On 8 April 2025, the third “Hong Kong Crypto Finance Forum” was held at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. Notably, the Forum featured the inauguration ceremony of the HKU Web3 Research Hub. Dean of HKU Business School, Prof. Hongbin Cai was joined by Associate Vice President of the University of Hong Kong and Associate Dean of the HKU Business School, Prof. Chen Lin; as well as Co-Founder and CEO of Amber Group, Michael Wu; CTO of Avenir Group, Alex Yang; and CEO of HashKey Capital Singapore, Deng Chao.
During the ceremony, HKU Business School signed three strategic partnership Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with Amber Group, Avenir Group, and HashKey Group to advance innovation in global crypto finance, coin trading competitions, quantitative asset management, and digital payments. The MoUs will support the Business School’s commitment to leading the way in research and education in the coming Web3-driven era. The event marked an important industry collaboration that will help promote the development of global crypto finance.
The HKU Web3 Research Hub will serve as a dynamic ecosystem for research, education, innovation, and entrepreneurship in blockchain, decentralized finance (DeFi), digital assets, and other cutting-edge Web3 technologies. The Hub will also promote collaboration between academia, industry leaders, and policymakers to deliver a pool of dedicated professionals and cutting-edge research, as well as incubate high-potential start-ups.
Prof. Lin also delivered a keynote speech entitled, “The Centralized Crypto Finance Cycle,” where he shared his insights on the necessity for cryptocurrencies to strengthen their technological infrastructure, and promote on-chain native innovation to stimulate real-world usage, transactions, and consumption.
Over the next three years, the HKU Web3 Research Hub is due to launch a series of initiatives that will further bridge the gap between theoretical understanding and practical applications of Web3 technologies.
On March 27, 2025, HKU Business School, in collaboration with the HKU Business School Alumni Association, was privileged to host an inspiring fireside chat titled, “Joey Wat’s Leadership Journey: Inspiring the Next Generation” at HKU iCube. This exceptional event welcomed distinguished HKU alumna Ms. Joey Wat, CEO of Yum China, drawing approximately 150 students, alumni, faculty, and esteemed guests for a day of profound insight and motivation.
Ms. Joey Wat’s remarkable journey—from being recognized as a Hong Kong Outstanding Student in 1989 to leading Yum China, a Fortune 500 powerhouse—served as a powerful testament to leadership, resilience, and the importance of giving back. The event commenced with an opening address by Prof. Hongbin Cai, Dean of HKU Business School, who highlighted the institution’s dedication to cultivating visionary leaders. The session, expertly moderated by Prof. Heiwai Tang, Associate Dean (External Relations) of HKU Business School, featured an engaging Q&A, a presentation ceremony honouring recipients of the Joey Wat Scholarship, Ms. Bibi Hajirah, Ms. Chow Yeeshun, Ms. Tan Yanzhen, Ms. Lee Shu Wai, Mr. Lo Tsz Fung, Mr. Lam Ming Kai, Mr. Kwok Lik Sui, Mr. Shi Yu Cheung, Ms. Shih Pui Hei, Ms. Wang Yuk Ki, and a lively networking mixer that fostered meaningful connections among attendees. The Joey Wat Scholarships are made annually to undergraduates of the Faculty of Business and Economics based on academic merit and financial need.
A highlight of the event was Ms. Joey Wat’s unwavering commitment to community impact, exemplified through her scholarship initiative, which empowers students to pursue their aspirations and contribute meaningfully to society. Her words resonated deeply, inspiring students to lead with integrity and purpose, and sparking a dynamic exchange of ideas throughout the room.
We extend our heartfelt congratulations to the Joey Wat Scholarship recipients—your boundless potential is a source of pride for us all. Our deepest gratitude goes to Ms. Joey Wat for her generosity and wisdom, and to all who contributed to the success of this memorable occasion.
This event stands as a celebration of leadership, legacy, and the enduring spirit of the HKU community.
Congratulations to our students for winning three Champions, one 1st Runner-up and one 2nd Runner-up in the HKGCC Business Case Competition 2024/25!
The HKGCC Business Case Competition is an annual competition hosted by Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce (HKGCC). The competition was sponsored by Chinachem Group, Jardine Matheson, MTR Corporation Ltd, SOCAM Development Ltd, and Swire (in collaboration with HKGCC).
