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Theme: Leading with Purpose — Fair and Sustainable Insurance

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 3 February 2026 – 10Life held its annual 5-Star Insurance Awards on Jan. 29, 2026, at Rosewood Hong Kong, reaffirming its commitment to helping consumers identify quality insurance through independent ratings. The event drew a record-breaking turnout of more than 70 senior executives from 11 insurers — a testament to the Awards’ growing influence in driving higher standards across the industry.

Award-winning insurers in attendance included AXA, BOC Group Insurance, BOC Life, Blue Cross, FWD, Generali, Hang Seng Insurance, Manulife, MSIG, Sun Life and YF Life.

This year’s theme, “Leading with Purpose: Fair and Sustainable Insurance,” brought together industry leaders to address a critical question: with increasingly complex risks and diverse consumer needs, how can insurers keep protection both adequate and affordable for the long term? The answer, 10Life believes, lies in building a fairer, more customer-centric insurance ecosystem.

Independent Selection of Top 10% 5-Star Insurance Products

10Life was founded with a singular mission — to make insurance fair. Each year, 10Life raises its 5-Star rating standards to ensure only the best products earn recognition. Its actuaries and data scientists analyse coverage scope, policy terms and fine-print details across thousands of data points. Only the top 10% of products earn 5-Star certification, helping consumers cut through marketing noise to find genuine quality protection.

“The 10Life 5-Star Awards has upheld one principle above all: independence,” said Dennis Lun, Co-founder and CEO of 10Life. “We rate every product on its merits, and our results are never influenced by commercial partnerships. More than 2.3 million users rely on 10Life annually, and independent research shows that 87% trust our ratings when making insurance decisions.”

Mr. Lun added: “The insurance landscape is evolving rapidly. People are living longer and need sustained wealth and health protection. Medical inflation is testing affordability. Advances in diagnostic technology mean pre-existing conditions are detected earlier — challenging traditional underwriting norms. As Hong Kong integrates more deeply with the Greater Bay Area, cross-border protection needs are surging. 10Life’s role is to hold insurers accountable and help Hong Kong consumers access fair, sustainable protection.”

Why Fairness and Sustainability Go Hand in Hand

Mark Saunders, President of the Actuarial Society of Hong Kong, delivered the keynote address on building a fair and sustainable insurance ecosystem.

“The insurance industry must evolve from passive claims payer to proactive risk prevention partner,” said Mr. Saunders. “Traditionally, insurers compensate after misfortune strikes. But the future lies in prevention — delaying or mitigating adverse events benefits society, individuals and the sustainability of insurance itself.”

He added: “Fairness is the bedrock of trust. Only when consumers believe the system is fair will they confidently participate in risk-sharing. Sustainability ensures insurers can honour their promises across generations — so policyholders and their families can rely on their coverage when it matters most.”

Trust, Mr. Saunders noted, is not built when premiums are collected — it is built when claims are honoured.

Recognising Excellence Across Products and Insurers

5-Star Awards were presented across seven product categories: Medical Insurance, Critical Illness Insurance, Savings Insurance, QDAP (Tax-Deductible Annuity), Immediate Annuity, Whole Life Insurance and Travel Insurance. The 5-Star Innovative Product Award was newly introduced this year to spotlight products offering industry breakthroughs in customer-centric features, coverage and value.

In recognition of overall excellence, 10Life also presented four insurer-level awards. FWD was honoured with the Health Insurer of the Year Award for excellence in medical and critical illness protection. BOC Life received the Wealth Insurer of the Year Award for outstanding savings and retirement solutions. Manulife was honoured with the GBA Insurer of the Year Award, newly introduced to recognise insurers best equipped to serve cross-border protection needs between Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area. Sun Life was named Insurer of the Year for achieving 5-Star ratings across six product categories, demonstrating the strongest all-round performance.

