The “Starlit Global Economic Forum”, jointly organized by Banco Delta Asia and the Macao Association of Small and Medium Enterprises, was grandly held on 22 January 22 at the Grand Hyatt Macao. The event attracted about 500 guests from the business, academic, and professional services sectors in Macao, Hong Kong and Mainland China, creating a highly vibrant atmosphere.
Against the backdrop of ongoing evolution in the global economy and regional landscape, understanding key trends and potential challenges is particularly crucial. Centered on the theme “Global Opportunities and Challenges in 2026,” this forum focused on the economic outlook for Mainland China, Hong Kong and Macao. Three distinguished speakers were invited to analyze topics such as the macroeconomic situation, financial order, and RMB internationalization, providing forward-looking perspectives and strategic insights for industries and SMEs.
Before the commencement of the event, Mr. Stanley Au, Chairman of Delta Asia Financial Group, delivered the welcome address. Mr. Au stated: “In the current context of rapid restructuring in the global economic landscape, Mainland China, Hong Kong and Macao, as pivotal engines for regional development, are facing unprecedented opportunities and challenges. We hope that this forum will pool wisdom, bring inspiration to various sectors, and contribute to the sustainable development of the regional economy. Delta Asia will continue to serve as a bridge, promoting financial innovation and cross-border cooperation to create long-term value for our clients and society.”
Professor Edward K.Y. Chen, CBE, GBS, JP, Former President of Lingnan University and Honorary Professor at HKU Business School, shared his insights under the title “Economic Outlook for Mainland China, Hong Kong and Macao in 2026: Challenges and Opportunities.” He pointed out that the world in 2026 faces four major challenges: geopolitical fragmentation, economic uncertainty, technological disruption, and environmental degradation, yet “crisis and opportunity coexist.” He suggested that Hong Kong and Macao could actively explore markets such as ASEAN and India, and that governments need to proactively plan development strategies. He proposed directions including promoting international cooperation in education and talent, as well as strengthening government strategic planning and industrial policy guidance. Regarding growth forecasts, he predicted global economic growth at approximately 2.6% to 2.9%, Mainland China at about 4% to 5%, Hong Kong around 2.8% to 3.2%, and Macao between 2.5% and 3.5%. The main drivers of growth are expected to come from AI-related industries, regional trade, and tourism recovery.
Professor Shusong Ba, Professor of Finance at HKU Business School and Member of the Expert Group of the Chief Executive’s Policy Unit of the Hong Kong SAR Government, analyzed “New Trends in the Development of RMB Internationalization and the Unique Roles Hong Kong and Macao Can Play” via video. He emphasized that RMB internationalization has entered a critical stage. Hong Kong and Macao can play three key roles: serving as offshore RMB funding hubs; building a comprehensive offshore RMB product ecosystem; and increasing the proportion of RMB usage in international trade settlements. Constructing a digital RMB offshore ecosystem through fintech will strongly support the steady advancement of RMB internationalization.
Dr. Anthony Neoh, QC, SC, JP, Senior Practicing Barrister in Hong Kong and Former Chief Advisor to the China Securities Regulatory Commission, spoke on the topic “Hong Kong and Macao under Evolving Legal and Regulatory Landscapes: Repositioning Financial Order and Global Trust.” He pointed out that Hong Kong must adopt an “11-Pillar Strategic Innovation Framework” to address challenges from geopolitical competition and other financial centers. This framework covers areas such as digital financial leadership, deepening integration within the Greater Bay Area, developing sustainable finance and digital assets, aiming to enhance the resilience of the financial system and consolidate Hong Kong’s position as a leading global financial center.
In addition, a panel discussion session was held after the sharing sessions. Attendees actively posed questions, and the speakers provided professional responses on topics including economic prospects and policy coordination. The on-site interaction was lively, fostering a positive atmosphere.
Banco Delta Asia also hopes that this forum will facilitate in-depth dialogue on economic trends among various sectors and strengthen consensus on regional cooperation. In the future, we will continue to organize thematic events on diverse topics, working together with our clients and society to embrace opportunities and tackle challenges.
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