Latest news with #EdwardAu
South China Morning Post
22-07-2025
- Business
- South China Morning Post
Regulatory changes have built momentum in Hong Kong IPOs
Hong Kong stock exchange (HKEX) reported a surge in IPO activity in the first quarter of the year, with 17 new listings attracting a total of HK$18.7 billion (US$2.38 billion), nearly quadrupling year-on-year figures. The growth follows regulatory reforms implemented in 2024 that helped the city strengthen its role as a global financial hub. 'The Hong Kong IPO market has picked up its momentum after a slowdown in previous years,' said Edward Au, southern region managing partner for Deloitte China. 'We have expanded our forecast for the Hong Kong IPO market in 2025, expecting around 80 listings to raise approximately HK$200 billion over the year if the market situation continues to be conducive.' Hong Kong's capital market overhaul comes at a time when global financial hubs are competing more fiercely than ever, with sustainable investments gaining significant traction. Au said that the government's 2025-26 Budget builds on this momentum, proposing further reforms to optimise primary and secondary listing thresholds, and streamline post-listing obligations. 'These changes, if implemented promptly, could lower the entry barriers for high-quality overseas issuers and enhance certainty in the listing journey,' he said. Edward Au, southern region managing partner, Deloitte China. Photo: Handout Miguel Latorre, managing director of consulting firm Acclime, described the changes to Chapter 18C for specialist technology companies and the Technology Enterprises Channel as 'definitely a step in the right direction'. 'It sends a clear signal that Hong Kong wants to support innovation and align itself with global environmental, social and governance (ESG) capital flows,' said Latorre. 'By allowing earlier-stage, R&D-heavy companies – especially in green tech – to list before reaching profitability, it lowers a big barrier for companies building long-term solutions.' According to Au, current market momentum has been driven by several key factors. 'We observed a sustained inflow of funds, spurred by renewed global interest in China-related opportunities, particularly in AI and innovation,' he said. Mainland Chinese investors are increasingly participating as they enhance their offshore portfolios, while 'relatively modest' IPO pricing has helped maintain investor interest, he added. The robust pipeline reflects the momentum. Au revealed that HKEX was processing over 170 active IPO applications as of June 18 – a figure that excludes both confidential submissions under the new pathway for specialist technology and biotech companies, as well as secondary listing applicants.
Yahoo
30-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
HKICPA and ACCA renew mutual recognition agreement
The Hong Kong Institute of Certified Public Accountants (HKICPA) has renewed its mutual recognition agreement (MRA) with the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA). The partnership has supported the career development of accounting professionals in Hong Kong since 2000. It aims to foster the growth of the accounting sector by providing enhanced professional mobility and development opportunities. The new MRA, which is set for a three-year term, allows HKICPA members who have completed the Qualification Programme (QP) and gained at least three years of practical experience to acquire ACCA membership. Conversely, ACCA members who have passed their professional examinations in the UK or Hong Kong, including specific advanced modules, and have three years of practical experience, can apply for HKICPA membership after passing the Capstone of the QP. The updated agreement simplifies the process for ACCA members to obtain the CPA designation from the HKICPA. It extends eligibility to non-degree holder ACCA members with a qualification equivalent to a higher diploma or associate degree under the Hong Kong Qualification Framework, provided they meet the relevant conditions. The HKICPA anticipates that the enhanced MRA will attract more talented individuals from diverse backgrounds to the accounting profession in Hong Kong and to pursue the CPA designation. HKICPA president Edward Au said: 'The MRA provides simplified pathways for members of both organizations to obtain professional qualifications from each other, thereby enhancing their career mobility. Furthermore, the synergies created by the co-operations between HKICPA and ACCA enable us to provide advanced support to the development of the accounting profession in Hong Kong, benefiting businesses as well as Hong Kong economy as a whole. HKICPA will continue to work hand in hand with other professional accounting organisations to attract talent from diverse academic backgrounds, build a stronger talent pool, and drive the continuous advancement of the accounting profession.' ACCA Hong Kong chairman Stanley Ho said: 'With over 120 years of global legacy and a proud 75-year heritage rooted in Hong Kong, ACCA has consistently demonstrated leadership in redefining the accountant through times of change. In response to the evolving needs and expectations of society, ACCA will introduce a redesigned qualification in 2027. We look forward to working closely with HKICPA to drive sustainable growth for the profession and the wider community.' As a founding member of the Global Accounting Alliance (GAA), the HKICPA focuses on maintaining the international recognition of its membership and to engaging in exchanges with international accounting professions. In addition to ACCA, the HKICPA has mutual membership recognition or examination paper exemption agreements with 11 accounting bodies in Mainland China and overseas. Recently, CPA Australia also renewed its MRA with the HKICPA. "HKICPA and ACCA renew mutual recognition agreement" was originally created and published by The Accountant, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site.