For the full list of 5-Star Award winners, visit: https://www.10life.com/zh-HK/5star-products-2026.
Hashtag: #10Life

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About 10Life

10Life is Hong Kong’s leading independent insurance comparison platform, founded by insurance professionals with a single purpose: to make insurance fair. Powered by technology and guided by consumer interest, 10Life delivers fair products, fair advice and fair claims support. Its pioneering product rating system empowers more than 2.3 million users annually to compare insurance with confidence. A team of in-house advisors provides recommendations based solely on customer needs with no hard sell. Independent claims specialists advocate for policyholders, navigating the claims process and challenging insurers when necessary to secure fair outcomes. To learn more or compare insurance products, visit 10Life.com

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 30 January 2026 – In an era where investors are more selective than ever, SMEs can no longer rely on vision, passion, or static pitch decks alone. The new rule of fundraising is clear: No Data, No Talk.

This message took centre stage at the Data Fundraising Masterclass (12–14 December 2025) organised by BizPal by Simplyfi™, where close to 80 SME owners, founders, and senior leaders gathered to learn how technology, branding, and corporate finance must be integrated into a single, data-driven narrative to unlock capital and sustainable growth.

The three-day masterclass was designed to help SMEs move beyond siloed decision-making. Participants were guided through structuring their business models, identifying value drivers, and translating strategy into investor-ready financial narratives using CapitalOS — BizPal’s data-driven corporate finance platform that consolidates operational, strategic, and financial data into a coherent dashboard designed to speak the language of investors.

“I thank the team for their tireless preparation for the masterclass. Our mission is simple — SMEs should never walk into a funding conversation unsure of their numbers,” said Ms. Anya Tan, CEO of BizPal by Simplyfi™.

Rather than treating technology, brand, and finance as separate initiatives, CapitalOS demonstrated how these elements work together to form one credible, measurable story of enterprise value.

Technology as a Measurable Growth Strategy
As part of the programme, guest speaker Mr. Chris Teng, Sales Director of FSBM Holdings Berhad, shared insights on the role of technology in enterprise scalability.

“Every business today needs a clear technology blueprint — not just to operate efficiently, but to attract investors. Technology is the foundation of scalability. When you can demonstrate how your tech investments drive data, efficiency, and market access, your enterprise value naturally grows.”

This session reinforced a core principle of data fundraising: technology only creates value when it produces measurable outcomes. Within CapitalOS, participants learned how technology investments can be translated into operational metrics and long-term financial impact — moving technology from a backend function to a valuation driver.

Turning Brand and IP into Recognised Assets
In another session, Mr. Tee Lin Yik, CEO and Co-founder of Tee IP Sdn Bhd, addressed the growing importance of brand and intellectual property (IP) valuation in fundraising.

“Your marketing, design, and digital assets are not just expenses — they represent intangible value. When structured properly, these can be recognised as brand assets, contributing directly to enterprise valuation.”
Participants explored how branding and IP, when properly documented and governed, can be captured within CapitalOS as value-creating assets, strengthening credibility during fundraising discussions and due diligence.

Finance, Governance, and the Investor Lens
Concluding Day 2, Mr. Dylan Woon, Director of Sparta Haus, highlighted the importance of live data, governance, and transparency from an investor’s perspective.

“In the modern business environment, static reports are no longer enough. Investors expect live dashboards and clear governance trails. Platforms like CapitalOS help SMEs manage and present their data dynamically — aligning business strategy with financial credibility.”

Through guided exercises, participants learned to view their businesses from an investor’s lens — understanding how data consistency, governance discipline, and financial clarity directly influence valuation and funding decisions.

From Learning to Real Conversations
Beyond theory, the programme delivered tangible outcomes. Participants were guided to develop investor-ready pitch decks using AI-assisted tools, with many completing their decks during the three-day programme.

Several selected participants presented their pitch decks to investors and judging panelists on Day 3, leading to follow-up discussions and early expressions of interest.

Soft Launch of Global Mentorship Exchange (GMx)
Wrapping up Day 3 of the Data Fundraising Masterclass, BizPal also announced the soft launch of the Global Mentorship Exchange (GMx), a strategic ecosystem initiative designed to complement CapitalOS by connecting experienced business leaders with high-potential entrepreneurs.

