Connect with us

Business

Hong Kong – World No.3 Global Financial Centre

Published

on

Hong Kong

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Neswire – 20 March 2025 – Hong Kong has maintained its World No.3 ranking in the latest Global Financial Centres Index (GFCI) after New York (No.1) and London (No.2). Hong Kong’s overall rating increased by 11 points to 760, remaining top in the Asia-Pacific region.

The biannual GFCI, published today (March 20) by the Z/Yen from the United Kingdom and the China Development Institute from Shenzhen, also rated Hong Kong No.4 globally for fintech offerings, a leap of five places compared to the previous report.

The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government welcomed the report, saying the positive assessment fully recognises Hong Kong’s leading status and strengths as an international financial centre.

Among the various areas of competitiveness of the GFCI, Hong Kong rose to second place for “human capital”, “infrastructure” and “financial sector development” and third in the “business environment” and “reputational and general”.

“The ratings reflect that our continued efforts to enhance the diversity and the competitiveness of Hong Kong as an international financial centre have fully received international recognition,” said the Financial Secretary of the HKSAR, Mr Paul Chan. “I have full confidence that as long as we adhere to fundamental principles while breaking new ground, stay bold in reform, flexible in our responses and strive to seize the opportunities presented by the new era and new landscape, Hong Kong’s status as an international financial centre will surely reach new heights.”

Among financial industry sectors, the latest GFCI ranked Hong Kong first in “investment management”, “insurance” and “finance”, and third globally in “banking”.

This reflects positively on the various government initiatives, including those announced in the 2025-26 Budget, to promote development of the financial market and create more new growth areas.

Some recent strategies include enhancing the timeframe for listing application process and listing requirements for specialist technology companies, which have injected new impetus into the Hong Kong market and improved its liquidity.

To deepen the financial mutual access between the Mainland and Hong Kong, a number of measures have been implemented to enrich and support offshore Renminbi (RMB) business, such as enhancing the settlement arrangements of Bond Connect and launching offshore RMB bond repurchase business using Northbound Bond Connect bonds as collateral.

The Government has also implemented measures to promote development of asset and wealth management business over the past year, including enhancements to the Cross-boundary Wealth Management Connect Scheme in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, Exchange-traded Fund Connect, and the Mainland-Hong Kong Mutual Recognition of Funds arrangement.

Also looking ahead, Chief Executive of the HKSAR, John Lee, in his 2024 Policy Address, proposed developing Hong Kong into becoming a gold trading centre. The Working Group on Promoting Gold Market Development will formulate a plan this year, covering measures to enhance storage facilities, optimise trading and regulatory mechanisms, expand exchange products, and conduct market promotion.

In terms of promoting fintech, the Government’s multi-pronged approach includes enhancing relevant infrastructure; building a more active fintech ecosystem; nurturing fintech talent; as well as strengthening co-operation with the Mainland and overseas. The Government will soon promulgate a second policy statement on the development of virtual assets to explore the integration of traditional finance and virtual assets.

In October 2024, the Government issued a policy statement, setting out its stance and approach towards the responsible application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the financial market. In addition, the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) and Hong Kong Cyberport have launched a new Generative AI Sandbox to foster innovation in the banking industry.

The HKMA has also launched a stablecoin issuer sandbox to allow institutions with plans to issue stablecoins in Hong Kong to conduct testing on their operational plans.

The Government will continue to leverage our distinctive strengths to accelerate the cultivation of new quality productive forces and create more new growth areas, so as to sustain the high-quality development of Hong Kong’s financial market.

