Two current undergraduate students, Mr. Benjamin Evald [Year 4 – BEcon&Fin], and Ms. Alla Ip [(Year 4 BBA)], have been selected by the Faculty as student representatives to attend the Beta Gamma Sigma Regional Leadership Conference – “Navigating Leadership: Adapting Styles for the Evolving Workplace” at Northern Kentucky University from April 11-12, 2025.

During the two-day conference, BGS student participants from various BGS Chapters have been presented with a valuable opportunity to explore dynamic leadership, emphasising adaptability in today’s complex workplaces with integrity and innovation. Distinguished speakers have shared their insights and experiences on a range of topics, including cross-cultural nuances, ethics, and technological advancements such as AI. BGS members from different nations are actively engaged in networking, establishing connections, and participating in activities aimed at enhancing leadership skills, particularly in becoming influential and empowering leaders with a renewed sense of purpose and practical strategies applicable in both academic and professional spheres.

Below are the appreciation testimonials from Benjamin and Alla, highlighting the valuable insights and takeaways they gained from their participation in this transformative conference:

“Attending the 2025 Beta Gamma Sigma Leadership Conference surpassed my expectations, offering a uniquely enriching experience. Beyond the anticipated talks and seminars, the event provided ample opportunities to engage with speakers, fostering insightful discussions. Interacting with diverse BGS members from various universities added depth to my experience. This conference went beyond the ordinary, blending theoretical knowledge with practical applications, emphasising the essence of leadership in human connection, motivation, and adaptability. The skills and connections gained will be invaluable in my academic and professional journey, reinforcing the importance of continuous self-improvement and genuine engagement. I return to campus not only with enhanced leadership skills but also with a renewed dedication to instilling these values within my university community.”

Mr. Benjamin Evald | BEcon&Fin Year 4, Academic Year 2024-25

“Attending the BGS Leadership Conference at Northern Kentucky University proved transformative, offering profound insights into leadership, communication, and cultural intelligence through immersive workshops, case competitions, and networking opportunities. The event prompted reflection on personal leadership styles and encouraged collaboration across diverse peers. Notably, Anne Bonney’s keynote on emotional intelligence set a powerful tone, emphasising the importance of self-awareness and positive intent in leadership. From crafting leadership impact statements to understanding the “Golden Circle” concept, sessions delved into diverse leadership dimensions, stressing the significance of empathy, adaptability, and strategic vision. Engaging exercises, like paired discussions on leadership philosophies and the intense case competition, honed problem-solving skills and highlighted the value of collaborative ideation. Networking sessions facilitated connections with professionals, reinforcing the essence of quality relationships over mere transactions. Immersed in American culture, hospitality shone through personal interactions, offering valuable insights into relationship-building and communication dynamics. As I prepare to enter the workforce, I intend to apply these learned principles of trust-building, cultural sensitivity, and collaborative leadership to navigate challenges and shape my professional journey with purpose and authenticity.”

Ms. Alla Ip | BBA Year 4, Academic Year 2024-25

Photo recaps about the BGS Regional Leadership Conference 2025

About BGS HKU Chapter

Beta Gamma Sigma is The International Business Honor Society recognising and honouring top performing students from around the world in business schools accredited by The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB International). The Beta Gamma Sigma HKU Chapter was established in 2012.

Members of Beta Gamma Sigma are the top 10% of undergraduate students, the top 20% of graduate students and all doctoral candidates who have successfully defended their dissertations at an AACSB-accredited business school. Besides giving recognitions to outstanding students, Beta Gamma Sigma also awards business veterans with exceptional leadership as Chapter Honorees in the annual Induction Ceremony.

Since its founding in 1913, Beta Gamma Sigma has inducted more than 900,000 outstanding students into membership worldwide. With more than 600 collegiate chapters and lifetime members from over 190 countries, Beta Gamma Sigma is truly a global network.

The Beta Gamma Sigma (BGS) HKU Chapter proudly hosted its induction ceremony on April 24, 2025, at the HKU iCube. The event marked the induction of 109 exceptional undergraduate and postgraduate students into the esteemed ranks of Beta Gamma Sigma. Additionally, Mr. Daryl Ng, Deputy Chairman of Sino Group, a committed advocate for sustainability and community development, leading initiatives focusing on green practices, youth empowerment, community well-being, and heritage preservation, is being honoured with the title of BGS HKU Chapter Honoree.

