John Lee says HK offers businesses long-term certainty

Chief Executive John Lee said Hong Kong offers businesses the "certainty" they need to innovate, invest and flourish over the long term, even as global uncertainty persists. That assurance came in opening remarks that he made on the first day of the region's annual flagship finance and technology event, Hong Kong Fintech Week and StartmeupHK, on Monday. The conference brings together some 1,000 government leaders and fintech, finance and technology professionals from more than 100 countries and economies, along with around 800 exhibitors and startups and more than 30 delegations from the mainland and abroad. Lee framed the event against a fast-changing global backdrop, saying technology is advancing at a remarkable speed, with artificial intelligence transforming industries and forcing businesses worldwide to adjust to shifting market conditions and unprecedented technological changes. "In such an ever-changing, all-encompassing environment, one quality is becoming even more valuable — I'm talking about certainty," he said. "Certainty about direction, certainty about opportunities, certainty about where businesses can invest, innovate and flourish in the long term." Lee pointed to Hong Kong’s first-ever five-year plan, saying the strategic blueprint reinforces the city’s status as an international financial, maritime and trade centre and aviation hub, while accelerating its development as an international innovation and...