Standard Chartered senior economist Tommy Wu raises Hong Kong’s 2026 GDP growth forecast to 3.2% from 2.5%, citing solid fourth-quarter momentum, stronger financial activity and improved consumer sentiment. The bank expects a moderate rebound in the housing market, but remains cautiously hopeful due to structural changes and global risks. The HIBOR rate decreases in the first half of the year, then gradually increases again in the fourth quarter.
Economic growth has accelerated, but risks remain
“We are raising our GDP growth forecast for 2026 to 3.2% (from 2.5%), taking into account the strong growth dynamics in the fourth quarter.”
“We expect the financial industry to build on Hong Kong’s regained momentum, especially in raising funds for its initial public offering and renminbi internationalization.”
“Consumer sentiment is likely to improve further given the ongoing rally in stock markets.”
“We also expect a moderate rebound in the housing market.”
“However, we are cautiously optimistic.”
(This article was created with the assist of an artificial intelligence tool and has been reviewed by an editor.)
