significant investments in technology infrastructure and initiatives have boosted efficiency and productivity across sectors. Despite challenges like cybersecurity, data privacy, and developing skilled human capital, Qatar’s digital efforts align with its 2030 National Vision of sustainable growth and high living standards. The 31st Edition of the Digital Transformation Summit will guide businesses on best practices for engaging users across endpoints, enabling them to embrace digital transformation for efficient and sustainable operations. These ongoing efforts will positively shape Qatar’s future.

    Who will attend?

    • Berthold Trenkel-Advisor To Chairman-Qatar Tourism.
    • Dr. Mohamed Elhindi-Chief Information Officer-Hamad Bin Khalifa University.
    • Fethi Filali-Director Of Technology & Research (CTO)-Qatar Mobility Innovations Center-QMIC.
    • Dr. Ali Al Sanousi-Executive Director-Clinical Information Systems-Hamad Medical Corporation.
    • Max Renault-Director-Innovations In Global Precision Health,Weill Cornell Medicine.

    The event will cover topics like:

    • The Dynamic Shift in the digital World.
    • Qatar’s E- government Strategy.
    • Qatar’s Digital Initiative towards Future Mobility.
    • Intelligence Automation to Drive the Next Wave of Transformation.
    • Strengthening Cyber Posture and Cyber-resilience.

    For more information on the Digital Transformation Summit, click the: Link

    About Exito

    Exito, which means success in Spanish, embodies our commitment to the success of our customers. Each year, we host over 240 virtual and in-person conferences globally, bringing together audiences with world-class thought leaders and C-level executives across industries. Our meticulously crafted agendas, based on extensive research and valuable industry insights, facilitate business, knowledge transfer, deal flow, and impactful messaging for brands.

    For Media Enquiries, contact:
    Kasturi Nayak (Sr. Marketing Executive)
    Kasturi.nayak@exito-e.com
    Enquiry@exito-e.com
    Exito Media Concepts

  • CoinSmart Announces Acquisition by Coinsquare, Creating one of Canada’s Largest Crypto Asset Trading Platforms

    CoinSmart Announces Acquisition by Coinsquare, Creating one of Canada’s Largest Crypto Asset Trading Platforms

    CoinSmart Financial Inc. (“CoinSmart” or the “Company”) (NEO: SMRT) (FSE: IIR), announced today that it has entered into a definitive agreement dated September 22, 2022 (the “Purchase Agreement”) with Coinsquare Ltd. (“Coinsquare”), a leading Canadian crypto asset trading platform, pursuant to which CoinSmart has agreed to sell to Coinsquare all of the issued and outstanding shares of its wholly-owned operating subsidiary Simply Digital Technologies Inc. (“Simply Digital”) (the “Transaction”).

    The acquisition and integration of these two businesses will establish Coinsquare as one of Canada’s largest crypto asset trading platforms with a diversified and compliant offering across various business lines, including both retail and institutional trading, crypto payment processing, and digital asset custody. CoinSmart will hold approximately 12% ownership in Coinsquare on a pro-forma basis. The combined company has transacted over $10 billion since January 2018, and will have over $350 million in assets under custody with a combined user base in excess of 1 million.

    Coinsquare is in the final stages of its approval to become Canada’s first crypto asset trading platform regulated as an Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada (“IIROC”) dealer and marketplace member.

    “Today is an exciting day for all of us at CoinSmart,” said CoinSmart CEO Justin Hartzman. “We are thrilled to be working alongside the Coinsquare team to build one of the largest regulated crypto asset trading platforms in Canada and I could not be more proud of what we have accomplished so far. With a diversified product suite, exceptional crypto talent, and one of the largest user bases in Canada, the combined company will be well-positioned to pursue its aggressive expansion plans. While the crypto market is in the building phase of its life cycle, this transaction will provide the torque needed to be in a favourable position entering the next bull run.”

    “This acquisition represents a monumental and exciting milestone for both companies and brings together two industry leading management teams,” said Coinsquare, CEO Martin Piszel. “We are excited to work together to shape how the crypto industry in Canada grows and evolves, and together we will be able to offer our clients the most innovative and secure products backed by the highest standards of regulation in the industry.”

    Key Transaction Benefits

    – One of Canada’s Largest Crypto Asset Trading Platforms: combined company will have transacted over $10 billion in crypto transactions since January 2018 and will have over $350 million in assets under custody, together with a diversified and regulated platform across trading, payments, asset management, and digital asset custody.
    – Acquisition of Cash and Shares with Upside to Shareholders: consideration payable to CoinSmart at closing of $3 million in cash, and the issuance of 5,222,222 common shares of Coinsquare (“Coinsquare Shares”), with an aggregate deemed value of approximately $26,215,555, plus the ability to receive up to approximately $20 million in additional cash consideration on the achievement of SmartPay business earn-out targets and 1,100,000 Coinsquare Shares on the achievement of over-the-counter (“OTC”) business earn-out targets. It is further anticipated that CoinSmart will hold cash (or crypto assets) of approximately $10 million on completion of the Transaction.
    – Investment in Canada’s only Qualified Custodian for Digital Assets: backed by Coinsquare, Coinbase Ventures and other well-known financial institutions, Tetra Trust is Canada’s only qualified custodian for digital assets, and represents significant potential upside for Coinsquare shareholders.
    – Exposure to Diversified Investment Portfolio: Coinsquare, through its subsidiary Coinsquare Investments Ltd., holds a diversified investment portfolio in assets, such as FRNT Financial ( TSXV: FRNT) and two Blockchange Ventures funds.
    – Management Team to Join Coinsquare: CoinSmart Co-Founders Justin Hartzman, Jeremy Koven, and Michael Koral, amongst others, will join Coinsquare. Justin Hartzman will join the Coinsquare Executive Team and CoinSmart will be entitled to a nominee to join the Coinsquare Board of Directors upon completion of the Transaction.
    – Voting Support by Senior Officers and Directors of ~45%: each of the directors and certain senior officers of CoinSmart have entered into support and voting agreements with Coinsquare pursuant to which they have agreed to vote in favour of the Transaction.

    Transaction Details

    Pursuant to the terms of the Purchase Agreement, Coinsquare will acquire all of the issued and outstanding shares of Simply Digital on a cash-free, debt-free basis.

    The purchase price, which is subject to standard post-closing adjustments as set out in the Purchase Agreement, will be satisfied on closing by (i) the payment to CoinSmart of $3 million in cash, and (ii) the issuance of 5,222,222 Coinsquare Shares to CoinSmart. Coinsquare’s largest shareholder, Mogo Inc. (NASDAQ: MOGO) (TSX: MOGO), disclosed in their most recent financials that they valued the Coinsquare Shares at approximately $5.02 per Coinsquare Share as of June 30, 2022. There can be no assurance that such value per Coinsquare Share has not changed since June 30, 2022.

