Congratulations to Professor Zhiwu Chen, Chair Professor of Finance, Cheng Yu-Tung Professor in Finance, Director of Centre for Quantitative History and Director of Hong Kong Institute for Humanities and Social Sciences, is awarded “Economist of the Year 2023” by South Reviews Magazine, a leading politics and economics magazine in China.
The ACCA Hong Kong Business Competition 2023 provided an opportunity for students to demonstrate their business analysis and problem-solving skills by assuming the role of business consultants for start-up companies – Filix Medtech, MakeOmnia, and R2C2 from Cyberport Hong Kong with a focus on sustainable solutions.
The theme for this year’s competition is “Be you. Be part of future unicorn.” Over 250 students were presented with real-life business cases and challenged to provide strategic recommendations using their accounting and business knowledge to address the challenges faced by the start-ups. An online briefing session was held to support students to gain a deeper understanding of the operations of the selected start-up companies.
Students were required to submit proposals outlining innovative solutions on a randomly assigned business cases. Top 9 teams were shortlisted to join a professional workshop and coach meeting supported by ACCA-qualified professionals before presenting their proposals at the final competition. Three winners were selected from the finalists of each stream, and the three stream winners then competed for the grand champion.
3 teams of HKU students won 4 awards including Outstanding Team Award for start-up Filix Medtech, Merit Team Awards for start-up MakeOmnia and the Team Excellence Award.
Outstanding Team for start-up Filix Medtech (First in Stream Filix Medtech)
Team Excellence Award
Team Name: exCEL
Awardees:
Ms. Lam Tsz Yan, BBA(Acc&Fin), Year 3
Ms. Wu Hong Ni, BBA(Law)&LLB, Year 3
(The team comprises 1 other team member from other Faculty of The University of Hong Kong)
Award(s):
Merit Award for start-up MakeOmnia
Team Name: Polygon
Awardees:
Ms. To Shu Kiu, BBA(Acc&Fin), Year 3
(The team comprises 2 other team members from other Faculty of The University of Hong Kong)
Award(s):
Merit Award for start-up MakeOmnia
Team Name: Planify Consulting
Awardees:
Mr. Kwan Chun Ho Owen, BSc(QFin), Year 4
Mr. Li Yi Sen, BBA(BA), Year 2
Ms. Fong Kwai Yi, BEcon&Fin, Year 3
(The team comprises 1 other team member from other Faculty of The University of Hong Kong)
Students Sharing from Outstanding Team for start-up Filix Medtech:
“Joining the ACCA Business Case Competition was a game-changer for me. My teammates, Connie, Iris and I had to work on a B2B2C strategy for Agarwood products for a trailblazing start-up, Filix Medtech, which made us think hard and get smart about the business world.
We had to dig into market research, check out what the company was doing, and get creative with our solutions. This made us better at understanding how businesses work. We also got a real feel for what customers want, how to get products to them, and the return of the whole project to our investors.
Working together as a team helped us get better at working with others and sharing our ideas clearly. The competition atmosphere was exciting, too! I also got to meet experts and participants from other universities. This has grown our network and could lead to cool opportunities in the future.
Overall, this competition was so much more than just trying to win. It gave us new skills, a lot of confidence, and a real respect for how complex business can be. Getting to put what I have learned in school into action was an awesome part of my learning journey.”
(By Lam Tsz Yan, Emily)
“Joining the competition with my friends, Iris and Emily, fulfilled my university life and empowered me to be more prepared for the challenges in my future career. The competition not only provides a platform for us to showcase skills and knowledge but also allows us to contribute to the advancement of sustainable business practices.
The process of the whole competition is tough but rewarding. We dedicated countless hours to setting strategy and fine-tuning our presentation. Through numerous practice sessions, we honed our public speaking skills, and our confidence grew. Our team devoted significant time and effort to improve our performance, like our team name, “exCEL”. The final pitching session gave us a great sense of satisfaction and encouraged us to keep fighting.
This once-in-a-lifetime case competition experience taught me invaluable lessons that extend beyond the realm of academia. I learned the importance of teamwork and effective communication. The experience also highlighted the significance of thorough research, innovative thinking, and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances. It instilled in me a sense of confidence and reinforced my belief that with dedication and perseverance, any challenge can be overcome.
The honour is truly meaningful to our team and I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to my teammates, our mentor Miss Rebecca Fox from Alipay HK, and the organiser ACCA.”
