63% of finance leaders forecast GDP growth in 2026

Survey cites capital-market depth and financial connectivity as key supports.

Sixty-three percent of Hong Kong finance leaders expect the economy to expand in 2026, according to CPA Australia’s Business Sentiment Survey.

Respondents pointed to capital-market depth and financial connectivity as the main factors supporting activity amid continued global headwinds and trade tensions.

Tax competitiveness, capital-market strength, and mainland economic performance were identified as the primary growth drivers.

High living costs and global and mainland slowdowns were cited as the biggest risks.

According to the survey, more than 60% expect retail, industrial and office property prices to fall in 2026.

About 66% also expect IPO activity to rise next year after Hong Kong ranked amongst the world’s leading fundraising centres by Q3 2025.

Trade tensions remain a concern, with 51% reporting negative impacts in 2025 and 20% identifying it as a key issue for new markets in 2026.

At least 39% forecast higher revenue next year, down from 51% in 2025, whilst competitive pressures increased to 29% from 19%, CPA noted.