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Second CASI In-person Capacity-building Event

June 24th - 28th, 2024 | Hong Kong – Hu Zhou

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Please find the livestreaming link here: https://www.confbus.com/IFS/live/10.html

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Building on the success of CASI's inaugural in-person event in Brazil, which attracted over 200 participants from across Latin America, we are now gearing up for our next endeavor in the vibrant city of Hong Kong, extending our reach across Asia. Themed "Empowering Sustainability and Prosperity in Asia," this event aims to spotlight solutions and enhance the capacity for connectivity and low-carbon transitions in the region, with a special focus on Southeast, Central, and East Asia.

 

Co-hosted by the Institute of Finance and Sustainability, Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) Infrastructure Financing Facilitation Office (IFFO), and the University of Hong Kong, this in-person capacity-building event is scheduled for June 24-28, 2024. It is part of the initiative of the Capacity-building Alliance of Sustainable Investment (CASI), an international platform dedicated to delivering high-quality and impactful capacity-building services in sustainable finance for EMDEs.

 

Over the course of five days, the event will comprise two parts. The first leg will consist of two days of in-house workshops in Hong Kong, featuring six thematic sessions covering topics like Market Updates and Policy Frameworks for Sustainable Finance, Sustainability Disclosure, Financing Green and Low-carbon Transition in Asia, Sustainable Projects Needed to Enhance Connectivity and Prosperity in Asia, the Role of Blended Finance in Decarbonizing Infrastructure Projects, and Biodiversity Conservation and Blue Finance. From interactive panel discussions to expert keynote speeches, participants can anticipate a dynamic and immersive experience designed to inspire, educate, and empower.

 

Furthermore, participants will have the opportunity to visit Huzhou, Zhejiang Province in mainland China from June 27-28. As a leading hub for green finance pilot projects in China, Huzhou offers a chance to witness innovative projects and investment practices driving sustainable progress. A crucial element is to showcase how small and medium-sized enterprises in Huzhou are actively engaged in the local green finance system. The visit may also generate some business opportunities. Participants traveling to Huzhou will need to transit via high-speed train on June 26th.


Agenda

June 24th - 25th in Hong Kong:

The two days of in-house workshops in Hong Kong will feature six thematic sessions. From interactive panel discussions to expert keynote speeches, participants can anticipate a dynamic and immersive experience designed to inspire, educate, and empower.


June 26th:

Transit from Hong Kong to Huzhou


June 27th - 28th in Huzhou:

Huzhou, in Zhejiang Province on mainland China, is a leading hub for green finance pilot projects.

On June 27th, the event will consist of engaging keynote speeches and panel discussions showcasing global progress and best practices in Huzhou. On June 28th, the event will organize the site visit to the local innovative projects.



Monday, June 24, 2024


09

00

-

09

20

Welcome Remarks

• Ma Jun, Chairman of Capacity-building Alliance of Sustainable Investment (CASI), President of Institute of Finance and Sustainability

• Richard Wong, Chair of Economics and Philip Wong Kennedy Wong Professor in Political Economy, University of Hong Kong

09

20

-

09

50

Keynote Speeches

• Arthur Yuen, Deputy Chief Executive, Hong Kong Monetary Authority

• Teresa Ko, Trustee Vice Chair, International Financial Reporting Standards

10

20

-

11

30

Session I: Market Updates and Policy Frameworks for Sustainable Finance

Policy frameworks for sustainable finance normally include an identification approach of sustainable economic activities and/or finance assets, such as a taxonomy, disclosure requirements to enhance market transparency, policy incentives to encourage investments, a suit of sustainable financial products and solutions, such as green/sustainable bonds and loans, as well as capacity building activities to upskill all relevant stakeholders, including government agencies, financial institutions, project owners and relevant service providers.

This session will invite experts from around the world to provide an update on the sustainable finance market and on policy frameworks, especially in Asia, to shed light on lessons and experience for further scaling up of sustainable finance in the region.

Session I: Market Updates and Policy Frameworks for Sustainable Finance
Policy frameworks for sustainable finance normally include an identification approach of sustainable economic activities and/or finance assets, such as a taxonomy, disclosure requirements to enhance market transparency, policy incentives to encourage investments, a suit of sustainable financial products and solutions, such as green/sustainable bonds and loans, as well as capacity building activities to upskill all relevant stakeholders, including government agencies, financial institutions, project owners and relevant service providers. This session will invite experts from around the world to provide an update on the sustainable finance market and on policy frameworks, especially in Asia, to shed light on lessons and experience for further scaling up of sustainable finance in the region.