The HKICPA Business Case Competition provided an opportunity for students from Mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macau, with diverse educational backgrounds, to demonstrate their academic competencies and business acumen in solving real-life challenges and honing their skills, while also fostering their professional judgment and global perspectives.
This year, the competition focused on the Digital Entertainment Industry. Students were required to submit a business proposal including an executive summary, analysis of the business model, recommendations on addressing ethical dilemmas, as well as evaluation of key performance indicators and acquisition targets. Over 530 students, 180 teams from 16 institutions registered for the competition. Following two rounds of review on 139 submitted business proposals, six finalist teams were shortlisted to present their ideas to a panel of judges based on their proposals.
“Taking part in this competition was an extraordinary experience that allowed me to expand my business knowledge and fostered my growth in several soft skills. Our team was able to use our critical thinking skills to assess the strengths and weaknesses of a business and make recommendations to support its long-term growth. It was a fresh new experience as we learnt to think outside the box and make decisions based on different platforms by putting ourselves in the shoes of the gaming company. Communication and presentation skills were another key takeaway from the competition for me. I learnt how to listen, ask questions and give feedback during teamwork and how to present a concise argument to convince the judges within the time limit during the presentation.
In conclusion, I would like to express my gratitude to HKU Business School for providing endless opportunities for students to learn outside the classroom, to Ms. Pipin Tasdyata, case competition coach, for teaching us practical skills in presentation before the finals, and most importantly, to my teammates, who were all dedicated team players who strived to be the best throughout the competition. The competition was truly a wonderful and invaluable experience.”
(By LUO Regina)
“Participating in this competition was an invaluable experience that significantly contributed to our personal growth. For me, tackling complex problems and developing viable solutions for the gaming company presented a great challenge, especially considering my limited familiarity with the gaming sector. However, this opportunity allowed me to acquire a wealth of knowledge in this field and improve my critical thinking abilities, information evaluation skills, and problem-solving capabilities.
Furthermore, presenting the proposed solutions in front of a panel of judges greatly enhanced my communication and presentation skills. In the business world, the ability to deliver a compelling and concise argument effectively is crucial. Therefore, this experience holds lifelong importance for my future career path.”
(By CHEN Man Chin)
“Participating in this competition was an extraordinary experience. The opportunity to analyze a complex business problem, present it to a panel of judges, and work closely with my teammates was both challenging and rewarding. I learnt how to dissect the case critically, approach problems systematically, and formulate innovative and comprehensive solutions. Such analytical abilities will enable me to tackle more complex business cases in the future. Moreover, the competition provided me with a platform to refine my presentation skills. I was more capable of communicating my ideas compellingly and persuasively in front of an audience. Last but not least, I am deeply grateful to my teammates who motivated and inspired each other throughout the countless hours spent working on the competition. Our collective effort contributed to our success. Looking back, I have learnt invaluable lessons that have not only enhanced my business acumen but also shaped me as an individual. I am confident that the skills and knowledge I have gained in this competition will serve as a solid foundation for my future endeavors in the world of business.”
(By HO Ying Tung Crystal)
“It was truly an extraordinary and lifetime experience for me to participate in this case competition. This opportunity allowed me to delve deep into a company’s market and business analysis, explore its core competencies, identify ethical dilemmas, and ultimately offer robust suggestions regarding potential acquisition targets. The case materials, along with the thought-provoking questions and comments from the judges, offered fresh perspectives that broadened my perception and provided valuable insights. The business models and the ethical dilemmas we encountered presented significant challenges for our team, especially given the context of the gaming industry this year. It required us to step out of our comfort zone and acquire industry-specific knowledge beforehand. Thanks to the dedication and support from my wonderful teammates, we overcame these obstacles and ultimately lifted the trophy. Our collective effort and perseverance proved to be truly rewarding. Lastly, I would also like to express my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who guided and supported us throughout the preparation process.”
Professor Hailing Chen has been awarded the Faculty Outstanding Researcher Award 2022-23. Professor Chen’s research focuses on social media, FinTech, and data analytics. The recognition of his advancement was evidenced by having five articles published in “A” journals over the past five years, including Information Systems Research; Journal of Financial Economics; Journal of Management Information Systems and Management Science. He was also very productive in grant applications. He received four GRF grants with an amount of HK$2.85M. His 2021 ISR paper received the award of Essential Science Indicators’ (ESI) Highly Cited Paper (Top 1% in the field of Social Sciences, General).
