Hong Kong crushes GBA rivals as business confidence surges to 57.9

Hong Kong's service hub status fuels surge as GBA rivals trail.

Hong Kong’s business sentiment remained in expansion territory in the fourth quarter of 2025, according to the latest Greater Bay Area Business Confidence Index (GBAI) compiled by Standard Chartered.

The city’s current performance index rose to 57.9, whilst the expectations index came in at 55.4, both staying above the 50-point mark that signals growth.

Professional services, along with retail and wholesale trade, were key contributors to Hong Kong’s performance.

These sectors benefited from cross-border business flows and demand linked to regional trade, logistics, and financial services.

The survey also underscored Hong Kong’s role as a services hub within the Greater Bay Area, particularly in supporting companies seeking to expand beyond mainland China.

Firms based in the city continue to provide financing, legal, logistics, and market access services to regional enterprises pursuing overseas markets.

Compared with other cities in the Greater Bay Area, Hong Kong’s readings placed it amongst the stronger performers, reflecting relatively stable operating conditions and business expectations heading into 2026.

The Greater Bay Area Business Confidence Index tracks business conditions and outlook across major cities in southern China, including Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Guangzhou and Macau.

An index reading above 50 indicates expansion, whilst a reading below 50 signals contraction.