The initiative is built on a central premise: the greatest untapped resource in business is experience. GMx aims to make this experience more accessible by providing a structured platform where mentors, entrepreneurs, and investors can engage through data-backed evaluation, technology-enabled assessment, and transparent benchmarking.

GMx is positioned as a global exchange where experienced founders and industry leaders support emerging businesses not only through guidance, but through measurable insights aligned with investor expectations. By integrating mentorship with structured evaluation frameworks, GMx seeks to help high-potential SMEs gain visibility, credibility, and readiness for the global stage.

According to the organisers, the soft launch marks the first phase of a broader effort to formalise mentorship, recognition, and capital access into a single ecosystem — enabling experience, data, and technology to work together in supporting sustainable enterprise growth.

Validated by Participants
The impact of the masterclass was reflected in post-programme feedback:

• Over 80% of respondents rated their likelihood to recommend the programme 8–10 on the Net Promoter Score (NPS) scale

• Participants rated the programme an average of 4.52 out of 5 stars for value received relative to investment

• The results highlight strong validation from SME owners on the programme’s relevance, practicality, and return on learning

Beyond the Masterclass
To ensure continuity and execution beyond the workshop, all participants have been invited to an upcoming online coaching session, where they will further strengthen their teams’ hands-on capability in using CapitalOS.
For SMEs interested in joining future cohorts, BizPal by Simplyfi™ is accepting early expressions of interest for upcoming Data Fundraising programmes in 2026.

Interested businesses can:
– Register interest for 2026 programmes: [email protected]
– Schedule a complimentary CapitalOS consultation: [email protected]

One System, One Story
The masterclass demonstrated a clear framework:

• Technology generates data

• Brand amplifies enterprise value

• Corporate finance translates strategy into investor language

CapitalOS ties these elements together, enabling SMEs to move from intuition-led decision-making to data-backed, investor-ready positioning.

Through its CapitalOS methodology, BizPal by Simplyfi™ is helping canvASEAN SMEs transition from intuition-led decision-making to data-backed, investor-ready businesses — proving that in today’s capital market, the conversation begins with data, or it doesn’t begin at all.

Hashtag: #NoDataNoTalk #DataFundraising #InvestorReady #CapitalReadiness #FinTech #BusinessValuation #ASEANSMEs

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The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About BizPal by Simplyfi™

BizPal by Simplyfi™ empowers ASEAN SMEs to become investor-ready through data-driven corporate finance solutions. Its flagship platform, CapitalOS, consolidates operational, strategic, and financial data into a unified system that speaks the language of investors. By integrating technology, brand, and finance into one measurable narrative, BizPal helps SMEs transition from intuition-led decision-making to data-backed growth strategies.

The findings, based on Carbyne Fitness’ customer data and an online database of personal training enquiries compiled by IFPA Singapore’s personal trainers, point to two fundamentally different approaches to exercise motivation and engagement between men and women.

A Tale of Two Fitness Journeys
The data suggests that men overwhelmingly prefer self-directed fitness, buying equipment such as adjustable dumbbells, benches, and racks for home use. Women, on the other hand, are more inclined toward guided training experiences led by certified professionals.

According to Brian Chang, founder of Carbyne Fitness and IFPA Singapore, this split reveals not just gender preferences, but deeper social and psychological factors shaping how Singaporeans exercise.

“Men often see fitness as something they should be able to handle on their own, like asking for help somehow means they’re not strong enough,” said Chang. “That’s why many men would rather train themselves than work with a coach. Ladies, on the other hand, are usually more open to learning and getting guidance. They see working with a coach not as weakness, but as a smart way to improve safely and effectively.”

The Male Home Gym Boom
The pandemic sparked a surge in home gym investments, and Carbyne Fitness has been at the forefront of this trend. Its adjustable dumbbells and adjustable kettlebells have become popular among working professionals looking to save time and train efficiently at home.

Carbyne Fitness’ customer data revealed that four in five customers are male. “The home gym trend among men is here to stay,” Chang explained. “They appreciate the convenience, privacy, and long-term savings. For many, it’s not just fitness equipment, it’s a personal investment in staying strong and independent as they age.”

