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CPA Australia Survey: Hong Kong businesses are looking to expand as confidence improves in 2025

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HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 5 December 2024 – Hong Kong’s economic outlook and business confidence are set to further improve in 2025, CPA Australia’s latest survey shows. With more than half of respondents predicting their company’s revenue will grow in 2025, companies are becoming more aggressive in their expansion plans and hiring intentions are the highest since 2020.

(from left to right) Mr Robert Lui, Divisional Councillor of CPA Australia 2024 in Greater China; Ms Karina Wong Divisional Deputy President of CPA Australia 2024 in Greater China; Mr Cliff Ip, Divisional President of CPA Australia 2024 in Greater China; Mr Cyrus Cheung, Divisional Deputy President of CPA Australia 2024 in Greater China

Surveyed executives and accounting professionals show a relatively optimistic outlook for Hong Kong’s economy, with 63 per cent anticipating the local economy will grow next year. Hong Kong’s tax system (31 per cent) ranks as the largest positive contributor to the city’s economic and business environment in 2025, while changes in consumer patterns (26 per cent) and tension in US-China relations (26 per cent) are seen to be the two biggest challenges. 56 per cent of respondents rated Hong Kong’s international competitiveness as high.

Mr. Cliff Ip, CPA Australia 2024 Divisional President of Greater China, said, “The survey findings reflect that Hong Kong’s economy and business confidence are expected to steadily improve in the coming year. Recent stimulus measures unveiled by the central government and the Hong Kong government have contributed to this improved sentiment. The start of the rate-cutting cycle has also boosted business confidence. These positive factors should keep this momentum going into 2025 and strengthen Hong Kong’s international competitiveness.

“However, external uncertainties still weigh on some sectors such as tourism and retail. Respondents indicate that changing customer behaviour and weak customer demand are some of the key challenges they expect to face in 2025. In response, companies must keep innovating their products and services, and how they deliver them. They also need to frequently engage with customers and potential customers to better understand trends both in Hong Kong and elsewhere.”

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The outlook for initial public offerings (IPOs) in the city is also optimistic. Some 63 per cent of respondents expect the value of funds raised in Hong Kong through IPOs to increase in 2025. “IPO activity in Hong Kong has shown signs of recovery since Q3 due to some mega-sized IPOs. Policies and regulatory reforms are stimulating capital activities and boosting investor confidence,” Ip explained.

The improving economic sentiment is flowing through to revenue projections and business expansion plans in 2025. 51 per cent of respondents predict their company’s revenue will grow next year, with an increase in revenue of between 5 to 20 per cent being the most popular prediction.

In response to this improving business environment, respondents are most likely to forecast that their company will increase their investment in advanced technologies (38 per cent), sales and marketing (37 per cent) and expansion outside of Hong Kong (36 per cent). A notably high proportion of respondents to this survey stated that their company has expansions plan in the next three years at home or abroad, with mainland China (40 per cent) again nominated as the most popular destination.

Though cost management remains the top strategic focus for many companies, the percentage choosing it has dropped from 39 per cent in 2024 to 27 per cent in 2025. While slightly more are expected to focus on market expansion activities (27 per cent) and innovation and digitalisation (26 per cent).

Ip stated, “The more positive business environment is being reflected in an expected shift in corporate strategy away from defensive strategies such as cost management and improving business efficiency towards more expansionary strategies such as market expansion and innovation.”

To support growing revenue and expansion plans, companies are keen to add more employees and increase salary to retain talent. 57 of per cent respondents expect that their companies to increase headcount, the highest new hiring intention since 2020. These new hiring intentions are strongest amongst larger companies. Salaries are expected to grow, with 62 per cent expecting to receive a salary increase in 2025.

While the economy looks to be on a positive trajectory, predictions for price changes in the property market in 2025 are uncertain, with similar numbers of respondents expecting prices to increase and decrease, however more respondents expect prices to increase than the previous two years.

Ip explained, “The city’s property market is recovering, with demand gradually growing. This is due to recent interest rate cuts and changes in government policies such as the relaxation of restrictive measures in the housing market. However, with sectors such as SMEs undergoing a relatively slower recovery due to the weak domestic demand, this is leading to stagnation in the rental market.”

The survey data shows nearly all Hong Kong companies have introduced at least some ESG measures into their operations, with only three per cent stating they have not taken any ESG actions. Another 35 per cent expect their company to increase their ESG-related initiatives and activities next year. Respondents were most likely to nominate compliance and increasing compliance costs as the biggest impact ESG is having on their business.

