AsiaGlobal Dialogue
AGD2023
AsiaGlobal Dialogue

A New Global Growth Paradigm in a Multimodal World

November 17 | HONG KONG

AGD 2023 explored key drivers in shaping better economies in a multimodal world; financial technology and sustainable growth; and the transformative impact of digitalization in finance and development, among others.

This year’s AGD was held in-person at Loke Yew Hall, The University of Hong Kong.

Program

0830 - 0900 | Registration and Refreshment

0900 - 0905 | Welcome Remarks


Speaker

Xiang Zhang

President and Vice-Chancellor, The University of Hong Kong

0905 - 0920 | Opening Address


Speaker

Victor K Fung

Chairman, Asia Global Institute

0920 - 0930 | Group Photo

0930 - 1050 | Building Better Economies in a Fractured and Multimodal World


Speakers

Pol Antràs

Robert G Ory Professor of Economics, Harvard University

Fred Hu

Founder and Chairman, Primavera Capital Group

Michael Spence

Nobel Laureate

Chairman, Advisory Board, Asia Global Institute

Belinda Wong

Chairwoman and Chief Executive Officer, Starbucks China

Moderator

Heiwai Tang

Director, Asia Global Institute

Keynote speech: Permacrisis: A Plan to Fix a Fractured World by Michael Spence, Advisory Board Chairman, Asia Global Institute

The global economy was discussed to be currently undergoing a significant shift, according to Michael Spence. In the past, economic growth had predominantly been demand-driven; however, it was noted that supply-side constraints, such as an aging population and declining productivity, are now becoming the primary limiting factors. Additionally, it was highlighted that political considerations and security concerns have begun to overshadow the supply chains that were once built on economic efficiency and comparative advantage. Despite these challenges, the panelists acknowledged the extraordinary advancements in technology and science over the past few decades, which offer a glimmer of hope. Digital technology, biotechnology, and artificial intelligence were recognized for their potential to generate significant increases in productivity.

Regarding the future of the global economy, Pol Antràs expressed the belief that the US-China relationship holds greater significance, even though conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza were deemed more urgent. He asserted that China is highly committed to a multilateral world trading system, and if both countries recognize this, they can collaborate for the benefit of the global economy. Unfortunately, it was observed that the current trajectory of US-China relations appears to be diverging from this ideal. Concerning the outlook of the Chinese economy, Fred Hu contended that China still possesses ample fiscal space and policy tools to stimulate the economy if necessary. However, the primary focus should be on restoring consumer and investor confidence through regulatory reform, according to Hu. Belinda Wong from Starbucks China added that the private sector is also impacted by geopolitical tensions. Instead of dwelling on the actions of major powers, businesses were advised to concentrate on strengthening their connections with customers and communities. This approach has enabled them to grow even during the height of the pandemic and amid geopolitical turmoil.

1050 - 1130 | Coffee Break

1130 - 1230 | Climate, Investment and Sustainable Growth


Speakers

Anil Kishora

Vice President, Strategy, Policies, Partnerships, ESG and Risk, New Development Bank

Nisa Leung

Managing Partner, Qiming Venture Partners

Erik Solheim

President, Green Belt and Road Institute; Vice Chair, CCICED; and Former Minister of Environment Norway

Moderator

Andrew Sheng

Distinguished Fellow, Asia Global Institute

The panel discussed the need for addressing climate change, making strategic investments, and promoting sustainable growth to ensure a healthy, equitable, and prosperous future for all. Moderator Andrew Sheng emphasized the challenges and opportunities in climate, investment, and sustainable growth, highlighting the potential for groundbreaking change through international cooperation and significant investments in transitioning to a net-zero future.

Kishora, Vice President of the New Development Bank, emphasized the need for investment in both climate and sustainability for sustainable growth. He argued that blending the two and viewing climate change as an opportunity rather than a problem can drive the economy forward. He cited examples such as renewable energy and infrastructure development.

Leung pointed out the importance of investing in affordable and innovative healthcare aligned with sustainability. He discussed examples from gene therapy and clean tech, emphasizing the potential of new technologies like AI and synthetic biology to address global challenges.

Solheim highlighted the optimistic outlook in the discussion, emphasizing that the current moment in human history is the luckiest, with increased life expectancy and fewer wars. He discussed the leading role of China and India in the green revolution, focusing on the need to change mindsets towards the opportunities of climate change, address permitting issues, and ensure a fair transition to avoid political resistance.

1230 - 1235 | Closing Remarks


Speaker

Heiwai Tang

Director, Asia Global Institute

Speakers

Gallery

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The University of Hong Kong
Pokfulam, Hong Kong

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