HKSAR's Credit Ratings Highlight Economic Resilience, Says MOFA

The recent reaffirmations of credit ratings for Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) by leading agencies—Fitch, S&P, and Moody's—highlight the region’s durability and optimism in the face of increasing instability in the global economy. According to a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson, these assessments underscore Hong Kong’s robust economic fundamentals and its vital role as an international financial center.

S&P Global and Moody’s have both maintained their high-grade AA+ and Aa3 ratings for HKSAR, providing a “stable” outlook despite mounting headwinds in global markets. The agencies cited strong fiscal reserves, healthy foreign exchange holdings, an enviable external balance sheet, and a high per capita income as the principal underpinnings for their positive evaluations. In a notable move, Moody’s revised Hong Kong’s outlook from “negative” to “stable,” reflecting increased confidence in the region’s resilience even as worldwide trade faces persistent uncertainty and slower growth rates.

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian described these ratings as “a vote of confidence in Hong Kong's status as an international financial center.” He attributed this to China’s advancing high-quality development agenda, which he said is generating fresh opportunities and impetus for Hong Kong. “We are confident about Hong Kong's development prospects and welcome enterprises from all countries to invest in Hong Kong, work together for mutual development and share in its prosperity,” Lin emphasized.

Echoing these sentiments, Hong Kong Financial Secretary Paul Chan Mo-po remarked via social media that the consistent “stable” outlooks from the three major rating agencies illustrate the enduring strength and resilience of Hong Kong’s economic and financial systems. Chan expressed optimism that the city’s financial markets will maintain their positive momentum and continue to attract investment. He added that the confidence shown by international capital underscores the positive expectations for Hong Kong’s future.

With these renewed endorsements from global credit agencies, Hong Kong appears poised to further solidify its reputation as a key player in international finance, even as it navigates the challenges of a complex and shifting global landscape.