BlackRock's Artificial Intelligence is closely monitoring and assisting in making stock selections based on its observations. Asset managers are investigating the application of AI, as regulatory bodies such as Hong Kong's supervisory authority attempt to establish guidelines.

In the meantime, Hong Kong's securities regulator has set up a set of rules to guarantee the sensible exploitation of the technology.

BlackRock's automated investment platform, which they refer to as a "human-machine collaboration," utilizes this technology to generate over 1,000 indicators from more than 300 different data sources. These sources include content from social media, blogs, and internet searches.

The system monitors any sudden increases in social media discussions about a company, which are often followed by a surge in traffic on the company's website. This could potentially indicate a rise in the company's stock price. Ahmed Talhaoui, the leader of BlackRock's Systematic Group for Asia-Pacific, Europe, Middle East and Africa, stated in a recent Hong Kong press conference, "A single stock can generate numerous signals, and some of these may conflict with each other. Therefore, we must be adept at integrating these signals."

Processes such as machine learning and similar methods assist, however, the involvement of humans remains crucial.

Chairman of HKEX states that Middle Eastern firms show inclination towards Hong Kong listings

Carlson Tong Ka-shing asserts that a firm 'trust and friendship' has been formed between Saudi Arabia and Hong Kong

Carlson Tong Ka-shing reiterates the strong bond of 'trust and friendship' between Saudi Arabia and Hong Kong.

Carlson Tong Ka-shing mentioned that several projects and businesses funded by the kingdom's state-owned investment fund, the Public Investment Fund (PIF), as well as companies listed on the Saudi Stock Exchange, or Tadawul, could readily pursue listings in Hong Kong.

Tong mentioned that high-ranking representatives from Tadawul and PIF expressed their curiosity about the proposal for Saudi firms to be listed in Hong Kong. This occurred during a meeting with a team from the city, held in Riyadh the previous month.

"Saudi businesses stand to gain by listing in Hong Kong as it provides an opportunity to gather funds for economic diversification. At the same time, it allows Hong Kong and global investors to tap into the Gulf economy," he stated.

In alignment with its Saudi Vision 2030 strategy, Saudi Arabia is undertaking a transformation and broadening of its economy to decrease its dependence on oil. This has initiated a multitude of infrastructure projects throughout the nation.

Following numerous engagements with HKEX and authorities from the Hong Kong government during the past couple of years, along with the dual-listing of exchange-traded funds (ETFs) in both markets, Tong expressed that a foundation of "trust and friendship" has been built between the two parties.

Chinese builders hasten residential sales as mood shifts

Strong sales in October have exhausted inventory, leading to an expected average decline of 20 per cent in several cities come November, according to a research institute.

The week of November 3 saw the approval of approximately 115 projects, which collectively provide 44,577 housing units, as per the data gathered by 58 Anjuke Real Estate Research Institute. This institute monitors the real estate activities in 55 major cities on the mainland. This marked a 30 per cent increase from the prior week's approvals.

In October, the leading 100 property developers in the country reportedly sold homes valued at 435.5 billion yuan (equivalent to US$60.2 billion). This represents a 73% increase compared to sales in September, as reported by China Real Estate Information Corp. Over the same period, there was a slight dip in home prices by 0.5%, marking the least significant decrease since March, as indicated by government statistics.

"There's a lot of excitement," stated Wei Kai, the marketing head at Centaline Property's Shenzhen branch, one of the biggest real estate firms. "The mood is getting better, hence everyone is eager to kick off their projects immediately."

Shares in Hong Kong put a stop to a 6-day downturn as Chinese banks see an increase following a regulatory directive. Firms listed on the stock market that have share prices less than their book value are required to devise strategies to rectify the situation, as stated by the CSRC last Friday. The CSRC reiterated this statement last Friday for companies listed on the stock market with share prices less than their book value.

The Hang Seng Index saw a 0.8 per cent increase, finishing at 19,576.61, which marked a turnaround from a 7.3 per cent drop in the previous six trading days. The Hang Seng Tech Index also experienced a rise, albeit a smaller one at 0.3 per cent.

The major indexes in Mainland China experienced a slight decline. The CSI 300 Index saw a decrease of 0.5 per cent, while the Shanghai Composite Index went down by 0.2 per cent.

Investor confidence in Hong Kong and Chinese stocks continues to be unstable after China's unexpected decision not to introduce the financial stimulus that investors were counting on. This unease is exacerbated by the potential for increased tariffs following Donald Trump's re-election as US president. The Hang Seng Index experienced a substantial drop of 6.3 per cent last week, marking a total fall of 16 per cent since its peak in October.

Special Report | Bridgewater's Prince suggests China presents a singular chance for portfolio diversification

Additional stimulus is required since current expenditure is inadequate to reach its growth goal, according to co-CIO Prince.

