Hong Kong banks reward staff with gifts, extra holiday and lai see as they return to work
South China Morning Post
by Enoch YiuFebruary 19, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Hong Kong's banking sector is marking the Lunar New Year with a generous gesture, rewarding thousands of employees with return-to-work bonuses, gifts, and additional holidays as they resume work after the festive break. This tradition, deeply rooted in Chinese culture, involves giving "lai see" or red packets filled with money to express gratitude for hard work. However, many banks have shifted the practice to before the holiday, reflecting a modern approach to employee appreciation amid improving economic conditions.
The article highlights that Bank of China (Hong Kong) is distributing return-to-work lai see, while other institutions are offering extra benefits such as gifts and additional days off. This move aligns with the broader trend of businesses adapting to evolving market sentiments. By extending rewards earlier, banks aim to boost morale and retain talent in a competitive job market.
This practice not only reflects cultural traditions but also underscores the importance of employee recognition in fostering loyalty and productivity. As Hong Kong's financial sector continues to recover post-pandemic, such gestures highlight the industry's emphasis on retaining skilled workers. For readers interested in global economic trends, this story offers insight into how businesses in key markets are adapting their strategies to align with cultural practices and market conditions.
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Originally published on South China Morning Post on 2/19/2026