The ceremony commenced with a warm welcome from Professor Hongbin Cai, the Dean of the HKU Business School, who extended his heartfelt congratulations to the newly inducted Beta Gamma Sigma members. Dean Cai emphasised the core values that define Beta Gamma Sigma, including a commitment to excellence, dedication to service, and a profound passion for learning. He also highlighted the recent plans and development on sustainability education offered by the HKU Business School, including the establishment of the HKU Jockey Club Enterprise Sustainability Global Research Institute, integrating sustainability-related content into academic teaching across different programme levels, ensuring that our students are prepared to tackle real-world environmental and social issues with knowledge and skill. Dean Cai also shared the upcoming initiatives, including the launching of HKU Business School Shanghai Centre, as well as a new curriculum in Artificial Intelligence (AI) offered which prepares our students with cutting-edge knowledge to stay ahead in the fast-paced changing world.

During the ceremony, the audience also had the privilege of hearing from Mr. Daryl Ng, who graciously shared his career journey. Reflecting on a fast-paced business landscape and the importance of innovation, Mr Ng emphasised the role of the new generation in shaping Hong Kong’s future. Encouraging the adoption of a holistic approach with fresh ideas and openness in future business, he underscored the significance of community impact and sustainable practices. Through resilience, adaptability, and a commitment to excellence, he envisioned a brighter future for Hong Kong. Challenges and opportunities go hand in hand, and challenges often bring out the best in ourselves, making our society better and stronger. Mr. Ng encouraged the participants to stay focused on their mission for personal and societal impact.

About Beta Gamma Sigma

Established in 1907 in the U.S., Beta Gamma Sigma is the international honor society serving business programmes accredited by The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). Membership in Beta Gamma Sigma is the highest recognition a business student anywhere in the world can receive. Since 1913, Beta Gamma Sigma has inducted more than 700,000 outstanding students in more than 160 countries around the world.

About BGS HKU Chapter

The BGS HKU Chapter was installed in 2012. Since its inception, over 1,000 students were inducted. The lifelong membership conveys academic excellence, a commitment to high principle and superior achievement. Eligible students must attain CGPA of at least 3.60 and simultaneously be on the Dean’s Honour List and be on the top 10% of their respective undergraduate or postgraduate programme.

港大经管学院非常荣幸地邀请到复星国际有限公司董事长郭广昌先生，担任2025年4月25日举办的「港大经管学院领袖企业家讲坛系列 2025年 – 第三讲」的主讲嘉宾。此次论坛中，郭教授与港大经管学院经济学实务教授毛振华教授展开深入对话，围绕复星因时而变、顺势而为的战略思维，探讨企业在经济新浪潮下如何调整战略重心并聚焦优势产业，为与会者带来深刻的商业洞见和启发。

讲座伊始，郭教授向会众介绍了复星的战略布局。他指出，复星战略聚焦健康、快乐、富足的幸福生态系统，致力发挥企业生态优势，为全球家庭提供涵盖全生命周期的幸福解决方案。具体包括：

• 健康板块：涵盖生物制剂、器械诊断和健康服务等业务板块，持续全球产业创新，构建医疗级、一站式、全场景的健康生态；
• 快乐板块：围绕家庭消费和旅游文化，构建全球化、全产业的快乐生态系统；
• 富足板块：聚焦保险、资管两大领域，打造复星富足生态产业布局；
• 智造板块：以战略性资源、功能性新材料和智能制造产业为主体，赋能产业高端化、智能化、绿色转型

