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Prof Frederick S Ma GBS, JP

Chairman

WELCOME REMARKS

The Honourable John KC Lee, GBM, SBS, PDSM, PMSM

Chief Executive

OPENING REMARKS

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Special Session

The global political and economic landscape is undergoing profound changes, marked by growing uncertainties fueled by persistent geopolitical risks, rising unilateralism, and ongoing tariff disputes. These challenges have heightened concerns in international markets regarding the economic and financial market outlook. In such uncertain times, it is imperative to strengthen communication and dialogue, foster candid exchanges, deepen mutual understanding, and rebuild trust among economies. By working together, we can pursue shared development. In this discussion, senior policymakers will explore actionable strategies to rebuild trust amid these shifting dynamics and examine how enhanced cooperation can drive mutual growth and prosperity.

Mr Christopher Hui Ching-yu, GBS, JP

Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury

MODERATOR

Mr Klemen Boštjančič

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance

 H.E. Mr. Mehmet Şimşek

Minister of Treasury and Finance

Ms Zou Jiayi 

President and Chair of the Board of Directors

Mr Scott Morris

Vice-President (East and Southeast Asia, and the Pacific)

PANEL SPEAKER

Plenary Session I– Fostering Cooperation for Shared Success 

Mr Jack Chan, JP

EY China Chairman, Greater China Regional Managing Partner

SPEAKER

Presentation on Joint HKTDC and EY Survey

Project Investment Session – Healthcare Technology

2025 may have seemed a period of continuity in markets stability and growth with the  impact of the tariff war on inflation in the US being benign; and the sharp rise in political  uncertainty has not dampened the enthusiasm for AI and technology, the very sector that has buoyed the global stock markets so far. All this has given investors a false sense of security that the global economy is resilient against the erosion of a rule-based international order. But the mega forces and complex dynamics set in motion last year may manifest themselves in 2026, say, in a more fragmented global economic landscape, repricing of assets and rising credit spreads. Rapid technological advancements—including the rise of digital assets, fintech innovations, and evolving market infrastructure—are transforming the financial landscape and bringing new risks as well as opportunities.  



How to navigate this transition from perceived stability to a more unsettled environment? What is the role of central banks and regulators in supporting responsible innovation and sustainable economic growth while ensuring resilient financial markets in this evolving environment? 

Ms Julia Leung, SBS, JP 

Chief Executive Officer 

PANEL CHAIR

H.E. Waleed Saeed Abdul Salam Al Awadhi 

Chief Executive Officer, Capital Market Authority

Mr Burkhard Balz

Member of the Executive Board

Mr Benjamin Hung, BBS, JP

Mr Gokul Laroia

Chief Executive Officer Asia

Mr Changyong Rhee

Governor

Plenary Session II – Charting the Future of Finance in Times of Uncertainty

The world is moving toward a more multipolar and increasingly complex landscape as protectionism and geopolitical uncertainties continue to rise. How do these evolving dynamics affect multilateral cooperation and global business connectivity? What role can Hong Kong, the region’s international financial centre, play in fostering links between the Chinese Mainland, other Asian economies, and beyond?  Dr Barroso will share his insights on how global trade realignments are reshaping capital flows and cross-border collaboration. He will also discuss Hong Kong’s role in strengthening regional collaboration, and explore how Asia can enhance economic integration by drawing lessons from Europe’s experience. 

The Honourable Paul Chan Mo-Po, GBM, GBS, MH, JP

Financial Secretary

Mr Wang Shuguang

Vice Chairman of the Board, President and Member of the Management Committee

Dr José Manuel Durão Barroso

Former President of European Commission

KEYNOTE SPEAKER

Keynote Luncheon (Sponsored by CICC)

Hong Kong’s status as a premier maritime hub is underpinned by its strategic location, world-class port infrastructure, and vibrant financial ecosystem. This panel examines how marine insurance can strengthen Hong Kong’s leading position in a shifting global trade landscape, while highlighting opportunities to innovate. Topics include the role of insurance in supporting shipping and logistics, challenges amid technological advancements as well as how new insurance frameworks and partnerships can foster resilience and create development opportunities.

