The Hong Kong Monetary Authority released monetary statistics on 30 September 2026 showing robust deposit growth across the territory’s banking system, with total deposits at authorized institutions rising 1.4% in August and 7.3% over the past year. Hong Kong dollar deposits and foreign currency deposits each expanded in the month, while renminbi deposits contracted, reflecting shifting cross-border settlement patterns in the region’s financial hub.
- Total deposits growth (YoY): 7.3%
- Hong Kong dollar deposits growth (YoY): 8.6%
- HKD loan-to-deposit ratio (end-August): 69.3%
- Renminbi deposits (end-August): RMB 1,101.5 billion
- Cross-border renminbi settlements (August): RMB 1,537.6 billion
Hong Kong dollar deposits increased 2.2% in August, while foreign currency deposits rose 0.8%. However, renminbi deposits declined 2.1% during the month to RMB 1,101.5 billion at month-end. Cross-border renminbi remittances for trade settlement surged to RMB 1,537.6 billion in August from RMB 1,383.7 billion in July, signaling increased regional commercial activity. Total loans and advances grew 0.3% in August and 7.0% annually, with domestic lending rising 0.4% while overseas lending remained flat during the month.
Broad money indicators reflected moderate expansion. Hong Kong dollar M2 and M3 each increased 2.1% in August and 9.9% year-on-year, while seasonally-adjusted Hong Kong dollar M1 expanded 3.5% in the month and 4.7% annually, partly reflecting investment-related activity. Total M2 and total M3 both grew 1.4% in August and 11.0% over the past year. The HKMA noted that monthly statistics are subject to volatility from seasonal funding demand and business cycles, cautioning against overinterpreting single-month fluctuations.
The Hong Kong Monetary Authority is the territory’s central banking institution, responsible for monetary policy, banking supervision, and financial stability.
