The Financial Services Development Council (FSDC), in partnership with the Hong Kong Securities and Investment Institute (HKSI Institute), successfully hosted the Hong Kong-ASEAN Collaborative Market Capacity Building Programme from 20 to 22 May. The programme brought together senior financial executives from Indonesia and Vietnam, marking the first pilot initiative. It aimed to deepen participants’ understanding of Hong Kong’s financial ecosystem and unique value propositions, while fostering insights for cross-border collaboration and innovation.

The three-day training session focused on three key themes: financial policy and regulatory developments, capital markets and connectivity, as well as FinTech and innovation. Through a combination of expert-led sessions, in-depth discussions and networking opportunities, participants gained insights into how Hong Kong’s adaptability and global outlook can serve as a model for regional and global financial cooperation. The programme provided a strategic overview of the latest advancements in FinTech, including virtual assets and digital currencies, while showcasing potential in capital markets, ranging from fundraising, the Connect Schemes to green and sustainable finance initiatives.

Participants engaged with leaders from Hong Kong's financial services industry, gaining diverse perspectives on economic and emerging trends, and connected with senior representatives from the Hong Kong SAR Government, regulatory bodies, industry associations and other key financial stakeholders, fostering constructive dialogue to navigate the rapidly evolving financial landscape that defines the future of finance.

“As global finance evolves at an unprecedented pace, Hong Kong remains steadfast in its role as a hub for innovation and collaboration,” stated Mr Benjamin Hung, Chairman of the FSDC. “This programme reflects our commitment to fostering thought leadership, strengthening regional partnerships, and facilitating the exchange of strategic insights and global perspectives among industry stakeholders to address the challenges of a transforming financial ecosystem and drive sustainable growth across the region.”

Mr Daryl Ng, Chairman of the Hong Kong-ASEAN Foundation and Convenor of the FSDC ASEAN Advisory Group, remarked, “ASEAN’s increasing importance as a dynamic engine of regional economic growth highlights new opportunities to advance connectivity and partnerships. Through deeper engagement with ASEAN stakeholders and the exchange of insights on emerging trends, Hong Kong strengthens its position as a strategic bridge, linking ASEAN with global markets and driving growth across the region.”

“We are pleased to co-organise this inaugural ASEAN executive training programme with FSDC. The programme aims to foster meaningful connections with participants while accelerating knowledge exchange through interactive roundtable discussions with professional bodies and visits to key regulators of Hong Kong. We strive to strengthen synergies with ASEAN’s exciting growth story and build on this momentum to continue nurturing enduring relationships and transformative talent development between Hong Kong and ASEAN,” said Mr Kevin Liem, Chairperson of HKSI Institute.

Honoured by the presence of the Secretary for the Financial Services and the Treasury, Mr Christopher Hui, the Hong Kong-ASEAN Foundation hosted a closing luncheon to celebrate the successful completion of the programme. Mr Hui delivered closing remarks and presented Certificates of Completion to participants in recognition of their accomplishments, and reaffirming a shared commitment to advancing regional collaboration within the financial sector.

As Hong Kong and ASEAN deepen their collaboration, this programme paves the way for stronger economic partnerships and enhanced regional connectivity, creating opportunities for shared growth and prosperity.