Connecting the Dots in Fintech Innovation
Discover the captivating journey of our esteemed alumnus, Howard WONG, and how he draws on his diverse experience, from computer engineering to the visual arts, to create impactful solutions in Hong Kong’s growing fintech industry and beyond.
Fintech requires a multidisciplinary approach to enhance financial services and solutions through technology. As Steve JOBS once famously said, it’s all about connecting the dots. For Howard WONG, who is also an avid painter, photographer, and visual effects (VFX) artist, his artistic and corporate experiences have allowed him to design innovative fintech solutions as the Senior Principal of Forms HK.
“Whether I’m working on new solutions for a client or generating new visuals, it’s all about having an eye for details and seeing the bigger picture simultaneously,” Howard reflects. His creativity and passion for exploring new technologies fuel his innovative thinking, helping his clients stay ahead in a rapidly evolving financial landscape.
Bridging Technical Expertise with Business Insight
With a background in computer engineering, Howard’s career began as a programmer in an international bank. Recognizing the importance of blending technical expertise with business acumen, Howard decided to pursue a part-time MBA at HKUST Business School. This pivotal step equipped him with a comprehensive understanding of essential business skills in fintech leadership.
“The School’s diverse environment sharpened my abilities to work with different like-minded people and in various geographical locations,” Howard says. Participating in an exchange program in the UK during his MBA studies further expanded his global perspective, helping him develop relationships with peers from different continents. Additionally, Professor Elizabeth GEORGE’s management class and Professor Larry FRANKLIN’S business law and ethics lessons expanded his understanding of how interconnected business functions are. “A business is a closely connected activity system, like the organs in our bodies. No parts can run by themselves without impacting another. ”
Howard believes diverse experiences in cultures and people pave the way for success in the dynamic Fintech industry.
Linking Talent and Regions For A Collaborative Ecosystem
With Hong Kong poised to advance as a leading global fintech hub, Howard believes sustainable industry growth requires more than just adopting new technologies. He points out that while AI has been part of the financial industry for some time, “Hong Kong needs to attract new talent, nurture innovation, and enable efficient information flow, especially within the Greater Bay Area,” he states.
Howard envisions a future where major cities in the region can complement one another, forming a collaborative ecosystem that nurtures new talent and drives growth and innovation. He also sees blockchain’s transformative potential in financial services and the power of tokenization to unlock new forms of digital asset management as crucial elements in this collaborative, interconnected future. “Success lies in engaging with different people, cultures, and systems,” he asserts. “Our objective is to identify the best ways to serve customers across various jurisdictions.”
Combining Continuous Learning with Fintech Opportunities
Howard’s journey exemplifies the power of connecting multifarious “dots” – from technology to the arts, programming to business leadership – showcasing how diverse experiences can pave the way for success in fintech. Just as his artistic endeavors require both precision and creativity, Howard emphasizes the importance of developing a holistic perspective through continuous learning.
Drawing on the four stages of product adoption, he advises aspiring fintech professionals to follow a structured approach: (1) identify their areas of interest, (2) research the application of technology in these areas, (3) evaluate and experiment with relevant tools and solutions, and (4) integrate these insights into a focused career path while staying abreast of industry trends. “The fintech sector is brimming with opportunities,” he asserts. “By navigating these four stages, new talent will be better equipped to thrive in this dynamic industry.”
(Left) The eye-opening exchange program, star professors and like-minded people expanded Howard's understanding of the interconnected business ecosystem.
(Right) One of the masterpieces photographed by Howard.
