Exclusive | Citigroup CEO Jane Fraser on Hong Kong’s enduring charm and strategic role

Citigroup’s global CEO Jane Fraser has a special place in her heart for Hong Kong. While her personal connection to the city does not stretch back as far as that of the company she leads – 122 years – it is measured in decades.

Fraser was among 300 global financiers who gathered in the city for the three-day summit from November 18 to 20 to share insights and discuss industry changes.

Needless to say, the prospect of heavy tariffs on Chinese goods when Donald Trump returns to the White House was one of the most discussed topics. While the potential tariffs may alter global trade flows as companies diversify their production outside mainland China, Fraser does not see the situation changing Citigroup’s Asia strategy.

“It will not affect our expansion in the region,” she said. “Citi has the benefit of such globality and presence in many different geographies, with over 120 years here in Hong Kong. We have also been in mainland China, India, Japan, Singapore, and many other markets for a long time.”