Freshfields & Mercer on Hong Kong Board Diversity

The video discusses the gender imbalance on Hong Kong's listed boards, highlighting recent regulatory changes that mandate at least one woman per board. Despite progress, challenges remain, including mindset shifts and cultural biases. Comparisons with other markets show Hong Kong lagging behind the UK and US but on par with some Asian countries. The video emphasizes the need for more women in senior roles and suggests solutions like requiring IPO applicants to have more women on boards.

What recent regulatory change has Hong Kong implemented to address gender imbalance on corporate boards?

• A quota of two women per board

• A ban on single-gender boards

• Mandatory gender equality training

• A requirement for female CEOs

How does Hong Kong's progress in gender diversity on boards compare to the UK and US?

• Hong Kong is ahead of the US but behind the UK

• Hong Kong is on par with the UK

• Hong Kong is ahead of both the UK and US

• Hong Kong lags behind both the UK and US

What is identified as the toughest challenge in achieving gender diversity on boards?

• Lack of qualified candidates

• Financial constraints

• Mindset and cultural barriers

• Regulatory compliance

What is the primary focus of the new changes in Hong Kong regarding board diversity?

• Increasing the number of female CEOs

• Reducing the number of board members

• Shifting the conversation to the value of diverse boards

• Compliance with international standards

What is a common perception about the pool of qualified women for board positions?

• It is large and diverse

• It is growing rapidly

• It is smaller and limited

• It is equal to that of men

What percentage of new IPO applicants in Hong Kong have more than two women on their boards?

• 70%

• 80%

• 60%

• 50%

What is a key factor in supporting women to reach senior roles on boards?

• Providing financial incentives

• Offering more training programs

• Building connections and networks

• Reducing work hours