Hang Seng, BEA chief economists step down

The chief economists of two major local banks – Hang Seng Bank (0011) and Bank of East Asia (0023) – have reportedly resigned due to personal reasons.

Hang Seng’s Thomas Shik Chun-sing and BEA’s Ricky Choi Wing-hung have tendered their resignations due to family or personal reasons, local media reported.

The two banks confirmed the resignations and said they have posted open recruitment notices for the role.

A Hang Seng spokesman was quoted as saying that Shik will step down in mid-August.

Having worked at the bank for over 18 years, Shik climbed the ranks from economist to his current role in 2017. He reportedly plans to take a break following his departure and has yet to announce his next career move. The departure is not related to the lender’s recent business adjustment, according to reports.

BEA’s Choi joined the bank as chief economist in June 2022. Before that, he worked for BOC Hong Kong (2388) for seven years. He has a career spanning nearly 25 years in economic research and advisory roles, Choi stated on social media.

STAFF REPORTER