随后，郭教授以企业周期为主轴，指出人类常因惰性而固守旧路径。若环境已产生变化，但企业未能及时调整策略与思维，便会因商业路径依赖及人的惯性，逐步走向衰退。他进一步提到，中国企业的「卷」，早在当年的钢铁行业便已有深刻体会。当时，许多企业在产能过剩与价格战的压力下，陷入低利润甚至亏损的困境。他强调，企业若要穿越周期、实现持续成长，必须因变而变，及时调整策略，避免陷入恶性竞争的陷阱。以复星30多年的发展历程为例，他深入剖析集团如何自创立以来不断捕捉市场机遇：从初期的小型市场咨询公司，逐渐转型进入房地产销售和医药行业；第二阶段透过投资整合资源，实现快速成长并初步完成国内产业布局；其后聚焦全球经济与科技发展，推动资源和人才的全球整合；到了后期，随着生活水准提升和技术进步，复星转而强调科创驱动，专注提升产品力和竞争力，聚焦满足家庭客户的消费需求。在后疫情时代，集团再度调整策略，专注发展优势产业，以迎接新的挑战与机遇。

针对宏观经济周期，郭教授强调全球化发展的重要性。他指出，企业领导者不仅需敏锐辨识市场机会，还要在每个经营决策中进行清晰的价值分析与认同，同时善于整合公司生态资源和能力，为企业创造更大价值。以复星的医药产业为蓝本，他分享集团从研发布局到产品上市经历十多年的历程，强调若企业缺乏前期规划和长远准备，便难以在当今社会建立竞争优势。他进一步提及集团的经营宗旨：「如履薄冰，如临深渊，战战兢兢，兢兢业业。」面对资本市场的潮起潮落，他建议创业者保持独立判断能力，并掌握产品与资本逻辑，方能在变幻莫测的市场环境中屹立不倒。

接着，郭教授以人和组织周期为类比，进一步阐述企业管理的核心要素：

• 核心是组织，关键是人才，驱动靠文化，科技为基础
• 管理形式需因应环境与需求弹性改变
• 以组织能力和文化价值推动管理变革和提升，并借助现代资讯科技技术进一步提高管理系统效率

在分享环节的尾声，郭教授勉励会众秉持三个「坚持」：坚持做对的事、坚持做困难的事、坚持要做需要时间累积的事。他强调，唯有坚守原则与长远眼光，方能在商业道路上行稳致远。此次讲坛不仅展现了复星在全球化与创新道路上的卓越实践，更揭示了企业家精神的深刻内涵，启发与会者在面对挑战时保持敏锐与韧性，以创新的思维与长远的视野迎接未来机遇，为个人与企业的发展注入新的动力和灵感。

Connectivity in Finance (“CIF”) is a three-day out-of-the-classroom event for HKU Business School students, which one can treat as a local field trip. The event was led by Professor Anna Wong, Programme Director of the Bachelor of Finance in Asset Management and Private Banking (BFin(AMPB)) and arranged primarily for the Year 1 and Year 2 Business School students who are interested in finance.  

 The CIF 2025 was hosted during the Reading Week between 10 and 12 March. A total of 58 students from all programmes participated, visiting and meeting senior government officials and banks/bankers covering private wealth management, asset management, and corporate and commercial banking. The students also have the opportunity to join a financial market trading workshop hosted by AmplifyME, giving them a taste of sales and trading.

 The event was well received by all the students, with some extracted comments quoted below:

“The CIF programme was an incredible opportunity to deepen my understanding of the finance industry, build meaningful connections and develop practical skills. This experience has further fueled my passion for the industry, and I look forward to applying what I have learned as I continue my journey in finance.”

Jonathan Yau, BBA(IBGM) Year 2

“The CIF has been a defining experience in my early career journey. Beyond the technical expertise, it instilled in me a profound respect for the human element in finance — whether in client relationships, cross-border collaborations or ethical stewardship of wealth.”

Stephanie Mak, BEcon&Fin Year 2

“The programme provided invaluable exposure to the finance industry through bank visits and practitioner interactions. I particularly valued the rare opportunity to receive direct advice from professionals. During the AmplifyMe simulation, I have the opportunity to understand the difference between short-term trading and longer-term investment strategy and do appreciate the latter.”

Samantha Kwok, BFin(AMPB) Year 1

“An event that fosters insight for prospective undergraduates to learn what it takes to be a Private Banker. Through deep sharing from esteemed individuals in this event, I can pinpoint my goals and realize the mindset I must adopt to understand clients, the markets and leverage ample opportunities for connections and learning.”