CPA Australia collected 568 responses from Hong Kong-based executives, accounting and finance professionals working in various industries in October and November for this Hong Kong Economic and Business Sentiment Survey 2025.
Hashtag: #CPAAustraliaHongKong #2025HongKongBusinessOutlook #Forecast #Advocacy #ThoughtLeadership #Accounting


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CPA Australia

CPA Australia is one of the largest professional accounting bodies in the world, with more than 173,000 members in over 100 countries and regions, including more than 22,500 members in Greater China. CPA Australia has been operating in Hong Kong since 1955 and opened our Hong Kong office in 1989. Our core services include education, training, technical support and advocacy. CPA Australia provides thought leadership on issues affecting the accounting profession and the public interest. We engage with governments, regulators and industries to advocate policies that stimulate sustainable economic growth and have positive business and public outcomes. Find out more at

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SIBUR receives highest-category ESG rating from China’s largest rating agency

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MOSCOW, RUSSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 26 December 2024 –The rating agency China Chengxin Green Finance Technology (Beijing) Ltd. (CCXGF) has assigned SIBUR an ESG rating of A-, making SIBUR the only Russian company to receive a rating in CCXGF’s highest category. SIBUR also ranks among the top 10 in CCXGF’s ESG rating of global chemical companies.

Regarding the criteria assessed by the rating, SIBUR’s performance easily exceeded the industry average. Notably, the agency gave the company a score of 95.76 out of 100 for environmental stewardship, while the average for other companies in the sector was 52.19. SIBUR also received a score of 80.73 for its work on occupational safety, compared with an average of 55.04 for other companies, and a score of 85.58 for its disclosure of decisions, while the industry average was 36.75.

The analytical report also noted SIBUR’s efforts to recognise, assess and reduce climate risks. Moreover, the authors of the report drew attention to the company’s sustainable development strategy, which, among other things, sets goals for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The company’s efforts in the area of biodiversity conservation were also mentioned: SIBUR supports projects and initiatives aimed at species conservation, and its production sites are not located in areas of high biodiversity value.

“The Asia-Pacific countries are developing their expertise when it comes to sustainability and paying increasing attention to the sustainable development agenda every year. In this context, the assignment of an A rating to SIBUR by China’s largest rating agency is a very important result. It confirms that our practices are in compliance with best global practices and is an additional point of engagement for developing dialogue with partners in important markets for the company,” said Alexey Kozlov, SIBUR’s Managing Director and a member of the company’s Management Board.

“We place great value on our partnership with SIBUR and see immense potential in our collaboration with Russian clients,” says Dongyang Xue, President of CCXGF. “CCXGF is at the forefront of domestic green finance and ESG service provision in China. Our expertise positions us to significantly boost SIBUR’s international profile, particularly in the Chinese market. Through our ESG rating, we aim to enhance transparency and foster a deeper understanding of SIBUR among international stakeholders”.
Hashtag: #SIBUR

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ALCO HOLDINGS (00328) announce the launch of four strategic mechanisms to foster employee collaboration and enhance team cohesion.

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HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 26 December 2024 – ALCO HOLDINGS (00328) , a leading company in the audiovisual and information technology sectors, today announced the official launch of four strategic mechanisms aimed at further optimizing internal management and fostering a positive corporate culture. These initiatives are designed to promote harmonious relationships among employees and enhance overall team cohesion. The four mechanisms include a people-oriented management philosophy, a diverse range of employee activities, an open and inclusive corporate environment, and a commitment to core values centered around integrity. These strategies reflect Aigo Group’s long-term commitment to employee well-being and the development of its corporate culture.

Strategy 1: People-Oriented Management Philosophy

ALCO HOLDINGS has always upheld the management philosophy that “employees are the most valuable asset of the company,” recognizing that employees are not only the foundation of business operations but also the core driving force behind the company’s sustainable growth. To inspire employees’ potential and creativity, ALCO HOLDINGS offers a comprehensive benefits system and a conducive work environment. The company’s production facilities and headquarters are equipped with various amenities, including a reading room, basketball court, badminton court, table tennis room, billiards room, computer room, and medical center, all aimed at creating a healthy, comfortable, and vibrant working environment for employees.

This people-oriented management style not only enhances employee satisfaction but also ensures they gain a sense of achievement in their work. ALCO HOLDINGS’ management team consistently prioritizes the physical and mental well-being of its employees, offering regular training and seminars to improve their professional skills and strengthen their competitiveness and adaptability in the workplace. These initiatives reflect Aigo Group’s commitment to supporting employee growth and development, creating a sustainable career path for its workforce.

Strategy 2: A Wide Range of Employee Activities

ALCO HOLDINGS understands the importance of a strong team atmosphere and regularly organizes a variety of employee activities aimed at fostering interaction and communication among staff members. These events, such as the Mid-Autumn Festival Garden Party, Karaoke Competition, Christmas Party, Chess Tournament, Basketball Tournament, and Tug-of-War Contest, provide employees with opportunities to enrich their leisure time and encourage them to relax and unwind outside of work. Additionally, the company offers a range of interest-based classes, including dance, Tai Chi, taekwondo, table tennis, English, and Japanese, allowing employees to explore personal interests and further develop themselves beyond their professional responsibilities.

