Hong Kong fintech forum explores AI, global expansion opportunities
The Hong Kong Fintech Week x StartmeupHK 2026 main forum focused on how businesses can leverage capital, technology and global connectivity in Hong Kong. Leaders discussed AI, tokenisation and the city's first five-year development plan to drive innovation and market growth.
The Hong Kong Fintech Week x StartmeupHK 2026 main forum, held on 2 and 3 November, brought together policymakers and industry leaders to discuss how businesses can use Hong Kong's advantages in capital, technology and global connectivity to tap new growth opportunities. The 11th edition of the event was organised by the Financial Services and the Treasury Bureau, the Commerce and Economic Development Bureau and InvestHK, with support from the Hong Kong Monetary Authority, the Securities and Futures Commission and the Insurance Authority.
Chief Executive John Lee opened the forum, saying the city's first five-year development plan, published about two months ago, provides clear direction for businesses, investors and innovators. “The five-year plan is closely aligned with the national 15th five-year plan, providing clear direction for Hong Kong to leverage its strengths and better integrate into and serve the national development strategy,” Lee said. He noted that international confidence in Hong Kong is growing, with investors continuing to deploy capital, global professionals choosing the city and international firms expanding their businesses there.
Financial Secretary Paul Chan said in a keynote speech that fintech development should focus on three areas: efficiency, inclusivity and trust. “Advancing fintech is not just about launching more pilot projects, but about integrating innovation into the daily operations of businesses to bring real benefits,” Chan said. He added that the government will continue to provide clear rules and reliable infrastructure.
Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury Christopher Hui, speaking on a panel on data, tokenisation and AI, said the government, regulators and industry are working together to harness the potential of these three tools through legislation, regulatory improvements, innovation encouragement and talent cultivation. Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development Edward Yau said Hong Kong's unique advantages include a trusted platform, reliable international hub and world-class professional services to help tech and startup firms navigate geopolitical uncertainties and expand into new markets.
Monetary Authority Chief Executive Eddie Yue said maintaining robustness and public trust is key to advancing fintech innovation, and that the authority will continue to act as a facilitator. Securities and Futures Commission Chief Executive Ashley Lo said AI and tokenisation can empower Hong Kong's financial markets but must be accompanied by investor protection and market integrity. Insurance Authority Chief Executive Clement Wong said the authority's AI promotion plan has helped insurers establish AI centres of excellence in Hong Kong, boosting talent and application development.
InvestHK Executive Director Michael Lui said the forum has fostered meaningful connections and business opportunities. “Under the first five-year plan, Hong Kong is consolidating its status as an international financial centre, building an international innovation and technology centre and expanding global cooperation networks,” Lui said.
The forum was part of a week-long event running until 6 November, including a two-day Greater Bay Area innovation tour to Shenzhen.