The aim of the prize was to honour Faculty’s best research output published in the preceding calendar year. Dr. Jinzhao Du was awarded the Faculty Output Prize 2022 for the publication:
Wilfred Amaldoss, Jinzhao Du, and Woochoel Shin (2021),“Media Platforms’ Content Provision Strategies and Sources of Profits,” Marketing Science, 40 (3), 527-547.
This paper creatively emplies a three-sided game-theoretical model, which incorporates the interaction between a media platform and three groups of strategic players: consumers, advertisers, and content suppliers. It generates new and important insights on a media platform’s content provision strategies and their implications for platforms’ profits and content suppliers’ profits. The paper was published at Marketing Science, the leading journal in the field of marketing and is the first Marketing Science publication that is affiliated with HKU
Prof. Shen, Dr. Yang, and Dr. Wang received the Faculty KE Award 2023 for the KE project “Transforming Industries: Empowering Organizations through Big Data Analytics.”
The teams has consistently participated in KE activities, leading to significant advancements in the application of big data analysis and machine learning across diverse industries. Their involvement has sparked transformative changes in organizational operations within mainland China and the Greater Bay Area, spanning sectors such as healthcare, finance, real estate, banking, dairy, and manufacturing.
FBE Student Contribution and Innovation Award aims to recognise and reward HKU Business School undergraduate students who have demonstrated contribution and innovation to the School, University and the wider community through their leadership and/or entrepreneurship; and to promote experiential learning through students’ participation in extra-curricular activities, involvement in community service and student leadership.
“It is my great honour to receive the award from HKU Business School. This recognition not only affirms my abilities but also provides a platform to further develop my skills and make a meaningful impact. It fuels my determination to excel, lead, and make a meaningful difference. I would also like to express my gratitude for the school in supporting my pursuits through diverse enrichment experiences.
As an awardee, I am motivated to push the boundaries of my potential and explore new avenues for personal and professional growth. I aspire to become a catalyst for positive change and innovation in my field of study and beyond through engaging in collaborative projects, lead teams, and inspiring others to embrace their own leadership abilities and make a difference in their own unique ways.”
– Chan Chun Yan Natalie, BBA(Law)&LLB
” I am deeply honoured to receive the prestigious FBE Student Contribution and Innovation Award, marking a significant milestone in my enriching journey at HKU Business School.
As an entrepreneur, I am dedicated to upholding the mission of BOOST TEAM Ltd. Our company strives to empower the digital transformation of traditional industries by offering innovative tech consultancy and operational solutions. We firmly believe that embracing technology is the key to unlocking limitless future business potential.
Furthermore, as the co-founder of Grief Me Light, I am committed to leading our non-profit organization in providing essential psychological services to individuals grappling with grief and loss. In 2024, we aim to publish a book addressing the grief experienced when losing a beloved pet, aiming to educate the public on life-death topics and combat the stigmatization surrounding grief.
Together, let us forge a path where technology and empathy intertwine, igniting a brighter future of limitless possibilities for all. ”
– Fung Pui Him, BBA
“Receiving the FBE Student Innovation and Contribution Award is a profound honour, marking a significant milestone in my journey. It motivates me to strive further to build diverse communities of innovation, particularly through my roles in the Entrepreneurship Society at HKU and as a founder. I want to thank my team at Entrepreneur Society and my other ventures for helping me achieve this.
This journey has been driven by a passion for creating inclusive, sustainable and impactful ventures. In the future, I aspire to further contribute by leveraging my experiences and skills to nurture an entrepreneurial spirit among my peers and foster entrepreneurs. I will also focus on developing a tech-driven solution that addresses dementia. This award acknowledges my past efforts and fuels my dedication to continue making a meaningful impact in the world of entrepreneurship.”
– Gandhi Devansh, BBA
“Being acknowledged as a recipient of the esteemed FBE Student Contribution and Innovation Award at HKU is a profound honour. This award not only recognizes my commitment to making meaningful contributions to the business school but also signifies that I am heading in the right direction in creating an impact on those around me.
As a co-founder of the Entrepreneur Society HKU (ESo), I maintain unwavering optimism for the future of Hong Kong’s startup ecosystem. The overwhelming reception from the HKU student body since the establishment of our society in 2019 strengthens this confidence. We are fortunate to find ourselves in an exceptionally exciting era where being a part of the HKU Business School Community presents unparalleled prospects.