The Sun
27-06-2025
- Business
- The Sun
HKICPA renews its Mutual Recognition Agreement with ACCA
HONG KONG SAR - Media OutReach Newswire - 27 June 2025 - The Hong Kong Institute of Certified Public Accountants (HKICPA) is delighted to announce its renewal of Mutual Recognition Agreement (MRA) with the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA). The two accounting bodies continue to join hands together to pave ways for career development of the accounting talents in Hong Kong, with the aim to foster the development of the accounting profession. The HKICPA has held MRA with ACCA since 2000. The new MRA is for a term of three years, continuing to enhance the professional development mobility of members of both bodies, further expanding their professional development opportunities. HKICPA members completing the Qualification Programme (QP) and obtaining at least three years of practical experience may acquire ACCA membership through the agreement. On the other hand, ACCA members who have completed ACCA professional examinations in the United Kingdom or Hong Kong (Including the Advanced Audit and Assurance and Advanced Taxation (Hong Kong) examinations) and having at least three years of practical experience, may apply for HKICPA membership after having passed the Capstone of the QP. The new MRA has been enhanced to ease the path for ACCA members to gain the CPA designation offered by the HKICPA. Under the new MRA, the eligibility for seeking HKICPA membership will be extended to ACCA members who are non-degree holders possessing a qualification at a level not lower than higher diploma/ associate degree (or equivalent) under the Hong Kong Qualification Framework, and fulfilling relevant conditions. The HKICPA believes that the enhanced MRA would attract more talented individuals from various disciplines to join the professional field of Hong Kong accountants and obtain the CPA designation. HKICPA President Edward Au said, 'We are delighted to renew the MRA with the ACCA. The MRA provides simplified pathways for members of both organizations to obtain professional qualifications from each other, thereby enhancing their career mobility. Furthermore, the synergies created by the co-operations between HKICPA and ACCA enable us to provide advanced support to the development of the accounting profession in Hong Kong, benefiting businesses as well as Hong Kong economy as a whole. HKICPA will continue to work hand in hand with other professional accounting organizations to attract talent from diverse academic backgrounds, build a stronger talent pool, and drive the continuous advancement of the accounting profession.' ACCA Hong Kong Chairman Stanley Ho said, 'We welcome the enhanced MRA, which offers greater flexibility for membership mobility between the two bodies, reflecting our shared commitment to empowering career opportunities and advancing the profession. With over 120 years of global legacy and a proud 75-year heritage rooted in Hong Kong, ACCA has consistently demonstrated leadership in redefining the accountant through times of change. In response to the evolving needs and expectations of society, ACCA will introduce a redesigned qualification in 2027. We look forward to working closely with HKICPA to drive sustainable growth for the profession and the wider community.' As one of the founding members of the Global Accounting Alliance (GAA), HKICPA has consistently engaged in exchanges with international accounting professions, and remains committed to upholding the international recognition of its membership. Including ACCA, the HKICPA holds mutual membership recognition agreements or mutual examination papers exemption agreements with 11 accounting bodies in the Mainland and overseas. In the future, the HKICPA will continue to expand its global network, explore potential collaborations with more overseas accounting bodies to facilitate exchanges and opportunities for new mutual recognition agreements for members.