For a robust investment portfolio, investors are advised to spread their investments across different regions, industries, sectors, asset types, or a mix of all. This approach aids in achieving a well-balanced portfolio that thrives in periods of increasing inflation, as per Prince's advice. Conversely, he pointed out that many investors' portfolios are primarily set up to profit from a decrease in inflation.

If Donald Trump secures a second term as President, it could trigger a wave of "Trump Tsunami" policy decisions that could potentially disrupt international markets, as per Max Baucus, the previous American ambassador to China. During his campaign, Trump pledged to expel unlawful immigrants and increase taxes on goods imported from China, among other things, which could potentially instigate another round of trade conflicts.

The potential strategies he might employ are causing unease among economists and financial consultants, who believe that tariffs will most likely impact American consumers and trigger a rapid increase in US inflation, according to economists. This brings into question the speed at which the Federal Reserve will be able to reduce interest rates in 2025.

Prince points out that the majority of investors have their assets primarily in stocks and bonds, which tend to do well in a low-inflation environment. He emphasizes the importance of having a diverse portfolio, as relying on a single market exposes the investor to the economic risks and rate fluctuations within that system.

Leading international banking executives assemble in Hong Kong for a conference as authorities assure further modifications

China's Deputy Prime Minister He Lifeng, who is accompanying a large group, is set to give a main address.

Numerous prominent global financial experts have congregated in Hong Kong to participate in a conference that includes officials from mainland China. This suggests significant backing from the country's leadership for the city's growth.

Jane Fraser, the CEO of Citi, Jenny Johnson, the CEO of Franklin Templeton, and Ronald O’Hanley, the CEO of State Street, were among the 300 banking executives spotted on Monday evening at The Henderson, the location of a notable dinner event.

He Lifeng, the Chinese Vice Premier who is the top official overseeing the country's financial services sector, was set to give a major address on the opening day of the conference on Tuesday. However, he was reportedly absent from the dinner, as per the attendees.

The head of economic affairs in Beijing is coming with the most significant delegation from mainland China to the Global Financial Leaders' Investment Summit. This is the largest delegation since the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) began hosting the event in 2022.

The financiers were presented with a lavish meal.

Prenetics and David Beckham have unveiled the IM8 brand, featuring two health and wellness supplements. The brand plans to debut two high-end products named Daily Ultimate Essentials and Daily Ultimate Longevity.

The company is set to launch two high-end products, Daily Ultimate Essentials and Daily Ultimate Longevity, on its digital platform. These items will be available for delivery in 31 nations such as Hong Kong, the United States, UK, and Singapore.

"We're utilizing the peak of scientific advancement and innovation, enabling individuals globally to manage their health and wellness."

Prenetics, a company listed on Nasdaq, has announced that IM8 will concentrate on creating advanced consumer health products.

IM8 Daily Ultimate Essentials is a multifunctional flavored powder designed to serve as a holistic daily nutrient supplement. It contains 16 individual daily supplements that promote heart health and bolster the joints and muscles. IM8 Daily Ultimate Longevity is a daily pill developed to focus on refreshing cells and promoting healthy aging.

UOB and Shanghai Gold Exchange ink agreement to boost international collaboration

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On November 11, 2024, in Singapore, United Overseas Bank (UOB) entered into an agreement with the Shanghai Gold Exchange (SGE). This Memorandum of Understanding was signed in Shanghai and is one of the mutual cooperation efforts agreed upon by the People's Bank of China and the Monetary Authority of Singapore during the 20th meeting of the Joint Council for Bilateral Cooperation.

China plays a pivotal role in the international gold market, holding the position as the biggest producer and importer of gold, as well as the leading creator of gold products. The demand for gold in the ASEAN region has seen a noticeable rise in recent years due to an increase in disposable income and heightened interest from investors. As part of the Memorandum of Understanding, both sides will proactively support the Belt and Road initiative and pursue strategic collaboration in the ASEAN gold markets, using China's gold supply chain to bridge the gap between production capabilities and demand. This is expected to positively impact the growth of the ASEAN gold markets.

The Deputy Chairman and CEO of UOB, Mr Wee Ee Cheong, stated that UOB has a prominent role in the Southeast Asian gold business, and is also a member of the SGE. This Memorandum of Understanding will enhance UOB's collaboration with SGE in areas such as proprietary trading, physical delivery, and international bullion products. UOB, being the sole bank in Singapore providing physical gold products and having a broad presence in the ASEAN region, is in a strong position to bridge customers to gold markets within the region and China.

Mr. Yu Wenjian, the Chair of SGE, stated, "We're celebrating the 10th year of SGE International Board. Our plan is to keep expanding globally and to roll out new business strategies. In collaboration with UOB, we aim to improve the International Board's service system, which will aid in the high-level opening of China's gold market as a part of the financial infrastructure."

The Hong Kong conference commences with top executives ready to explore China's stimulus proposals and Trump's economic policies. This year's investment conference is themed 'Navigating Through Transformations', where the focus will probably be the intense discussions on China's economic boost and Trump's financial strategies.

