Group 1: Economic Outlook - The Hong Kong government has not significantly increased taxes in recent years and has no plans for major tax hikes, focusing on expenditure reduction and revenue enhancement while maintaining a simple low tax system [1][2] - The projected real GDP growth for Hong Kong is 2.5% for 2024 and 3.1% for Q1 2025, which is notably higher than the average growth of 1.5% for the G7 countries in the same period [1] - The Hang Seng Index rose by 20% in the first half of the year, with an average daily trading volume of approximately HKD 240.2 billion, a 118% increase year-on-year [1] Group 2: Fiscal Policy - The 2025-2026 budget aims for fiscal consolidation primarily through expenditure control, with a goal to balance government accounts by that fiscal year and return to surplus by 2026-2027 [2] - The projected budget deficit for the current fiscal year is HKD 67 billion, with significant contributions from increased stamp duty revenue due to higher stock market activity [2] - The government plans to issue HKD 1.5 to 1.95 trillion in bonds over the next five years under sustainable and infrastructure bond programs, with an expected issuance of HKD 150 billion in the current fiscal year [2] Group 3: Support for Businesses - The Hong Kong government is actively supporting businesses, particularly SMEs, through various financing and development programs, including credit guarantees and funds for brand development and market expansion [3] - Hong Kong ranks third globally in competitiveness, with its tax policy ranked first, indicating a strong business environment [3] - The government is also introducing tax incentives for eligible commodity traders to boost the maritime services sector and plans to develop tax incentives for family offices and related wealth management [3] Group 4: Banking Sector Stability - The Hong Kong Monetary Authority reports that local banks maintain a total capital ratio of 24.2% and an average liquidity coverage ratio of 182.5%, both exceeding international standards [4] - Credit risk related to local real estate development is manageable, with banks having taken measures to mitigate risks associated with smaller developers and investors [4] - The overall asset quality in the banking sector is stable, with a credit provisioning coverage ratio of approximately 60%, increasing to about 145% when considering collateral values [4]