    Subject to the terms set forth in the Purchase Agreement, additional consideration will be payable to CoinSmart pursuant to the Transaction upon the achievement of certain revenue-based earn-out targets related to CoinSmart’s SmartPay business and OTC trading business. Up to an additional $20 million in cash may be payable pursuant to the SmartPay earn-out (over a period of three years following closing of the Transaction) and up to an additional 1,100,000 Coinsquare Shares may be issuable pursuant to the OTC earn-out (over a period of one year following closing of the Transaction).

    On completion of the Transaction, CoinSmart will hold approximately 12% of the issued and outstanding Coinsquare Shares. Coinsquare is a privately held company incorporated under the laws of Canada. Other than its interest in Coinsquare Shares and cash, CoinSmart will hold no other material assets immediately following the completion of the Transaction. The Transaction has been unanimously approved by the board of directors of the Company (the “Board”).

    Under the terms of the Purchase Agreement, the Board may respond to an unsolicited bona fide written proposal that, having regard to all relevant terms and conditions of such proposal, constitutes or could reasonably be expected to constitute or lead to a Superior Proposal (as defined in the Purchase Agreement).

    The Transaction will constitute the sale of all or substantially all of the undertaking of CoinSmart pursuant to the Business Corporations Act (British Columbia) and, accordingly, will require approval by not less than two-thirds of the votes cast at a special meeting of the shareholders of CoinSmart (the “Meeting”). CoinSmart currently expects to mail the management information circular in connection with the Meeting to shareholders on or before October 29, 2022, and to hold the Meeting on or before November 29, 2022. Subject to the satisfaction (or waiver) of applicable closing conditions as set forth in the Purchase Agreement, the closing of the Transaction is anticipated to occur in the fourth quarter of 2022.

    The management of CoinSmart will be employed by Coinsquare following the closing of the Transaction and will continue to play an active role in the ongoing and future business of Simply Digital (including the SmartPay business and the OTC business).

    Board Recommendation

    The Board has unanimously determined that the Transaction is in the best interests of CoinSmart. Accordingly, the Board approved the Purchase Agreement and recommends that Shareholders vote in favour of the resolution to approve the Transaction at the Meeting.

    Each of the directors and certain senior officers of the Company, collectively holding approximately 45% of the issued and outstanding common shares of the Company, have entered into support and voting agreements with Coinsquare pursuant to which they have agreed to support and vote in favour of the Transaction. In making its determination, the Board considered, among other things, an opinion provided to the Board by Eight Capital to the effect that, based upon and subject to the limitations, assumptions and qualifications stated in such opinion, the consideration to be received by CoinSmart pursuant to the Transaction is fair, from a financial point of view, to CoinSmart.

    Financial Advisors and Counsel

    In connection with the Transaction, CoinSmart has engaged Eight Capital as its financial advisor and Wildeboer Dellelce LLP as its legal advisor. Coinsquare has engaged Origin Merchant Partners as its financial advisor and Goodmans LLP as its legal advisor.

    Additional Information

    Complete details of the terms and conditions of the Transaction are set out in the Purchase Agreement, which will be filed by CoinSmart under its profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.
    In addition, further information regarding the Transaction will be contained in the management information circular in respect of the Meeting which will be filed on SEDAR at the time that it is mailed to shareholders. All shareholders are urged to read the information circular once it becomes available, as it will contain additional important information concerning the Transaction.

    About CoinSmart

    CoinSmart is a leading Canadian-headquartered crypto asset trading platform dedicated to providing customers with an intuitive way for buying and selling digital assets, like Bitcoin and Ethereum. CoinSmart is one of the few crypto asset trading platforms in Canada to be registered as a securities dealer and marketplace with the Ontario Securities Commission. CoinSmart is also one of the first Canadian headquartered trading platforms to have an international presence, accepting customers across 40+ countries at a time when the digital asset industry continues to rapidly expand. CoinSmart further builds on its mission to make cryptocurrency accessible by providing educational resources tailored to every level of cryptocurrency knowledge and unparalleled 24/7 omni-channel customer support. Offering instant verification, industry leading cold wallet storage, advanced charting with order book functionality and over-the-counter premium services, CoinSmart ensures every client’s needs are met with the highest level of quality and care. For more information, please visit www.coinsmart.com.

    About Coinsquare

    Founded in 2014, Coinsquare, a private company incorporated under the laws of Canada provides customers with a proprietary platform engineered to deliver a robust, secure, and intelligent interface for trading Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, and other digital assets. Coinsquare has grown to become Canada’s oldest operating digital asset firm, trading on behalf of over half a million Canadians. Coinsquare has raised over $100M in capital and has successfully executed trades in excess of $8 billion to date. For more information, please visit www.coinsquare.com.

    For further information: Contact Details:

    CoinSmart
    Justin Hartzman, Chief Executive Officer
    Email: ir@coinsmart.com
    Tel: 1.647.923.7678

    The Top Floor Public Relations
    Michele McDermott-Fox
    Email: michele@thetopflooragency.com,
    Tel: 1.905.379.1893

    SOURCE: Platodata.io

  • Joy Spreader Secured Investments from Blackrock and State Street Corp, Performance-based Marketing Leader Obtains Recognitions from Global Institutional Investors

    Since Joy Spreader (HKG: 6988) was incorporated into the MSCI China Small Cap Index with effect upon the closure of the market on May 27, 2021, the Company secured investments from Blackrock Inc. and State Street Group respectively, the two most influential global institutional investors.

    According to Bloomberg data, Blackrock and State Street hold 2,560,000 shares and 629,000 shares of the Company, representing 0.12% and 0.03% of total shares outstanding, respectively.

    Blackrock Inc. is the largest asset management institution worldwide. By the end of Q1 2021, the total asset under management of Blackrock peak at 9.0 trillion USD.

    State Street Corporation is one of the largest financial services and investment groups globally. By the end of 2020, State Street Corporation has $38.8 trillion USD of assets under custody and administration, as well as 3.5 trillion USD of assets under management.

    Investments made by Blackrock and State Street demonstrate strong evidence that Joy Spreader receives significant recognitions from top-tier global financial institutions, which will further empower the Company to optimize the shareholding structure and to implement the international expansion strategy.

  • SM’s Net Income Down by Almost Half in 2020

    SM’s Net Income Down by Almost Half in 2020

    PASAY CITY – SM Investments Corporation (SMIC) reported a nearly 50-per cent decline in net income last year.

    The company said its net income was at P23.4 billion, 48% lower than P44.6 billion in 2019. Consolidated revenues stood at P394.2 billion from P502.0 billion in 2019. 




    The banking and property businesses accounted for 55% and 33% of net income while retail contributed 12%. 

