Core Insights - The Standard Chartered Bank and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council reported an increase in the Standard Chartered Greater Bay Area Business Confidence Index, with the current index rising from 53.1 to 54.7 and the expectations index increasing from 52 to 55.7, marking four-year and two-year highs respectively [1] Group 1: Business Confidence - The survey indicates a comprehensive improvement in business confidence among enterprises in the Greater Bay Area for Q3, driven by the extension of the US-China tariff truce and reduced external uncertainties [1] - A majority of surveyed companies reported no impact from internal competition, with 3.1% stating they benefited from it [1] Group 2: Impact of Internal Competition - Approximately 29% of businesses reported slight negative impacts from internal competition, while 5% experienced significant negative effects [1] - Among the companies affected by internal competition, over 70% indicated that profits and sales were negatively impacted, and around 40% reported hindrances to hiring and investment plans [1] Group 3: Strategic Responses - In response to the challenges posed by internal competition, businesses in the Greater Bay Area are adopting various strategies, including enhancing brand promotion and marketing efforts, controlling costs and optimizing inventory management, and providing value-added services [1] Group 4: Economic Outlook - The economist from Standard Chartered for Greater China, Chen Guanlin, noted that trade uncertainties may lead to a more cautious business atmosphere, and the trend of companies diversifying their operations is expected to continue due to increasing external uncertainties and internal competition challenges [1]