However, with about 58% of Carbyne Fitness customers living in HDB flats, 26% in condominiums, and 16% in landed properties, many still hold the misconception that home workouts, especially in smaller HDB or condo spaces, aren’t practical or effective. Landed property owners make up less than 5% of Singapore’s dwellings, yet account for 16% of Carbyne Fitness’ customers.

“One of the most common reasons people give for not buying home gym equipment is that they ‘don’t have the space,'” said Chang. “But in reality, a proper home setup doesn’t need much room; a good pair of adjustable dumbbells and a bench can fit comfortably within just one square meter if you choose the right equipment.”

Why Women Seek Trainers
In contrast, IFPA Singapore’s training enquiries show that a majority of personal training clients are female. Of the 392 Singapore-based individuals who sought personal training, 63% were women, even though men still represent the majority of gym members nationwide.

“This reflects a growing confidence among women to take charge of their fitness journey,” said Chang. “But it also shows that women tend to prioritize safety and proper form. They are more willing to invest in expert guidance rather than risk injury from unguided workouts.”

Many female clients, Chang adds, have goals that extend beyond appearance: postnatal recovery, strength for caregiving, or functional fitness for daily life.

“It’s not just about aesthetics anymore,” he said. “Women are recognizing that strength training builds long-term resilience, both physically and mentally.”

Implications for Singapore’s Fitness Industry
The gender divide uncovered by Carbyne Fitness and IFPA Singapore also points to structural gaps in how Singapore’s fitness ecosystem is organized, particularly the limited avenues for personal trainers to operate independently.

Most commercial gyms and public facilities, including ActiveSG gyms, do not permit outside personal trainers to conduct sessions within their premises. Trainers who are not employed directly by these gyms are often barred from coaching clients on-site, regardless of their certification or insurance coverage.

This restriction limits both consumer choice and career opportunities within the industry. For clients, especially women who prefer guided training but may not want to commit to an expensive gym membership, the policy creates a barrier to accessing affordable, flexible coaching. For freelance trainers, it restricts their ability to build a sustainable practice or serve niche communities such as seniors, postnatal women, or first-time exercisers.

“Many independent trainers tell us their biggest challenge isn’t finding clients; it’s finding space,” said Chang. “There’s a clear demand for affordable, accessible training environments, but the system hasn’t caught up yet.”

As a result, more trainers have turned to parks, void decks, or private studios, and a growing number of clients are exploring home-based personal training, sometimes with only a pair of resistance bands. This shift reflects broader lifestyle preferences: Singaporeans want convenience, privacy, and trust, not just a gym membership.

The study suggests that expanding access to personal training across shared and public fitness spaces could help Singapore move toward a more inclusive, community-driven fitness culture, one that empowers both male and female participants to train safely, confidently, and sustainably at every stage of life.

Volunteering for the Silver Generation
Both Carbyne Fitness and IFPA Singapore are working to build a more inclusive fitness culture through the Silver Strength volunteer program, which runs weekly strength sessions for seniors using resistance bands, adjustable dumbbells, and other small equipment at Active Ageing Centers across Singapore.

The initiative, funded by the National Youth Council, empowers older adults to stay strong, mobile, and independent, while giving volunteers the chance to make a direct impact in their communities.

“Silver Strength is more than fitness. It is about bridging intergenerational gaps and helping seniors live confidently and age with strength,” said Chang.

To sign up as a volunteer, visit getcertifiedpt.com/silver-strength.

About the Study
The gender distribution insights were derived from:

• Carbyne Fitness customer data, representing over 1,000 unique customer interactions across Singapore between January 2024 and September 2025.
• IFPA Singapore’s independent observation of 392 prospective client profiles compiled between October 2025 and December 2025.

While the sample sizes differ, both data sets converge on a clear narrative: Singapore’s home gym market is predominantly male, while personal training demand is female-driven.

