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HKIC ends year on high note but Hong Kong cost of living a drawback for attracting talent
Yahoo Finance· 2025-12-23 09:30
Core Viewpoint - The Hong Kong Investment Corporation (HKIC) aims to enhance Hong Kong's economic vitality by investing in high-potential industries and establishing a supportive ecosystem for innovative enterprises [3][4]. Investment Activities - HKIC has invested in over 150 projects, leveraging more than HK$6 of private capital for every HK dollar invested, with a total fund management of HK$62 billion (US$8 billion) [1][3]. - The investment distribution includes 62% in mainland China and 34% in Hong Kong, focusing primarily on hi-tech (71%), biotech (13%), and renewables/green technology (11%) [3]. Partnerships and Ecosystem Development - HKIC has formed partnerships with companies like SmartMore and BioMap, facilitating connections with local universities and enhancing research opportunities [6][7]. - The partnerships are seen as endorsements that help attract additional funding and foster collaboration among start-ups [8][14]. Challenges in Talent Acquisition - High living costs in Hong Kong are a significant barrier for start-ups in attracting talent, as salaries may not be competitive compared to mainland China and the US [9][11]. - There are calls for government intervention to provide affordable housing to support talent retention in the innovation sector [10][12]. Market Impact and Future Outlook - HKIC's initiatives have strengthened Hong Kong's venture capital market, with a notable increase in deal activity reported by local VC firms [5][17]. - The investment landscape is expected to grow, with AI, logistics, and longevity identified as key growth drivers for the future [19].