The report corroborates and expands on their 2014 research which demonstrated the significant economic and performance benefits that derive from increased diversity and inclusion efforts. Basically, the higher the levels of female participation in senior management, the higher the share price returns. Between 2013 and mid-2016, companies with 25% of management roles filled by women recorded 2.8% growth in their share price, those with 33% women managers recorded 4.8% growth and those with more than 50% women managers delivered 10.3% growth. This compares to an overall average share price fall of 1%. According to the report, companies with higher levels of female participation and a woman chief executive showed return on equity which was 19% higher on average and delivered a 9% higher dividend payout.
 
The message that gender diversity is good for business seems to be getting through to varying degrees: Europe has seen a 80% increase in female boardroom representation (now at 24.4%) from six years ago. In Asia, there has been a 60% increase in female boardroom representation but from a very low base and women still only account for 10% of board members across the region. But there has been no change in the total number of global female CEOs over the past two years, with male executives still 20 times more likely to become CEO. And while women comprise 22% of global CFO roles, in Asia this number is just 11%.
 
In Hong Kong, there is a general perception that women are doing very well and people sometimes question why we need a Women’s Foundation. We were reminded this week that complacency is a dangerous thing when we saw this ad for the HKGCC’s 21st Hong Kong Business Summit in November. Um – really? We know conferences and summits are great ways to celebrate speakers’ achievements, extend networks and generate new ideas and collaborations. Speakers also serve as important role models for others coming up in the industry. We warmly invite HKGCC to get in touch with us if they are looking for suggestions for capable, articulate and impressive women presenters.

Finally, speaking of impressive female presenters, we are delighted to announce that this year’s TWF Gala keynote speaker will be Sabrina Peng, Vice President of Ant Financial Services Group and Partner of Alibaba Group. We will also share inspirational video remarks from global tech icons including Sheryl Sandberg - COO of Facebook, Ruth Porat - CFO of Google (now Alphabet) and Jean Liu - President of Didi Chuxing. For tables and tickets at the Gala which will be taking place on Tuesday November 15 at the JW Marriott, contact claire.lim@twfhk.org now!