Media OutReach
HKDPB announces key findings of “Hongkongers’ Sense of Security in Savings” Survey for eighth consecutive year
Hongkongers’ average monthly savings rise to a record HK$10,100, while parents with a habit of saving aim to set aside an average of HK$2.26 million per child to feel sufficiently secure
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 17 December 2025 – The Hong Kong Deposit Protection Board (HKDPB) has conducted its “Hongkongers’ Sense of Security in Savings” survey for the eighth consecutive year. According to the survey results of this year, the average monthly savings of Hongkongers have topped HK$10,000 for the first time, reaching HK$10,100, marking a 3% growth from last year and a new record since the survey began. More than 67% of respondents said that they had a habit of saving, similar to last year, while 75% put their money in savings accounts or time deposits with banks. The survey also reveals that more than 20% of respondents with a saving habit had set a yearly saving target of HK$279,000 on average. Another finding is that 89% of young respondents, aged 18 to 29, had a habit of saving, with 32% of them having set saving goals; both figures mark the highest rates across all age groups, showing that young people were particularly proactive about saving. Among respondents with a saving target, 54% were confident of meeting their goals. Nearly 40% of respondents who had a habit of saving said that their savings were intended to meet “unexpected needs” (37%), followed by “preparing for retirement” (31%).
In terms of Hongkongers’ “sense of security” as provided by their current savings, the score edged up to 54.3 marks from 53.5 last year, marking the highest in the past four years. About 76% of respondents rated their “sense of security” in savings at 50 marks or above, a slight increase of 2 percentage points from the previous year, while 16% rated it at 80 marks or above, similar to last year. The survey also shows that, to maintain their current living standards for one year, Hongkongers generally needed an average of HK$1.02 million in savings to gain a sufficient “sense of security”, close to last year’s HK$1.03 million.
Parents saving more actively with education as priority
An in-depth poll was conducted again this year, following a similar study in 2020, to analyse changes in saving habits among Hong Kong parents who had at least one child aged 10 or below. The results for this year reveal that nearly 80% of such parents had a habit of saving, about 3 percentage points higher than 2020. Each parent saved HK$12,100 on average a month, a significant increase of 40% from the HK$8,600 five years ago. Additionally, these parents perceived a need to maintain HK$1.16 million in savings on average to gain a sufficient “sense of security”, 14% higher than the HK$1.02 million recorded in the general public.
The survey also finds that 60% of parents were putting aside additional savings for their children. Their average target was an extra HK$2.26 million per child to gain a sufficient sense of security, in particular, for their educational expenses (77%), including “local studies” (66%) and “overseas studies” (27%). Their most common way of saving was through “opening bank accounts for children” (48%), followed by “purchasing savings insurance” (45%). More than 56% of parents said that they had encouraged their children to develop saving habits, primarily by “providing fixed pocket money to children” (29%) and “requesting children to save for their desired items” (22%).
Rising trends in Hongkongers’ savings awareness and parents’ early financial planning
Ms Connie Lau Yin-hing, SBS, JP, Chairman of the HKDPB, said, “We can see from the survey results that Hongkongers are keeping up a strong momentum in saving. Average monthly savings are at a new high; not only that, but more than 67% of the public consistently maintain saving habits. These findings show that savings is a vital source of ‘sense of security’. At the same time, a clearer trend has emerged among the public to adopt prudent and stable saving methods, such as bank deposits. Another finding is that 89% of young respondents, aged 18 to 29, have a habit of saving, with 32% of them having set saving goals; both figures mark the highest rates across all age groups, showing that young people are particularly proactive about saving. Additionally, the Deposit Protection Scheme (DPS) automatically provides up to HK$800,000 statutory protection for each depositor, helping everyone save with more confidence.”
Ms Lau further stated: “As the saying goes, ‘Raise a child for a hundred years, and worry for ninety-nine.’ This survey confirms that raising the next generation plays an important role in parents’ financial planning. For example, compared to five years ago, parents now are saving more actively, significantly increasing the amount they save. Coupled with their ‘sense of security’ savings needs, the overall amount is also higher than that of the general public. As for financial education for children, parents often play a key role. The survey also reflects that many parents are cultivating good savings habits in their children. We hope that through the HKDPB’s diverse public awareness campaigns and community education activities, the public will further recognise the importance of saving. At the same time, the DPS will continue to safeguard everyone’s bank deposits, providing robust deposit protection so that all can save with peace of mind.”
Other highlights of the survey results:
- Regular savers made up 89% of respondents aged 18 to 29, with 32% of them having set saving targets for the year; both statistics were the most among all age groups, indicating young people’s commitment to saving. They saved HK$10,900 on average per month, 8% higher than the general public and also scored 56.9 marks on their “sense of security” regarding savings, ranking second among all age groups.