As I transition to the next chapter of my life, the constant I foresee is my dedication to the platform we have created at HKU. I am committed to assisting HKU undergraduates in discovering their interests through unwavering support and encouragement, ultimately helping them unlock their fullest potential.”
– Tamang Simon Daryl B., BBA
“I feel incredibly honoured to have been selected for the FBE Student Contribution and Innovation Award. I am immensely grateful for the support and recognition that I have had from HKU Business School in my efforts around the university thus far. I am also thankful for my fellow executive committee members in the ISS, without whom this would have not been possible.
I aspire to continue my contributions in supporting non-local students and bringing together the diverse student body through the HKUBS International Student Society. As has been my goal since entering university, I also strive to cultivate and promote HKU as a viable and attractive destination for ambitious talent from all over the world. I hope to serve as an example for the boundless opportunities available in Hong Kong and HKU, and this award is a meaningful reflection of this.”
The Deloitte Tax Championship (DTC) is an annual case competition for students to demonstrate their expertise in China Tax and International Tax. The competition aimed to provide an opportunity for students to develop comprehensive tax strategies, critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and problem-solving skills while demonstrating an in-depth understanding of complex tax regulations to a panel of judges.
This year’s competition consisted of three rounds, including a Preliminary Round, National Semi-final, and Final Round. The HKU team excelled and advanced to the National Round, where they competed in a simulated case held in Chongqingand brought home the Merit Team Award.
Mr. Lau Chun Ho Darren, BBA(Acc&Fin), Year 5 (Team Leader) Mr. Cheng Ting Cheung, BBA(Acc&Fin), Year 3 Ms. Choi Yu Hei, BEcon&Fin, Year 2 Mr. Ngan Tsz Ho, BFin(AMPB), Year 2
Students Sharing:
“Never in my wildest dreams would I imagine myself getting into the national round of the competition twice, and I am privileged to have formed a group with four extraordinary teammates. Before joining this competition, past participants of DTC Annie had already told me that this competition was going to be really tough and mentally draining. It was way more complicated than we expected. The four of us still had the guts to challenge ourselves and gave it a try.
I want to thank the Faculty Advisors, Dr. Christina Ng and Dr. Jasmine Kwong, for all the support you have given to our team. You two were our backbone. Thank you for the ongoing support throughout the entire journey. Without you both, we would not have been able to come this far and achieve such remarkable results.
I also want to thank the faculty administrative staff, Kit and Joanne for the continuous support throughout the competition. You two are always the unsung heroes of our faculty. You are super helpful in guiding and taking care of all of us. Without you, the journey would not have been so smooth.
I want to express my gratitude to my teammates, Jason, Cherry, and Howard for their hard work and devotion to the competition. We have formed an unbreakable bond and lasting friendships. One of the adjudicators came to find Howard during the ceremony and mentioned that he outperformed other candidates in the ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) part as he provided an in-depth evaluation of its underlying principles, delineating all three key components. I can still vividly remember the smiling faces of those who made me feel so proud of Howard. Also, I would like to thank Cherry, our mastermind, who is truly skilled at making PowerPoint slides. Lastly, I would like to thank Jason for his hard work in handling the most technical questions and calculations.
Once again, I would like to reiterate that having the courage to take up this challenge is already a great leap towards success. We have an iron-willed spirit with unwavering commitment and unswerving dedication to the competition, allowing us to withstand the pressure of analyzing lengthy case materials in three hours and delivering a speech in front of adjudicators and teachers from other schools.
“The process is more important than the result.” We all enjoyed the competition moments, particularly the impromptu queries from the adjudicators. They understood that Hong Kong has a simple tax structure and we are not that familiar with China tax and transfer pricing, so they did not pose strong challenges related to those issues. Instead, they provided us with guidance to help us interpret the case questions.”
(ByLAU Chun Ho Darren)
“From the moment our team decided to participate in the tax competition, I felt a surge of excitement mixed with a tinge of nervousness. As the designated expert in technical matters, I knew that I would play a crucial role in our team’s success. With unwavering determination, I dove into an intensive phase of preparation, immersing myself in tax laws, regulations, and case studies.
Deloitte Tax Championship is definitely a challenging and demanding case competition which examines contestants’ practical knowledge of China tax and international tax strategies. As Hong Kong undergraduate students, we receive less training and education in China tax than universities from mainland, but our team still demonstrated strong logical thinking and commercial awareness in the competition. Therefore, we achieved distinctive results in the Regional Preliminary Round and won the Merit Team Award in the National Round.
