News & Insights

Practical guidance on Hong Kong incorporation, accounting, and growing a global business from Asia's financial capital.

accounting

A Guide to Hong Kong's Offshore Tax Exemption in 2025

Hong Kong's offshore tax exemption allows companies to legally pay 0% tax on profits earned from business activities conducted entirely outside its borders. While this is a powerful advantage, su...

30 June 2025
founder

Keyword-Powered E-commerce: Inside Shopify's AI Builder

Shopify just dropped an AI Store Builder that spins up e-commerce sites from keywords, making launches lightning-fast and dirt-cheap for SMBs. But hold up – while AI's cool, unique branding and a...

2 June 2025
founder

TACO Trade? Here's How Businesses Can Find Stability

Unpredictable US economic policies and trade measures are creating significant challenges and uncertainty for international businesses worldwide. To effectively navigate this turbulent environment, co...

30 May 2025
founder

Every Essential App You NEED Before Your China Trip

To travel in China smoothly, you absolutely must download and set up key apps like Alipay, WeChat, and a reliable VPN before you leave home, as China's unique internet blocks many Western service...

22 May 2025
accounting

Hong Kong Company vs. Singapore Company in 2025

For e-commerce and consulting businesses with genuinely foreign-sourced income, Hong Kong's territorial tax system often results in lower overall tax (potentially 0%) compared to Singapore's...

19 May 2025
incorporation

How to Open a Company in Hong Kong in 2025

Incorporating a company in Hong Kong is your gateway to Asia’s vibrant business environment. Hong Kong remains a global hub with streamlined registration processes, low taxation, robust financial infr...

24 February 2025
accounting

10 Quick Facts About Hong Kong’s Taxation System

Hong Kong’s taxation framework stands out for its simplicity and business-friendly nature, with a territorial system that generally exempts foreign-sourced income from local tax. This article explores...

7 February 2025
accounting

Foreign Dividends in Hong Kong: Tax-Free or Not?

Hong Kong’s territorial tax system means that foreign-sourced dividends are generally not taxed, but recent amendments to the FSIE regime introduce conditions for multinational entities that must be m...

5 February 2025
founder

The Impact of Trump Tariffs on Hong Kong’s Economy

Despite President Trump’s new tariffs triggering short-term market jitters and a dip in Hong Kong’s stock indices, the city’s robust business framework, strategic location, and advanced financial infr...

3 February 2025
accounting

Where Do You Pay Tax as a Digital Nomad?

Digital nomads must carefully navigate tax residency rules to avoid double taxation and optimize their finances, with Hong Kong emerging as a top choice due to its low tax rates and business-friendly ...

23 January 2025
founder

The Rise of #TikTokRefugees: The Migration to Xiaohongshu

The potential U.S. ban on TikTok has driven American users to Xiaohongshu (RedNote), a Chinese social media platform blending e-commerce with lifestyle content. This migration, dubbed the #TikTokRefug...

16 January 2025
banking

Remote Business Bank Account Options in Hong Kong

Remote business bank accounts in Hong Kong provide a fully remote setup, fast approval, multi-currency functionality, and cost-effective cross-border transactions, making them a superior alternative t...

3 January 2025
founder

Sourcing in China? Here's Why Hong Kong Matters to you

Hong Kong is the ultimate cheat code for sourcing and dropshipping businesses, offering unmatched credibility, massive tax savings, world-class logistics, and the flexibility to operate globally witho...

22 November 2024
incorporation

How Long Does it Take to Register a Company in Hong Kong?

Registering a company in Hong Kong can take as little as one day online, but thorough compliance checks and correct documentation are essential to avoid delays. Professional service providers like ATH...

18 November 2024
incorporation

Can a foreigner open a company in Hong Kong in 2024?

Setting up a company in Hong Kong as a foreigner offers complete ownership flexibility, efficient registration processes, and favorable tax rates, making it an attractive destination for business grow...

15 November 2024
incorporation

Is it a Good Idea to Have a Nominee Director in Hong Kong?

For years, Hong Kong has been a magnet for entrepreneurs and corporations eager to tap into Asia's booming markets. Its low taxes, strategic location, and business-friendly environment have made ...

13 November 2024
founder

Dropshipping vs S2B2C, What's the Difference?

Dropshipping is a low-cost retail model where businesses sell products without holding inventory, but face challenges in control over product quality and customer satisfaction. In contrast, the S2B2C ...

10 November 2024
founder

Will Hong Kong Still Thrive in the Era of Trump 2.0?

Despite potential shifts in global trade due to President Trump's reelection, Hong Kong remains an exceptional destination for entrepreneurs thanks to its foreigner-friendly policies, ease of rem...

8 November 2024
founder

2024 Trend & Insights for Cross-border eCommerce

Cross-border eCommerce is booming, with over 50% of global consumers planning to increase international purchases in 2024. Brands that localize payment options, invest in logistics, and leverage socia...

7 November 2024
banking

Opening an Airwallex Account for your Hong Kong Company

To open an Airwallex account, businesses must provide essential information, verify their identity, and connect their bank account through a streamlined online process. ATHENASIA Consulting assists cl...

