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Women’s Representation in Hong Kong’s Financial Sector Reaches Record High

Prime Highlights

  • Women now hold 45% of senior leadership rolesand 37% of board seats in Hong Kong’s financial sector, up significantly from 2018.
  • Regulatory changes and stronger corporate commitments are empowering women to lead authenticallyand fostering a more inclusive financial industry.

Key Facts

  • The survey covered 24 financial firms and 532 professionals, with Hong Kong ranked as the top international financial hub for supporting women in leadership.
  • Since January 2024, fewer than 10 of 2,600 listed firmshave all-male boards, down from 800 in 2022, reflecting accelerated gender diversity reforms by HKEX.

Background

Hong Kong’s financial sector is seeing a steady rise in women taking senior roles and board seats, supported by regulatory changes and stronger corporate commitments to gender diversity, according to a new survey released on Tuesday.

The joint report by the Women Chief Executive Network, KPMG, and The Women’s Foundation revealed that women now occupy 45% of senior leadership roles, including CEOs, managing directors, and executives, up from 34% in 2018. The share of female board members has also grown to 37%, compared with 21% six years ago.

The survey included 24 financial firms and 532 professionals from banks, fintech companies, insurance, and asset management. Respondents ranked Hong Kong as the top international financial hub for supporting women in leadership, with 76% citing safety as a key advantage.

“Diversity here feels organic, not imposed,” said Amy Lo, chairman of UBS Global Wealth Management Asia. “Women are empowered to lead with confidence and authenticity.”

Regulatory changes by Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing (HKEX) have accelerated this trend. Since January 2024, fewer than 10 of the city’s 2,600 listed firms have all-male boards, down from 800 in 2022

Corporate culture is also shifting, with more visible female leaders inspiring others. “As more women lead authentically and successfully, old stereotypes are being challenged,” said Ivy Cheung, vice-chairman of KPMG China.

The Women Chief Executives Summit 2025, scheduled for November 3, aims to further highlight Hong Kong’s progress in gender-inclusive leadership.

Experts say that giving better parental leave and mental health support will help more women move into senior roles in the future.