    “Our businesses continued to build momentum through the end of 2020 as they addressed the changed behaviors and needs of our customers. Our banks, food retailing and residential property all performed well, while our malls and non-food retail operations showed steady improvements as conditions allowed. We continue to innovate and focus on safety and are cautiously optimistic about the year ahead,” SMIC President Frederic C. DyBuncio said. 

    Retail

    SM Retail Inc., which consists of non-food (THE SM STORE and specialty stores) and food stores, reported revenues at P296.8 billion, 19% lower than P366.8 billion in 2019. Net income was lower by 67% at P4.1 billion. 

    THE SM STORE opened two new stores in 2020 in Butuan and another in Zamboanga. The total gross selling area of all 66 department stores in 2020 stood at 816,958 square meters. 

    The food group, which includes SM Markets (SM Supermarket, SM Hypermarket, and Savemore), Alfamart, and WalterMart, added 287 new stores in 2020. 

    SM Retail added a total of 351 new stores in 2020 across the portfolio. At year end 2020, SM Retail had a total of 3,019 outlets, comprising 66 THE SM STORES, 1,550 specialty retail stores, 59 SM Supermarkets, 52 SM Hypermarkets, 209 Savemore, 71 WalterMart, and 1,012 Alfamart stores.




    Property 

    SM Prime Holdings (SM Prime) recorded net income of P18.0 billion from P38.1 billion in 2019. Revenues were at P81.9 billion from P118.3 billion in 2019. 

    SM Prime’s Philippine mall business reported P23.6 billion revenues from P57.8 billion in 2019. Local malls’ rent income was at P21.8 billion from P48.4 billion in 2019. 

    SM Prime opened SM City Butuan in Agusan del Norte and SM City Mindpro in Zamboanga in 2020. 

    Banking 

    BDO Unibank, Inc. (BDO) posted a net income of P28.2 billion from P44.2 billion in 2019 due mainly to pre-emptive provisions of P30.2 billion set aside against potential delinquencies from the pandemic. 

    Net interest income grew 12% to P133.7 billion. Loans increased 3% to P2.3 trillion driven by consumer and corporate accounts. CASA (Current Account Savings Accounts) deposits expanded 17% to P2.1 trillion as clients were able to access BDO products and services through its branches, ATMs and digital channels even despite the quarantine restrictions.  – BusinessNews.ph

     

  • Samurai 2K Aerosol Selected for Forbes Asia Under a Billion List

    Samurai 2K Aerosol Selected for Forbes Asia Under a Billion List

    Samurai 2K Aerosol Limited (the “Company” and together with its subsidiaries, the “Group”) (SGX: Y8E), a manufacturer of automotive aerosol paints and aerosol solution specialist, today announced that it has been selected for inclusion in the list of best 200 companies in Forbes Asia’s annual “Best Under a Billion Dollars Award” for 2021. The event for winners to receive the award was only just recently held in Manila, The Philippines due to travel restrictions imposed during the Covid-19 pandemic. In its annual survey, companies are scored based on several financial performance metrics and chosen from a list of 20,000 firms. This list recognizes the top 200 publicly listed companies in the Asia Pacific region with sales between US$10 million to US$1 billion.

    (L-R) Henry T. Sy Jr., Vice Chairperson of SM Investments Corporation, Ian Ong, Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of Samurai 2K Aerosol Limited, and Christopher Forbes, Vice Chairman of Forbes Media.
    (L-R) Henry T. Sy Jr., Vice Chairperson of SM Investments Corporation, Ian Ong, Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of Samurai 2K Aerosol Limited, and Christopher Forbes, Vice Chairman of Forbes Media.

    The list, which is unranked, measures the long-term performance of companies based on full- year annual results, and firms are scored based on their track record in debt, sales, earnings per share growth and average returns on equity. Selection criteria included quantitative as well as qualitative factors. Companies with serious governance issues, questionable accounting, environmental concerns, management issues or legal troubles were excluded.

    In its financial results for the six months ended 30 September 2023, the Group recorded all-round improvement in its financials as compared with the same period last year.

    (See: Financial Statements and Related Announcement::Half Yearly Results (sgx.com))

    This was despite a challenging business environment dominated by international trade tensions, global geopolitics, and general slowdown in global economies.

    One factor for the Company’s inclusion in the list is its low leverage and prudent financial discipline. The high-interest rate environment has resulted in increased costs for operations and finance, but the Company’s financial position remains robust even as it sticks to its strategy of creating shareholder value through R&D and technology innovations. The Company’s Total Debt /Equity Ratio for the past 3 years has remained below 1 and is accompanied by healthy Current Ratio and Cash Ratio.

    Table 1 Samurai 2K Aerosol Liquidity and Leverage*

    *Source: SI Station data

     

    FY2023

    FY2022

    FY2021
    Total Debt/Equity

    0.44

    0.23

    0.23
           
    Current Ratio

    2.35

    2.39

    2.58
           
    Cash Ratio

    1.11

    1.54

    1.84

     

    Meanwhile, its groundbreaking 2K Technology for aerosol paints is approaching a take-off point as marketing footprints have been established in the large markets of USA, UK and India. Additionally, it has a slew of products and services based on proprietary technology that are coming into the market soon. Tintatek, a unique color-matching and color-mixing technology will be launched in First Quarter of Financial Year 2025.

    The Company’s aerosol paints enable professional standard spray painting results to be achieved with great convenience. This has resulted in the sprouting of a new service: onsite professional spray painting services where users are optimally matched from a list of certified professional Samurai 2K aerosol painters on an online platform. Professional spray painting courses with certification recognized by the Malaysian government are also being conducted presenting a new revenue stream.

    Ian Ong, Founder, Executive Director & Chief Executive Officer of Samurai 2K Aerosol Limited
    Ian Ong, Founder, Executive Director & Chief Executive Officer of Samurai 2K Aerosol Limited

    Ian Ong Yoke En, Founder, Executive Director & Chief Executive Officer sums up the investment merits of Samurai best when he says, “We are a creator of long-term shareholder value and our strong commitment to R & D brings forth a continuous stream of innovative products. At the same time, our complete digital transformation enables us to achieve scalability and economies of scale, and to move with great speed and efficiency to capture new business opportunities in the e-commerce world where geographical borders do not exist”

    Mr Ong added, “But we always exercise financial discipline so that we can ride the ups and downs of the market while remaining focused on our spirit of Innovation.”

    Issued by Samurai 2K Aerosol Limited

    This press release has been reviewed by UOB Kay Hian Private Limited (the “Sponsor”).

    This press release has not been examined or approved by the Singapore Exchange Securities Trading Limited (“SGX-ST”) and the SGX-ST assumes no responsibility for the contents of this press release, including the correctness of any of the statements or opinions made or reports contained in this press release.