With the theme “Shaping the Future of Businesses with Creativity and Innovation”, the competition provided an opportunity for students to crack one or more business cases from the sponsors. Topics included tourism, sustainability, community support and the workplace environment.
Among 160 teams comprising nearly 700 students from various institutions in Hong Kong, our students stood out and achieved remarkable success to win three Champions, one 1st Runner-up, and one 2nd Runner-up with the five sponsoring companies.
(The team comprises 1 other team member from other university.)
Champion (SOCAM track)
Team Name: JAK Consulting
Team Members:
Mr. Lau Pak Hei, BBA(Law)&LLB, Year 5
Miss Li Wing Tung, BSc(Surv), Year 4
1st Runner-up (Jardine Matheson track)
Team Name: Click Advisory
Team Members:
Miss Ho Lucine Tsz Ying, BBA(Acc&Fin), Year 3
Miss Lin Yi-han, BBA, Year 3
Miss Shum Wa Ching, BBA(Acc&Fin), Year 3
Miss Yan Yu, BEcon&Fin, Year 4
2nd Runner-up (MTR track)
Team Name: Accelerate 24
Team Members:
Miss Leung Ting Man, BBA(Law)&LLB, Year 3
Mr. Li Zonghan, BBA(Acc&Fin), Year 3
Miss So Hoi Ching, BBA(Acc&Fin), Year 3
Mr. Ching Jen Hong, BSc(ActuarSc), Year 4
Student Sharing:
Champion (HKGCC track, sponsored by SWIRE)
“This experience has been incredibly rewarding, allowing us to tackle real-world sustainability challenges through innovation and strategic thinking. I am grateful for the encouragement and support from my teammates, and I look forward to applying what I have learned to future challenges. A heartfelt thank you to HKU Business School for its continuous support, guidance, and resources, which have been instrumental in shaping our problem-solving and analytical skills.”
(by Miss Choi Yu Hei, Cherry)
“Leading a team for the first time in the HKGCC Business Case Competition was eye-opening for me. As a team leader, I had to ensure everyone communicated well and worked together seamlessly. We tackled the challenge by imagining it was our own office and brainstormed what kind of environment we’d be excited to work in every day. We came up with ideas to make the office more modern and supportive of employee well-being, all while sticking to ESG principles. This experience was not just about winning; it taught me valuable skills like cracking business problems and working collaboratively—skills that are essential for my career development. Most importantly, I’m grateful to my teammates and mentor for their support and insights, which made this journey truly enriching and fulfilling.”
(by Miss Leung Hoi Kiu, Stephanie)
“Participating in the HKGCC Case Competition was a truly transformative experience that greatly enhanced my strategic thinking, teamwork, and problem-solving skills. The competition challenged me to analyze intricate business problems, think critically under pressure, and develop practical yet innovative solutions. Working closely with a diverse group of peers from various majors provided me with the opportunity to engage with unique perspectives and approaches, broadening my understanding of how different disciplines can contribute to solving complex issues. This diverse collaboration not only allowed me to appreciate the value of differing opinions but also taught me how to synthesize ideas effectively, balance conflicting viewpoints, and build consensus within a team.”
(by Miss Pan Ho Man, Vivian)
Champion (Jardine Matheson track)
“HKGCC Business Case Competition is a great opportunity to learn about the organizational culture of our chosen company, Jardine Engineering Corporation, and explore how we can embed sustainability into both their office operations and frontline worker practices, ensuring a unified approach across divisions. I am excited to drive cultural and sustainable transformation through innovative ideas, while also addressing pressing issues specific to Hong Kong. During this competition, I was able to draw from my past case competition experiences, lead and work with new team members, and push my abilities to effectively convey and present our ideas.”
(by Miss Law Lok Yee Nori)
1st Runner-up (Jardine Matheson track)
“The HKGCC Business Case Competition provided a unique opportunity to sharpen my presentation skills, an area that proved crucial in distinguishing our team’s work. The competition involved presenting a strategic analysis of Jardine, which required not just a deep understanding of the case but the ability to communicate complex ideas clearly and concisely to a panel of industry professionals. In contrast to traditional finance internships, where technical analysis often takes centre stage, this competition emphasized the importance of presenting strategic concepts in a way that resonates with a broader audience.”