- Respondents aged 30 to 39 topped the list of yearly saving targets by averaging HK$369,000, the highest among all age groups and also 32% more than the general public.
- Respondents aged 40 to 49 saved the most per month, averaging HK$11,900 per person, which was 18% higher than the general public, showing the strongest saving capacity across all age groups.
- Respondents aged 50 to 59 perceived savings of HK$1.33 million as being necessary for a sufficient “sense of security”, topping all age groups. It is believed that members of this age group are starting to prepare for retirement and thus need more savings for peace of mind.
Based on returns submitted by Scheme members of the DPS, i.e., licensed banks in Hong Kong, the aggregate amount of relevant bank deposits under DPS protection reached HK$3,492 billion in 2024. According to the statistics provided by Scheme members, more than 92% of depositors were fully covered by the DPS.
The HKDPB commissioned the Hong Kong Institute of Asia-Pacific Studies (HKIAPS) at the Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) to conduct the “Hongkongers’ Sense of Security in Savings 2025” survey. From 1 September to 2 October 2025, the survey randomly selected and polled a total of 1,047 Hongkongers aged 18 or above by telephone, then carried out a more in-depth study on a total of 301 Hong Kong parents with at least one child aged 10 or below.
Hashtag: #HKDPB
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Hong Kong Deposit Protection Board
The Hong Kong Deposit Protection Board is a statutory body established under the Deposit Protection Scheme Ordinance to oversee the operations of the Deposit Protection Scheme. The objectives of the Scheme are to protect depositors and to help maintain the stability of Hong Kong’s banking system (
www.dps.org.hk).
Hardware Built for Local Conditions
The company isn’t just showing off standard gear; they’ve brought systems specifically designed to handle the challenges of the local energy landscape.
- PowerX1 Hybrid Inverters: Intelligent energy management, seamlessly switching between solar, battery, and grid for stable, uninterrupted power. Supports multi-source integration and rapid power transition.
- Powerinfi All-in-one ESS: ISO 13849 PL-d and IEC 62443 certified for functional safety and cybersecurity. Features a multi-layer battery safety system within a compact design.
- Advanced Solar & System Protection: Incorporates N-type HOT3.0 solar cell technology for enhanced low-light performance. The system boasts an IP66 rating for superior dust and water resistance.
A New Partnership with MIA Group
The big news from the show floor is the new Annual Channel Distribution Strategic Partnership with MIA Group. MIA Group is already a household name in Pakistan for HVAC and energy, and this deal means they’ll be the main bridge for Midea Hiconics’ tech to reach the local market.
“We’re excited to get to work with MIA Group,” a Midea Hiconics spokesperson said. “They have the reach and the local knowledge we need. By putting our hardware in their hands, we’re making it much easier for people here to switch to reliable, clean energy without the usual headaches.”
Media Contact:
Midea Hiconics Press Office
Website: https://www.hiconics-global.com/
Location: Solar Pakistan 2026, Booth A-3-8
Hashtag: #MideaHiconics
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About Midea Hiconics
Midea Hiconics (SHE: 300048) has been around since 2003 and joined the Midea Group in 2020. They focus on green energy, home storage, and industrial tech, building smart tools that help people take control of their own power.
Check out https://www.hiconics-global.com/ for more info.
Media OutReach
Green SM And Umoney Partner To Build An Integrated Mobility And Digital Finance Ecosystem In Laos
Under the agreement, Umoney will be integrated as a direct payment method within the Green SM app. The two parties will also implement an embedded integration model enabling Umoney users to seamlessly access Green SM’s mobility services directly within the Umoney platform.
For the first time in Laos, customers will experience a fully seamless ride-hailing journey with fares processed instantly via the Umoney e-wallet upon trip completion, replacing the previously common manual bank transfer method. Users simply link their Umoney wallet to the Green SM app for fast, convenient, and fully cashless transactions. Additionally, customers using partner banking applications can pay drivers through Umoney’s QR system, delivering a flexible, fast, and secure payment experience that enhances user convenience and broadens customer reach across both platforms.
As part of the collaboration, Green SM Laos will provide comprehensive mobility solutions for Umoney’s enterprise partners and individual customers, including Green SM Car electric ride-hailing, Green SM Limo, Green SM Airport transfer services, as well as corporate travel packages and flexible, customized mobility plans. Umoney, in turn, will collaborate with Green SM to develop digital financial and payment solutions tailored for drivers within the Green SM ecosystem, encompassing e-wallet services, direct income disbursement, operational expense payments, and cash flow management tools. This synergy is designed to optimize operational efficiency while enhancing the experience for businesses, drivers, and end-users alike.