The full research can be accessed on https://carbyne.sg/blogs/articles/revealing-the-gender-gap-between-personal-training-and-home-gyms.
Hashtag: #CarbyneFitness

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About Carbyne Fitness

Carbyne Fitness is a Singapore-based fitness equipment company focused on delivering space-efficient, performance-driven home gym solutions for modern lifestyles. Best known for its space-saving gym equipment such as adjustable dumbbells and foldable treadmills, Carbyne helps professionals, families, and seniors train effectively at home without compromising on quality or safety.

Learn more at: https://carbyne.sg

About IFPA Singapore

IFPA Singapore, operated by Get Certified PT, is the official Singapore operator of the International Fitness Professionals Association (IFPA), delivering internationally accredited personal training education and professional development. IFPA Singapore focuses on producing industry-ready practitioners through competency-based, real-world training.

Learn more at: https://getcertifiedpt.com

A policy signal aimed at accelerating investment in data centres and cloud infrastructure has placed long-horizon tax certainty at the centre of India’s digital strategy, with the government outlining a framework that would allow eligible technology companies operating in designated zones to enjoy tax neutrality aligned with the national Vision 2047 roadmap.

The move, articulated through a combination of policy statements, budget-linked clarifications and regulatory guidance, is intended to draw hyperscalers, artificial intelligence firms and data infrastructure investors into large-scale, long-duration projects. Officials have framed the approach as a way to anchor capital-intensive facilities whose payback periods stretch over decades, while supporting the ambition of building a multi-trillion-dollar digital economy by the country’s centenary year.

Rather than a blanket exemption across the economy, the proposal centres on sector- and location-specific incentives. These include extended tax holidays and concessional regimes within special economic zones, international financial services hubs and approved data centre parks, alongside customs-duty relief on equipment, accelerated depreciation and stable indirect tax treatment for power, cooling and network inputs. Policy planners argue that such assurances reduce regulatory risk and make India competitive with rival hubs in Southeast Asia and the Middle East.

Data centres have emerged as a focal point of the strategy. Explosive growth in cloud computing, streaming services, digital payments and generative AI has driven demand for hyperscale facilities, each requiring billions of dollars in upfront investment and long-term commitments to energy supply. Government assessments suggest that predictable taxation over a multi-decade horizon is as critical as land and power availability when investors choose locations.

Senior policymakers have linked the tax framework to broader reforms designed to ease market entry. These include streamlined approvals through single-window systems, clarity on cross-border data flows under evolving digital governance rules, and incentives for renewable energy integration to address the sector’s heavy electricity needs. State governments are also playing a role, offering land at concessional rates and rebates on electricity duties to attract marquee projects.

Industry executives have responded cautiously but positively. Large cloud providers and colocation operators have welcomed signals of long-term stability, noting that uncertainty over future tax treatment has historically complicated investment planning. At the same time, companies are seeking detailed rules on eligibility, duration and compliance obligations, wary of policy reversals or narrow interpretations that could dilute the promised benefits.

Economists see both opportunity and risk in the approach. Supporters argue that anchoring global technology players could generate spillover benefits, from skilled employment and local supplier networks to improved digital services for domestic firms. They also note that data infrastructure underpins sectors ranging from finance and healthcare to manufacturing and logistics, amplifying its economic impact beyond headline investment numbers.

Critics caution that extended tax concessions must be carefully calibrated to avoid eroding the revenue base without delivering commensurate gains. They point to the need for clear performance benchmarks, such as minimum investment thresholds, local employment commitments and sustainability standards, to ensure public value. Questions have also been raised about competitive neutrality, with domestic firms seeking assurance that incentives will not unduly favour a handful of global giants.

The policy push comes amid intensifying global competition for data and AI infrastructure. Governments worldwide are offering combinations of tax relief, energy subsidies and regulatory flexibility to attract projects seen as strategic assets. India’s pitch emphasises scale, market growth and democratic governance, positioning the country as a long-term partner rather than a short-term tax arbitrage destination.