Participating in the tax competition pushed me beyond my comfort zone and expanded my technical expertise in ways I never imagined. It provided me with an opportunity to refine my critical thinking skills, improve my problem-solving abilities, and deepen my understanding of tax laws and regulations.
Moreover, the experience taught me the value of continuous learning and self-improvement. I recognized areas where I could further enhance my technical knowledge and have since been actively seeking opportunities to broaden my understanding of tax concepts.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank Dr. Christina Ng and Dr. Jasmine Kwong for their ongoing support and guidance throughout the competition. Not only do they provide training given their tight teaching schedule, they also spend their personal time to support us in the national round in Chongqing. Their support is definitely an inevitable part of our team’s success.”
(ByCHENG Ting Cheung Jason)
“Participating in the tax competition has been an unforgettable experience for me, symbolizing our dedication to academic excellence and the pursuit of knowledge. We have demonstrated invaluable critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and problem-solving skills, which are essential for navigating the complex world of taxation.
From the beginning, our participation in the tax competition was driven by a shared ambition to excel and a desire to test our knowledge and skills in the field of taxation. Our team, comprised of passionate students, embarked on a rigorous preparation process that included studying tax laws, analyzing case studies, and engaging in mock simulations.
The competition itself was a rigorous test of our expertise, critical thinking abilities, and problem-solving skills. We were required to develop comprehensive tax strategies, demonstrate an in-depth understanding of complex tax regulations, and convincingly present our findings. Our team’s meticulous attention to details, innovative approaches, and ability to think on our feet contributed significantly to our success.
Lastly, I must express my sincere gratitude for the generous help and comprehensive teaching on taxation that I received from Dr. Christina Ng at HKU Business School. This achievement would not have been possible without the unwavering support of our school, the guidance of our faculty advisors, and the collective effort of our team members.”
(ByCHOI Yu Hei Cherry)
“Reflecting on my journey through the national tax competition, I am filled with a profound sense of humility and gratitude. This experience has been an incredible learning opportunity, allowing me to delve deeply into the complexities of taxation, a field that is both challenging and immensely rewarding.
A moment that stands out for me was when an adjudicator recognized my work on the ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) component. Their acknowledgment of my ability to effectively analyze and evaluate these intricate topics was unexpected and deeply affirming. The memory of their smile is a poignant reminder of the value of hard work and the importance of a thorough understanding of such critical issues.
The courage and determination that my team and I displayed in taking on this challenge were remarkable. We were united by our commitment to excel, facing the intense pressure of analyzing extensive case materials in a limited timeframe and presenting our findings in a high-stakes environment.
I particularly embraced the philosophy that “process is more important than the result.” This mindset enriched every aspect of the competition for me, especially when responding to impromptu questions from the adjudicators. Their understanding of our background and their guidance in areas like China tax and transfer pricing, which were less familiar to us, were immensely helpful.
The competition was as demanding and intense as I had anticipated, yet incredibly rewarding. I am grateful for the chance to have worked with a group of extraordinary teammates. Our collective strengths, united by a common goal to learn and succeed, made this experience not just a competition, but a journey of growth and discovery.
In writing this article, I am reflecting not only on the achievements but also on the journey itself. It is a story that underscores the importance of humility, the strength of teamwork, and the vast potential that lies in embracing challenges with an open mind and a willing heart.”
The 2023 Bloomberg Global Trading Challenge (GTC) is a university investment competition taken place within the Bloomberg Terminal. This challenge brought together more than 10,000 university students from 310 schools worldwide to compete for the Grand Prize with the support of the School’s Bloomberg Terminal.
Each of the 2,007 teams was assigned a U.S. one million dollar (US$1,000,000) notional amount to invest across securities, providing them with a unique opportunity to learn about investment strategies and portfolio management with transformative experience that deepened the knowledge for trading, analytical skills, and confidence.
The Global Grand Prize winning team who achieved the highest Relative P&L not only won iPad Pro prizes, but also given opportunity to network with the Bloomberg recruiting as well as contribution to a selected charity partner of the team’s choice.