Beyond mobility and payment solutions, both parties plan to expand their shared digital services ecosystem by integrating Umoney and Unitel’s telecommunications and digital utilities into the Green SM platform, including SIM card registration, mobile top-ups, data package purchases, and other digital services, thereby enhancing the value proposition for users across both platforms.
The two companies will also jointly roll out customer benefit programs targeting Umoney users in Laos, with a particular focus on airports, transaction points, and key high-traffic locations. Through integrated service offerings and incentives promoting electric mobility, Green SM and Umoney aim to foster environmentally responsible travel habits while delivering greater value to customers within their shared ecosystem.
Mr. Ha Chien Thang, Director of Star Fintech Sole Co., Ltd, shared:”Our partnership with Green SM marks a significant milestone in Umoney’s strategy to develop a comprehensive digital finance ecosystem in Laos. The integration of payment capabilities and digital services not only enhances user convenience but also contributes to the advancement of cashless payments and the broader digital transformation of the economy.”
Ms. Tran Hanh An, Director of Mobility Services Sales at Green SM Vietnam & Laos, stated: “The partnership between Umoney and Green SM reflects a shared commitment to connecting the essential infrastructures of modern urban life, from digital finance and telecommunications to a green mobility ecosystem. Through this collaboration, we aim to expand benefits for our customers and driver community while driving meaningful green transformation that is firmly grounded in everyday mobility and consumption needs.”
Furthermore, Green SM and Umoney will collaborate on multi-channel communications initiatives to strengthen brand awareness and expand their combined customer base. Planned activities include co-branded campaigns, promotional programs for new users, digital platform communications, and on-ground experiential activations in key markets.
The partnership between Green SM and Umoney marks a significant convergence of two leading ecosystems in green mobility and digital finance in Laos, united in their pursuit of integrated service solutions that meet the increasingly diverse demands of modern urban life. This collaboration also represents a pivotal step toward fostering innovation, elevating the user experience, and contributing to the sustainable growth of the digital economy in Laos.
Hashtag: #GreenSM
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Global Leaders Converge to Shape the Future of Higher Education in Asia
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 24 April 2026 – The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) and Times Higher Education (THE) co-hosted the Asia Universities Summit 2026 from April 22 to 24. Under the theme “Igniting Global Transformation: Asia’s Leadership,” the three-day premier event explores Asia’s pivotal role in reshaping global innovation and addressing pressing societal challenges through higher education.
The Summit holds particular significance as it coincides with HKUST’s 35th anniversary and marks a decade of partnership between the University and THE since the inaugural summit. This year’s event has attracted over 600 university presidents, policymakers, and industry titans from 25 countries and regions, underscoring a collective commitment to advancing the academic landscape across the continent.
The Summit officially commenced on April 22 at HKUST’s Shaw Auditorium, with the opening ceremony officiated by Dr. SZE Chun-Fai, Jeff, Acting Secretary for Education of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government; Prof. Nancy IP, President of HKUST; Phil BATY, Chief Global Affairs Officer, and Mei Mei LIM, President, Asia Pacific, from THE.
In her opening remarks, President Ip underscored the need for cross-border collaboration and the evolving role of universities in a rapidly changing world. She said, “As HKUST celebrates its anniversary and a decade of partnership with Times Higher Education, we gather at a defining moment for our region. Asia is increasingly shaping the direction of global innovation, talent development, and societal transformation. In this era of rapid technological advancement and constant change—from artificial intelligence to climate resilience—the challenge of progress lies in anticipating needs and shaping solutions, which calls for a fundamental rethinking of how universities lead. At HKUST, we firmly believe that no single institution can address these global challenges alone; progress will come through openness, partnership, and shared responsibility.
Hong Kong is unique in being the only city in the world with five universities ranked among the global top 100, underscoring its role as a leading international hub for exchange and innovation. Building on this strength, HKUST has initiated dialogues with the world’s leading universities and invited them to Hong Kong to explore opportunities for a university town. This Summit reflects our long‑standing commitment to bringing institutions together to exchange ideas, build meaningful collaborations, and take collective action. By convening leaders from across Asia and beyond, we aim to turn thoughtful dialogue into real impact for our communities and for society at large.”