    The contact person for the Sponsor is Mr Lance Tan, Senior Vice President, who can be contacted at 8 Anthony Road #01-01, Singapore 229957, telephone (65) 6590 6881

    Reference:

    https://links.sgx.com/FileOpen/Samurai%20Annoucement%20-%20ForbesAsia.ashx?App=Announcement&FileID=780254

    About Samurai 2K Aerosol Limited (SGX: Y8E)

    Samurai 2K Aerosol Ltd (“SAMURAI®”) has been listed on the Catalist Board of the Singapore Exchange Securities Trading Limited (the “SGX-ST”) since January 2017. SAMURAI® is a fully integrated aerosol specialist that focuses on the repainting business as well as aftermarket for the automotive refinishing and refurbishing industry.

    SAMURAI® aims to be the world’s most respected innovative aerosol system provider and offer the most innovative aerosol systems with the best user enjoyment and to create more job opportunities for all the sprayers in the world.

    SAMURAI® regional office is situated in Singapore while research, product development, branding and manufacturing are conducted in Malaysia. Samurai’s products are distributed worldwide to throughout Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Philippines, Vietnam, Cambodia, UK, USA, Singapore, and India. Its range of products includes Truck Bed Liner, Epoxy Marine Surface Primer, Marine Coating, Boat Deck Granular Textured Epoxy Primer, Automobile Body Epoxy Primer etc. For more information, please visit our official website at www.samurai2kaerosol.com.

    Media and Analysts Contact:
    Samurai 2K Aerosol Limited
    Ms. Saveena Prabakaran
    Legal Cum Relation Executive
    Email: saveena@samuraipaint.jp

    Waterbrooks Consultants Pte Ltd
    Mr. Wayne Koo
    Tel: +65 9338 8166
    Email: wayne.koo@waterbrooks.com.sg
    Email: query@waterbrooks.com.sg

  • The 19th Asian Financial Forum concludes successfully

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    – AFF draws 4,000+ global political and business leaders, inaugural Global Business Summit showcases Hong Kong’s strengths in financially empowering industry

     The 19th Asian Financial Forum (AFF), jointly organised by the Hong Kong SAR (HKSAR) Government and Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), concluded successfully today. The forum attracted an enthusiastic response, drawing over 4,000 leaders from governments and business sectors across over 60 countries and regions. Over the two-day forum, over 150 financial officials, leaders of multilateral organisations, representatives from financial institutions and enterprises took the stages as speakers. The forum also launched the inaugural Global Business Summit to further integrate finance with key industries, driving innovation and economic development, while injecting strong momentum into Hong Kong as it embarks on a new chapter in the year ahead by strengthening its role through financial empowerment.

    The Asian Financial Forum kicked off International Financial Week 2026, marking the first significant financial event in the region this year. AFF’s various sessions, including Plenary Sessions, Keynote Luncheons, a Breakfast Panel and thematic workshops, were all well attended. Guests engaged actively in exchanges on a wide range of trending topics, offering valuable insights and forward-looking perspectives.

    At the Keynote Luncheon on the first day of AFF, Dr José Manuel Barroso, Former President of the European Commission, Former Prime Minister of Portugal, and the Chairman of the Advisory Board of Goldman Sachs International, delivered a keynote speech on Hong Kong’s pivotal role in fostering regional cooperation and how Asia can draw on Europe’s experience to deepen economic integration. Dr Barroso said: “What we are seeing now is a technological race. This creates instability. And so, the major companies in the world – American, European, but also in Asia – the leaders want to see how they can position their corporations in a favourable position facing the geopolitical risk and the technological risk.”

    Furthermore, at the Panel Discussion on Global Economic Outlook, Dr Zhu Min, Member of the Senior Expert Advisory Committee of the China Center for International Economic Exchanges (CCIEE), spoke about the opportunities that renminbi internationalisation will bring to Hong Kong. He said: “I see competition among the three major currencies. RMB internationalisation requires liquidity and a bond market – Hong Kong is perfectly positioned to provide this service.”

    At the forum yesterday, the Financial Services and the Treasury Bureau signed a cooperation agreement with the Shanghai Gold Exchange, marking a significant milestone in strengthening collaboration between the Hong Kong and Shanghai gold markets. The agreement established a high-level cooperative governance framework for Hong Kong’s central gold clearing system, explored opportunities for coordinated development of physical infrastructure, and enhanced market connectivity. This initiative represented an important step forward in Hong Kong’s development as an international gold trading hub.

    The inaugural Global Business Summit, co-organised by the Financial Services and the Treasury Bureau of the HKSAR Government, HKTDC and the Office for Attracting Strategic Enterprises (OASES), was held today as part of AFF. The summit opened with welcome remarks delivered by Paul Chan, Financial Secretary of the HKSAR Government, and Prof Frederick Ma, Chairman of the HKTDC.

    Prof Ma said: “Financial services help industries and investors maximise their investments and their impact. This will have far-reaching benefits, supporting continued technological breakthroughs, as well as closer integration and sustainable development. In this sense, the Global Business Summit reflects the greater emphasis we are placing on co-creation at this year’s AFF.  In these unpredictable times, working together on shared goals adds to the agility and resilience of our economies, our industries and businesses, and our communities. Hong Kong, under the “One Country, Two Systems” arrangement, is perfectly suited to host these conversations and promote cross-sector collaboration, as a superconnector, super value-adder and supercollaborator. Our city is home to businesses from around the world.  It is a bustling two-way gateway between the Chinese Mainland and the rest of the world – helping high-growth enterprises from the Chinese Mainland to go global, while enabling high-growth foreign enterprises to enter China.”

    A Pledging Ceremony today demonstrated the commitment of HKSAR Government, the HKTDC and AFF Partners in working together to assist Chinese Mainland enterprises in going global via the Hong Kong platform and to integrate into overall national development. AFF Partners included EY, HSBC, Bank of China (Hong Kong), Standard Chartered, UBS, CICC, Huatai Securities, Bank of Communication (Hong Kong) and China CITIC Bank International. During the summit, a series of plenary sessions were held, including Business Plenary I – Chinese Mainland Enterprises Going Global, and Business Plenary II – Strategic Collaboration for Shared Growth, focusing on the latest opportunities in global market expansion and inbound foreign investment.

    In Business Plenary I – Chinese Mainland Enterprises Going Global, chaired by Victor Chu, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, First Eastern Investment Group, and prominent business leaders from XPENG, Zhejiang Geely Holding Group, LONGi Green Energy, Wusawa Advisory, Alibaba Group, Seres Group, and Shanghai Industrial Investment (Holdings), discussed  how Chinese Mainland enterprises are formulating global expansion strategies amid shifts in the macroeconomic landscape. The speakers explored challenges these companies face and emerging opportunities in their pursuit of international growth.