• Connecting China and global markets to power growth
• Strengthening Hong Kong as a global trade and wealth hub
• Diversifying the economy and boosting workforce competitiveness
• Raising living standards for a healthier and liveable city

Connecting China with global markets and powering Hong Kong’s future economic engine

CPA Australia emphasises that Hong Kong must reinforce its position as the premier gateway connecting China with global markets. As China’s 15^th Five Year Plan places greater focus on high-quality opening up, Hong Kong is uniquely positioned to help Chinese enterprises expand overseas while attracting foreign direct investment into the Mainland through Hong Kong. Strengthening this gateway function will be critical to driving the city’s next phase of economic growth.

Mr Anthony Lau, Co-Chair of CPA Australia’s Greater China Taxation Committee stated,

“Developing a unified and coherent tax incentive framework for Corporate Treasury Centres (CTC) and regional headquarters (RHQ) would further strengthen Hong Kong’s appeal as a base for multinational operations. In addition, the effectiveness of re-domiciliation has attracted many overseas companies to move their legal domicile to Hong Kong. As there is no clear guidance on whether re-domiciliation will trigger Mainland tax liabilities and tax reporting obligations, we recommend the Hong Kong Government engages with the Mainland tax authorities to clarify that no actual transfer of assets occurs during the process, and therefore no Mainland tax should arise.”

“We also recommend advancing market connectivity measures such as allowing a tax deduction specifically for IPO-related expenses for companies that list on the Main Board of the HKEX, and continuing to enhance existing cross boundary financial mechanisms such as introducing an IPO Connect scheme.”

A streamlined approach would reduce complexity, improve tax certainty and encourage overseas and Mainland enterprises to centralise management, financing and strategic functions in Hong Kong.

CPA Australia also highlights the importance of positioning the Northern Metropolis as a flagship cross‑border innovation zone that will drive Hong Kong’s future growth. Mr Lau said, “To support the infrastructure development, we suggest the Government adopts forward‑looking financing tools that ease pressure on public finances. These may include issuing bonds targeted at with an estimate amount for example USD2 billion at different maturity to international investors, and providing a tax exemption for bond holders on interest income and trading profits derived from bonds issued for Northern Metropolis infrastructure projects, whether issued by the government or the private sector.

“To attract leading innovation and technology enterprises to the zone, we further recommend broadening the scope of qualifying R&D expenditures to include activities outsourced to related parties based and operating in other cities within Greater Bay Area. This reflects the increasingly integrated nature of cross boundary innovation and supply chains.”

Strengthening Hong Kong as a global trade centre and a hub for wealth retention

Hong Kong’s long‑standing role as a free, open and trusted trading and financial gateway remains central to its international relevance.

Ms Karina Wong, Deputy Chair of the Greater China Taxation Committee said, “Hong Kong should build on its unique status as a global trading centre by strengthening the free trade port regime and expanding support for high-value commodity trading, which would help diversify the city’s economic base and enhance market depth. Qualifying commodity items such as silver and rare-earth materials remain outside the current scope, the qualifying list needs to be reviewed regularly, with sufficient legislative flexibility, to ensure timely updates in response to market developments. The Government could also consider whether the scope should extend beyond physical trades and incidental income to cover derivative driven transactions, which form a significant part of global commodities activity.”

A stronger family office ecosystem is central to reinforcing Hong Kong’s role as Asia’s preferred hub for wealth management and succession planning. “We recommend introducing a preferential 8.25 per cent profits tax rate for Single Family Office, Multi Family Offices (MFOs) and fund managers to enhance Hong Kong’s competitiveness relative to other regional wealth management centres.

“Aligning the permissible investment asset classes under the family office tax concession regime with those under the Capital Investment Entrant Scheme (CIES) would also streamline operations, provide greater investment flexibility and further strengthen Hong Kong’s appeal among global wealth owners managing long term capital,” added Ms Wong.