Dr. SZE Chun-Fai, Jeff, highlighted Hong Kong’s unique position as an international education hub, stating, “Universities today are not only centers of knowledge creation but also powerful drivers of innovation, resilience, and societal impact. In an era of rapid technological advancement, higher education must translate cutting-edge research into real-world solutions that address global challenges. HKUST exemplifies this excellence and achieves remarkable rankings, with its entrepreneurial story equally unmatched, demonstrating the worldwide impact of its research discoveries. Hong Kong has long served as the world’s super-connector and super-value adder, bridging East and West. Our highly internationalized and diversified post-secondary education system positions us ideally to facilitate this convergence between global academic networks and the opportunities of the Chinese Mainland and the wider region. Education, technology, and talent form a foundational triad for success. By fostering talent attraction, interdisciplinary education, industry-academic partnerships, and research collaborations with our counterparts elsewhere, we are building a vibrant ecosystem that strengthens Hong Kong’s innovation edge, contributing to Asia as well as national development.”
Phil Baty reaffirmed THE’s enduring partnership of trust with HKUST and celebrated Asia’s rising global influence, stating, “A decade ago, right here on this stunning campus, THE launched its first-ever Asia Universities Summit. Today, we are witnessing a tilt in the balance of power in global higher education and research from the West to the East. This extraordinary trajectory is driven by Asia’s booming research productivity and global ambitions. Hong Kong, with five universities now ranked among the world’s top 100, stands at the heart of this transformation—a city which we believe will remain the flagship atop the rising tide across Asia, cementing its position as a world-leading powerhouse. New knowledge creation is not a zero-sum game, as we all gain from the leapfrogging Asian university sector. This Summit is a celebration of your excellence and the glorious diversity of our academic community.”
Following the opening ceremony, President Ip joined Prof. Martin O. BERGÖ, Vice-President of Karolinska Institutet, in a keynote fireside chat on longevity science. The discussion explored how advances in biomedicine, neuroscience, and translational research can extend both lifespan and healthspan, while contributing to resilient and equitable societies. President Ip shared insights from her pioneering neuroscience research, including the University’s efforts to decode the biological basis of healthy aging. She said, “Healthy aging is not just about adding years to life, but adding life to our years. We need a paradigm shift from reactive to proactive care. At HKUST, we are focused on monitoring risks for any diseases early and implementing preventive measures. Longevity science is about extending the ‘healthspan’ and as a university, we have much to offer through our research and collaborations. We are uniquely positioned to contribute to this field.”
A spotlight on the first day was a fireside chat between Prof. Harry SHUM, Chairman of the HKUST Council, and Judson ALTHOFF, CEO of Microsoft’s Commercial Business. The dialogue delved into the transformative power of AI across both industry and academia, discussing how universities can collaborate with global technology leaders to prepare students for an AI‑pervasive world. Emphasis was placed not only on technological capability, but also on trust, critical thinking and mindset change within institutions.
Prof. Shum underscored the importance of embracing AI across disciplines, “For our university, at this time, the number one priority is really a mindset change—to focus on AI for science, engineering, business, humanities, and medicine. AI is already here. We do not have to be afraid of this technology. It is a powerful new tool for us and a wonderful thing that we must learn and master to drive growth and innovation.”
Throughout the Summit, President Ip participated in two leadership meetings with over 15 university presidents and senior leaders from institutions across Asia, engaging in candid, strategy‑focused exchanges on shared regional challenges. One session examined how Asia’s emerging innovation corridors—from the Greater Bay Area to other fast‑growing technology belts—can redefine global technology leadership, with discussions centered on governance models and cross‑border collaboration. Another session focused on shaping next‑generation cities, exploring how universities can align research, talent development and policy engagement to support sustainable urban transformation amid rapid technological and societal change. These high-level dialogues emphasized the need for strategic alignment between academic research and regional development, reinforcing the Summit’s mission to leverage Asian leadership for global transformation through collaborative institutional design and shared expertise.
Across a series of high‑level sessions, HKUST senior leadership played an active role in shaping discussions on inclusive leadership, trusted AI in higher education, research commercialization, climate resilience, and global research collaboration. The sessions examined how universities can strengthen governance frameworks to ensure the responsible and ethical use of AI, while cultivating innovation ecosystems that translate research outcomes into socio-economic impact.
The dialogue also addressed strategies for nurturing entrepreneurship, climate‑proofing rapidly growing cities through interdisciplinary engineering approaches, and sustaining borderless research collaboration amid rising geopolitical and regulatory pressures. Collectively, these contributions highlighted HKUST’s commitment to advancing responsible innovation, international partnership, and university leadership attuned to Asia’s evolving challenges and global responsibilities.
The three-day event concluded with a closing ceremony, cementing new strategic partnerships and a shared vision for the future of higher education in the region.
Download photos here: https://hkust.edu.hk/news/hkust-and-times-higher-education-co-host-asia-universities-summit-2026
Hashtag: #HKUST
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
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