The Hong Kong government will reassess bond issuance strategies while formulating the budget, aiming to manage its deficit, Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury Christopher Hui told lawmakers. The overall deficit for 2024-2025 is projected to be below HKD100bn after bond proceeds. Authorities plan to issue HKD120bn to HKD130bn in bonds annually. The government is also reviewing fiscal policies, expenditure controls, and infrastructure priorities, with Northern Metropolis projects progressing as planned. Some projects in early planning stages may face schedule adjustments. Meanwhile, labour representatives defended civil servants amid discussions on efficiency and cost control. Separately, the government is preparing regulations for stablecoin issuers and plans a public consultation on oversight of over-the-counter virtual asset trading and custodians.