Group 1: Financial Hub Rankings - Hong Kong maintained its position as the world's third-ranked financial hub, narrowing the gap with New York and London, with an overall rating increase of 4 points [1][3] - The latest GFCI report indicates that only one rating point separates the top four financial centres, with Hong Kong being 1 point below London and 2 points behind New York [3] - Singapore rose 13 points to rank fourth, just 1 point below Hong Kong [2] Group 2: IPO Market Performance - Funds raised via initial public offerings (IPOs) in Hong Kong increased eightfold in the first six months of 2025, making the city the top global exchange for IPOs for the first time since 2019 [4] - Deloitte projected Hong Kong to record 66 IPOs and raise up to HK$182.3 billion in the first three quarters of 2025, representing a 47% increase in the number of IPOs and a 228% surge in proceeds compared to the same period in 2023 [6] - The Hong Kong stock exchange is expected to retain its position as the global leader in IPO fundraising in the third quarter, driven by six mega IPOs [5] Group 3: GFCI Assessment Criteria - The GFCI's assessment is based on five areas: business environment, human capital, infrastructure, financial sector development, and reputation and general overview [7]