Against a backdrop of uncertainty and constantly changing market conditions, subjects such as banking-sector trends, compliance and regulation, and growth opportunities for the offshore yuan business are just some of the topics that will come under the spotlight at the Hong Kong Institute of Bankers' (HKIB) annual banking conference.
"Given this year's core theme of looking at where the industry is heading in a new era, we have designed the programme to examine the impact and opportunities from different angles," says Carrie Leung Ka-lai, HKIB chief executive.
Leung says the conference, which will feature insights from some of the banking industry's most prominent practitioners, will address the key challenges and opportunities facing the sector. "Our conference is designed to provide delegates with the information and knowledge they need to prepare and align their businesses to evolving market conditions and developments," she says.
A keynote presentation by Wu Xiaoling, vice-chairwoman of the financial and economic affairs committee of the National People's Congress of the People's Republic of China, will focus on Hong Kong's various roles in the process of internationalising the yuan.
"Whether we can capitalise on the opportunities generated by renminbi business is very important for Hong Kong's banking industry and Hong Kong as a whole, as we are facing competition in many areas from other countries," Leung says.
With the new administration now in place, Financial Secretary John Tsang will outline its vision for the banking sector. Giving a regulatory perspective, Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) Deputy Chief Executive Eddie Yue will look at the challenges and opportunities the banking industry faces.
HKMA Chief Executive Norman Chan will share the regulator's vision of promoting the city as a premier private-banking hub. Delegates will also be able to review the findings of the annual banking survey, "Are we Serving Customers the Right Way?"
Leung says keeping a robust talent pool is the key to the sustainable development of Hong Kong's financial industry. The HKIB offers members high-quality training and accreditation, she adds.