Ms. Darmawan Jocelyn Victoria, BSc(QFin), Year 3 (Team Leader)
Mr. Sayogo Gavin, BEcon&Fin, Year 3
Ms. Wijaya Swarna, BEcon&Fin, Year 3
Faculty Advisor:
Prof. Couvert Maxime
From left to right: Ms. Jocelyn Victoria DARMAWAN, Ms. Swarna WIJAYA, and Mr. Gavin SAYOGO
Regional Prize Winner: Asia and Oceania
Mr. Liu Donglin, BBA(Acc&Fin), Year 2 (Team Leader)
Ms. Wang Yijie, BEcon&Fin, Year 2
Ms. Liu Jingyi, BBA(Acc&Fin), Year 2
(The team comprises 2 other team members from other Faculties of The University of Hong Kong)
Faculty Advisor:
Prof. Yu Jiaheng
From left to right: Mr. Tony LIU (1st left), Ms. Elena LIU (middle), Ms. Sophia WANG (2nd right)
Students Sharing:
From Grand Prize Winner
“It was such an amazing experience to win the challenge, and I would like to give a shout out to my teammates, Gavin and Swarna, who have dedicated a lot of their time and energy into researching and strategizing our portfolio allocation. I learned a lot about how the stock market reacts to different macroeconomic events, and how to capitalize on opportunities to achieve a high portfolio return. I also became more familiar with using the Bloomberg Terminal, and discovered all its built-in functions. Lastly, I would also like to extend my thanks to Bloomberg, HKU Business School (HKUBS), and Prof. Couvert, our faculty advisor, for their unwavering support.”
(by DARMAWAN Jocelyn Victoria)
“Winning the Bloomberg GTC feels like an incredible dream come true for me (I still can’t believe we came out as the champion among 2,000+ teams from around the world). While some may attribute their success to luck, I personally believe that consistently showcasing your objective analysis and executing trades wisely are the true keys to success in this intense six-week competition. Big thanks to HKUBS and Bloomberg for this invaluable opportunity. Equally important, I would also like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to Prof. Maxime for his wonderful insights, as well as my teammates for their unwavering dedication and hard work throughout this challenge.”
(by SAYOGO Gavin)
“This journey – from reading Bloomberg news articles to work on my assignments to actually winning the Bloomberg GTC – is another milestone I have gained throughout my study here in HKU. The challenge has not been an easy one – it started even long before thechallenge started as we formulated our own portfolio allocation. We also went through long stages of trial-and-error before we found the optimal strategy; the challenge has not been an easy and straightforward one. Throughout the process, I have learned a lot about trading, which I believe should be attributed back to my supportive teammates and our faculty advisor Prof. Maxime. Finally, I would also like to express my gratitude to HKUBS and Bloomberg for supporting us throughout the challenge.”
(by WIJAYA Swarna)
From Regional Prize Winner: Asia and Oceania
“Participating in the challenge and emerging as the Regional Prize Winner for Asia and Oceania was an incredible experience that deepened my passion for trading and improved my analytical skills.
This challenge underscored the significance of teamwork as we navigated the intricacies of trading in different countries. Due to the time difference, our team members took turns trading together, often working late nights in the Bloomberg Lab. I am especially grateful for the invaluable contributions of our team members from other faculties, Sheriff and Bernice, whose daily research significantly bolstered our profitability. Simultaneously, this challenge enhanced my understanding of the investment market and fortified my ability to handle pressure. The stock market is characterized by rapid fluctuations, with fortunes reversing within minutes. While we encountered losses during our trades, we persevered and maintained our momentum.
I sincerely thank Dr. Jiaheng YU for accepting our invitation as a faculty advisor and the HKUBS for their unwavering support throughout our challenge journey. I am eager to apply the knowledge and experience gained from the Bloomberg GTC to my academic and professional pursuits.”
(by LIU Donglin Tony)
“Throughout the 2023 Bloomberg GTC, I have gained hands-on experience in trading stocks and conducting business research and analysis, which is beneficial to my learning. From just “knowing and having heard about” the Bloomberg system to proficiently using the Bloomberg Terminal for stock analysis and enterprise research, I have witnessed my efforts and progress during the six-week challenge. Along the way, I saw how stock markets, currency markets, interest rate markets, economics, politics, news, and rumors all impact portfolio performance and it was really an eye-opening journey. Taking part in this challenge also made me realize that I still lack knowledge and skills in many areas, but I am also full of confidence and willing to meet these challenges. I am grateful for this transformative trading experience with my lovely teammates and will carry this lesson throughout my learning in HKU and my career path.”
