Hong Kong Financial Leaders Gain Insights in Riyadh Trip

Hong Kong's financial elite just returned from Riyadh with fresh perspectives on global markets—and likely a few new contacts in the oil-rich kingdom.

The Middle East Connection

While traditional finance types were busy exchanging business cards, crypto natives know the real action happens when digital assets meet emerging market capital. Hong Kong's positioning as Asia's crypto gateway just got more interesting with these Middle Eastern ties.

Follow the Money—Or Better Yet, The Blockchain

These high-level meetings often precede major capital flows. Watch for increased Middle Eastern investment in Hong Kong's digital asset infrastructure—because nothing says 'financial innovation' like petrodollars meeting blockchain.

Because sometimes the most valuable insights come from watching where traditional finance finally catches up to what crypto already knows.

The Hong Kong Academy of Finance (AoF) has concluded a successful field trip to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, as part of its Financial Leaders Programme (FLP). The visit, held from October 20 to 23, 2025, was attended by 35 participants, including members of the 2025 cohort and 12 alumni, according to the Hong Kong Monetary Authority [source].

Objective of the Trip

The primary aim of the trip was to deepen the participants’ understanding of Saudi Arabia’s financial market ecosystem and strategic priorities. The visit also sought to foster knowledge exchange between Hong Kong's future financial leaders and key market practitioners and regulators in Saudi Arabia. Moreover, it aimed to promote opportunities for deeper financial and business collaboration, as well as to expand professional networks within the Kingdom.

Engagement with Key Institutions

During their time in Riyadh, the delegation engaged with senior officials and representatives from significant institutions such as the Saudi Central Bank, the Public Investment Fund (PIF), the Ministry of Investment of Saudi Arabia, and the Saudi Tadawul Group. Discussions covered various topics, including economic development, fintech innovation, digitalization, green and sustainable finance, and financial infrastructure development.

Insights and Future Collaboration

The participants gained valuable insights into Saudi Vision 2030 and other initiatives that are pivotal in driving the Kingdom’s economic transformation. Discussions also touched upon the roles of key stakeholders in advancing these strategic goals and explored potential collaboration between Hong Kong and Saudi Arabia's financial markets. Additionally, the delegation shared updates on Hong Kong's latest developments as an international financial center, particularly in fintech.

Networking and Professional Growth

The trip included a luncheon with Chinese corporates operating in the Kingdom, providing an opportunity to learn about their experiences, opportunities, and challenges in the region. Mr. Enoch Fung, CEO of the AoF, emphasized that the trip broadened the participants' global perspectives and reinforced the strategic roles of Hong Kong and Saudi Arabia as key gateways between Asia and the Middle East.

The Future of Financial Leadership

Established in 2022, the Financial Leaders Programme aims to inspire Hong Kong’s future financial leaders, equipping them with a strategic mindset and expanding their professional network. The program is set to open applications for its 2026 intake in November 2025, continuing its mission to develop financial talents and foster collaboration in applied research.

• hong kong
• saudi arabia
• finance
• fintech