Jerry Ngo, BSc(QFin) Year 1

• Meeting Senior Government Official – March 10 morning

Students met with Mr. Joseph Chan, Under Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury, The Government of the HKSAR. Mr. Chan talked about the strengths and challenges of Hong Kong as an international financial centre and how students should prepare themselves in the midst of a challenging environment. Some comments from the participating students:

“The talk allowed for an understanding of the critical role that government policies play in shaping the financial landscape and ensuring economic stability.”

“The talk clearly shows the future job trend and government focus, such as green and sustainable finance and fintech.”

“I have a better understanding of the role that the Government plays and the importance of collaboration between public and private sectors in shaping effective financial policies.”

(Mr. Joseph Chan, Under Secretary for Financial Services and Treasury, sharing with HKU Business School students.)

(2) Visiting Banks and Meeting Bank Executives

Students visited four banks in two days, having the opportunity to meet both senior executives as well as young talents of the bank. While listening to senior executive presentations is a good way to understand the business strategy and opportunities, the students treasured a lot on the “speed dating”, “small chit-chat”, and “drinking chat” with the young executives and division experts. Amazingly, some analysts we met are our recent BFin(AMPB) alumni.

We visited DBS Bank, Goldman Sachs, Julius Baer and Standard Chartered Bank. The hosting banks represented a spectrum of businesses and cultures. Students have the opportunity to learn about private banking at Julius Baer and Standard Chartered Bank, Corporate/Commercial Banking at DBS Bank and Wealth and Asset Management at Goldman Sachs.

• Standard Chartered – March 10 afternoon

(Group photo of Standard Chartered Private Banking representatives with Prof. Anna Wong (front row, 4^th from the right) and HKU Business School students.)

“I really loved the interactive private chit-chat session with the industry practitioners. It made the experience more unique and interactive.”

“My favourite session was the speed-dating for us to mingle with 6 mentors in 60 minutes; I raised questions for all 6 mentors and found their sharing to be very insightful.”

• DBS Bank – March 11 morning

(Prof. Winnie Leung, Assistant Dean (Undergraduate) of HKU Business School (front row, 4^th from the right), participating in the firm visit to DBS Bank and posing for a group photo with all DBS practitioners.)

“The session discussing how the bank competes with its competitors by integrating technology into its banking system is really an opener for me.”

“My biggest takeaway is the role of technology in banking and the digital transformation being the significant focus of the bank.”

• Julius Baer – March 11 afternoon

(Prof. Anna Wong (front row, second from the left) and David Shick, Market Head Greater China Hong Kong and Branch Manager Hong Kong, Julius Baer (front row, second from the right) with HKU Business School students.)

“My favourite part was the in-depth discussion on personalized wealth management strategies and how Julius Baer tailors its services to meet individual client needs.”

“The Branch Manager’s sharing was very encouraging and provided insights into the bank’s responsibilities and goals.”

“The office atmosphere and the speakers’ presentation style made me interested in working for the bank.”

• Goldman Sachs – March 11 afternoon

(Group photo featuring Prof. Anna Wong (3^rd  from the left) alongside representatives from Goldman Sachs.)

“I really liked and enjoyed the BFin(AMPB) alumni sharing, which provided a good networking opportunity.   Their sharing on how they got the job and their daily routines at the wealth management division and asset management division were inspiring.”

“My favourite part of the talk was the insights into the bank’s approach to risk management and how they navigate market volatility to protect client investments.”

• Sales & Trading Simulation – March 12

Students participated in a one-day Financial Market Trading Workshop organized by AmplifyME, which featured Asset Management and Sales & Trading simulations used by top firms. The simulations offered a realistic glimpse into the roles of sales traders, market makers and asset managers. 

(Group photo of the participating students from the trading simulation workshop.)

“It provided students with a good understanding of the dynamics between the buy side and sell side in finance and gave them hands-on experience bridged the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world application.”

Connectivity in Finance (“CIF”) is an annual event. If you have missed the opportunity this year, do watch out for the next offering in March 2026!

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.