    Leading global investment institutions and business executives shared their observations and strategies for entering the Chinese Mainland market in Business Plenary II – Strategic Collaboration for Shared Growth. With national policies promoting stronger domestic demand and high-quality development, the Chinese Mainland offers abundant opportunities for international enterprises to expand cross-border collaboration and deepen their positions along industry value chains. The session featured remarks by Liu Haoling, President, China Investment Corporation and was chaired by Lincoln Pan, Chief Executive Officer, Jardine Matheson. Speakers included representatives from Banking Circle, Infineon AG, Investcorp, JP Morgan, Revolut and Triton Partners. They engaged in an in-depth discussion on how international companies can develop new business roadmaps in the Chinese Mainland through investment, partnerships and joint ventures. They examined Hong Kong’s critical role as a gateway for international enterprises entering the Chinese Mainland market.

    During the session, Mohammed Alardhi, Executive Chairman, Investcorp, said: “The China-Gulf Cooperation Council corridor is vital. We’re connecting companies throughout the corridor, implementing Chinese technology there, and buying Chinese vehicles for logistics. It bridges the world’s second-largest economy and the Gulf region, which is transforming with vast opportunities and capital. When you compare the valuations of Chinese companies and technologies with those from the West, there’s no comparison. There is a significant appetite in the Gulf region to partner with them.”

    The summit featured a series of discussion sessions covering high-growth, high-value sectors, including biomedicine and healthcare, green energy, new consumer trends, artificial intelligence and robotics. The speaker lineup was powerful. In the session titled “Biomedicine 2026: Trends, Challenges and Opportunities”, Amgen and Merck highlighted key challenges facing the industry; notably the high cost and lengthy cycles of R&D. They emphasised the need to build diversified and internationalised financing channels, enabling financial services to play an empowering, multiplier role in accelerating technological translation and commercialisation.

    The sessions “AI Infrastructure: Powering the Intelligent Supply Chain” and “AI Driven Robotics and Autonomous Technologies Revolutionising Industry” featured a who’s who of business leaders with speakers from DexForce Technology, JD.com and Pictet Group discussing scalable application strategies, key investment priorities and growth momentum generated through ecosystem collaboration. The latter session, chaired by Dr Allan Wong, Chairman and Group Chief Executive Officer, VTech Holdings Limited; leaders from AI² Robotics, Galbot and Tencent offered forward looking insights into how AI driven robotics can integrate into the real economy, transforming sectors such as healthcare, manufacturing and services, while creating entirely new investment opportunities.

    Polling on Future Technology Trends and Asset Allocation Strategies
    AFF conducted real-time polling across multiple sessions to gauge participants’ views on the global economic outlook, their expectations for future financial and technological trends, and their asset-allocation strategies. More than 70% of attendees were neutral to optimistic about the global economic outlook for this year. Meanwhile, 51.2% of participants believed that in today’s rapidly evolving international landscape, priority should be given to developing artificial intelligence and AI-driven applications, followed by energy transition and sustainable development (20.3%).

    Onsite deal-making sessions and online platform extend outcomes
    The HKTDC has long positioned AFF as a vital platform for facilitating international investment and driving substantive cooperation, proactively connecting enterprises with potential partners and providing business-matching opportunities. During the forum, HKTDC and the Hong Kong Venture Capital and Private Equity Association continued to co-organise AFF Deal-making. This year, AFF Deal-making attracted over 280 investors and over 600 investment projects, resulting in more than 800 one-on-one meetings that successfully connected global capital with investment opportunities. Among them, a returning participant from Thailand, who joined the event to explore new funding sources and co-investment opportunities, said he was pleased to have met several promising potential partners. An Australian food processing project owner also reported positive outcomes, noting that the platform helped identify potential partners who can provide support beyond financial investment, including practical expertise and technical guidance. The matching services will move online on Wednesday 28 and Thursday 29 January, allowing investors and project owners to continue connecting via the online platform.

    This year’s Project Investment Sessions highlighted several strategically essential development initiatives in Hong Kong. These included the Northern Metropolis, which drives cross-sector collaboration and industry upgrading; SKYTOPIA, the Airport City development shaping the future international aviation hub at Hong Kong International Airport; and the Hong Kong–Shenzhen Innovation and Technology Park, which accelerates the growth of the I&T ecosystem in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. Representatives of the respective organisations presented the latest project updates and investment opportunities on-site, offering participants deeper insights into Hong Kong’s long-term plans for regional connectivity, innovation-driven development and infrastructure enhancement, underscoring the city’s unique strengths as a premier international investment destination.

    In addition, on the first day of this year’s AFF, Hong Kong food-tech company Techvalue International and Australia’s Gryph Holdings signed a Memorandum of Understanding to establish a joint venture that will launch innovative plant-based products that can be prepared instantly with either cold or hot water. The collaboration was facilitated by the HKTDC Sydney Office, building on business connections the two parties developed through previous editions of AFF. The joint venture will first introduce its products in Papua New Guinea before gradually expanding into the Australian and New Zealand markets. It demonstrates Hong Kong’s pivotal role in enabling cross-border collaboration in food-tech innovation.

    Four zones showcase new opportunities in innovation, sustainability and investment
    This year’s AFF featured four key thematic zones –  the FutureGreen Showcase, FintechHK Start-up Salon, InnoVenture Salon and Global Investment Zone – bringing together some 150 exhibitors, including EY (AFF’s Knowledge Partner), HSBC, Bank of China (Hong Kong), Standard Chartered, CICC and Huatai Securities. The newly introduced FutureGreen Showcase highlighted the latest applications in green finance and green technology, fostering capital matching and collaboration with sustainable development projects. Exhibitors showcased solutions spanning green certification and standards, climate-risk assessment and reporting, carbon-credit trading and management, regulatory compliance and ESG monitoring, demonstrating robust market demand for green transformation across different sectors.

    Two roundtable meetings were also held during AFF. The Hong Kong International Fundraising Roundtable 2026, held today, brought together senior executives from Chinese Mainland and overseas enterprises, as well as leaders from Hong Kong’s financial and professional services sectors, to discuss how to meet financing needs across various industries. The Attracting Strategic Enterprises: Roundtable on Hong Kong Opportunities held on the first day of the AFF was co-organised for the first time by the HKTDC and the OASES. The session provided a dedicated platform for key Chinese Mainland and international enterprises interested in establishing or expanding their presence in Hong Kong to connect with local financial and professional service providers.

    2026 International Financial Week kicks off, showcasing Hong Kong as a leading international financial centre
    International Financial Week 2026 officially commenced on 26 January, featuring 14 industry events that span a wide range of globally watched financial and business topics, including ASEAN opportunities, digital finance, green finance, family offices, private equity and alternative investments. Together, these events underscore Hong Kong’s unique role as the region’s most comprehensive and diversified international financial centre.