Moderator:

• Ma Jun, Chairman of Capacity-building Alliance of Sustainable Investment (CASI), President of Institute of Finance and Sustainability

Panel Discussants:

• Lilian Tse, Senior Manager of Banking Policy Department, Hong Kong Monetary Authority

• Nomindari Enkhtur, CEO, Mongolian Sustainable Finance Association, Advisor to IFC-facilitated Sustainable Banking and Finance Network

• Azreen Idayu Zainal, General Manager, Sustainability, Securities Commission Malaysia

• Rebecca Wright, Chief Executive Officer, Asia Investor Group on Climate Change

• Shirley Lui, Associate Director, APAC Sustainable Finance, S&P Global Ratings

12

00

-

13

30

13

30

-

14

45

Session II: Sustainability Disclosure - Challenges, Benefits and Solutions

Session II: Sustainability Disclosure - Challenges, Benefits and Solutions
One year after the finalization of the ISSB Standards, including IFRS S1 and S2, there have been lots of progresses in sustainability disclosure, including in Asia. For example, Hong Kong Exchange and Singapore Exchange have announced their plans to adopt these standards, three main stock exchanges in mainland China also posted disclosure requirements for public consultation early this year on sustainability information for some listed companies. However, there are also voices about the challenges and barriers in implementing these standards. Some regulators and investors are concerned with the interoperability among different standards, while some are also less aware of potential benefits of enhancing sustainability disclosure in the capital markets. The G20 has also looking into this topic for many years, specifically focusing on SMEs and EMDEs.
With this background, the panel delves into various aspects of sustainability disclosure, focusing on challenges, benefits and solutions associated with disclosure, emphasizing its role in driving responsible business practices and fostering sustainable development.

Moderator:

• Hezri Adnan, Director of Sustainability, Bursa Malaysia

Panel Discussants:

• Jingwei Jia, Associate Director, ESG Research, Sustainable Fitch

• Timothy Colyer, Partner, Oliver Wyman Singapore

• Sherry Madera, CEO, CDP (online)

• Manshu Deng, Hong Kong Chapter Lead, Glasgow Financial Alliance for Net Zero

• Tonghui Zhao, Senior ESG Analyst, Beijing Trans FinTech

15

45

-

16

00

16

00

-

17

15

Session III: Financing Green and Low-carbon Transition in Asia

Transition finance has been broadly recognized as an important instrument to facilitate the shift from high carbon to a green and sustainable economy. As the urgency and awareness to address climate change intensifies, there is a growing need to expand the scale of transition financing. The G20 and many other international platforms have been working on this topic for years. However, the global markets still yet to play a larger role in financing high-carbon sectors through transition finance due to challenges, such as the lack of clear and common frameworks, lack of the capacity, concerns on potential reputation risks from investors and so on. This session aims to invite speakers to analyze the unique challenges and opportunities in Asia and identify potential measures that can promote transition finance both at the regional and global scale.

Moderator:

• Stan Ho, Adjunct Prof. in Management and Strategy, HKU Business School

Panel Discussants:

• Ricco Zhang, Director, Asia Pacific, International Capital Market Association

• Huifeng Zhang, Regional Head, Corporate Sustainability, Asia Pacific, HSBC

• Charles Nguyen, Head of Asia ESG Investing, Neuberger Berman

• Luanne Sieh, Chief Sustainability Officer, CIMB Group

• Ira Poensgen, Interim Team Leader, Transition Plan Taskforce, E3G

• Bakhytzhan Makazhanov, Deputy Chair, Damu Fund

Tuesday, June 25, 2024


09

00

-

09

30

Keynote Speeches

• Paul Moody, Managing Director, Global Partnerships & Client Solutions, CFA Institute

• Yaseen Anwar, Former Governor, State Bank of Pakistan & Central Asia Chair of Green Investment Principles (GIP)

09

30

-

10

45

Session IV: More Sustainable Projects Needed to Enhance Connectivity and Prosperity in Asia

In order to foster greater connectivity and prosperity throughout Asia, there is an urgent need for the implementation of more sustainable projects across the region. These projects should be designed to not only address current challenges but also to anticipate and mitigate future environmental and socio-economic risks. By prioritizing sustainability in infrastructure development, transportation networks, energy systems, and urban planning, Asia can unlock new avenues for growth while safeguarding natural resources and enhancing the quality of life for its inhabitants. Embracing sustainable practices will not only promote environmental resilience but also stimulate economic development, create job opportunities, and foster innovation.

