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Chairman Mofiz Chan's New Year Address for the Year of the Rabbit 2023

Chairman Mofiz Chan's New Year Address for the Year of the Rabbit 2023

Release Date: 2023-01-21


January 21, 2023.

Dear colleagues and friends,

As we welcome the Year of the Rabbit, we embark on a fresh chapter. This marks my inaugural New Year address as Chairman of the Hong Kong Securities and Futures Professionals Association, and I am truly honored. I extend my heartfelt gratitude and warm wishes to all our council members, Permanent Honorary Chairman s, Honorary Advisors, Pro bono auditor, Pro bono Lawyer and every professional and friend who has consistently supported our association.

The Spring Festival is a cherished time for family gatherings. Regardless of where we may find ourselves, many take this opportunity to return home and relish the joys of family. I encourage everyone to use these few days of the New Year holiday to set aside work-related stresses, unwind, and genuinely enjoy the happiness that family life brings. Spring symbolizes new hopes and fresh beginnings, and I am confident that upon returning to work, everyone will strive even harder to achieve greater success.

Presently, Hong Kong faces significant economic challenges, with various issues requiring resolution amidst an uncertain global landscape. After three years of pandemic-related hardships, we are witnessing signs of economic recovery, including a decrease in the unemployment rate. With borders reopening both locally and globally and an influx of tourists, consumer spending is beginning to flourish, lifting the spirits of many. I wish everyone a year ahead filled with smooth sailing.

Looking back on the past year, we have experienced both triumphs and setbacks. The industry can be unpredictable; while perfection may not be attainable, there is always room for enhancing our systems to uphold justice and reflect reality. This commitment reinforces my determination to guide our association with integrity, practicality, and independence.

In recent years, I have actively engaged in our association's activities, advocating for and safeguarding the rights of industry professionals. Prior to becoming the 9th Chairman, I served as a council member and assistant to the previous chairman for four terms. My passion for serving the industry led me to run for re-election as a director in 2022. Following a vote at the general meeting, I was honored to be elected as the 9th Chairman on July 25 of last year. My election platform emphasized: 1) advocating for and protecting labor rights; 2) representing industry professionals' perspectives to regulatory bodies; 3) enhancing CPT training standards to keep our professionals informed; 4) improving our understanding of industry conditions; and 5) fostering communication and collaboration among industry professionals. Since taking office, I have remained committed to our association's principles, and alongside our directors, we have voiced our opinions on numerous industry consultation documents, conducted press interviews, and communicated the industry's needs to the government and relevant agencies. I extend my sincere gratitude to all the directors for their unwavering support.

In August of last year, our association secured sponsorship from the Financial Services and the Treasury Bureau for the "Financial Technology Training Program for Financial Practitioners." We were privileged to have Secretary Christopher Hui attend and deliver the opening remarks, providing free continuous professional training to industry practitioners, promoting the adoption of financial technology, and advancing the digitalization of financial services to enhance the competitiveness of Hong Kong's financial sector. The first series of courses concluded in mid-December, and a new series of expert seminars commenced on New Year's Day, featuring distinguished guests from Cyberport, government officials, the Securities and Futures Commission, Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing, Legislative Council members, the Big Four accounting firms, and leaders in financial technology, offering professionals access to advanced insights.

In the face of these challenges, it is imperative that we unite and collaborate to realize our objectives. I am confident that with strong determination and proactive utilization of our strengths, we can surmount obstacles and embrace a promising future.

Over the past two decades, we have tirelessly advocated for industry rights and have received recognition and support from our peers. Our accomplishments are a testament to the collective strength and engagement of all members. We sincerely hope to continue receiving your steadfast support as we advance into the future. Moving forward, we will persist in our efforts to contribute to the growth of the industry and the local financial sector.

As we enter the Year of the Rabbit, let us embody the spirit of vitality and joy that rabbits represent. I wish for every family to fill each day of the new year with happiness.

Wishing everyone health and happiness in the Year of the Rabbit.

Mofiz Chan
Chairman
Hong Kong Securities and Futures Professionals Association