(by Miss Lin Yi-han, Claire)
“Our team worked on a case for Jardine Engineering Corporation, focusing on developing ESG solutions to enhance client offerings and internal corporate culture. Despite geographic challenges, with most team members located internationally, we successfully collaborated via Zoom. This experience not only refined our strategic problem-solving skills but also highlighted the importance of adaptability and effective remote collaboration in addressing key business challenges like ESG.”
(by Miss Ho Lucine Tsz Ying)
“This competition has provided an exceptional opportunity to challenge and deepen my understanding of corporate sustainability integration. I am sincerely grateful to have collaborated with such supportive teammates as we jointly examined how to apply our collective experiences and knowledge to a real-world organization—Jardine Engineering Corporation. By leveraging their extensive resources, we aimed to create a meaningful social impact, making this experience both professionally enriching and aligned with the commitment to social responsibility.”
(by Miss Shum Wa Ching, Corrine)
“The opportunity to present to industry leaders and receive recognition for our innovative approach was incredibly rewarding, affirming my strategic thinking. Collaborating with my teammates to tackle real-world challenges not only pushed me to innovate and adapt but also made this journey truly memorable, inspiring me to explore further opportunities in the business world.”
(by Miss Yan Yu, Angel)
2nd Runner-up (MTR track)
“As a New Hongkonger who moved from Guangzhou to Hong Kong for university, I found it challenging to adjust from a slower-paced environment to the fast-paced, dynamic nature of Hong Kong. The MTR is not only the city’s transportation backbone but also a key player in its commercial and infrastructure development. Seeing Hong Kong’s lifeline support both locals and newcomers unfamiliar with the system is something I deeply appreciate. Conducting research on the MTR, collaborating with my team to generate innovative ideas, and gaining a deeper understanding of the corporation’s objectives and strategic direction have been an invaluable learning experience.”
(by Miss Leung Ting Man)
“Participating in this competition taught me the value of teamwork and creative problem-solving. While researching, I realised how crucial it is for large companies like the MTR to continually innovate and adapt to the changing demographics of their users. I also learned how to analyse data and feedback effectively to create actionable strategies that address real challenges faced by ‘New Hongkongers’, such as language barriers and unfamiliarity with the transport system.”
(by Mr. Li Zonghan)
“This competition was an eye-opening experience in understanding how businesses can balance profitability with social responsibility. I discovered the importance of empathy in decision-making, especially when developing strategies for communities like New Hongkongers who may have unique needs. It also allowed me a chance to improve my research and presentation skills while thinking critically about how companies can build stronger connections with their customers.”
The CITIC – IDEI Discussion Forum on FinTech and AI was successfully held by the HKU Business School’s Institute of Digital Economy and Innovation (IDEI) on February 20, 2025. The event brought together esteemed HKU professors, CITIC industry experts, and HKU research students at the forefront of FinTech and AI research and application.
The forum commenced with opening remarks by Professor Yulin Fang, Founding Director of IDEI and Professor of Innovation and Information Management at HKU Business School, and Mr. Lei Zhao, General Manager of the Technology and Digitalization Department at CITIC Group. This was followed by a series of engaging presentations that explored the transformative role of FinTech and AI across various sectors.
Mr. Dazhi Han, Senior Manager of the Technology and Digitalization Department at CITIC Group, Mr. Lingfeng Xu, Head of Artificial Intelligence at the Information Technology Center of CITIC Securities, Mr. Jiange Li, Director of Information Technology Department at CITIC Securities, and Mr. Liangjun Liu, General Manager of the Information Technology Management Department at China CITIC Bank, jointly discussed innovative approaches in AI and their applications in CITIC’s financial business.
Fintech and AI scholars at HKU Business School presented their research. The presenters included Professor Ye Luo, Associate Professor of Economics and Finance and Associate Director of IDEI; Professor Zhenhui (Jack) Jiang, Padma and Hari Harilela Professor of Strategic Information Management as well as Professor of Innovation and Information Management; Professor Michael C.L. Chau, Deputy Area Head and Professor of Innovation and Information Management; Professor Hailiang Chen, Assistant Dean and Professor of Innovation and Information Management; Professor Lionel Zhepeng Li, Associate Professor of Innovation and Information Management and External Data Scientist at the Bank of Ningbo; and Professor Yipu Deng, Assistant Professor of Innovation and Information Management. Together, they discussed the integration of Fintech and AI in business processes and its implications for the industry.
