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18th Asian Financial Forum Opens in Hong Kong: Driving Financial Dialogue and Innovation

18th Asian Financial Forum Opens in Hong Kong: Driving Financial Dialogue and Innovation

The annual gathering sets the stage for discussions on shaping future global growth through financial innovation and international collaboration.
The 18th Asian Financial Forum, a significant event in the calendar of global financial discourse, commenced in Hong Kong on Monday.

The two-day forum, organized by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) in conjunction with the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government, is operating under the theme 'Powering the Next Growth Engine.'

In his welcome address, Peter Lam, chairman of the HKTDC, highlighted the importance of the finance industry and corporate sector in nurturing innovative enterprises that are anticipated to drive global economic growth.

The forum seeks to explore strategies for supporting the next wave of businesses and industries that will potentially define the future economic landscape.

John Lee, Chief Executive of the HKSAR, underscored Hong Kong's strategic position in propelling this new growth agenda.

Lee emphasized Hong Kong's strengths as a competitive center for international asset and wealth management.

He also outlined plans to bolster these advantages by venturing into new sectors, notably the establishment of an international gold trading center, and enhancing Hong Kong's overseas network through greater engagement with countries involved in the Belt and Road Initiative.

This year's forum has attracted approximately 3,600 participants, encompassing financial and business leaders hailing from over 50 countries and regions.

The diverse gathering will engage in over 40 sessions covering a breadth of topics crucial to the current and future state of global finance.

These discussions will delve into the global economic outlook, explore emerging market opportunities, and assess the impact of artificial intelligence and fintech on the financial landscape.

Furthermore, issues of sustainability and philanthropy will also be key focal points, reflecting the growing importance of these themes in economic policy discussions.

The Asian Financial Forum continues to play a pivotal role in shaping financial strategies and fostering international cooperation.

Its focus on innovation and broad spectrum of topics ensure its relevance as a platform for idea exchange and strategic planning at the regional and global levels.
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