Hong Kong’s Composite Interest Rate Drops Amid Economic Adjustments

The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) has reported a significant decrease in the composite interest rate, a key indicator of the average cost of funds for banks in Hong Kong. As of the end of June 2025, the rate stood at 1.26%, reflecting a decrease of 35 basis points from the previous month’s 1.61%, according to the Hong Kong Monetary Authority.

Factors Influencing the Rate Drop

This reduction in the composite interest rate is attributed to a decrease in the weighted funding cost for deposits in June. The composite interest rate serves as a measure of the average cost of funds, encompassing all interest-rate-sensitive liabilities, including customer deposits, bank dues, negotiable certificates of deposit, and other debt instruments.

Notably, the data from retail banks, which hold approximately 90% of total customer deposits in the Hong Kong banking sector, play a crucial role in calculating this rate. However, it’s important to note that the composite interest rate reflects only average interest expenses and does not account for other loan-related costs such as operating, credit, and hedging expenses.

Publication Changes and Historical Context

Starting from July 2025, the HKMA will publish the composite interest rate in its Monthly Statistical Bulletin exclusively on its website. This change aims to streamline the dissemination of financial data and ensure timely updates for stakeholders.

The current framework for calculating the composite interest rate and weighted deposit rate, based on the “Interest rate risk in the banking book” (IRRBB) framework, was implemented in June 2019. As such, the figures from this period are not directly comparable with those from previous months.

Broader Economic Implications

The decline in Hong Kong’s composite interest rate comes amidst broader economic adjustments in the region. As global economic conditions continue to evolve, the HKMA’s decision to track these indicators closely reflects its commitment to maintaining financial stability and transparency in the banking sector.

Industry experts suggest that such a decrease in interest rates could influence borrowing and lending behaviors, potentially impacting economic growth and investment strategies within Hong Kong. The HKMA’s ongoing updates and statistical releases remain a critical resource for financial analysts and policymakers monitoring the region’s economic landscape.

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