Distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen, good evening. It is a privilege to address such a talented audience at this annual gathering. Each of you has played a vital role in Hong Kong's journey as a leading International Financial Centre (IFC), proudly holding the prestigious Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation.
In 2024, Hong Kong reclaimed its top-three position according to the Global Financial Centres Index (GFCI), demonstrating our resilience and capacity to rebound after the pandemic. Notably, while our global ranking improved by only one spot, our rating score surged more significantly than any other top 30 financial centres. We are also proud to rank No.1 globally in the investment management sector, surpassing New York and London.
This success was hard-won, reflecting our collaborative efforts in navigating all global challenges to ensure Hong Kong remains competitive as an IFC. The GFCI report highlights another key strength: our city's top-three ranking in human capital. Nobel laureate Professor Gary Becker emphasises that human capital, combined with new knowledge, is crucial for economic growth. We should take pride in our world-class professional talents, including all of you in this room.
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