ACCA (the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants)  released its latest Global Talent Trends Survey 2025, revealing that Hong Kong respondents face growing concerns over inflation, job uncertainties, and the skills gap. Dissatisfaction with pay is also on the rise, alongside a growing trend of taking on additional work. With the rapid evolution of technology beyond expectations, concerns are mounting over its potential to affect their workload or even replace their jobs. Over one-third (37%) of respondents have taken on additional work to meet financial needs and pursue personal career aspirations.

Global Talent Trends Survey 2025, the largest annual talent survey of accountancy and finance professionals across the world, is in its third edition this year. Over 10,000 individuals from 175 countries responded to the survey on issues ranging from career ambitions, hybrid working and inclusivity practices to upskilling, mental health and employability issues.  

This year’s key findings from Hong Kong are as follows:

Growing dissatisfaction with current pay levels: Hong Kong respondents are expressing growing dissatisfaction with their current pay levels, with only 43% expressing they are satisfied with the level of pay (53% in 2024). 49% are considering requests for a pay rise in the next 12 months (43% in 2024), while 45% are choosing to leave their current organisation for a better salary and rewards (37% in 2024).

Rise of the ‘side hustle’: In the current diverse work environment, more people are taking on multiple jobs, or side hustles. 37% of Hong Kong respondents are undertaking additional work, typically in charity, education, or freelance roles. This rising trend is fueled by various reasons, such as covering living costs, following passions, or seeking career growth not found in a single job.

AI proficiency and problem solving are highly prized skills: 20% of Hong Kong respondents believe the ability to use AI will be the most valuable skill in the future, while 14% see problem solving as the most valuable skill. These skills showcase a fundamental human capability that’s highly prized for adaptability and creativity in an ever-changing work environment. Unlike AI, which excels at routine tasks, effective problem-solving requires human traits like intuition, critical thinking, professional judgement and empathy, which is especially important for navigating complex and unpredictable scenarios.

ESG values not yet key employment drivers: Compared to other regions globally, a lower proportion of Hong Kong respondents agree that an organisation's position on environmental (38%), and social and human rights issues (68%) is pivotal in their decision to work there (62% and 79% globally). This variation could be influenced by distinct priorities and cultural perspectives. Nevertheless, with the increasing emphasis on global environmental, social and governance (ESG) standards. Hong Kong may progressively align itself with these evolving trends.

More begin returning to the office: Over the past two years, demand for hybrid working models has remained high across various regions, 64% of Hong Kong respondents still prefer hybrid working, a growing proportion (29% compared to 21% in 2024) are leaning towards fully office-based setups, underlining the enduring importance of in-person collaboration and team engagement.

Global economic confidence declines: 18% of Hong Kong respondents expressing concern over the impact of economic outlook on job opportunities, with growing concern around inflation and the cost of living.

Mental health support improves but challenges remain: 63% of Hong Kong respondents call for improved organisational support in managing their mental health. This trend is likely influenced by various workplace concerns, including the impact of the high cost of living on salaries (15%) and the global economic downturn affecting job opportunities (18%).

Over half of global respondents see accountancy as a gateway for building entrepreneurial skills: However, only 28% of Hong Kong respondents express entrepreneurial ambitions, notably lower than the global average (52%), and behind neighbouring markets such as Mainland China (38%) and Singapore (37%).

Demand for sustainability-related careers is flying globally: With 67% of global respondents interested in pursuing accountancy careers focused on environmental issues. However, only 48% of Hong Kong respondents share this interest, significantly lower than the global average and neighbouring markets such as Mainland China (69%) and Singapore (61%), suggesting there is room to grow interest and appeal in this area locally.

Strategies needed to overcome career barriers: In Hong Kong, respondents encounter a variety of career obstacles, such as family responsibilities, unclear career paths hindering promotions, and insufficient reward opportunities. These barriers restrict professional career growth, often resulting in stagnant career paths. Overcoming these barriers requires family support systems, organisational flexibility, and opportunities for skill development and recognition.

For details of the Global Talent Trends Survey 2025, please refer to the following link:

Global report: https://stories.accaglobal.com/GTT-2025/

Hong Kong report (129 respondents): https://stories.accaglobal.com/GTT-2025/key-regions-headlines/hong-kong-sar-talent-trends-2025/index.html