David Thomas’ Post

🚨 Spoiler Alert:🚨 My position is "Possibility" The real conversation needs to be had around the 'how'. Steven Roach has been taking a ton of heat for his assertions that Hong Kong is 'over', but when one looks past the sensationalism of the headline, I agree with his key message, that is: "What's over, in my opinion, is the imagery that many still cling to in looking into the future of [an] understandably proud city, Asia's world city, known for its very free market," Roach said. That city "is not the Hong Kong of today, and especially not the Hong Kong of tomorrow." There seems to be no real plan for what the Hong Kong of tomorrow is. My experience working in regional corporate innovation, building Neon! Ciders and now with a technology startup in deploy. have all been incredibly rewarding, but even more so extremely difficult especially in the Special Administrative Region. Join me and my fellow panelists Andy Chan, Joon Nak Choi, Raymond C., Carrie Hang-yin Ling, and Vincent See for what is sure to be a lively discussion on the "how" we make Hong Kong into a thriving innovation ecosystem. Link in comments.

Hong Kong's start-up ecosystem has demonstrated strong resilience despite various challenges - both the number of startups and their number of staff employed reached a new record high, with a total of 4,257 startups employing 16,453 staff, as revealed by Invest Hong Kong 2023 Startup Survey. Among the over 30% non-local founders, 16.6% were from the United Kingdom, ranking second only to Mainland China (21.6%). And among the 4,500 some past and current start-up / scale-up tenants at the two local incubators, 16 have been listed, nine have become unicorns, and a total of some HK$130 billion has been raised by end of 2023. And you can be one of them! My first event in London will show you the vast opportunities Hong Kong offers to overseas tech companies. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur looking to expand to HK or the wider region of area, or a scientist looking for R&D partnerships, this event promises valuable insights and actionable strategies to navigate and thrive in this dynamic market! Sign up here and see you on 17 Apr: https://lnkd.in/gxnGifkR Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office, London ASTRI - Hong Kong Applied Science and Technology Research Institute HKSTP - Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation

* 𝘞𝘩𝘺 𝘴𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘏𝘰𝘯𝘨 𝘒𝘰𝘯𝘨 𝘤𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘢𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘴𝘱𝘢𝘤𝘦 𝘥𝘦𝘣𝘳𝘪𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘧𝘶𝘵𝘶𝘳𝘦 𝘴𝘱𝘢𝘤𝘦 𝘦𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘰𝘮𝘺 — 𝙒𝙝𝙮 𝙉𝙤𝙩? Hong Kong, often hailed as “𝗔𝘀𝗶𝗮’𝘀 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗹𝗱 𝗖𝗶𝘁𝘆”, must now live up to that grand title. Our destiny lies in Hong Kong’s continued viability as a global financial centre. Let’s think globally and construct “bridges” that span continents. Hong Kong should become a place where cultures converge, #entrepreneurial spirit flourishes, and the heartbeat of the world pulses with energy —once again. 🌟𝗕𝗮𝗿𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗢𝘃𝗲𝗿𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗲: 1. 𝗨𝗻𝗹𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗵 𝗙𝗲𝗮𝗿 𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗼 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗨𝗻𝗸𝗻𝗼𝘄𝗻: “𝙈𝙤𝙫𝙚 𝙤𝙪𝙩 𝙤𝙛 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙩 𝙯𝙤𝙣𝙚,” we often advise university students. Now, let’s heed our own advice. Hong Kong’s traditional sectors—banking, finance, and legal services — form a strong foundation. Now, let’s embrace entrepreneurship and take calculated risks. Seek resources and funding to turn workable ideas into viable businesses. 2. 𝗨𝗻𝗹𝗼𝗰𝗸 𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗰𝗵 𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗮𝗹: Hong Kong boasts of top universities and research institutions. However, breakthroughs often remain confined within academic walls. True pioneers don’t merely theorise; they bring ideas to life. Translating theoretical breakthroughs into practical applications requires interdisciplinary collaboration, exploring commercialisation opportunities, and real-world implementation. 3. 𝗔𝗱𝗮𝗽𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗱𝘆𝗻𝗮𝗺𝗶𝗰𝘀: To diversify, Hong Kong needs to cater to the diverse needs and preferences of its clientele. Explore new ventures or markets. Learn to adapt by staying agile and responsive: - Expand product offerings. - Add new features. - Customise marketing messaging for Asia (ex-China). Attract the interest of businesses and #investors both regionally and globally. ➡️ In summary, promoting innovation, taking calculated risks, and collaboration are essential for Hong Kong’s success on the global stage. By encouraging creativity and #collaboration, Hong Kong can truly live up to its title as “𝗔𝘀𝗶𝗮’𝘀 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗹𝗱 𝗖𝗶𝘁𝘆.”🌟 𝘞𝘩𝘺 𝘴𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘏𝘰𝘯𝘨 𝘒𝘰𝘯𝘨 𝘤𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘢𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘴𝘱𝘢𝘤𝘦 𝘥𝘦𝘣𝘳𝘪𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘧𝘶𝘵𝘶𝘳𝘦 𝘴𝘱𝘢𝘤𝘦 𝘦𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘰𝘮𝘺 — because if we don’t, other cities will! (Photo credit: CSL) —— The August edition of 𝗦𝗽𝗮𝗰𝗲𝗕𝗶𝘇 𝗗𝗶𝗮𝗹𝗼𝗴𝘂𝗲𝘀 on 30 August 2024 will focus on #SpaceDebris. Registration is now open. 🚀✨