 

Business

What to Expect at Angola Oil & Gas 2025

Published

on

independence

As Angola marks 50 years of independence, Angola Oil & Gas returns in 2025 with an expanded multi-track program, a larger exhibition space, a dedicated deal room and a pre-conference technical agenda

LUANDA, Angola, April 2, 2025/APO Group/ –With a $60 billion upstream investment pipeline, a 2025 licensing round and restructured block opportunities, Angola is positioning itself as the premier destination for upstream investors. Meanwhile, new downstream projects are opening up financing opportunities for technology and capital providers. Against this backdrop, the Angola Oil & Gas (AOG) conference and exhibition returns for its sixth edition from September 3-4 in Luanda, bringing together industry leaders to explore investment opportunities, forge collaborations and drive Angola’s oil and gas sector forward. Here is what to expect from this year’s edition:

Celebrating 50 Years of Angola

Taking place on the eve of Angola’s 50th anniversary of independence, AOG 2025 will celebrate five decades of growth in the country’s oil and gas sector. By reflecting on past successes, challenges and lessons learned, the event will not only highlight Angola’s profitability and potential, but also lay the groundwork for future investment and development.

Multi-Track Agenda

AOG 2025 offers a dynamic multi-track agenda designed to cater to all segments of the oil and gas value chain. Topics range from upstream exploration and production, to downstream refinery and petrochemical advancements, to regulatory and policy frameworks, and more. Keynote presentations and panel discussions will also provide insights into Angola’s latest licensing round and emerging opportunities in the oil and gas sector.

Pre-Conference Program

Leading up to the main event, AOG 2025 introduces an expanded pre-conference program, including specialized technical workshops and training sessions led by global energy experts. Designed for engineers, geologists, project managers and energy financiers, these sessions will explore cutting-edge advancements in drilling technologies, reservoir management, digital transformation and sustainable energy practices. To take part in the pre-conference program, contact sales@energycapitalpower.com

Dedicated Deal Room

A centerpiece of AOG 2025 is the exclusive Deal Room, designed as a high-impact ‘Dragon’s Den’-style platform where companies, service providers, SMEs and technology firms can showcase their solutions to investors, project developers and government representatives. This setup fosters direct engagement, driving collaboration and deal-making.

Expanded Exhibition

AOG 2025 will feature an expanded exhibition space, spotlighting the latest technologies, services and innovations shaping the oil and gas industry. Exhibitors will gain access to unparalleled brand exposure, senior decision-makers, high-value networking and targeted lead generation. The exhibition serves as a vital platform for companies looking to increase visibility and forge new business relationships.

Networking Prospects

As Angola’s largest oil and gas industry event, AOG 2025 welcomes the participation of over 2,500 attendees from 40 countries and 450 organizations. The event unites the entire oil and gas value chain, connecting upstream exploration and production to downstream infrastructure and services to finance, policy and technology. Delegates will have the unique opportunity to strengthen cross-sector collaboration and grow their brand in one of Africa’s most exciting oil and gas markets.

Secure Your Place at AOG 2025

Don’t miss the chance to engage with one of Africa’s largest oil and gas markets. Join the AOG 2025 conference today and be a part of the discussion on turning Angola’s oil and gas industry into a fuel for long-term, sustainable economic development. AOG 2025 offers a range of participating opportunities, including sponsorships, exhibition, speaking slots and delegation prospects. Visit www.AngolaOilandGas.com for more information.

AOG is the largest oil and gas event in Angola. Taking place with the full support of the Ministry of Mineral Resources, Oil and Gas; the National Oil, Gas and Biofuels Agency; the Petroleum Derivatives Regulatory Institute; national oil company Sonangol; and the African Energy Chamber; the event is a platform to sign deals and advance Angola’s oil and gas industry. To sponsor or participate as a delegate, please contact sales@energycapitalpower.com.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.

Continue Reading

Business

Equinix Strengthens Commitment to Nigeria’s Digital Economy with New LG2.3 Data Center Expansion

Published

on

Equinix

Equinix remains steadfast in its mission to enable secure, scalable, and sustainable digital growth for economies across the world

LAGOS, Nigeria, April 2, 2025/APO Group/ –Equinix, Inc. (Nasdaq: EQIX) (www.Equinix.com), the world’s digital infrastructure company™, has officially opened its latest data center expansion in Lagos. Called LG2.3, the facility will support Nigeria’s growing digital transformation efforts, providing state-of-the-art colocation and secure interconnection solutions which will empower businesses across the region.  It also signifies Equinix’s unwavering dedication to advancing Nigeria’s position in the global digital economy, reinforcing the company’s commitment to the region.