The premier financial gathering in Hong Kong is uniting the chief executives of several of the globe's leading banking organizations. This offers exposure to China's high-level authorities at a crucial period when investors are closely examining Beijing's economic stimulus and reaction to the new US government.

Deputy Premier He Lifeng is spearheading a team of high-ranking leaders, among them Wu Qing, the chief of the China Securities Regulatory Commission (CSRC). They are attending the Global Financial Leaders' Investment Summit, which begins today with an introductory gala dinner.

Senior leaders from prominent firms such as HSBC, Goldman Sachs, JPMorgan Chase, Citigroup, BNP Paribas, Oaktree Capital Management, and KKR, among others, have arrived in the city. They are here to endorse Hong Kong, a significant income source for several of them and a principal local head office for others.

This is the largest delegation from Beijing to attend the yearly event since its inception in 2022. The enthusiasm and progress that followed China's stimulus blast in late September have largely diminished. This is because China has refrained from implementing further large-scale initiatives to bolster its housing and stock markets.

Three forty-nine

Xi's impassioned call establishes economic goals for Chinese authorities, pardoning them for past errors.

"I'm optimistic that this could be their defining moment of taking any necessary measures. However, what they've essentially done is firmly assert that they will do whatever it can to prevent a catastrophe," stated Karen Karniol-Tambour, co-chief investment officer at Bridgewater Associates, in a podcast the previous month. "It's not equivalent to 'doing anything possible to achieve greatness'."

She further added that there are numerous measures that Chinese policymakers can still implement.

Alibaba plans to offload bonds for debt repayment and stock repurchase, taking advantage of low interest rates. The leading Chinese online commerce company will be issuing bonds in US dollars and yuan to facilitate their debt repayment and stock buyback scheme.

The company stated on Monday in a filing with the Hong Kong stock exchange that specifics such as the main sum, interest percentages, expiration dates, and additional conditions of the notes would be set when the offering is priced.

According to an anonymous tip featured in a Reuters article, Alibaba – who owns the South China Morning Post – is planning to raise a staggering $5 billion. The report outlines that the dollar bonds are set to mature over spans of 5.5 years, 10.5 years and 30 years. Additionally, the yuan bonds will mature at intervals of 3.5 years, 5 years, 10 years and 20 years.

Kenny Ng Lai-yin, a strategist at Everbright Securities International, has stated that the current low-interest rates in the Asia-Pacific region and elsewhere globally have made issuing debt comparatively affordable. This provides a tactical chance for businesses to invest or carry out share buybacks to boost capital returns.

Alibaba, headquartered in Hangzhou, in the eastern region of Zhejiang province, has initiated its most ambitious share repurchase program since its inception during the height of the Covid-19 crisis in late 2020, to bolster its stock value. The e-commerce giant has invested $14.7 billion in the current year, a significant increase from the $9.5 billion in 2023, $10.9 billion in 2022, and $10.6 billion in 2021, as per the company's official documents.

A survey indicates that Hong Kong investors have a positive outlook on Trump's presidency. According to the poll, 70% of Hong Kong residents think Trump would be more beneficial for the global economy compared to his rival, Harris.

The report, released on Monday, indicates that 70% of residents in Hong Kong are of the opinion that Trump's term in office would have been more beneficial for the worldwide economy compared to Kamala Harris's, even with the possibility of increased strain between the US and China, which could impact local economic expansion.

The study, conducted by MDRi, a division of the British legal consultancy firm Mishcon de Reya Group, also discovered that investors from Hong Kong are prepared to enhance their investment in the US market due to a surge in confidence in the global economy.

Currently, 58% of the 500 surveyed investors based in Hong Kong reported investing their money in the domestic market, while the US came in a near second with 19%. Following the election, 24% of those surveyed indicated plans to increase their investments in the US.

Warner's Max begins operations in Asia, challenging Netflix in the Hong Kong streaming battle. The American streaming platform is aiming for a spot among the top three in its fresh Asian markets, states WBD CEO, JB Perrette.

Max is set to debut in Hong Kong, Taiwan, and numerous Southeast Asian nations, providing audiences with a substantially improved, more diverse range of content. This includes favored series such as Harry Potter and the DC Universe, according to JB Perrette, the CEO of WBD and the president of global streaming and games.

Perrette, in a recent interview, stated that although launching in North America, South America, and Europe was a significant achievement, they could not truly label themselves as a global product until they made their mark in Asia-Pacific, given its sheer size and importance.

The executive stated that WBD is aiming to be among the top three leaders in its new Asian markets in terms of size, involvement, and profitability.

As per the data from Rakuten Insights reported by Statista, Netflix, ViuTV, and YouTube Premium are the top three on-demand video platforms in Hong Kong as of June. Other platforms like Disney+, Apple TV+, and Amazon Prime Video are also accessible in the city.