Arabian Post
27-06-2025
- Business
- Arabian Post
HKICPA renews its Mutual Recognition Agreement with ACCA
The Hong Kong Institute of Certified Public Accountants (HKICPA) signed a new three-year mutual recognition agreement with the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), which continues widening the opportunities to both HKICPA members and ACCA members. (From Left to Right) HKICPA President Edward Au, HKICPA Chief Executive and Registrar Margaret Chan, Head of ACCA Hong Kong and Greater Bay Area Lead Christina So and ACCA Hong Kong Chairman Stanley Ho. HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 27 June 2025 – The Hong Kong Institute of Certified Public Accountants (HKICPA) is delighted to announce its renewal of Mutual Recognition Agreement (MRA) with the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA). The two accounting bodies continue to join hands together to pave ways for career development of the accounting talents in Hong Kong, with the aim to foster the development of the accounting profession. The HKICPA has held MRA with ACCA since 2000. The new MRA is for a term of three years, continuing to enhance the professional development mobility of members of both bodies, further expanding their professional development opportunities. HKICPA members completing the Qualification Programme (QP) and obtaining at least three years of practical experience may acquire ACCA membership through the agreement. On the other hand, ACCA members who have completed ACCA professional examinations in the United Kingdom or Hong Kong (Including the Advanced Audit and Assurance and Advanced Taxation (Hong Kong) examinations) and having at least three years of practical experience, may apply for HKICPA membership after having passed the Capstone of the QP. The new MRA has been enhanced to ease the path for ACCA members to gain the CPA designation offered by the HKICPA. Under the new MRA, the eligibility for seeking HKICPA membership will be extended to ACCA members who are non-degree holders possessing a qualification at a level not lower than higher diploma/ associate degree (or equivalent) under the Hong Kong Qualification Framework, and fulfilling relevant conditions. The HKICPA believes that the enhanced MRA would attract more talented individuals from various disciplines to join the professional field of Hong Kong accountants and obtain the CPA designation. ADVERTISEMENT HKICPA President Edward Au said, 'We are delighted to renew the MRA with the ACCA. The MRA provides simplified pathways for members of both organizations to obtain professional qualifications from each other, thereby enhancing their career mobility. Furthermore, the synergies created by the co-operations between HKICPA and ACCA enable us to provide advanced support to the development of the accounting profession in Hong Kong, benefiting businesses as well as Hong Kong economy as a whole. HKICPA will continue to work hand in hand with other professional accounting organizations to attract talent from diverse academic backgrounds, build a stronger talent pool, and drive the continuous advancement of the accounting profession.' ACCA Hong Kong Chairman Stanley Ho said, 'We welcome the enhanced MRA, which offers greater flexibility for membership mobility between the two bodies, reflecting our shared commitment to empowering career opportunities and advancing the profession. With over 120 years of global legacy and a proud 75-year heritage rooted in Hong Kong, ACCA has consistently demonstrated leadership in redefining the accountant through times of change. In response to the evolving needs and expectations of society, ACCA will introduce a redesigned qualification in 2027. We look forward to working closely with HKICPA to drive sustainable growth for the profession and the wider community.' As one of the founding members of the Global Accounting Alliance (GAA), HKICPA has consistently engaged in exchanges with international accounting professions, and remains committed to upholding the international recognition of its membership. Including ACCA, the HKICPA holds mutual membership recognition agreements or mutual examination papers exemption agreements with 11 accounting bodies in the Mainland and overseas. In the future, the HKICPA will continue to expand its global network, explore potential collaborations with more overseas accounting bodies to facilitate exchanges and opportunities for new mutual recognition agreements for members. Hashtag: #HKICPA ADVERTISEMENT The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. Hong Kong Institute of Certified Public Accountants The Hong Kong Institute of Certified Public Accountants ('HKICPA') is the statutory body established by the Professional Accountants Ordinance responsible for the professional training and development of certified public accountants in Hong Kong. The Institute is also a standard setter of the local accounting industry. The Institute has over 47,000 members and about 12,000 registered students. Our Qualification Programme assures the quality of entry into the profession, and we promulgate financial reporting, auditing, ethical and sustainability disclosure standards that safeguard Hong Kong's leadership as an international financial centre. The CPA designation is a top qualification recognised globally. The Institute is a member of and actively contributes to the work of the Global Accounting Alliance and International Federation of Accountants.
