Stories from Hong Kong

Approximately 5,600 exhibitors from more than 30 countries and regions participated in the 7 megatrade event. About one in six firms specialized in sustainable products and innovative materials for environmental, social, and governance (ESG) causes.

Police in Wan Chai reported an attempted robbery at a Hang Seng Bank branch on Heung Yee Kuk Street around 4:30 PM. Police apprehended the suspect near the Hennessy Road branch after the attempted robbery.

Authorities are stepping up inspections to enforce the new regulations. The announcement was reported by RTHK Radio 3. A ban on the use of alternative smoking products in public areas took effect today.

CITIC's credit impairment provisions reached nearly $300 million, representing a 33 percent year-on-year increase and a 100 percent increase from the previous quarter. The group allocated an additional $190 million to hedge against potential impacts from Middle East conflicts.

US and Chinese officials held candid and constructive exchanges regarding recent US trade restrictions on China. China expressed a commitment to maintaining the US-China economic and trade communication mechanism to increase consensus and manage differences.

A Yuan Dynasty exhibition in Hong Kong features multiple themed sections. The exhibition features multiple distinct design styles including garden style, industrial style, elegant style, freehand style, and playful style.

A social welfare organization has launched a program to assist unemployed young women in improving job skills across various industries. The regulation has no transition period. The wage increase takes effect tomorrow and includes the cancellation of the Mandatory Provident Fund offsetting arrangement to improve retirement security. Chief Executive John Lee attended a Labor Day event held by the Labour Department. Hong Kong's economy grew 3.5% last year, marking three consecutive years of growth. Monthly employment income for full-time employees in Hong Kong increased by 4.2 percent annually. The central bank kept the financing rate and marginal lending rate unchanged at 2.15 yuan and 2.4 yuan respectively. The central bank announced it is maintaining interest rates while closely monitoring the impact of prolonged high energy prices in the Middle East on inflation and the real economy.

Temple Street merchants are preparing for the five-day Golden Week holiday starting tomorrow. Merchants in the Temple Street and Yau Ma Tei areas of Hong Kong are preparing for the upcoming Golden Week period.

Authorities are using all available means to silence independent media organizations and press freedom groups. These efforts include new methods adopted from the Chinese regime.

HSBC reported a 16 percent year-on-year increase in adjusted non-interest income. The group allocated approximately $190 million as a precaution against Middle East conflict impacts.