These diverse activities not only strengthen the friendships among employees but also cultivate a strong sense of teamwork. During these events, the spirit of collaboration and collective sharing is further reinforced, as employees engage in joint activities that foster mutual understanding and support. This, in turn, enhances their ability to work together more effectively and creatively when facing work challenges. Through these initiatives, ALCO HOLDINGS has created a positive, dynamic corporate atmosphere, significantly boosting employee enthusiasm and team cohesion.

Strategy 3: An Open and Inclusive Corporate Environment

At ALCO HOLDINGS, diversity and inclusivity are central to the company’s corporate culture. The company brings together elite talent from around the world, with a strong commitment to fostering an open and dynamic work environment. In this setting, employees are encouraged to share their ideas and insights and actively participate in decision-making and innovation processes. This inclusive culture allows every employee to freely express themselves, realize their personal value, and feel respected and valued within the organization.

This open atmosphere motivates employees to actively communicate and share knowledge in their daily work. Through cross-departmental collaboration and exchange, employees can better integrate resources and achieve superior results. At ALCO HOLDINGS, every employee is seen as an active contributor to the company’s culture, with the organization’s success stemming from the vitality and innovation of its diverse culture. Aigo firmly believes that only under the guidance of an inclusive and diverse culture can a company continuously innovate and maintain its competitiveness in an ever-changing market.

Strategy 4: Adherence to Honesty and Integrity

Honesty and integrity hold a central position in ALCO HOLDINGS’ business principles. The company emphasizes the importance of mutual respect and keeping commitments, advocating for doing things the right way. This core value not only motivates employees but also strengthens trust and reliance among them. When faced with challenges and making decisions, Aigo’s employees carefully consider the company’s values and the impact on colleagues and clients. This strong cultural atmosphere enables employees to collaborate with greater confidence in the face of work challenges, fostering a powerful sense of internal cohesion.

This trust and collaborative relationship serve as a key pillar for ALCO HOLDINGS’ continued innovation in the market. The culture of honesty and integrity also motivates employees to continually improve their professional skills, with self-discipline and a sense of responsibility forming the foundation of teamwork. These values are further reinforced through training and development programs. ALCO HOLDINGS’ core values not only shape the company’s external image but also deeply influence internal work practices, encouraging employees to grow together in a positive and empowering environment.

Corporate Culture Driving Sustainable Development

The management team at ALCO HOLDINGS stated that the launch of these four strategic mechanisms will further strengthen the company’s competitiveness within the industry while providing employees with a more harmonious work environment and greater opportunities for growth. Moving forward, ALCO HOLDINGS will continue to leverage its outstanding corporate culture to drive sustainable development, using innovation and teamwork as the foundation to achieve higher business objectives in the global market.

Hashtag: #ALCO

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VT Markets Innovates Trading at the Hong Kong Traders Fair

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HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 25 December 2024 – On December 14th, VT Markets took centre stage at the 2024 Traders Fair financial expo in Hong Kong, marking yet another milestone as a leading global financial trading service provider.

Showcasing its industry-leading innovations and services, the award-winning brokerage garnered significant attention for its unique market insights and forward-thinking solutions.

Knowledge is Power

VT Markets underscored its expertise in cryptocurrency markets with a keynote speech by guest analyst Eyad. He compared various tools for trading cryptocurrencies, introducing innovative options and strategies tailored for traders.

Eyad emphasised the advantages of trading cryptocurrencies via CFDs over traditional spot asset holding, highlighting lower entry barriers and significantly reduced transaction costs.

For example, trading one Bitcoin via CFDs on VT Markets costs just $14 per transaction, compared to $66 with other methods—a cost reduction of approximately 78%. Moreover, the brokerage offers leverage up to 333:1, enabling traders to control one Bitcoin (valued at $100,000) with as little as $300. For many, this was a masterclass on how the right trading tools can give traders a strategic edge from the start.

An Enhanced User Experience

VT Markets also took the opportunity during the expo to demonstrate its app’s copy trading system and a streamlined 3-minute account opening process. This, for many attendees, was a unique opportunity to experience hassle-free trading firsthand.

With VT Markets, traders can now access global markets with minimal time and effort. In just three minutes, they can open a live account and use the brokerage’s proprietary copy trading system to replicate strategies from top traders, enabling precise entry and efficient portfolio management.

In line with its philosophy, VT Markets aims to break down the barriers of time, technology, experience, and expertise through flexible solutions, intelligent tools, and advanced technical support. By lowering the thresholds to trading and boosting efficiency, the platform delivers an ever-fresh and innovative experience tailored to investors of all levels.

Organised by FINEXPO, Traders Fair is renowned as one of the world’s largest and most prestigious financial expos. It serves as a hub for industry leaders, investment experts, and top-tier companies, as well as a bridge connecting traders of all levels.

This year’s event attracted 16 globally recognised exhibitors and featured over 10 seminars covering trending topics such as forex, cryptocurrencies, and trading tools, offering fresh perspectives, investment strategies, and trading techniques.

Hashtag: #VTMarkets #CFDs #CFDsbrokers #crypto #bitcoin #LeverageTrading #TradersFair



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