South Korea Warns Weak Won Could Push Inflation Higher in 2025 
Asian Stocks Slide as AI Spending Fears and Global Central Bank Decisions Weigh on Markets 
Asian Stocks Edge Higher as Tech Recovers, U.S. Economic Uncertainty Caps Gains 
RBA Unlikely to Cut Interest Rates in 2026 as Inflation Pressures Persist, Says Westpac 
Singapore Growth Outlook Brightens for 2025 as Economists Flag AI and Geopolitical Risks 
Bank of Japan Poised for Historic Rate Hike as Inflation Pressures Persist 
Wall Street Futures Slip as Tech Stocks Struggle Ahead of Key US Economic Data 
Asian Stocks Slide as AI Valuation Fears and BOJ Uncertainty Weigh on Markets 
U.S. Stock Futures Edge Higher as Micron Earnings Boost AI Sentiment Ahead of CPI Data 
Asian Currencies Slip as Dollar Strengthens; Indian Rupee Rebounds on Intervention Hopes 
Dollar Holds Firm Ahead of Global Central Bank Decisions as Yen, Sterling and Euro React 
Oil Prices Slip in Asia as 2026 Supply Glut Fears and Russia-Ukraine Talks Weigh on Markets 
Japan PMI Data Signals Manufacturing Stabilization as Services Continue to Drive Growth 
U.S. Dollar Steadies Near October Lows as Rate Cut Expectations Keep Markets on Edge 
Asian Fund Managers Turn More Optimistic on Growth but Curb Equity Return Expectations: BofA Survey 
Bank of Korea Downplays Liquidity’s Role in Weak Won and Housing Price Surge 
New Zealand Budget Outlook Shows Prolonged Deficits Despite Economic Recovery Hopes 
In his annual policy address on Wednesday, Hong Kong's Chief Executive John Lee outlined crucial reforms aimed at addressing pressing issues and enhancing residents' livelihoods. This marks Lee's third policy address since taking office.
Focus on Public Housing
One of the primary commitments made by the Hong Kong government is to reduce wait times for public housing. The government aims to expedite the housing allocation process to tackle the longstanding issue of housing shortages, which remains a significant concern for many residents.
Encouraging Business Growth
Lee emphasized efforts to attract international companies to Hong Kong's stock exchange. The government plans to streamline listing procedures, making it easier for businesses to enter the market. Additionally, the establishment of an international commodity exchange and a fuel bunkering center is set to capitalize on opportunities in green shipping and aviation sectors.
Economic Outlook
Hong Kong's economy, characterized by its small and open nature, has been impacted by a slowdown in China. According to recent estimates, Hong Kong's economy grew by 3.3% year-over-year in the second quarter of 2024, with forecasts predicting growth between 2.5% and 3.5% for the entire year. While tourism has rebounded with an expected 46 million visitors in 2024, consumption and retail spending remain sluggish, and capital flight continues to pose a significant challenge.
Conclusion
As Hong Kong navigates these economic hurdles, the government's focus on housing, international business, and sustainable initiatives reflects a strategic approach to revitalizing its economy and improving the quality of life for its citizens.