    Websites
    Asian Financial Forum: https://www.asianfinancialforum.com/aff/

    Photos Download: https://bit.ly/3M8fWBl

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    Media enquiries
    Yuan Tung Financial Relations

    Lousie Song Tel: (852) 3428 5690 Email: lsong@yuantung.com.hk
    Tiffany Leung Tel: (852) 3428 2361 Email: tleung@yuantung.com.hk

    HKTDC’s Communications & Public Affairs Department:

    Johnny Tsui Tel: (852) 2584 4395 Email: johnny.cy.tsui@hktdc.org
    Jane Cheung Tel: (852) 2584 4137 Email: jane.mh.cheung@hktdc.org
    Serena Cheung Tel: (852) 2584 4272 Email: serena.hm.cheung.hktdc.org

    About HKTDC
    The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is a statutory body established in 1966 to promote, assist and develop Hong Kong’s trade. With over 50 offices globally, including 13 in the Chinese Mainland, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub. The HKTDC organises international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to create business opportunities for companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in the mainland and international markets. The HKTDC also provides up-to-date market insights and product information via research reports and digital news channels. For more information, please visit: www.hktdc.com/aboutus.

  • The 19th Asian Financial Forum officially kicks off today

    – Gathering global leaders to examine the economic outlook and reinforce Hong Kong’s role as an international financial centre

    The 19th Asian Financial Forum (AFF), co-organised by the Hong Kong SAR Government and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), kicked off today with the theme “Co-creating New Horizons amid an Evolving Landscape”, and a new tagline “Finance Empowering Business”. The forum has invited more than 150 government officials, business leaders, senior executives from financial institutions, and regulatory representatives from around the world as speakers. It is expected to attract over 3,600 participants from over 60 countries and regions, featuring about 80 business delegations from the Chinese Mainland, Australia, South Korea, Southeast Asia, Europe, the Middle East and the United States.

    This strong global participation reinforces Hong Kong’s unique position as an international financial centre and demonstrates its exceptional advantage in facilitating connections between the Chinese Mainland and international markets. This year’s forum features a special discussion session on gold trading to promote Hong Kong’s development into an international gold exchange and to jointly build a gold market ecosystem with the Chinese Mainland, bringing new value to the global precious metals market.

    Welcome remarks were delivered by Prof Frederick Ma, HKTDC Chairman, during the Opening Session, followed by opening remarks by John Lee, Chief Executive of the HKSAR, and Zou Lan, Deputy Governor, People’s Bank of China. Chairman Ma said: “AFF has continued to broaden its scope and enhance its reputation over the years as the platform that demonstrates Hong Kong’s unique roles of a superconnector, super value-adder and supercollaborator. For the past 19 years, this forum has attracted influential leaders from public administration, finance and business sectors from around the world. With their and many other people’s support, AFF has become one of the world’s most pre-eminent financial forums, hosting insightful and forward-looking conversations as well as impactful cross-border deal-making. We have chosen “Co-creating New Horizons amid an Evolving Landscape” as the theme for this year. Under this banner, we are pleased to introduce the Global Business Summit, which will be held tomorrow.  The summit will evaluate the impact of high-growth industries, including AI and technology, robotics, biopharma and healthcare, new energy and more.  This is part of an increased focus to strengthen ties between finance and the real economy at AFF to help support sustained innovation and long-term growth.”

    The two-day forum presents over 40 sessions ranging from Plenary Sessions, Panel Discussion, Keynote Luncheons, Breakfast Panel, and thematic sessions. Key sessions include Global Economic Outlook, CIO Insights and Asset and Wealth Management, alongside the newly introduced Supply Chain Financing and Gold Exchange.

    Discussion sessions gather global leaders to share visionary insights
    This year’s forum is committed to advancing international financial cooperation and policy coordination. Plenary Session I – Fostering Cooperation for Shared Success, hosted by Christopher Hui, Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury of the HKSAR Government, brought together finance officials and multilateral organisation leaders to discuss key issues, including the global economic outlook, financial stability, infrastructure investment, and sustainable development. Guest speakers included Zou Jiayi, President and Chair of the Board of Directors of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank; Scott Morris, Vice-President (East and Southeast Asia, and the Pacific) of the Asian Development Bank; H.E. Mehmet Å’imÅŸek, Minister of Treasury and Finance for Türkiye and Klemen BoštjanÄ’iÄ’, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance of the Republic of Slovenia.

    The following session, Plenary Session II – Charting the Future of Finance in Times of Uncertainty, focused on the risks and opportunities encountered by central banks, regulatory bodies, and financial institutions in promoting the development of financial markets, and the strategies for enhancing the resilience of these markets. The discussion was moderated by Julia Leung, Chief Executive Officer of Securities and Futures Commission, and the speakers, including H.E. Waleed Saeed Abdul Salam Al Awadhi, Chief Executive Officer, Capital Market Authority of the United Arab Emirates; Changyong Rhee, Governor for the Bank of Korea; Burkhard Balz, Member of the Executive Board of the Deutsche Bundesbank; Benjamin Hung, Chairman of the Financial Services Development Council, and Gokul Laroia, Chief Executive Officer Asia of Morgan Stanley, addressed topics such as Hong Kong’s positioning within the global financial system, the promotion of cross-border regulatory cooperation, and strategies for tackling challenges in the global economy.

    The first day’s keynote luncheon commenced with welcome remarks by Paul Chan, Financial Secretary of the HKSAR Government, followed by opening remarks from Wang Shuguang, Vice Chairman of the Board, President and Member of the Management Committee of China International Capital Corporation Limited. The keynote speaker Dr José Manuel Barroso, Former President of the European Commission, Former Prime Minister of Portugal and the Chairman of the Advisory Board of Goldman Sachs International, provided an in-depth analysis of current macroeconomic risks in Europe and on the global stage, and discussed strategies for economies to foster coordination and mutual complementarity in navigating future uncertainties.

    The afternoon session began with the Global Economic Outlook, moderated by Prof Edward Chen, Honorary Professor of the HKU Business School, joining with Sir Douglas Flint, CBE, Chairman of the Aberdeen Group plc; Kevin Sneader, President, Asia Pacific Ex-Japan of Goldman Sachs; Dr Ridha Wirakusumah, Chief Executive Officer of the Indonesia Investment Authority; Prof Paolo Zannoni, Executive Deputy Chairman and Executive Director of Prada Group, and Dr Zhu Min, Member of the Senior Expert Advisory Committee of the China Center for International Economic Exchanges. The participants forecasted the 2026 global economic outlook, examined the strategies for businesses to navigate uncertainty.

