Hong Kong overseas expansion remains a strategic priority for local companies despite weaker business confidence, according to UOB's Business Outlook Study 2026. The survey found that nearly four in five businesses intend to expand internationally during the next three years as they strengthen resilience and pursue long-term growth opportunities. Business sentiment declined to 63% in 2025 from 73% a year earlier, reflecting a more challenging economic environment. Nevertheles

Yuan investment continues to gain acceptance among institutional investors, with 87% of portfolios now including yuan-denominated assets, according to an HSBC survey covering more than 120 Asia-Pacific investors. The findings highlight growing confidence in China's financial markets and the expanding role of the yuan in global portfolio diversification. The survey found that 63% of respondents primarily accessed offshore yuan markets, while 54% invested through Connect progra

The South Korea growth outlook has strengthened after major global investment banks raised their average 2026 economic growth forecast to 3%, supported by booming semiconductor exports driven by artificial intelligence demand. The revised projections reflect growing confidence in the country's export-led recovery. Data from the Korea Center for International Finance showed the average forecast from eight investment banks, including JP Morgan and Citi, increased from 2.8% in M

Singapore wealthy individuals continue to face the world's highest cost of living, with the city retaining its position as the most expensive location globally for high-net-worth individuals for a fourth consecutive year, according to Julius Baer's latest Global Wealth and Lifestyle Report. The Swiss private bank ranked Singapore ahead of Zurich and Monaco, while Hong Kong placed fourth, Shanghai sixth, Sydney eighth and Bangkok tenth. Asia-Pacific cities accounted for five o

Indonesia is considering sweeping tax incentives to support a proposed international financial centre as the government seeks to attract global capital, financial institutions and family offices. The Indonesia financial hub proposal includes extensive fiscal incentives aimed at strengthening the country's competitiveness as a regional investment destination. Lawmakers discussed legislation that would provide a 100% corporate income tax reduction for qualifying businesses and