Asian Financial Forum in Hong Kong spotlights golden opportunities

Hong Kong SAR – The 19th Asian Financial Forum (AFF) kicked off this morning (January 26) at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, bringing together more than 3,600 influential leaders from over 60 countries and regions for a two-day summit. This marks the region’s first major international financial event of 2026 and promises to be a platform for discussing key issues and exploring new opportunities in the global financial landscape.

The AFF is a highly anticipated event for the financial industry, as it brings together the brightest minds and top players in the field to share insights, network and collaborate. This year’s forum is no exception, with a diverse lineup of speakers and participants representing a wide range of sectors, including banking, asset management, insurance, fintech, and more.

The theme for this year’s AFF is “Golden Opportunities: Reshaping the Global Economic Landscape.” This is a timely and relevant topic, as the world has been facing unprecedented challenges in recent years, from the global pandemic to economic uncertainty. Now, more than ever, it is crucial for the financial industry to come together and discuss how to navigate these challenges and seize the opportunities that lie ahead.

One of the key highlights of the AFF is the keynote speech by the Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, Mrs. Carrie Lam. In her speech, Mrs. Lam highlighted Hong Kong’s resilience and its vital role in the global financial landscape. She also emphasized the city’s commitment to maintaining its status as one of the world’s leading financial centers, despite the challenges it has faced in recent years.

Mrs. Lam also highlighted Hong Kong’s unique advantages, such as its strategic location, world-class infrastructure, robust regulatory framework, and talented workforce. These factors have made Hong Kong an ideal hub for international finance and have enabled it to weather the storm of the global pandemic. As the world recovers, Hong Kong is well-positioned to capitalize on the opportunities that arise.

The forum also featured an insightful panel discussion on the global economic outlook, with top economists and analysts sharing their insights on the current state of the global economy and what lies ahead. The panelists discussed the impact of the pandemic, the rise of digitalization, and the importance of sustainability in shaping the future of the global economy.

Another highlight of the AFF is the InnoVenture Salon, which showcases cutting-edge fintech solutions and innovations from around the world. This is a testament to Hong Kong’s growing status as a fintech hub, with its strong ecosystem and supportive government policies. The salon provides a platform for fintech startups to connect with potential investors and partners, further strengthening Hong Kong’s position as a global financial and technological hub.

In addition to the insightful discussions and networking opportunities, the AFF also serves as a platform for business matching and deal-making. The forum has facilitated numerous business partnerships and collaborations in the past, and this year’s event is expected to do the same. With the participation of top industry leaders and decision-makers, the AFF is the ideal place to explore new business opportunities and expand global networks.

The AFF also highlights the importance of sustainable finance in driving economic growth and creating a more sustainable future. In line with this, a dedicated session on green finance was held, focusing on the latest developments and trends in this rapidly growing sector. This session also highlighted Hong Kong’s efforts in promoting green finance and its role in supporting the region’s sustainable development.

In conclusion, the 19th Asian Financial Forum in Hong Kong has once again proven to be a valuable platform for connecting, sharing, and exploring new opportunities in the global financial landscape. With its strong focus on resilience, innovation, and sustainability, the forum has set the stage for a brighter and more prosperous future for the financial industry. As we continue to navigate through uncertain times, the AFF serves as a beacon of hope and a reminder that there are always golden opportunities waiting to be seized, even in the toughest of times.