    In alignment with the 2025 Policy Address to expedite the building of an international gold trading market to energise Hong Kong’s financial ecosystem, AFF introduced a new session titled Global Spectrum – Gold Exchange. Featuring overseas speakers James Emmett, Chief Executive Officer of MKS PAMP SA and David Tait, Chief Executive Officer of the World Gold Council, the session analysed the landscape of international gold trading, strategies to enhance Hong Kong’s pivotal role in gold pricing and trading in Asia, and opportunities to expand trading, clearing, delivery, and derivative services for renewed sector growth.

    Insights into asset and pension strategies within the global investment landscape
    In recent years, rapid technological advancements, shifts in population demographics, rising demands for sustainable development, and increased market volatility have been reshaping investors’ expectations of asset and wealth management firms. The Panel Discussion on Asset and Wealth Management was moderated by Amy Lo, Chairman, UBS Global Wealth Management Asia of UBS, and Head and Chief Executive, UBS Hong Kong. This panel featured a distinguished lineup of speakers, including Lavanya Chari, Head of Wealth and Premier Solutions, International Wealth and Premier Banking of HSBC; Stefanie Drews, President and Chief Executive Officer, Amova Asset Management; Ed Huang, Senior Managing Director and Head of Asia-Pacific (APAC) and Blackstone Private Wealth; Dr Levin Wang, Chairman of Private Wealth Management Committee, Huatai Securities Co., Ltd.; CEO, Huatai Financial Holdings (Hong Kong) Ltd. and Fannie Wurtz, Head of Distribution & Wealth Division, ETFs & Index Business Lines, Chair of Asia, Amundi. Speakers discussed how artificial intelligence can enhance decision-making efficiency in asset management, helping clients generate additional returns and explored methods for diversifying risks through alternative investments and integrating ESG factors into investment decisions to strike a balance between returns and sustainability.

    CIO Insights highlighted Chief Investment Officers from Asia, Europe, and the United States, and, who provided an in-depth analysis of this year’s asset allocation trends across various sectors and regions. They shared forward-looking insights on interest rate movements, liquidity cycles, and cross-regional allocations. Speakers included Deborah Cunningham, Chief Investment Officer, Global Liquidity Markets of Federated Hermes; Vincenzo Vedda, Chief Investment Officer & Member of the Executive Board of DWS Investment GmbH, and Yang Liu, Chairperson and Chief Investment Officer of Atlantis Investment Management Ltd.

    The Global Spectrum – Pension and Endowment brought together leaders from fund management firms and financial services institutions worldwide to discuss the transformation of retirement and philanthropic funds in the context of the changing global economy and long-term investment strategies. The session featured speakers including Cuan Coulter, Head of International of State Street; Arsa Indaravijaya, Chief Investment Officer of the Government Pension Fund of Thailand; Lou Lizhou, Chairman of E Fund International Holdings Limited, and Wilson Zhang, Managing Director, Chair of the Global Equities Management Committee, China International Capital Corporation Limited (CICC). They shared insights on how retirement and philanthropic funds can adjust their strategies amid an increasingly volatile environment to preserve asset value and enhance risk resilience.

    The findings were released today from a survey conducted by HKTDC and EY, the AFF Knowledge Partner, which examined how corporates and financial leaders are responding to disruptive challenges and shaping their next stage of global expansion and capital allocation. Jack Chan, EY China Chairman and EY Greater China Regional Managing Partner, said that prolonged uncertainty has become the new baseline, yet global expansion remains a strategic imperative. The survey also highlights Hong Kong’s evolution from a super-connector to a proactive growth orchestrator – where capital, compliance and competitive strengths converge – and offers recommendations to help businesses build resilience, capture overseas opportunities and leverage Hong Kong as a key hub for high quality global growth.

    AFF Deal-making and exhibition to promote substantial cooperation
    As one of the highlights of the forum, AFF Deal-making continues to offer an efficient one-on-one matching platform for project owners and investors, attracting over 280 investors and 560 projects. It enables participants to gain valuable insights into the potential of investment projects and uncover opportunities across various industries.  The project investment session invited project owners from around the world to showcase quality initiatives in key sectors such as Environment, Energy and Clean Technology, Healthcare Technology, and Financial Technology, aiding participants in identifying market trends and expanding cross-industry investment opportunities.

    This year’s forum features four key exhibition zones, including the InnoVenture Salon & FintechHK Start-up Salon, Global Investment Zone, and a new FutureGreen Showcase, bringing together about 150 exhibitors. Global leading asset-management firms Ardian, Federated Hermes and E Fund Management joined as exhibitors for the first time, each showcasing cutting-edge financial concepts and offering participants diversified investment perspectives and opportunities for exchange.

    A particular highlight this year is the debut of the FutureGreen Showcase, which focuses on showcasing opportunities in green finance, green technology, rating and transition services. It aims to promote precise capital matching with low-carbon projects and ESG innovation, strengthening Hong Kong’s leading position as an international green finance centre and injecting new momentum into the global green transition.

    Inaugural Global Business Summit to explore finance and real economic integration
    The first Global Business Summit will take place tomorrow (27 January), co-organised by the Financial Services and the Treasury Bureau of the Hong Kong SAR Government, HKTDC, and the Office for Attracting Strategic Enterprises. The summit will invite leaders from high-growth sectors such as artificial intelligence and technology, robotics, high growth consumer markets, biomedicine and healthcare, and green energy to explore how to leverage financial services to drive innovation and long-term growth.

    Paul Chan, Financial Secretary of the HKSAR Government, and Prof Frederick Ma, HKTDC Chairman, will deliver opening remarks at the opening session. Exploring Chinese Mainland Opportunities will feature speeches by Wu Wei, Executive Vice Mayor of Shanghai; Tang Zhiping, Vice Governor, The People’s Government of Shanxi Province; Wang Junshou, Vice Governor, The People’s Government of Hunan Province. The summit will also host a series of thematic forums, including Business Plenary I – Chinese Mainland Enterprises Going Global and Business Plenary II – Strategic Collaboration for Shared Growth, among others.

    The Global Business Summit has received support from a range of esteemed international companies, with executives from Amgen, Hermès, Jardine Matheson, JD Group, Merck Group, Tencent and XPENG. Leaders will analyse future development trends across various industries, providing the financial sector with the insights needed to leverage opportunities and deliver customised financial services. This collaborative approach is expected to create a significant multiplier effect, transforming capital into considerable economic growth and facilitating industrial advancements.

    In addition, the second-day Keynote Luncheon will feature Paul Polman, a Business Leader, Investor, and Philanthropist, as the keynote speaker. He will share his insights on the role of finance in driving real-economy development, how collaboration between policymakers and businesses can generate positive social and environmental impact, and strategies for sustainable development.