Mr Clement Lau

Executive Director, Policy and Legislation

Ms Rosita Lau, MH

Partner

Ms Sigorney Lau 

General Manager

Mr Timothy Lee 

Senior Vice President, Marine & Specialty

Mr Derek Shum 

Senior Vice President, Head of Marine

Panel Discussion on Insurance & Risk Management– Charting Future Seas: Hong  Kong’s Maritime Prospects for Insurance

Prof Edward Chen, GBS, CBE, JP

Honorary Professor

Sir Douglas Flint, CBE

Mr Kevin Sneader

President, Asia Pacific Ex-Japan

Dr Ridha Wirakusumah

Chief Executive Officer

Prof Paolo Zannoni

Executive Deputy Chairman and Executive Director

Dr Zhu Min

Member of the Senior Expert Advisory Committee

Panel Discussion on Global Economic Outlook

Project Investment Session –  
AI in Action: Redefining Trust, Productivity & Customer Experience in Finance

Pension and endowment funds are among the most influential pools of capital in the global financial ecosystem. As stewards of long-term savings and institutional wealth, these entities play a vital role in fostering economic stability, funding innovation, and supporting sustainable development. This session will examine the evolving strategies for global pension and endowment institutions, and how purpose-driven investment and adaptability are becoming essential foundations for the future. The panellists will also discuss trends across regions and economies, exploring how these systems can fulfill their commitments to future generations while making meaningful contributions to economic progress and societal resilience.

Ms Janet Li

Chairman of the Executive Committee

Mr Cuan Coulter

 Head of International

Mr Arsa Indaravijaya

Chief Investment Officer 

Ms Lou Lizhou

Global Spectrum I – Pension and Endowment

The Middle East region has keen transforming with green initiatives and digital innovation, creating compelling opportunities for international partners and investors. This session will explore sustainability initiatives are shaping development across the region, dissect the momentum of digital transformation, and spotlight sectors for seeking international partners.

Mr Wing Chu 

Deputy Director of Research

Mr Abdulla Al Abdouli 

Mr Eng Saeed bin Ali Al-Abri 

Mr Sameh Muhtadi 

Fireside Chat – Integrating Sustainability and Digital Innovation to Unlock  Regional Investment in the Middle East

With vibrant start‑up ecosystems across Hong Kong and Asia, venture investment continues to accelerate and support founders through each stage of growth. This session will highlight the flow of capital shaping venture landscape in Asia, and delve into case studies of how entrepreneurs raise funds for overseas expansion and experiences of entering new markets.

Ms Karena Belin 

Co-Founder and CEO

Mr Woraphot Kingkawkantong 

Partner – Investment

Fireside Chat – Venture Investment Landscape in Asia and Beyond

Hong Kong’s financial sector plays a pivotal role in supporting the real economy, underpinned by its long-standing expertise in facilitating global trade flows and corporate treasury management, enabling multinational corporations (MNCs) to navigate both headwinds and momentum in today’s complex and volatile market landscape, all without losing sight of driving innovation and safeguarding financial discipline.       
 
Recognising the need to strategically respond to the evolving trade dynamics, this panel discussion will explore the implications of the latest supply chain reconfiguration on trade finance and corporate treasury practices, highlighting Hong Kong’s strategic positioning and competitiveness for MNCs seeking growth, agility and resilience. 

Mr Simon Loong

Founder and Group CEO 

Mr Robin Scott

General Manager of Middle East & Group General Counsel 

Dr Eric Yip

Executive Director of Intermediaries Division 

Dialogues for Tomorrow I – Fintech

Mr Kenneth Hui 

Executive Director (External)

Dr Dong He

Chief Economist

Mr Kelvin Li 

General Manager of Platform Technology 

Ms Pamela Mar

Managing Director, Digital Standards Initiative (DSI)

Panel Discussion on Supply Chain Financing – Bridging Finance and the Real Economy: Latest trends in Trade Finance and Corporate Treasury 

The financial landscape has been undergoing profound transformation, on the back of the rapid technological innovation, shifting demographic preferences, sustainability concerns and heightened market volatility. These factors are impactful on investor expectations for asset and wealth managers. Notably, while artificial intelligence (AI) is a magnet of investment funds, how can AI applications, on the other hand, help asset and wealth managers generate “alpha”? What are the considerations for asset managers when balancing portfolio with ESG objectives? And how are firms pivoting to alternative investment in 2026 for risk diversification?

Panel Discussion on Asset and Wealth Management