Following is the speech by the Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury, Mr Christopher Hui, at the Greater Bay Area (GBA) Learning Workshop of the Finance Career Trainee Program today (March 28):
Ms Rose Kay (Chief Operating Officer, Hong Kong and Head of Chief Executive Officer Office, Hong Kong and Greater China and North Asia, Standard Chartered Bank), Ms Florence Wong (Head of Human Resources , Hong Kong, Taiwan and Co-head of Human Resources, GBA, Standard Chartered Bank), Ms Brenda Hou (Senior Head, Asia Pacific, Global Partnership & Client Solutions, CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst) Institute), Mr Ben Yi (Director and Vice President, GBA Youth Innovation and Entrepreneurship Foundation), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,
It is my great pleasure to join you today at the GBA Learning Workshop of the Finance Career Trainee Program co-organised by Standard Chartered Bank, CFA Institute, and KPMG China. Let me begin by commending the organisers for their unwavering dedication to nurturing our next generation of financial leaders.
It is very exciting to learn that nearly 2 500 students from 400 universities worldwide have applied to this programme since its inception in September 2023, reflecting its global reach and credibility. It has not only created valuable learning opportunities for students but also bridged the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application.
Even more importantly, this finance career trainee programme rightly dedicates its focus to the Greater Bay Area. Indeed, the GBA represents an extraordinary opportunity for ambitious young professionals like those here today. As one of the world's most dynamic and rapidly evolving economic regions, the GBA serves as a hub of innovation, presenting endless possibilities in financial services, technology, and cross-border collaboration.
In recent years, financial co-operation in the GBA has grown significantly. For example, the Cross-Boundary Wealth Management Connect allows eligible residents in Mainland China, Hong Kong and Macau to invest in wealth management products through a closed-loop capital channel established between banks and brokers. Meanwhile, the Government and the financial industry have actively strengthened financial infrastructure, with cross-border mobile payments becoming increasingly common across the GBA. Another noteworthy development is the successful pilot for cross-boundary credit referencing between Hong Kong and Shenzhen, which has helped address the challenges faced by small and medium-sized enterprises in obtaining cross-border financing.
These examples underscore how financial collaboration in the GBA is creating exciting new opportunities – not only for the financial industry but also for young professionals. For our youngsters here today, I encourage you to embrace these opportunities, contribute to these collaborative efforts, and play an active role in shaping the future of finance in this dynamic region.
As you prepare to step into the exciting and ever-changing financial industry, I would like to offer three more pieces of advice:
First, think beyond borders: The GBA's strength lies in its cross-boundary collaboration. By working across different cities, you can develop a global perspective, gain insights into diverse markets, and leverage the collective strengths of the region.
Second, stay curious and adaptable: The financial industry is evolving rapidly, driven by technological advancements and shifting economic landscapes. Staying curious, adaptable and eager to learn will be key to thriving in this dynamic environment.
Last but not least, be purpose-driven: As the next generation of leaders, please strive to make a meaningful impact. Financial services are not only about driving profitability but also about contributing to society, promoting sustainability, and improving lives.
I am confident that through this programme, you will gain the skills, insights, and networks necessary to excel in the financial industry while contributing to the continued growth of the GBA as a global financial powerhouse.
In closing, I would like to once again express my gratitude to Standard Chartered Bank, CFA Institute, and KPMG China for their remarkable vision and dedication to empowering young talent.
Thank you, and I wish you all a successful and inspiring workshop ahead.
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