    AFF collaborates with organisations to provide overseas attendees with a unique Hong Kong experience
    International participants attending AFF will have the chance to fully immerse themselves in the vibrant energy of Hong Kong and experience the city’s diverse attractions. The forum will offer several guided tours to key sites, including the Cyberport, the Court of Final Appeal, the Hong Kong Monetary Authority, and Hong Kong Stock Exchange, allowing guests to gain valuable insights into Hong Kong’s financial and innovation landscape.

    Additionally, AFF has partnered with various organisations including Hong Kong Tourism Board to provide exclusive travel, cultural, and culinary promotions for overseas visitors, encouraging them to explore Hong Kong’s unique charm beyond the forum activities. Highlights include a night tour with Hong Kong Big Bus Tours, a traditional sailing trip on the Aqua Luna, and tickets to the Hong Kong Palace Museum and M+ Museum. Attendees can enjoy dining discounts at venues such as the Lan Kwai Fong Group and Hong Kong Bankers Club, along with Happy Wednesday hosted by the Hong Kong Jockey Club.

    The International Financial Week (IFW) 2026, lasting one week, will kick off with AFF today. This event marks Hong Kong’s first major financial event of the year, aimed at assisting industry professionals in seizing opportunities and unlocking market potential.

    Websites
    Asian Financial Forum: https://www.asianfinancialforum.com/conference/aff/en
    Programme: https://www.asianfinancialforum.com/conference/aff/en/programme
    Speaker list: https://www.asianfinancialforum.com/conference/aff/en/speakers

    Photo Download: https://bit.ly/49F23nh

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    Media enquiries
    Yuan Tung Financial Relations

    Lousie Song Tel: (852) 3428 5690 Email: lsong@yuantung.com.hk
    Tiffany Leung Tel: (852) 3428 2361 Email: tleung@yuantung.com.hk

    HKTDC’s Communications & Public Affairs Department:

    Johnny Tsui Tel: (852) 2584 4395 Email: johnny.cy.tsui@hktdc.org
    Jane Cheung Tel: (852) 2584 4137 Email: jane.mh.cheung@hktdc.org
    Serena Cheung Tel: (852) 2584 4272 Email: serena.hm.cheung.hktdc.org

    About HKTDC
    The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is a statutory body established in 1966 to promote, assist and develop Hong Kong’s trade. With over 50 offices globally, including 13 in the Chinese Mainland, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub. The HKTDC organises international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to create business opportunities for companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in the mainland and international markets. The HKTDC also provides up-to-date market insights and product information via research reports and digital news channels. For more information, please visit: www.hktdc.com/aboutus.

  • Hong Kong Tech Firms Win Big at CES 2026 with Frontier Tech Innovations to Draw Global Buyer Interest

    • Record-breaking Hong Kong Tech Pavilion showcases three award-winning innovative technologies, highlighting the city’s leading role as an International I&T Hub

    Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP) and Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) led the largest ever delegation of 61 Hong Kong tech companies to the annual Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas from January 6-9. In just the first two days, the Hong Kong Tech Pavilion drew visits from dozens of international brands, industry leaders and investors exploring the latest local innovations and potential collaboration. The participation enables local tech firms to access overseas markets, showcase their R&D strengths, underscores the city’s role as a leading international innovation and technology (I&T) hub.

    The Hong Kong Tech Pavilion featured innovations spanning across areas in advanced materials & sustainable technology, AI & data, digital transformation, electronics & robotics, and life & health. Meanwhile, three of the city’s rising stars were recognised at the prestigious annual CES Innovation Awards 2026, with Widemount Dynamics Tech leading the way with its Smart Firefighting Robot named as the Best of Innovation for “Product in Support of Human Security for All”. Eieling and PointFit were honored under the “Digital Health” category, with the world’s first intelligence-driven compact fatty liver diagnostic device FattaLab® and patented ultra-thin biomarkers tracking wearable PF-Sweat Patch.

    Terry Wong, CEO of HKSTP, said: “We believe in catalysing tomorrow’s world and this celebration of Hong Kong’s innovation and technology via the global platform like CES demonstrates our city’s unique convergence of cutting-edge R&D, global talent and capital, and enablers such as HKSTP is connecting innovators with resources, markets and opportunities, propelling their success to the world stage.”

    Vivian Chan, Associate Director, Business Development, Exhibitions and Digital Business, HKTDC pinpointed that, “Having participated in CES for over 40 years, HKTDC is committed to facilitating more technology-driven, cross-border business deals and investments riding on our global network with over 50 offices, reinforcing Hong Kong’s position as a regional and global innovation hub.”

    Photo download: https://bit.ly/3N2DQP1

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    Appendix: List of 61 tech companies at Hong Kong Tech Pavilion, including 47 within the HKSTP ecosystem (in alphabetical order)

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    About Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation
    Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP) was established in 2001 to create a thriving I&T ecosystem grooming 12 unicorns, more than 16,000 research professionals and around 2,600 technology companies from 25 countries and regions focused on developing healthtech, AI and robotics, fintech and smart city technologies, etc.

    Our growing innovation ecosystem offers comprehensive support to attract and nurture talent, accelerate and commercialise innovation for technology ventures, with the I&T journey built around our key locations of Hong Kong Science Park in Pak Shek Kok, InnoCentre in Kowloon Tong and three modern InnoParks in Tai Po, Tseung Kwan O and Yuen Long realising a vision of new industrialisation for Hong Kong, where sectors including advanced manufacturing, micro-electronics and biotechnology are being reimagined.

    Hong Kong Science Park Shenzhen Branch in Futian, Shenzhen plays positive roles in connecting the world and the mainland with our proximity, strengthening cross-border exchange to bring advantages in attracting global talent and allowing possibilities for the development of technology companies in seven key areas: Medtech, big data and AI, robotics, new materials, microelectronics, fintech and sustainability, with both dry and wet laboratories, co-working space, conference and exhibition facilities, and more.

    Through our R&D infrastructure, startup support and enterprise services, commercialisation and investment expertise, partnership networks and talent traction, HKSTP continues to contribute in establishing I&T as a pillar of growth for Hong Kong.

    More information about HKSTP is available at www.hkstp.org.

    About HKTDC
    The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is a statutory body established in 1966 to promote, assist and develop Hong Kong’s trade. With over 50 offices globally, including 13 in Chinese Mainland, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub. The HKTDC organises international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to create business opportunities for companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in the mainland and international markets. The HKTDC also provides up-to-date market insights and product information via research reports and digital news channels. For more information, please visit: www.hktdc.com/aboutus.

    Media Contact:  
    Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation
    Angela Lau
    Tel: +852 6535 7611
    Email: angela.lau@hkstp.org    		 HKTDC – Communications & Public Affairs Department
    Winnie Kan
    Tel: +852 2584 4055
    Email: winnie.wy.kan@hktdc.org

     

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