The Hong Kong Housing Society turns to A&O Shearman for guidance on its HKD12 billion syndicated loan facilities with HKD3bn social tranche

This transaction represents the largest syndicated loan for the HKHS since its establishment in 1948. The loan facilities will support the society’s ongoing efforts to provide quality affordable housing and drive sustainable urban development in Hong Kong. The HKD3bn social tranche is earmarked for projects that align with the society's mission, including affordable housing, redevelopment initiatives, and rehousing estates that serve diverse communities across the city.

A&O Shearman assisted HKHS to establish a comprehensive sustainable finance framework, which includes a robust set of standards and criteria for the social tranche. This framework is designed to ensure that the funds are allocated in a manner that maximizes social impact and aligns with global best practices in sustainable finance.

Cindy Lo, A&O Shearman partner, commented: “We are honoured to have advised the Hong Kong Housing Society on this landmark HKD12bn syndicated loan facility. This transaction not only underscores the commitment of HKHS to providing quality affordable housing but also highlights the importance of sustainable urban development in Hong Kong. The inclusion of a HKD3bn social tranche is particularly significant as it ensures that the funds will be directed towards projects that have a meaningful impact on the community, including affordable housing and redevelopment initiatives. "

The A&O Shearman team was led by partner Cindy Lo and counsel Welber Yim, supported by Jessica Fong, James Lau and Eunice Wong.