Moreover, by building a more sustainable and interconnected infrastructure backbone, Asia can better position itself to navigate the complexities of global trade, address pressing climate concerns, and achieve long-term prosperity for generations to come.

Moderator:
• Christine Qing BA, Vice President, Group Strategy, Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Ltd.

Panel Discussants:

• Roman Novozhilov, Head of ESG, New Development Bank
• Ede Ijjasz, Senior Adviser, Multilateral Cooperation Centre for Development Finance

• Conrad Albrecht, Managing Director, Head of the Directorate of Sustainability, Eurasian Development Bank (online)

• Patrick Lau, Deputy Executive Director, Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC)

• Jason Xiang, Marketing Manager, Wanxinda (Guangzhou) Technology Product Co. Ltd.

13

30

-

14

45

Session V: The Role of Blended Finance in Decarbonizing Infrastructure Projects

Blended finance plays a pivotal role in driving the decarbonization of key infrastructure projects, such as those in energy, transport and buildings. By combining public and private sector funding, blended finance mechanisms can leverage resources more effectively, unlocking investments for sustainable infrastructure development. This approach not only catalyzes the deployment of renewable energy, energy-efficient transportation, and resilient urban infrastructure but also mitigates financial risks and enhances project viability.

Furthermore, blending public funds with private capital encourages innovation and incentivizes the adoption of environmentally friendly technologies. Through strategic partnerships and innovative financing models, blended finance empowers stakeholders to address the urgent challenges of climate change while promoting economic growth and social equity.

Moderator:
• Nova Li, Special Advisor to Director General & China Representative, Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI)

Panel Discussants:

• Celina Chan, Head of Sustainability Office, Hong Kong & Macau, OCBC Bank

• Tracy Wong Harris, Head, Sustainable Finance for Asia, Standard Chartered

• Valentina Bellesi, Policy Analyst, Green Finance and Investment, OECD

• Zhanadil Dina, Managing Director, Development Bank of Kazakhstan

• Nyamsuren D., Head of Green Funding Office, Trade & Development Bank of Mongolia

15

30

-

15

45

15

45

-

17

00

Session VI: Biodiversity Conservation and Blue Finance in Asia

Biodiversity conservation and blue finance represent crucial pillars in fostering sustainable development across Asia's diverse ecosystems. By prioritizing the preservation of marine and terrestrial biodiversity, countries can safeguard essential ecosystems, protect endangered species, and ensure the resilience of natural resources crucial for human well-being. Blue finance initiatives, which focus on sustainable ocean-based industries such as fisheries, aquaculture, and marine tourism, are instrumental in promoting both environmental stewardship and economic prosperity. Through innovative financing mechanisms and strategic partnerships, blue finance efforts enable the sustainable management of marine resources while unlocking new opportunities for sustainable livelihoods and economic growth in coastal communities.

By integrating biodiversity conservation with blue finance strategies, Asia can achieve a balance between ecological preservation and socio-economic development, paving the way for a more resilient and prosperous future.

Moderator:
• Fabienne Michaux, Director of SDG Impact, UNDP

Panel Discussants:

• Anthony Cheung, Managing Director of ESG, Polymer Capital Management

• Stella Tambunan, Director of Jakarta office, Systemiq

• Huang Chaoni, Managing Director, Head of Sustainable Capital Markets APAC, BNP Paribas

• Anujin Baatarkhuu, Director of Sustainable Finance, Golomt Bank

• Andreas Therman, Environmental Finance and Partnership Specialist, Asian Development Bank

• Yacinta Esti PMP, Economic Policy Advisor, Climate Action Programme, GIZ Indonesia

Wednesday, June 26, 2024


10

00

-

20

00

Transit from HK to Huzhou

We are planning to take the bullet train "G100" to Hangzhou. It would be wonderful to meet you at the check-in entry of Hong Kong West Kowloon Station before your departure. We suggest meeting at 10:00 am on 26th June.

Kindly stay informed by checking for updates or more details here. Looking forward to seeing you!

