HONG KONG, 16 February 2026 – Hong Kong is welcoming the Year of the Horse with renewed optimism, underpinned by stronger-than-expected economic performance, revitalised capital markets, and a surge in tourism that is reinforcing confidence in the city’s recovery and long-term global competitiveness.
As Lunar New Year celebrations begin, Hong Kong is preparing for a wave of festive activities expected to attract up to 1.4 million visitors from mainland China, highlighting the city’s enduring appeal as a regional tourism and financial hub.
Major events, including a harbour fireworks display and the annual Lunar New Year parade featuring multiple floats and international performance groups, are set to symbolise both cultural vibrancy and economic revival.
Economic Growth and IPO Leadership Reinforce Confidence
Hong Kong’s economic outlook has strengthened significantly, with growth reaching 3.5% in 2025, exceeding expectations and reflecting resilient recovery momentum.
Exports have rebounded strongly, while Hong Kong regained its position as a leading global destination for initial public offerings (IPOs), reinforcing its critical role in international capital markets.
The city’s renewed strength in IPO activity signals growing investor confidence and reinforces Hong Kong’s position as Asia’s premier financial gateway.
These developments reflect broader improvements across Hong Kong’s economic ecosystem, including capital market recovery, rising investment inflows, and strengthening business sentiment.
Government Policy Alignment Supports Long-Term Growth
Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu has pledged to align the city’s development strategy with China’s 15th Five-Year Plan, ensuring that Hong Kong remains fully integrated into the mainland’s long-term economic and technological expansion framework.
This policy alignment is expected to strengthen Hong Kong’s strategic role in areas including:
- Financial services and capital markets
- Technology and digital innovation
- Trade and logistics
- Cross-border economic integration
Closer alignment with mainland China’s national development agenda enhances Hong Kong’s strategic relevance and long-term growth trajectory.
Tourism Recovery Signals Strong Consumer and Service Sector Rebound
The expected influx of visitors during the Lunar New Year highlights the recovery of Hong Kong’s tourism sector, one of the city’s key economic pillars.
Festive traditions, including flower markets, cultural celebrations, and public events, are expected to boost consumer spending, hospitality demand, and retail activity.
Tourism recovery is critical to restoring economic vitality, particularly in sectors such as retail, hospitality, and transportation.
The return of mainland Chinese visitors also reflects improving regional mobility and strengthening economic integration.
Resilience and Community Spirit Strengthen Social Stability
While economic indicators point to recovery, Hong Kong continues to emphasise resilience and social cohesion, with policymakers and communities focused on rebuilding and strengthening livelihoods following challenges in recent years.
Lunar New Year remains a time for reflection, renewal, and collective aspiration, reinforcing optimism about the city’s future.
The Year of the Horse, symbolising strength, endurance, and forward momentum, reflects Hong Kong’s broader economic outlook and strategic ambitions.
Investor Perspective: Hong Kong Reinforces Position as Asia’s Financial Gateway
Hong Kong’s improving economic fundamentals, strengthening capital markets, and tourism recovery reinforce its role as one of Asia’s most important financial centres.
The city’s leadership in IPO activity, growing economic integration with mainland China, and improving macroeconomic conditions position it for sustained growth.
For investors, Hong Kong remains a key gateway to China and Asia’s broader financial markets, offering access to capital flows, global investment opportunities, and long-term structural growth.
As Hong Kong enters the Year of the Horse, its renewed economic momentum and resilience underscore its enduring role as a cornerstone of Asia’s financial and economic landscape.
