CPA Australia’s Hong Kong Business Sentiment Survey indicated that, despite ongoing global economic uncertainty and trade disputes, Hong Kong’s financial sector continues to play a significant role in the city’s economic stability.  

The survey of accounting and finance professionals finds that the strength of capital markets and financial links are key factors behind resilient Hong Kong business sentiment for 2026. 

Conducted between 22 October and 21 November 2025, the survey includes input from 296 professionals working across a range of sectors. 

According to the survey, 63% of participants expect Hong Kong’s economy to maintain modest growth in the coming year.  

Respondents identified tax regime (39%), capital markets (30%), and economic activity in Chinese mainland (24%) as the main factors expected to support growth. 

However, several issues are expected to affect business conditions, the report said.  

High living expenses (28%), a slowdown in the global economy (27%), and reduced growth rates in Chinese mainland (26%) were listed as the primary concerns for 2026.  

The survey revealed that 42% still consider Hong Kong’s international competitiveness to be “fairly high”.  

The city’s IPO market experienced an upturn this year, regaining its position as the largest global fundraising hub by the third quarter. 

Looking ahead, 66% of respondents anticipate further increases in IPO activity by 2026. 

When asked about government policies considered most useful for their organisations next year, 22% selected ‘enhancing Hong Kong’s financial connectivity with other regions’.  

This was followed by China’s ‘Going Out’ strategy, cited by 21%. 

Trade tensions continue to produce negative effects on business confidence. In the survey, 51% reported adverse impacts on their company’s performance in 2025 due to such tensions.  

The proportion who views trade tensions as a major concern has risen from 9% previously to 20% for 2026. 

In response to these challenges, 24% of companies have relocated or restructured operations, with 20% moving into different markets and 19% conducting risk assessments.  

The survey noted, expansion plans are increasingly directed towards domestic opportunities (32%) and Chinese mainland markets (46%). 

Revenue expectations are said to have become more cautious. Only 39% predict revenue increases for their company in 2026, compared with 51% for this year.  

Meanwhile, 37% expect stable revenue levels.  

CPA Australia Greater China Divisional 2025 president Karina Wong said: “Hong Kong’s capital market is a vital engine for the city’s economic growth and a key differentiator in sustaining global competitiveness. Amid geopolitical tensions and external volatility, Hong Kong is considered as a safe haven for international investors and businesses to manage their assets and diversify risks. 

“Our survey shows that enhancing financial connectivity with other regions is the policy most likely to have the greatest impact on business growth next year.”  

Findings from CPA Australia in November also note that most businesses in Hong Kong are now turning to AI tools to increase productivity.