Thursday, June 27, 2024


09

00

-

09

55

Welcome Remark & Keynote Speech & Report Launch

Welcome Remark

• Hong Hupeng, Huzhou Municipal Party Committee Deputy Secretary and Mayor

Keynote Speech

• Ma Jun, President of IFS & Chairman of CASI

• Paul Moody, Managing Director, Global Partnerships & Client Solutions, CFA

• Zhang Zhengwei, ISSB Beijing Office

• Wu Dengfen (tbc), Executive Deputy Director of Finance Office of Zhejiang Provincial Committee, Director of Administration for Local Financial Supervision of Zhejiang Province

Report Launch :
External Observation on Huzhou's Experience in Green and Transition Finance

• David von Eiff, CFA Institute

09

55

-

10

00

10

00

-

10

10

Showcase Sharing: Green finance reform and innovation in Huzhou City

• Liu Yiwen, Deputy Secretary-General of Huzhou Government

10

10

-

11

40

Session I: Local Green Finance Reform and Development in Action (C’d)

In this session, speakers will present the big picture of the financial strategies propelling sustainable progress in Huzhou. The focus will be on the regional transition finance framework, the development of a carbon-neutral banking system, and the impact of green finance on local economic growth. A particular emphasis will be placed on the active integration of SMEs within the green finance ecosystem. The session will also feature case studies on the just transition for financial sectors and the textile industry's engagement with sustainable finance, providing a holistic overview of Huzhou's leadership in green finance innovation.

Moderator: Rozani Ozman, CASI Secretariat

Panel Discussants:

• Huang Dingwei, Deputy Director of Huzhou Government Office - Regional Transition Finance Framework in Huzhou

• Wu Di, Deputy Director of National Financial Regulatory Administration (NFRA) Huzhou Branch - Construction of Carbon Neutral Banking System in Huzhou

• Wen Yaoqi, Vice President of Huzhou Branch of ICBC - The Just Transition evaluation of financers in Huzhou

11

50

-

13

50

13

50

-

15

20

Session II: Fintech Solutions in Support of Green Finance Development

This session will highlight the pivotal role of financial technology in advancing sustainable finance practices, aiming to showcase the development of an innovative information management system designed to streamline green finance operations. It will also delve into an ESG evaluation system tailored to support SMEs in their sustainability efforts. Through these presentations, the session will underscore the integration of technology and finance in fostering a robust green finance ecosystem, with a focus on practical applications and their implications for economic development.

Moderator:

Nova Li, Special Advisor to Director General & China Representative, Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI)
Panel Discussants:

• He Jiuzhong, Head, Survey and Statistics Section of People's Bank of Huzhou Branch - Huzhou Green Finance Information Management System Construction

• Lv Fan, Huzhou Government Office, Director of financial reform - ESG evaluation system helping SMEs with sustainability

Q&A Discussion

15

20

-

15

35

15

35

-

17

20

Session III: A Deep Dive into Green Finance by Financial Institutions

The session will provide an in-depth examination of how various financial entities are innovating within the green finance field. The purpose of the session is to explore the innovative practices adopted by smaller banks, the integration of green and inclusive finance, financial support mechanisms for biodiversity conservation, and the exploration of ESG-oriented insurance products. The discussion will highlight the diverse ways in which financial institutions are contributing to sustainable development, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and innovation in the green finance landscape. This session will serve as a platform for sharing case studies that exemplify the commitment of the financial sector to environmental sustainability and social responsibility.

Moderator:

Tracy Wong Harris, Head, Sustainable Finance for Asia, Standard Chartered

Panel Discussants:

• Wu Ronglin, Vice Chairman of Huzhou Bank - Innovative Practices in Green Finance by Small and Medium Banks

• Mei Yunfei, Vice Chairman of Anji Rural Commercial Bank - Integration of Green Finance and Inclusive Finance

• Mei Yunhai, Vice Chairman of Deqing Rural Commercial Bank - Financial support for biodiversity conservation

• Xiang Fei, Deputy General Manager at PICC Huzhou branch - Exploration and practice on ESG insurance

Q&A

Friday, June 28, 2024


08

00

-

17

00

Site visit in Huzhou

Field Trip

Route One

---- Zhejiang Dadongwu Construction Technology Co., Ltd.: Explore how green finance is fostering the development of green architecture.

---- CECEC (Huzhou) Industrial Park: Discover the role of green finance in the construction of eco-friendly industrial parks.

Route Two

---- Tianneng Group: Understand how green finance is aiding in the transformation and upgrading of industries.

---- Changxing Rural Commercial Bank: Dive into the construction of a carbon efficiency platform for SMEs.

Route Three

---- Xiazhu Lake National Wetland Park: Gain insights into how green finance is protecting local and regional biodiversity.

Route Four

---- Anji "Deep Blue One": Engage with the concept of ecological restoration and value transformation supported by green finance.

---- Bank of China Changshuo Green Branch: Explore the construction of a carbon-neutral bank.

---- "Bamboo as a Substitute for Plastic" Showcase Center: Learn how green finance is realizing the value of bamboo ecological products.

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