(by WANG Yijie Sophia)
“During the tight but exciting six weeks, we took turns every day to execute our trading strategy and kept updating and improving our daily returns. We have experienced losses from unsuccessful investment decisions, additional losses due to some technical surprises, and the reverse biological clock of trading time, but I am glad we stuck with it and got a satisfying prize eventually. After what we have been through, I have perceived the importance of teamwork and time management. I am immensely thankful for my team members’ insistence and their support along the way. I am also very grateful to Bloomberg for organizing this challenge, which allowed me to have such an unprecedented experience in trading. The trading and life lessons I have learned, and the deep friendships I have made in this competition definitely meant a lot to me.
HSBC Global Private Banking Case Challenge is a highly competitive competition that spanned across universities in Singapore and Hong Kong. Over 500 teams participated. The HKU team, comprising of 3 students from HKU Business School and 1 student from Faculty of Arts, went through two rounds of challenges and was one of the four teams advancing to the Final Round. The Final presentation took place on 16th October 2023 at the HSBC Building in Central with live interactions with their counterparts in Singapore.
The Case Challenge provides learning opportunities for the participants including investment themes, portfolio construction, risk management and company analysis. Each of the final round teams was assigned a mentor from HSBC Global Private Banking to provide guidance throughout the process.
Miss Yau Tsz Ting, BFin(AMPB), Year 4 (photo position: middle)
Miss Yip Chun Yan, BFin(AMPB), Year 4 (photo position: 2ndfrom left)
Mr. Chan Ho Bun Curtis, BEcon&Fin, Year 5 (photo position: 2ndfrom right)
(The team comprises 1 other team member from the Faculty of Arts, The University of Hong Kong.)
Students Sharing:
“Participating in the private banking case challenge has been an enriching experience, equipping me with a diverse skill set essential for the financial sector. Through the challenge, I delved into the intricacies of market research, focusing on macroeconomic factors that influence investment decisions. This deep dive allowed me to better interpret economic trends and their impact on financial strategies. Furthermore, I honed my credit analysis skills, becoming proficient in assessing credit risk and understanding lending practices. Asset allocation was another key aspect, enhancing my ability to make informed investment decisions for clients. In addition, I learned the importance of delivering both quantity and quality service recommendations and tailoring financial solutions to individual client needs. This comprehensive experience has undoubtedly broadened my understanding of private banking and will prove invaluable in my future endeavours within the financial industries.”
(ByYAU Tsz Ting (Tina))
“It has been a remarkable and unforgettable journey with this brilliant team. Throughout the case challenge, we immersed ourselves into the dynamic world of private banking, from identifying client needs to customizing investment portfolios. It gave me an in-depth understanding on how private bankers cover the needs of their clients in an all-rounded manner and staying abreast of financial market trends for optimal portfolio allocation. It has been a pleasure working with such talented group members and it is undoubtedly one of my proudest achievements throughout my university life.”
(ByCHAN Ho Bun Curtis)
“Joining the case challenge is a remarkable experience to draw on in my future career, as I have been able to get a good grasp of the banking industry’s inner workings. Our experience in asset allocation enhanced my proficiency in portfolio management and investment strategies.
In addition, I explored credit analysis, evaluating borrowers’ creditworthiness, financial stability, and risk factors. This knowledge informed lending decisions that balance profitability and risk mitigation in banking and lending practices. The challenge also provided an opportunity to focus on quality service recommendations, improving my ability to tailor financial solutions to individual client needs. I honestly have to say that this is by far one of the most fruitful and empowering experiences throughout my career. I am able to learn from the abstract concept in a real-life situation and develop my analytics skills and presentation skills.”
The highly anticipated 211th Congregation Ceremony of HKU Business School took place at the Grand Hall, Centennial Campus, The University of Hong Kong. This momentous event, spanning five sessions on December 3 and 4, 2023, created a truly special occasion for all involved.
One of the highlights of the Congregation Ceremony was an inspiring speech delivered by our esteemed Dean, Professor Hongbin Cai. As the graduands prepared to venture into the dynamic business world, they were reminded of his insightful words: “Uphold your principles, stay true to your inner compass, and firmly believe that doing good is the surest path to long-term success. Utilize your talents and influence to champion ethical business practices, social responsibility, and sustainability. Be leaders who inspire and empower others, and work tirelessly to create a world that is fair, just, and inclusive.”
