​The Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in New York (New York ETO) welcomed the Year of the Horse at its annual Hong Kong Spring Reception in New York on February 18 (New York time), attended by more than 400 guests from the academic, business, cultural, government, media, non-profit and think tank sectors.
      
     In her welcoming remarks, the Director of the New York ETO, Ms Maisie Ho, highlighted the steadfast economic and trade ties between Hong Kong and the United States. In 2025, the number of American companies in Hong Kong has increased by 11 per cent, reflecting continued confidence in the city's open and dynamic business environment. The latest survey by the American Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong also showed rising optimism, with most firms planning to maintain or expand their investment in the coming year.
      
     Ms Ho noted that Hong Kong's economy has demonstrated resilience, with advance estimates projecting GDP growth of 3.5 per cent in 2025. The city continues to attract global business and investment. In 2025, Hong Kong ranked first worldwide in IPO fundraising, raising US$37.4 billion across 119 listings, including two of the five largest IPOs globally. As at end-2025, Hong Kong was home to over 3 380 single-family offices, an increase of more than 25 per cent over two years.
      
     Building on its strong economic momentum, Hong Kong is pressing ahead with the development of the Northern Metropolis to drive innovation-led growth. At the same time, the city is reinforcing its position as an international education hub – attracting outstanding students and global talent, while showcasing our world-class universities and research excellence.
      
     To further deepen engagement across New York and the eastern United States, Ms Ho said the New York ETO will continue working closely with Invest Hong Kong and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council through the Economic and Trade Express platform. Together, they will step up joint trade and investment promotion activities, identify new market opportunities, and support both Hong Kong and the Chinese Mainland enterprises in expanding their global footprint.
      
     "The horse symbolises vitality, resilience and momentum," said Ms Ho. "Galloping into the Year of the Horse, Hong Kong embraces new opportunities with agility and determination. We will continue to transform ourselves amid global shifts, while maintaining our competitive edge as a premier hub for business, finance, trade and innovation, and foster partnerships and global connections worldwide."
      
     The reception featured a musical programme blending elements of Chinese New Year, the Year of the Horse and Western instruments. The pieces were composed by renowned Hong Kong composer Elliot Leung and performed by New York-based young musicians from Hong Kong. Mr Leung's work will also be featured in the upcoming New York Philharmonic's Lunar New Year Gala, showcasing Hong Kong's creative contributions on the international stage.

Ends/Friday, February 20, 2026
Issued at HKT 3:59

NNNN