Malay Mail
27-06-2025
- Business
- Malay Mail
HKICPA renews its Mutual Recognition Agreement with ACCA
The Hong Kong Institute of Certified Public Accountants (HKICPA) signed a new three-year mutual recognition agreement with the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), which continues widening the opportunities to both HKICPA members and ACCA members. (From Left to Right) HKICPA President Edward Au, HKICPA Chief Executive and Registrar Margaret Chan, Head of ACCA Hong Kong and Greater Bay Area Lead Christina So and ACCA Hong Kong Chairman Stanley Ho. HONG KONG SAR - Media OutReach Newswire - 27 June 2025 - The Hong Kong Institute of Certified Public Accountants (HKICPA) is delighted to announce its renewal of Mutual Recognition Agreement (MRA) with the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA). The two accounting bodies continue to join hands together to pave ways for career development of the accounting talents in Hong Kong, with the aim to foster the development of the accounting HKICPA has held MRA with ACCA since 2000. The new MRA is for a term of three years, continuing to enhance the professional development mobility of members of both bodies, further expanding their professional development opportunities. HKICPA members completing the Qualification Programme (QP) and obtaining at least three years of practical experience may acquire ACCA membership through the agreement. On the other hand, ACCA members who have completed ACCA professional examinations in the United Kingdom or Hong Kong (Including the Advanced Audit and Assurance and Advanced Taxation (Hong Kong) examinations) and having at least three years of practical experience, may apply for HKICPA membership after having passed the Capstone of the new MRA has been enhanced to ease the path for ACCA members to gain the CPA designation offered by the HKICPA. Under the new MRA, the eligibility for seeking HKICPA membership will be extended to ACCA members who are non-degree holderspossessing a qualification at a level not lower than higher diploma/ associate degree (or equivalent) under the Hong Kong Qualification Framework, and fulfilling relevant conditions. The HKICPA believes that the enhanced MRA would attract more talented individuals from various disciplines to join the professional field of Hong Kong accountants and obtain the CPA President Edward Au said, "We are delighted to renew the MRA with the ACCA. The MRA provides simplified pathways for members of both organizations to obtain professional qualifications from each other, thereby enhancing their career mobility. Furthermore, the synergies created by the co-operations between HKICPA and ACCA enable us to provide advanced support to the development of the accounting profession in Hong Kong, benefiting businesses as well as Hong Kong economy as a whole. HKICPA will continue to work hand in hand with other professional accounting organizations to attract talent from diverse academic backgrounds, build a stronger talent pool, and drive the continuous advancement of the accounting profession."ACCA Hong Kong Chairman Stanley Ho said, "We welcome the enhanced MRA, which offers greater flexibility for membership mobility between the two bodies, reflecting our shared commitment to empowering career opportunities and advancing the profession. With over 120 years of global legacy and a proud 75-year heritage rooted in Hong Kong, ACCA has consistently demonstrated leadership in redefining the accountant through times of change. In response to the evolving needs and expectations of society, ACCA will introduce a redesigned qualification in 2027. We look forward to working closely with HKICPA to drive sustainable growth for the profession and the wider community."As one of the founding members of the Global Accounting Alliance (GAA), HKICPA has consistently engaged in exchanges with international accounting professions, and remains committed to upholding the international recognition of its membership. Including ACCA, the HKICPA holds mutual membership recognition agreements or mutual examination papers exemption agreements with 11 accounting bodies in the Mainland and overseas. In the future, the HKICPA will continue to expand its global network, explore potential collaborations with more overseas accounting bodies to facilitate exchanges and opportunities for new mutual recognition agreements for #HKICPA The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. Hong Kong Institute of Certified Public Accountants The Hong Kong Institute of Certified Public Accountants ("HKICPA") is the statutory body established by the Professional Accountants Ordinance responsible for the professional training and development of certified public accountants in Hong Kong. The Institute is also a standard setter of the local accounting industry. The Institute has over 47,000 members and about 12,000 registered students. Our Qualification Programme assures the quality of entry into the profession, and we promulgate financial reporting, auditing, ethical and sustainability disclosure standards that safeguard Hong Kong's leadership as an international financial centre. The CPA designation is a top qualification recognised globally. The Institute is a member of and actively contributes to the work of the Global Accounting Alliance and International Federation of Accountants.
