A recent SME Pulse Check survey conducted by DBS Bank (Hong Kong) Limited (“DBS Hong Kong”) unveiled the sentiments and priorities of Hong Kong’s small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) prior to the upcoming 2025/26 Hong Kong Budget announcement. Around half of the local SMEs surveyed anticipates a neutral economic outlook for Hong Kong (51%) and Mainland China (49%) in 2025. The survey reveals that a substantial number of Hong Kong SMEs (56%) are seeking funding and financing support, along with easier access to business loans in the upcoming budget announcement. Additionally, 32% are hoping to receive government assistance in expanding into new markets, such as Asia and the Middle East, and in business matching and networking. 28% are looking for support in technology and innovation. 60% of the respondents expressed that operational costs remain as their top concern, then closely followed by geopolitical uncertainties and economic fluctuations, each at 52%, and access to capital and financing at 33%. Despite these challenges, more than half of the respondents (52%) anticipates business growth over the next 12 months and 28% expects businesses to remain stable. Top priorities amongst SMEs are ensuring consistent cashflow and managing costs (76%), then followed by market expansion (56%) and marketing and branding (31%). Notably, more Hong Kong SMEs are prioritising the implementation of sustainable practices (23%) in their operations than last year (14%). Moreover, when asked about their top expectations from a banking partner to support their business, respondents cited simplified and efficient banking platform, dedicated relationship manager support and guidance, followed by access to competitive financing solutions (such as loans, credit lines). Lareina Wang, Executive Director and Head of SME Banking, DBS Hong Kong, said, “SMEs are the backbone of Hong Kong’s economy, yet many face challenges in managing operational costs, maintaining cash flow, and expanding into Asia. At DBS Hong Kong, we leverage our deep Asian connectivity and digital leadership to empower SMEs with tailored banking solutions, dedicated relationship support, and competitive financing. By driving their resilience, growth, and regional expansion, we continue to fuel economic progress and strengthen Hong Kong’s business ecosystem.” When it comes to market expansion, Mainland China (66%) remains the top priority market for Hong Kong SMEs, with the Greater Bay Area (GBA) at 45%. Asian markets (57%) and Europe (22%) are also their considered markets for expansions. Within the Asian markets, Singapore leads and followed by Indonesia, Malaysia, and Vietnam. Interestingly, the survey reflects a growing interest in the Middle East market, with 16% of SMEs considering it as a new market for opportunities. The DBS Hong Kong “SME Pulse Check Survey” interviewed over 400 Hong Kong SME representatives under DBS BusinessClass between 15 January to 28 January 2025. It aims to provide local insights into the sentiments and priorities of Hong Kong SMEs, shedding light on their economic outlook, growth expectations and concerns, and their views towards the upcoming 2025/26 Hong Kong Budget announcement on 26 February 2025.
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About DBS DBS is a leading financial services group in Asia with a presence in 19 markets. Headquartered and listed in Singapore, DBS is in the three key Asian axes of growth: Greater China, Southeast Asia, and South Asia. The bank’s “AA-” and “Aa1” credit ratings are among the highest in the world. Recognised for its global leadership, DBS has been named “World’s Best Bank” by Global Finance, “World’s Best Bank” by Euromoney and “Global Bank of the Year” by The Banker. The bank is at the forefront of leveraging digital technology to shape the future of banking, having been named “World’s Best Digital Bank” by Euromoney and the world’s “Most Innovative in Digital Banking” by The Banker. In addition, DBS has been accorded the “Safest Bank in Asia” award by Global Finance for 16 consecutive years from 2009 to 2024. DBS provides a full range of services in consumer, SME, and corporate banking. As a bank born and bred in Asia, DBS understands the intricacies of doing business in the region’s most dynamic markets. DBS is committed to building lasting relationships with customers, as it banks the Asian way. With its extensive network of operations in Asia and emphasis on engaging and empowering its staff, DBS presents exciting career opportunities. For more information, please visit www.dbs.com.