📢 Exciting Announcement for Hong Kong Enterprises! 📢 Dear Esteemed Professionals, We are thrilled to share remarkable news that could potentially transform the trajectory of your business endeavors. Are you contemplating expansion ventures into one of the globe's most rapidly burgeoning urban landscapes? Look no further! We are delighted to extend an exclusive invitation to you on behalf of Invest Seoul, in collaboration with the Seoul Metropolitan Government, for the forthcoming "SEOUL FORWARD: Your Next Business Destination" roadshow. 🗓 Date: June 11th, 2024 🕐 Time: 13:00-17:00 🏨 Venue: Hotel Alexandra Hong Kong We cordially invite you to participate in a day filled with invaluable insights, networking opportunities, and strategic discourse. Highlights of the event include: 🌟 Seminars elucidating Korea's dynamic business landscape and its promising outlook. 🌟 Comprehensive introduction to Invest Seoul's array of support programs tailored to catalyze your expansion initiatives. 🌟 Exclusive private consultation sessions dedicated to addressing pertinent legal, tax, accounting, foreign exchange, and labor-related inquiries. This occasion presents an unparalleled opportunity for you to delve into the vibrant prospects that Seoul proffers and discover firsthand how Invest Seoul stands poised to streamline and fortify your trajectory towards business expansion. We urge you not to let this extraordinary opportunity pass you by. Secure your attendance promptly by reserving your spot via the following link: https://lnkd.in/gQqCmMpW For further elucidation regarding the event's agenda and pertinent details, please peruse the attached invitation letter accessible through this link: https://lnkd.in/gQMrwpKR Seize the moment to propel your enterprise to unprecedented heights, with Seoul beckoning as your next destination of choice! #SeoulForward #BusinessExpansion #InvestSeoul #HongKongBusinesses

Hong Kong: The Ticket From Big To Bigger For businesses looking towards the burgeoning Asian market, Hong Kong is the place to go. With strategic connections to the Greater Bay Area and Mainland China, a vibrant and talented I&T ecosystem, a robust investment community and first-rate innofacturing facilities, the city has everything it needs to propel tech-driven companies to greater success.   See how four big international names from various industries are continuing to find and maximise growth opportunities in Hong Kong and neighbouring markets, as featured in the InnoPark x Tatler Asia series: Vobile - Bernard Wang Tapping HK’s regional potential to reinforce leadership in the digital copyright space   CATALO Natural Health Foods Ltd. - Calvin Chan Sustaining consumer health through competitive production synergies between HK and US   Avnet - Arthur Chung Accessing microelectronics talent and advanced manufacturing in HK to drive GBA and APAC growth   TOPPAN Edge (Hong Kong) Limited – Thomas Wan Top-notch information and data management serving HK government and top corporations   Hong Kong is proud to be a part of many innovators’ success stories. Apart from business-friendly government schemes and tax incentives, InnoPark’s world-class infrastructure and networks are drawing more and more visionary entrepreneurs from around the world to accelerate their tech-for-good dreams in—and from—Hong Kong.   Read all about it: stp.hk/3SChF2c   #HKSTP #PropellingSuccess #InnoPark #InnofacturingTomorrow #MadeInHongKong

🌟 Is Hong Kong Still the 'Pearl of the Orient'?: A Market Overview 🔍 Why it matters: Hong Kong stands as a beacon of opportunity, drawing global investors with its robust economic prospects and dynamic business landscape. Despite recent challenges, its resilience and adaptability make it a compelling destination for investment and expansion. 📊 By the Numbers: With a GDP of $2 trillion USD and a population of 80 million, the Greater Bay Area presents immense potential for growth and collaboration. Hong Kong's strategic location and reputation as a leading financial center further bolster its appeal, while key sectors like tech, logistics, and hospitality continue to flourish. 🔑 Among the Key Reasons: Government support and a burgeoning startup ecosystem drive innovation across industries, from AI and biotech to e-commerce and digital entertainment. The city's diverse opportunities cater to a wide range of businesses, offering a platform for sustained growth and development. 🗣️ What they're Saying: "Hong Kong's resilience amid geopolitical and economic uncertainties underscores its status as a global business hub. The city's ability to adapt and innovate positions it as a prime destination for investors seeking long-term success." 💡 The Intrigue: Amid tensions and challenges, the development of the Greater Bay Area presents a unique opportunity for Hong Kong to leverage its strengths and foster collaboration within a dynamic economic region. As businesses navigate the evolving landscape, partnerships and strategic investments are key to unlocking the city's full potential. What do you think? Weigh in below. #HongKong #InvestmentOpportunities #APAC

