Stability is what makes Hong Kong stand out, Chief Executive John Lee said on Tuesday in a message to more than 4,000 financial leaders and investors from some 50 countries and regions at an HSBC investment summit.

Lee said the city remains a top choice for investors "given today's geopolitical roller-coaster".

He noted that more than 500 companies are now queuing up to list on the local stock exchange and pointed to Hong Kong’s third-place global ranking in the latest Global Financial Centres Index.

Lee also highlighted Beijing’s backing for helping the city consolidate its status as an international financial hub.

“The national 15th Five-Year Plan, approved last month in Beijing, continues to champion Hong Kong's development as an international financial, shipping and trade centre,” he said.

“The staunch backing of such an economic superpower as our country ensures Hong Kong's strength.

“It ensures that amid the global chaos, Hong Kong offers what few other international hubs can: uninterrupted business, a stable and secure environment, and a community that understands the hard value of order.”

Lee also noted that more firms now see Hong Kong as a springboard for going global, pointing to the city's diverse professional services as a key advantage.

“And these include professional service providers from a wide variety of fields, such as legal and financial services, marketing and testing and certification, to help companies in the mainland and elsewhere go global,” he said.

“In turn, we help to connect a world of investors to the vast opportunities of the vibrant Chinese market.”

Lee said the SAR is also leveraging its strengths in finance to drive high-quality development, particularly in fast-tracking new technology and industrial projects.



Edited by Thomas McAlinden