The votes of thanks were delivered by the graduand representatives, Marco Caruso, Dr Wang Dan, Kelvin Wong, Kejia Liu and Noc Choi. They expressed their heartfelt gratitude to the faculty, staff, families and friends for their unwavering support throughout their academic journey. Their words resonated with the audience, capturing the essence of the challenges faced, the triumphs achieved, and their optimistic and forward-looking mindset as they embrace the opportunities that lie ahead.
We are incredibly delighted to have received over 3,800 attendees, including 1,500 graduands who are now ready to embark on the next chapter of their lives, and 2,300 esteemed guests who came to show their support and celebrate this remarkable milestone.
Distinguished guests, colleagues, parents and family, and the graduating class of HKU Business School, I am deeply honoured and absolutely thrilled to be standing here today, as we commemorate this incredible milestone in your academic journey. Each one of you has shown extraordinary dedication and resilience to reach this point, overcoming countless obstacles, most notably the unprecedented challenges brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic. Your accomplishments fill us with immense pride, and I offer my warmest congratulations to each and every one of you!
Today, you are about to start a new chapter of your life journey, ready to meet the challenges and embrace the opportunities that lie ahead. It is a time that we are reminded daily, through TV news, social media and headlines of newspaper front pages, that the world is evolving at an astonishing pace, unfortunately often with more negative than positive news such as conflicts and wars, political divides and chaos, geopolitical tensions and decoupling, inflation and stagnation, so on and so forth.
As you embark on your next life journey at a time like this, I wish to share a few thoughts that might be useful. Like surfing big waves, a fundamental question is what to embrace and what to hold steadfast to despite the shifts around you.
Embracing change is synonymous with adaptability. In a world characterized by volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity — commonly referred to as VUCA — adaptability is the key to success. How does one cultivate this essential quality?
First and foremost, you must cultivate an open mind. Narrow-mindedness is the greatest impediment to thriving in a rapidly changing world, as it blinds you to new opportunities and leaves you trapped in outdated modes of thought. As students of HKU Business School, you have been part of an institution deeply embedded in Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area with a unique global network spanning Beijing, Shenzhen, HCM City, and Tel Aviv. Exposure to diverse perspectives and international experiences has widened your horizons, enabling you to appreciate different cultures and viewpoints, and, most importantly, to keep your minds open.
Adaptability also requires independent, critical, and creative thinking. In a world of uncertainties and fast changes, blindly following the crowd won’t get you anywhere. As graduates of HKU Business School, you possess a toolkit of skills and knowledge from the most up-to-date curriculum. Rather than viewing this knowledge as rigid doctrine, consider it a set of flexible tools that enable you to think independently, analyze critically,and innovate creatively. By embracing the art of deconstruction and thinking creatively, you can forge your own path and create a life that aligns with your unique dreams.
Furthermore, adaptability calls for an entrepreneurial spirit. Not everyone will launch their own business, but in any career path you choose, you must be willing to step out of your comfort zone, develop new skills, and seek out new opportunities. Comfort zones can quickly become stifling traps in an ever-changing world.
As you prepare to navigate the dynamic landscape of business and society, remain open-minded, cultivate creative thinking, and embrace an entrepreneurial spirit. Armed with these qualities, you will be well-prepared to adapt to any challenging environment and pursue success on a life path led by your passions and dreams.
Now, what should remain unchanged amidst the shifting tides of the world? Regardless of how the world transforms and your own circumstances evolve, never lose sight of your values and the impact you can make on the world. Who do you aspire to become? What is the purpose of your life? These are questions that will frequently arise as you face difficult decisions in a fast-changing world. Uphold your principles, stay true to your inner compass, and stay firm to the belief that doing good is the surest path to doing well in the long run.
Your journey at HKU Business School has not only imparted you with valuable skills and knowledge but also has forged lasting friendships and instilled an open and creative mindset that will serve you well in this dynamic world. The experiences you’ve amassed, the hurdles you’ve overcome, and the relationships you’ve nurtured have all prepared you to confront the uncertainties and complexities that lie ahead. You are now an ambassador of our school. Utilize your talents and influence to champion ethical business practices, social responsibility, and sustainability. Be leaders who inspire and empower others, and work tirelessly to create a world that is fair, just, and inclusive.
To the Class of 2023 of HKU Business School, congratulations once again! As you embark on your future endeavors, may you do so with courage, unwavering passion, and a steadfast commitment to making a positive impact.
