Hong Kong is set to host the 18th Asian Financial Forum (AFF) on 13 and 14 January 2025, marking the region’s first major international finance and business event of the year.

Co-organised by the Hong Kong government and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), the AFF 2025 forum will be held at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre under the theme “Powering the Next Growth Engine.”

The two-day event will bring together policymakers, business leaders, financial experts, investors, entrepreneurs, and tech leaders.

They will gather to discuss pressing global issues such as geopolitical tensions, economic challenges, and emerging investment opportunities.

The focus will be on emerging markets like Mainland China, ASEAN, and the Middle East, alongside advancements in artificial intelligence, fintech, and sustainability.

Key sessions at AFF 2025 include Global Economic Outlook, which will analyse international economic trends, and China Opportunities, which will explore investment prospects driven by technological innovation.

Meanwhile, CIO Insights will highlight strategies for cross-regional cooperation and long-term asset allocation.

Prominent speakers at AFF 2025 include Justin Lin Yifu, former Chief Economist of the World Bank; Stuart Russell, AI expert and Co-Chair of the World Economic Forum’s AI Council; Dr Kai-Fu Lee, Chairman of Sinovation Ventures; and Joe Tsai, Chairman of Alibaba Group.

AFF 2025 will also feature platforms such as the Fintech Showcase and InnoVenture Salon, offering pitching opportunities, advisory sessions, and showcases of innovative technologies across sectors like regtech, health tech, and food/agri-tech.

These platforms aim to connect startups, businesses, and investors, fostering collaboration and innovation.

Luanne Lim, Chairperson of the AFF Steering Committee and Chief Executive Officer, Hong Kong, of HSBC, said,

“The forum adopts the theme ‘Powering the Next Growth Engine’, bringing together influential speakers and thought leaders to share insights, dissect the evolving global landscape and spotlight emerging investment opportunities.

Key areas of focus include the growth potential of emerging markets such as Mainland China, ASEAN and the Middle East, as well as advancements in sectors like artificial intelligence, fintech, sustainability, philanthropy and family offices. The forum continues to provide a premier platform for renowned global investors and fundraisers to collaborate and ignite new engines for growth with its strong international influence and diverse perspectives.”

The AFF highlights Hong Kong’s role as an international financial hub, serving as a platform for dialogue, cross-regional cooperation, and global connectivity.

For more details about the Asian Financial Forum 2025, including the full programme and speaker lineup, visit the official website here.