The meeting continued with the sharing of insights from CITIC participants. Mr. Lei Yang, Director of the Information Technology Center at CITIC Heavy Industries Co., Ltd.; Mr. Xiansong Bai, Head of the Intelligent and Informatization Department at CITIC Pacific Special Steel Group Co., Ltd.; Mr. Chaoqun Li, Vice President of CPC Innovation R&D and Information Technology Department at CITIC Telecom International Holdings Limited; Ms. Yuling Lin, Director of CPC Innovation R&D and Information Technology Department at CITIC Telecom International Holdings Limited; and Mr. Dongdong Zhan, Senior Director of CEC Innovation R&D and Information Technology Department at CITIC Telecom International Holdings Limited, shared their perspectives on the development and application of FinTech and AI.
Throughout the day, the sessions facilitated lively discussions and exchanges of ideas, paving the way for potential collaborations between CITIC and IDEI in the fields of FinTech and AI.
Photo Caption
Group Photo:
Professor Yulin Fang, IDEI Director and Professor of Innovation and Information Management at HKU Business School, delivers the welcoming remarks.
Mr. Lei Zhao, General Manager of the Technology and Digitalization Department at CITIC Group, delivers the welcoming remarks.
Fintech and AI scholars at HKU Business School
Industry experts from CITIC Group
The Forum concluded with closing remarks emphasizing the importance of ongoing collaboration between academia and industry to drive innovation and efficiency. Attendees left with valuable insights and a deeper understanding of how FinTech and AI can transform the business landscape.
Paris was the setting for an unforgettable experience, as our International Business and Global Management students embarked on an inspiring journey, organized by the HKU-TLV Innovation Hub. This exceptional field trip blended business, entrepreneurship, and culture, offering students fresh perspectives and profound insights into the intricacies of global business.
Throughout the trip, students explored impactful topics through expert-led lectures on the geopolitics of France and Europe, EU monetary and economic policy, ESG strategies, and an engaging workshop on the dynamic role of AI in product management.
They engaged with local French companies through case studies, gaining real-world perspectives. This immersive experience was complemented by visits to leading companies and organizations, including UBS, BGV Capital, Gia First, Sienna Ventures, OCO Global, and Invest HK where students delved into investment banking essentials and gained insights into international trade and consultancy work.
Cultural immersion played a key role in the experience, as students participated in a cooking workshop to uncover the country’s rich culinary traditions. Iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Palace Garnier, and the Louvre Museum enriched their itinerary, along with free evenings to wander through Paris’s romantic streets.
The trip concluded with a celebratory group dinner, marking the end of a transformative adventure.
Every day presented opportunities to learn, connect, and broaden perspectives, leaving the students inspired and eagerly anticipating their careers in the global business world.
The Bachelor of Finance in Asset Management and Private Banking [BFin(AMPB)] programme hosted four sessions of “Meeting the Practitioners” in the academic year 2024-2025, covering senior executives in private banking, asset management, investment banking and securities trading. Students from BFin(AMPB) and other Business School programmes were invited to join.
(1) 23 October 2024 – Mr. Peter Tung, Regional Head, Private Banking, Greater China and North Asia, Standard Chartered Bank
Peter showed with us his remarkable journey as an Asian American student at Berkeley, California and his subsequent rise to a successful career in private banking. He shared with us the need to understand your clients and have a good understanding of the investment environment. He also emphasized the importance of adaptability and continuous learning in this fast-paced industry.
(2) 26 November 2024 – Ms. Giselle Lai, Associate Investment Director, Digital Assets, Fidelity International
Giselle, one of our esteemed Bachelor of Economics and Finance (BEcon&Fin) alumni, shared her career journey at Fidelity International as a graduate analyst processing through “Request for Proposal” division, multi-asset, digital marketing and more. She provided valuable insights into how she learned and grew her interest on digital assets, recognized them as a growing asset class and how she aligned her profession with this fast growing asset class. Giselle emphasized the significance of understanding digital and technology in today’s financial landscape, inspiring our students to embrace lifelong learning and adaptability.
(3) 12 February 2025 – Ms Irene Chan, Managing Director, Hong Kong Coverage, Morgan Stanley
Irene graduated in mathematics and economics at Northwestern University, joining Goldman Sachs before landing in Morgan Stanley’s Investment Banking Division. Irene shared with us her role and duties as a banker in investment banking division (IBD), she emphasized the importance of client facing, understanding clients’ need and offering solutions to the client. Irene advised students “to understand yourself and your goals when choosing a career” and be in a function that can stretch you yourself. During the Q&A, Ms. Chan gave interview tips. She emphasized researching the company, the interviewer and recent deals to explain why you’re the right fit.