4 November 2024
banking

The Importance of the Hong Kong Dollar Peg

The Hong Kong Dollar peg to the US Dollar provides exchange rate stability, which is crucial for businesses by reducing currency risk and fostering a predictable economic environment. This stability a...

30 October 2024
founder

VPN's That Actually Work in China

For travelers and business professionals navigating China's restrictive internet, Mullvad, LetsVPN, and Astrill offer reliable VPN options, each tailored for different privacy and performance nee...

29 October 2024
secretary

What is a TCSP License?

A TCSP license in Hong Kong is essential for businesses offering trust or company services, ensuring compliance with stringent Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Counter-Terrorist Financing (CTF) regulat...

28 October 2024
founder

How to Negotiate Effectively with Chinese Suppliers

To negotiate effectively with Chinese suppliers, focus on practical strategies like thorough preparation, clear communication, leveraging competition, and ensuring transparency through detailed contra...

18 October 2024
accounting

The Role of Inland Revenue Department (IRD) in Hong Kong

The Inland Revenue Department (IRD) in Hong Kong is responsible for administering the city’s tax system, including Profits Tax, Salaries Tax, Property Tax, and Stamp Duty. It ensures compliance with l...

16 October 2024
accounting

The 7 Types of Companies You Can Register in Hong Kong

Hong Kong offers various company structures, including Private Limited Companies, Public Limited Companies, Sole Proprietorships, Partnerships, and Companies Limited by Guarantee, each catering to dif...

7 October 2024
banking

Building Strong Banking Relationships in Hong Kong

Building strong banking relationships in Hong Kong is essential for accessing financial services, ensuring compliance, and fostering business growth. This guide outlines key factors banks consider, su...

4 October 2024
incorporation

Registering Trademarks in Hong Kong: A Step-by-Step Guide

To register a trademark in Hong Kong, businesses must follow a step-by-step process that includes conducting a trademark search, submitting an application, and passing an examination by the Intellectu...

2 October 2024
secretary

What is an Annual Return (NAR) in Hong Kong?

An Annual Return (NAR) in Hong Kong is a mandatory document that companies must file annually with the Companies Registry to update their corporate information, such as details about directors, shareh...

20 September 2024
banking

Does Airwallex offer SWIFT and IBAN capabilities in 2024?

Airwallex provides Hong Kong businesses with a comprehensive suite of financial services, including SWIFT and IBAN capabilities for seamless international transactions, local payment solutions, and mu...

16 September 2024
incorporation

Do I Need to Be a Hong Kong Resident to Open a Company?

You do not need to be a Hong Kong resident to open a company in Hong Kong, but you must appoint a local company secretary and maintain a registered office address in Hong Kong. These requirements ensu...

5 September 2024
accounting

Is There a Corporate Tax in Hong Kong?

Hong Kong has a corporate tax known as Profits Tax, which is levied on the net profits of businesses operating in the city at a competitive rate of 16.5%. The tax system is highly attractive due to it...

3 September 2024
founder

Can I Hire Foreign Employees in My Hong Kong Company?

You can hire foreign employees in your Hong Kong company through various visa options such as the General Employment Policy (GEP) visa, Investment Visa, and Quality Migrant Admission Scheme (QMAS) vis...

31 August 2024
accounting

Opening a Hong Kong Company Online: A Comprehensive Guide

ATHENASIA Consulting offers comprehensive services for setting up a Hong Kong company online, including incorporation, legal maintenance, accounting, and tax representation. The process is streamlined...

26 August 2024
accounting

What is the Profits Tax for corporations in Hong Kong?

Hong Kong offers a strategic location, business-friendly environment, and efficient processes for company setup, making it an attractive destination for entrepreneurs worldwide. ATHENASIA Consulting p...

25 July 2024
founder

Can I Run a Digital Nomad Business from Hong Kong?

Hong Kong offers a strategic location, business-friendly environment, and attractive tax system for entrepreneurs and digital nomads, making it an appealing destination to set up and run various busin...

15 July 2024
founder

Can I Use a Hong Kong Company for Dropshipping?

Hong Kong offers significant advantages for dropshipping businesses, including strategic location, robust e-commerce infrastructure, efficient logistics, and a favorable tax environment. However, entr...

15 July 2024
accounting

How To Protect Your Assets with a Hong Kong Company

Hong Kong offers significant advantages for international tax planning, including low tax rates, a territorial taxation system, and the absence of capital gains tax. These features, combined with stra...

11 July 2024
accounting

What is a Auditor's Report ( AR )?

Hong Kong requires all limited companies to undergo annual audits conducted by a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) registered with the Hong Kong Institute of Certified Public Accountants (HKICPA), ens...

8 July 2024
accounting

Hong Kong is a tax haven...and so much more

Hong Kong offers numerous advantages for international businesses, including a strategic location, robust legal system, low tax rates, and access to Asian markets. Its unique position as a gateway to ...

3 July 2024
accounting

What is an Offshore Company in Hong Kong?