港大经管学院很荣幸邀请到新东方教育科技集团董事长俞敏洪先生，参与学院于2025年4月8日举办的「港大经管学院领袖企业家讲坛系列 2025年 – 第二讲」，并担任主讲嘉宾。俞老师以自身投身教育界和创业故事为基础，与港大经管学院经济学实务教授毛振华教授讨论如何在人生或事业低谷时保持积极心态，化挑战为机遇、锤炼韧性，并探索突破的方向，为与会者带来了宝贵的见解和人生启发。

演讲伊始，俞老师通过分享自身经历、古人的故事以及当代企业家的创业之路，如NVIDIA公司创办人兼首席执行官黄仁勋先生、阿里巴巴集团创办人马云教授和胖东来商贸集团董事长于东来先生的成功故事，指出每位成功的创业家背后都有一段艰辛的历史。他勉励大家面对困难和失败时，除了保持良好的心态，更要心存希望、对未来的期许始终不变，就能战胜困境，在人生和事业中继续勇往直前。他亦认为，事业有成的企业家往往具备以下共同特质：

1. 对自己热衷和坚持的事情，培养出浓厚的兴趣
2. 从小事做起，不急不躁，追求极致
3. 坚守诚信，视产品质量和顾客体验为神圣信仰
4. 拥有创新能力，对产品的升级迭代和边界扩展充满兴趣
5. 坚守热爱的领域，展现出极具吸引力的个人魅力
6. 尽管追求财富，但不做守财奴，对于用财富取得甚么成就有着超级的敏感
7. 不会满足现状，亦不会放弃奋斗，遇到困难都勇往直前
8. 不受年龄限制，永远散发年轻气息

俞老师强调，大部分人的生活和事业都不是一帆风顺的，人生和事业就像一条河流，以曲折展现其丰富且美好的路径。他深信韧性是企业家最重要的品德，是一种赤子之心、不怕失败、寻找出路的能力。对他而言，韧性是一种热爱的坚持，是生命不息，是对地平线之外世界的渴望。他寄语与会者，世上并没有真正的失败，只有成功前的努力。

随后，俞老师深入分享他对企业家的看法：

• 企业家必须与时代合拍，理解时代、运用时代，并超越时代
• 创业家不只是生意人，还需拥有核心价值观，推动企业发展的同时促进社会进步
• 企业家必须是不畏艰难和失败的人，能从困境中找到机会
• 企业家需要具备足够的创新和突破能力，带领团队走向新旅程
• 企业家应具备团队领导力和组织文化力，营造同舟共济、共同奋斗的氛围

俞老师亦寄语会众：生命犹如一条江河，无论奔腾或曲折，皆流向大海。事业与工作如同江河上的船只，让我们乘风破浪；而志向与学习是引擎，助我们直挂云帆济沧海。他强调成功需一生的正确努力，不仅要勇往直前，还需具备前瞻眼光、圆融智慧，以及随时从头再来的心态，引领我们航行于生命的旅途。他勉励大家，要以不装不端、不怨不怼的态度坦然面对人生，以不破不立、不屈不挠的精神迎接挑战，并秉持真诚恳切、心存光明的信念，勇敢追求属于自己的远大未来。

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 1^st Runner-up and one 2^nd 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 1^st Runner-up, and one 2^nd Runner-up with the five sponsoring companies.

Find out more about the competition: https://www.chamber.org.hk/bcc2024/

Champion (HKGCC track, sponsored by SWIRE)

Team Name: Chamber Transformers

Team Members:

Miss Choi Yu Hei, BEcon&Fin, Year 3

Miss Leung Hoi Kiu, BBA, Year 4

Miss Pan Ho Man, BEcon&Fin, Year 3

Mr. Fung Ho Kong, BEng(EE), Year 2

Miss Ng Kam Ping, BSocSc, Year 5

Champion (Jardine Matheson track)

Team Name: JNL Consulting

Team Members:

Miss Law Lok Yee Nori, BEcon&Fin, Year 2

Miss Liu Yunjie, BEcon&Fin, Year 2

Mr. Wong Man Yin, BEcon&Fin, Year 2

(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.”

(by Miss So Hoi Ching)

CITIC – IDEI Discussion Forum on FinTech and AI

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.