(4) 18 March 2025 – Mr. Tony Wong, Managing Director, Head of Sales, CSOP Asset Management
Tony shared with us his university life and early career experiences at HSBC and Citibank, stating how different opportunities contributed to his career progress. He also explained his roles at CSOP Asset Management and the company’s positioning in the field of asset management. He emphasized the importance of knowing your strength and passion, being proactive to various opportunities and never settling for the status quo. The session was both informative and amusing as Mr. Wong mentioned a few anecdotes in his early career, including the “coffee excel” that possibly made him standout in a crowd of young analysts.
25th March 2025
Professor Anna Wong, BFin (AMPB) Programme Director
On March 17 2025, the Dean of HKU Business School, Prof. Hongbin Cai, signed a MoU with CGS International Holdings (CGI) at HKU iCube. The Agreement is to keep working together to increase talent cultivation and collaboration opportunities . Dean Cai and Business School associates were joined by CGI’s Chief Executive Officer, Ms. Yu Chang, and her associates.
Dean Cai emphasised how the Business School follows the mission of being “deeply rooted in Hong Kong, fully engaged with China, and truly international.” This way, students get the international perspective and practical professional capabilities to personally and professionally thrive. He also noted that the School has made significant progress in our faculty’s teaching strength, research achievements, and international influence, and that we have been earning top ranks among leading business schools.
Ms. Chang then highlighted CGI’s global reach, especially across Southeast Asia. She stressed that talent is the most sought-after asset for CGI as it deepens its presence in Hong Kong and beyond.
Both parties agreed to contribute to talent cultivation, practical exchange, project cooperation, and offering students broader career-development opportunities. The MoU is a milestone for both organisations and is expected to deliver important opportunities for students in the financial sector.
To foster the bonding between the School Alumni and to allow Undergraduate Students to receive impactful insights in their career exploration journey. The HKU Business School hosted its first-ever UG Students and Alumni Mixer event at the HKU iCube on March 6, 2025. This event, jointly organised by the School’s Undergraduate Student Enrichment and the Development and Alumni Team, brought together esteemed alumni in diverse industries and current undergraduate students across 11 majors for an evening of networking, knowledge sharing, and mentorship.
The event commenced with a warm welcome from Ms Alice Hui, Head of Development and Alumni at HKU Business School, who recognised the alumni’s support for the event and highlighting the objective of this mixer event is to provide a tailored platform for alumni to share their career journeys, insights, and pass on their wisdom and experience with the undergraduate students, fostering a sense of community and offering invaluable guidance for the future. The programme designed with a panel discussion moderated by Prof. Winnie Leung, Assistant Dean (Undergraduate), featuring distinguished alumni speakers from diverse industries, including Mr. Dennis Mok[Class of 2019, Master of Finance Programme], Ms. Peony Cheung[Class of 2020, Bachelor of Business Administration (Information Systems)], and Ms. Elaine Pun[Class of 2020, Bachelor of Business Administration (Marketing)]. The sharing was tailored to cover personal stories and key takeaways from each panellist, ranging from identifying career interests, accessing resources for internships and job searches, transitioning into their first graduate roles, and offering practical advice to the undergraduate students.
Following the panel discussion, groups were formed to facilitate in-depth dialogues between student participants and alumni members, allowing for interaction, advice-seeking, and the establishment of lasting connections. The event expressed gratitude for the dedication of all alumni in nurturing young talents.
The event also underscored the advances made by the School in alumni engagement in recent years. With over 40,000 alumni across the globe, our alumni family continues to grow, particularly among the younger alumni. Moving forward, the focus on alumni engagement will be proactive, aligned with the School’s goal to enhance connections with alumni globally, encompassing local, mainland, and overseas alumni communities, while fortifying the ties with undergraduate and postgraduate alumni across diverse disciplines.
The mixer event was a resounding success, showcasing the strong bond between alumni and current students within the HKU Business School community. It served as a platform for mentorship, knowledge sharing, and networking, further solidifying the connections that unite the school’s past, present, and future generations of business leaders.