Hong Kong offers significant advantages for international businesses, including a territorial tax system, low tax rates, and strategic access to Asian markets. Its robust legal framework, absence of c...

27 June 2024
secretary

What is the Green Box used for in Hong Kong companies?

The Green Box is a crucial collection of statutory documents for Hong Kong companies, ensuring legal compliance and operational transparency. It includes essential items like the Certificate of Incorp...

14 June 2024
accounting

How Double Tax Agreements Work in Hong Kong

Double Tax Agreements (DTAs) in Hong Kong help prevent double taxation on the same income by offering tax relief mechanisms such as tax credits and reduced tax rates.

20 May 2024
founder

What is the Hong Kong Unique Business Identifier ( UBI) ?

In the bustling world of commerce, pinpointing and tracking businesses can be a tough nut to crack. To combat this, the Hong Kong government has rolled out the “Unique Business Identifier” (UBI), a tr...

4 January 2024
accounting

Essential Accounting Practices for SMEs in Hong Kong

Business, Finance, Accounting and Investment or Tax Proper accounting and financial management is a fundamental pillar for companies in Hong Kong looking to sustain growth and profitability. However, ...

16 November 2023
banking

MSO’s vs Traditional Banks for Businesses in Hong Kong

Selecting the right banking partner is a crucial decision for any business in Hong Kong, but especially for expats and foreign companies new to the local landscape. While major banks have traditionall...

30 October 2023
founder

Exploring the World as a Digital Nomad: Top Picks for 2023

The digital nomad lifestyle is rapidly gaining popularity as advancements in technology and the shift towards remote work continue to fuel this trend. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of di...

28 September 2023
accounting

How are E-Commerce businesses taxed in Hong Kong?

When you think of Hong Kong, you might imagine towering skyscrapers, bustling streets and vibrant city life. But it’s not just its hectic cityscape that makes Hong Kong stand out. Beyond the city’s st...

4 September 2023
accounting

How to Understand and Read Your Cash flow statement

Although not specific to Hong Kong. Hong Kong accounting includes cash flow statement. As an entrepreneur, it is essential to understand and read your cash flow statement. The cash flow statement is a...

17 August 2023
founder

CRS TRANSITION IN HONG KONG

In this video, we explore at a loophole that I recently discovered about the Common Reporting Standard (CRS) in Hong Kong. This will give you a bit more time to transition from the “old model” to the ...

3 October 2019
incorporation

5 Reasons NOT to open a company in Hong Kong

Is opening a company in Hong Kong right for you? In this video, we explain 5 reasons why opening a company in Hong Kong might not be the best idea for you.Watch the full video: https://youtu.be/S8InL3...

2 September 2019
founder

VAT AND E-COMMERCE (AMAZON, SHOPIFY) | COMPLETE VAT GUIDE

When do you need to charge VAT for Amazon/E-Commerce? Do you need a VAT number for Amazon FBA? Is it legal to sell products without VAT? Should you invoice your customers with VAT? How do you optimise...

2 September 2019
accounting

HOW DOES VAT WORK? | COMPLETE VAT GUIDE

Can you open a Hong Kong company and get a VAT in Europe? Do you need a VAT number? Why do you need a VAT number? In this video, we answer the above questions alongside many others. Join us as we brea...

2 September 2019
accounting

WHAT IS VAT? | COMPLETE VAT GUIDE

An in-depth series on everything you need to know about VAT! What is VAT? Who has to pay VAT? How does VAT work? What is the future of VAT? Is VAT avoidable? In this video, we answer the above questi...

2 September 2019
accounting

OFFSHORE TAX EXEMPTION IN HONG KONG

0% tax in Hong Kong? How do you claim offshore tax exemption? Should you claim offshore tax exemption? In this video, we answer the above questions alongside many others. We disprove some myths sur...

2 September 2019
accounting

ACCOUNTING AUDIT AND TAX IN HONG KONG

Is it mandatory to do your accounting? What’s the difference between accounting and audit? Do you not have to do perform an audit if you earn less than 2 million HKD? In this video, we answer the qu...

2 September 2019
founder

COMPANY MAINTENANCE IN HONG KONG

Wondering how you maintain a company in Hong Kong? Well don’t worry, we got you covered. In this video, we discuss what you need to do every year in order to maintain your company in Hong Kong, topic...

2 September 2019
banking

OPEN A BANK ACCOUNT IN HONG KONG

Are you a current or prospective business owner in Hong Kong? Confused about all the different options available when opening a bank account? Well don’t worry, we got things covered for you. In this...

2 September 2019
incorporation

INCORPORATE A COMPANY IN HONG KONG (2019)

Find out through this series whether opening a company in Hong Kong is right for you! In this video, we cover the requirements of opening a company in Hong Kong, including topics such as business regi...

23 August 2019
banking

HOW TO SET UP A LIMITED IN HONG KONG 2015

This video is about How to set up a limited in Hong Kong 2015 More information: www.athenasia.comSourced through Scoop.it from: www.youtube.comLearn about how to set up a limited company in Hong Kong ...

13 January 2017
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