Modernising Hong Kong’s philanthropy framework would encourage a more caring and compassionate community and strengthen the city’s appeal to long-term capital. “The generous donations supporting residents and the reconstruction of Wang Fuk Court show that Hong Kong is a caring city. To encourage greater philanthropic participation, we suggestremoving the current 35 per cent cap on cash donation deductions and allowing a full 100 per cent deduction, while introducing a 300 per cent enhanced deduction for contributions to designated funds, such as the Community Care Fund and Disaster Relief Fund. This would direct more resources toward areas of social need.

“These reforms will strengthen Hong Kong’s ecosystem for trade, wealth management and philanthropy, helping the city attract and retain long term capital and strengthen Hong Kong’s competitive edge,” Ms Wong said.

Diversifying the economy and enhancing workforce competitiveness

As advanced economies accelerate digital transformation and adopt emerging technologies, Hong Kong’s long-term competitiveness will depend on the city’s ability to scale innovation, raise productivity and strengthen the capacity of its workforce and enterprises.

“We propose to relaunch a revamped Technology Voucher Programme to help businesses, in particular SMEs, accelerate digitalisation and adopt artificial intelligence (AI) solutions that enhance efficiency and competitiveness.

“Strengthening R&D related tax incentives is equally important in driving innovation, therefore we propose increasing the cap for the highest rate of the R&D super tax deduction by raising the threshold for the 300 per cent deduction on qualifying R&D expenditure from HK$2 million to HK$4 million.” said Mr Janssen Chan, Co‑Chairperson of CPA Australia’s Greater China Taxation Committee.

SMEs remain the backbone of Hong Kong’s economy, yet many continue to face cost pressures and increasing competition.

“We recommend raising the cap under the two-tier profits tax regime for concessional 8.25 per cent half-rate from HK$2 million to HK$4 million of assessable profits. Extending the SME Financing Guarantee Scheme beyond March 2026 is another move that would ease operating pressures for smaller businesses and encourage reinvestment,” added Mr Chan.

By raising the two-tier profits tax cap, extending financing support and retooling tech programmes for AI adoption, the Government can give SMEs the room to grow and strengthen their long-term resilience.

Raising living standards and building a healthier and more liveable city

Mr Adam Chiu, member of the Greater China Taxation Committee, said the Budget should introduce targeted tax and subsidy measures that deliver practical support to households while encouraging healthier and more productive lifestyles.

“To provide direct relief to taxpayers, we recommend maintaining the 100 per cent salaries tax rebate on the 2025/26 final salaries tax, capped at HK$6,000. This would help offset rising living costs and support disposable income, particularly for middle‑income earners. We also propose introducing a tax deduction of up to HK$60,000 for working families who employ domestic helpers specifically to care for children, elderly family members or persons with special care needs. This would help ease caregiving pressures, support labour‑force participation.” Mr Chiu said.

He added that lifelong learning and skills upgrading are increasingly important in a rapidly evolving economy. “To enable individuals to undertake more advanced or specialised training, including in emerging areas such as AI, we recommend increasing the subsidy ceiling under the Continuing Education Fund to HK$30,000 per eligible applicant, and increasing the cap on the self-education tax deduction to HK$150,000 per year. To promote physical wellbeing, we also propose a tax deduction of up to HK$2,000 for sports‑related expenses.”

“By supporting working families, encouraging lifelong learning and promoting healthier lifestyles, these measures can collectively enhance quality of life and help build a more resilient and inclusive Hong Kong,” Mr Chiu said.

CPA Australia believes these recommendations will strengthen Hong Kong’s ability to engage more effectively with global markets, enhance its competitiveness as an international financial and business hub, and improve quality of life for residents. Taken together, these measures will help ensure Hong Kong is well positioned for a more sustainable, innovation driven and inclusive future.

Hashtag: #CPAAustralia

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About CPA Australia

CPA Australia is one of the largest professional accounting bodies in the world, with more than 176,000 members in over 100 countries and regions, including more than 22,500 members in Greater China. Our core services include education, training, technical support and advocacy. CPA Australia provides thought leadership on issues affecting the accounting profession and the public interest. We engage with governments, regulators and industries to advocate policies that stimulate sustainable economic growth and have positive business and public outcomes. Find out more at cpaaustralia.com.au