As part of the inauguration, Bruce Owen, President of EMEA at Equinix, along with other Equinix executives, led the ribbon-cutting ceremony at the newly expanded site. In addition to an official visit to the Governor of Lagos State, Equinix hosted an exclusive customer engagement event, bringing together key customers and partners from Nigeria’s business and technology sectors. Attendees discussed shared successes and Equinix’s role in facilitating digital transformation, while also connecting directly with Bruce Owen for insights into how Equinix’s solutions drive innovation and business agility in the region.

Clear demonstration of our continued commitments to invest and grow digital infrastructure that will benefit the many thousands of businesses

Equinix executives also took part in a tree-planting ceremony, symbolising Equinix’s continued investment in sustainable initiatives across the globe and highlighting the company’s broader goal of reducing its carbon footprint while supporting greener practices across its operations worldwide.

Speaking about the expansion, Bruce Owen, President of EMEA at Equinix said “Nigeria is a crucial market for Equinix. Today’s opening is a clear demonstration of our continued commitments to invest and grow digital infrastructure that will benefit the many thousands of businesses in Nigeria and on the continent as a whole. I am deeply encouraged by the enthusiastic partnerships and innovations emerging from this dynamic region, which continue to inspire our commitment to Nigeria’s digital and sustainable future.”

Adding to this, Wole Abu, Managing Director of Equinix West Africa, highlighted the critical role of data centers in driving economic growth stating “Data centers continue to play a pivotal role in driving economic development in Nigeria, serving as critical infrastructure that supports digital transformation and economic growth. As governments and enterprises increasingly acknowledge their significance, global demand for data center capacity is poised to rise. While Africa’s demand for data solutions is still evolving compared to more mature markets, the continent is demonstrating strong potential for digital adoption and innovation. To meet this growing need, Equinix is actively advancing three major data center projects in Nigeria, with future expansion plans for Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, and South Africa.”

Equinix remains steadfast in its mission to enable secure, scalable, and sustainable digital growth for economies across the world.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Equinix.

Continue Reading

Business

Angolan Government Launches Tender for Concession of Passenger and Cargo Terminals in the Ports of Cabinda and Soyo

Published

on

Cargo Terminals

Within 40 working days after the publication of the public tender notice in Jornal de Angola, investors interested in developing and optimizing the operation of these public assets can submit their proposals

LUANDA, Angola, April 1, 2025/APO Group/ —The Government of Angola launched this Wednesday, in Soyo, Zaire province, the Public Tender for the Concession of the Operation of Port Services in the Maritime Passenger and Cargo Terminals of the Port of Cabinda and in the River Passenger and Cargo Terminals of the Port of Soyo. This strategic initiative aims to strengthen regional logistics, improve mobility and boost the country’s economic growth.  

The process initiated today arises within the scope of Presidential Order No. 210/23, of August 29, which authorizes the opening of the tender for the award of concession contracts for the management, operation and maintenance of these terminals, for a period of 20 years.

Within 40 working days after the publication of the public tender notice in Jornal de Angola, investors interested in developing and optimizing the operation of these public assets can submit their proposals, in accordance with the requirements and factors set out in the documents of the procedure defined by the Ministry of Transport.

Connected to Luanda and ports in neighboring countries, Cabinda and Soyo are central hubs in maritime and river trade in the northern region, linking cities, populations and companies from different sectors, including oil.

In addition to the development of the cabotage sector in Northern Angola, the management of the concession will allow the creation of jobs, the improvement of freight and passenger transport logistics, and a better use of existing resources, ensuring a more competitive and sustainable operation, in line with efficiency and sustainability policies in the transport sector. in Angola.

The launching ceremony of the Tender for the Concession of the Passenger and Cargo Terminals of the Ports of Cabinda and Soyo was chaired by the Secretary of State for Civil Aviation, Maritime and Port Sectors, Rui Carreira.

More information about the competitors and proposals is available on the website https://www.Mintrans-Tenders.ao

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Transport of Angola

Continue Reading

Trending