Hong Kong stands out as a vibrant hub that offers unparalleled opportunities for both residents and investors….🚨💰 1. Economic Powerhouse: With a robust economy and a strategic location, Hong Kong is a gateway to Asia and beyond. Its business-friendly environment fosters innovation and growth. 2. World-Class Infrastructure: The city boasts a sophisticated transport system, cutting-edge technology, and high-quality services, making it an ideal place for both living and working. 3. Cultural Melting Pot: A unique blend of East and West, Hong Kong offers a rich cultural experience, excellent education options, and diverse culinary delights. 4. Investment Opportunities: From real estate to finance and tech startups, the city presents a myriad of investment avenues, supported by a transparent regulatory framework. 5. Quality of Life: Despite its bustling pace, Hong Kong provides a high standard of living, with access to green spaces, healthcare, and a vibrant community. In a rapidly changing world, Hong Kong remains a resilient and attractive place to invest and thrive. Let’s explore the potential together! #HongKong #Investment #Business #Economy #QualityOfLife #Networking #Finance

Forget Everything You Knew: Hong Kong's New Spenders Are Here! The consumer landscape in Hong Kong is undergoing a dramatic shift. A wave of affluent mainland Chinese immigrants, known as ‘New Hongkongers’, is arriving in droves. Over 100,000 high-net-worth mainland Chinese immigrants arrived in 2023 alone, joining the existing 2.4 million. This rapidly growing demographic boasts impressive spending power, with many earning a median monthly income exceeding HK$50,000. But here's the secret: Their online world is different. (Swipe through to learn more!) Don't miss out on this lucrative opportunity! Download iClick's exclusive report, "Engaging Affluent New Hongkongers: A 2024 Digital Media Report", and unlock the secrets to effectively reaching and engaging this powerful consumer segment. Full report: https://lnkd.in/gP7bWX2f #iClick #iCLK #iClickInsights #NewHongKongers #DigitalConsumerInsights #ChineseMedia #ChinaMarketing #HongKongMarketers

“I'm here because Hong Kong's vibrant innovations and creative spirit draw entrepreneurs, investors, and biotech enthusiasts”, shared Babar Hussain, senior engineer, TCL Corporate Research (HK) Co., Ltd. As an international metropolis characterised by its vibrant modernity and fascinating blend of East and West, Hong Kong is not only an ideal place to settle but also a thriving environment for overseas talent like Babar from Pakistan. The city also possesses a burgeoning start-up ecosystem complete with ample resources. These include wide-ranging government fundings, institutional investors, as well as aspiring entrepreneurs and I&T professionals innovating in diverse sectors, including medicine, AI and biotechnology. Watch the video below to see why Babar believes Hong Kong provides exceptional opportunities for talent like himself, aspiring to careers in I&T. 👇 Check out other talent’s stories: https://ow.ly/rpO950TGsm8 Hong Kong Talent Engage (HKTE), under the Labour and Welfare Bureau of the HKSAR Government, provides comprehensive one-stop support services for incoming talent to settle in and integrate into Hong Kong for long-term development. #hketoberlin #HKTalentEngage #MakeTheMoveToHongKong #WorkInHongKong #LiveInHongKong

🎉FIELD NOTES 001! Hong Kong - Much more than just a city 💡Some people ask me what’s so special about a city of a little over 7 million people. This is a relatively small market, a drop in the ocean in China and even more so in Asia as a whole. But here is the thing: 🇭🇰 Hong Kong is never just a city, it’s a vital node with influence well beyond its borders. A B2B machinery built over decades and a networker’s paradise. You can think of Hong Kong as the tip of the iceberg in all these networks, small in itself but part of something much larger. 🎯Hence the name for my newsletter “Field Notes - Business and Tech in HK and the region” because both Hong Kong and the region cannot be understood without the other. This is a theme that will in one way, or another underpin almost all articles in Field Notes. 👉Check out this week's article to get all the insights. If you like it, please subscribe and share! The more, the merrier! https://lnkd.in/dd3bGMTx #alfonsofieldnotes #hongkong #headquarterseconomy #policyaddress #china #us #japan #businessdevelopment #asia Crossbow #oases