Rethinking AI

Simon Yu is an Associate Director at CBRE, the world’s leading commercial real estate services and investment firm. With a strong track record in capital markets, Simon has advised on and executed over HK$8.5 billion (US$1 billion) in real estate transactions, demonstrating deep expertise in investment advisory, transaction structuring, and market intelligence across the APAC region.

A passionate advocate for innovation and sustainability in real estate, Simon co-founded the PropTech Institute in 2019—a non-profit organization committed to accelerating the adoption of technology in the built environment. As President, he has played a pivotal role in cultivating a dynamic ecosystem that connects startups, corporates, and industry leaders to drive digital transformation and sustainable practices in Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area.

Simon’s leadership has been instrumental in promoting the integration of AI, data analytics, and green building solutions into real estate strategies. His vision is to create a smarter, more efficient, and sustainable property sector that benefits all stakeholders—from developers and investors to communities and end-users.

In addition to his professional endeavors, Simon actively contributes to cross-cultural and educational initiatives. He serves as President of the Western University Alumni Association in Hong Kong and was recently appointed Co-Chair of the Property Committee at the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, where he champions collaboration between Canada and Asia through talent exchange and innovation.

At ReThink 2025, Simon will host the session “Rethinking Real Estate Finance: Green Bonds and Sustainable Investment in APAC,” exploring how financial innovation can unlock capital for greener, more resilient urban development across the region.

My Sustainability Goals for 2025:

Mainstream Adoption of Green Finance Instruments
I envision a significant increase in the issuance and uptake of green bonds and sustainability-linked loans across the real estate sector. These tools should become standard practice for funding new developments and retrofitting existing assets, aligning capital flows with ESG goals.

Accelerated Decarbonization of the Built Environment

I hope to see more developers and asset owners commit to science-based targets and adopt low-carbon technologies, such as smart energy systems and green construction materials, to reduce emissions across the property lifecycle.

Stronger Public-Private Collaboration on Urban Resilience
I would like to see deeper collaboration between government, industry, and academia to co-create policies and pilot programs that enhance climate resilience, promote circularity, and support sustainable urban regeneration in Hong Kong’s dense urban fabric.

Anthony, the Founder and CEO of EDGE AI, brings over 15 years of cross-industry experience and a unique background in internal and strategic management consulting. He is committed to leveraging the latest generative AI technologies in both business and daily life, helping companies significantly boost productivity, efficiency, and creativity.

Anthony’s workshops and AI assessment tools have received widespread acclaim throughout the region, serving top financial services companies in Hong Kong, China, and Southeast Asia.

With over thousands participants, his initiatives have delivered exceptional transformational results, including a 30% increase in productivity and efficiency through the correct application of generative AI.

At EDGE AI, our commitment to sustainability is rooted in the belief that AI can be a powerful force for positive change. Our goals for 2024-2025 are focused on three key areas:

My Sustainability Goals for 2024:

1. Empowering and Upskilling AI Talent: We aim to significantly enhance the AI skillset across various sectors in Hong Kong. By offering advanced training programs and workshops, we will empower individuals and organizations to harness the full potential of AI, ensuring that the workforce is well-equipped to thrive in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.

2. Transforming Hong Kong into a Smart AI City: We are dedicated to helping Hong Kong achieve its vision of becoming a leading smart AI city. Through strategic partnerships and innovative projects, EDGE AI will work towards integrating AI technologies across urban infrastructure, improving efficiency, and enhancing the quality of life for all citizens.

3. Driving Sustainable Business Growth through AI Adoption: Our goal is to assist businesses in fully embracing AI as a catalyst for sustainable growth. By providing tailored AI solutions and strategic guidance, we will help companies innovate, optimize operations, and reduce their environmental impact, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable and resilient economy.

Paul Chen is a trusted advisor to global investors and managers of alternative investments. For over 20+ years, Paul has helped clients formulate and execute their digital transformation strategy to enhance returns across real estate, private equity, and credit. Most recently, Paul has been helping his clients navigate the emerging AI landscape.

Paul is the Managing Director of Radiant PropTech, a digital transformation consultancy. Paul is also the Co-Founder of Asia PropTech, a proptech ecosystem based in Asia Pacific. He has been an advisor to investment technology startups, the regional chair for a real estate blockchain assocation, and a mentor at technology accelerator programs.

Paul has a BA in Economics from UC Berkeley and received his MBA from the University of North Carolina.

My Sustainability Goals for 2024:

1. Recycling as a part of every inhabitant’s DNA (not recycle only when it’s convenient).
2. Adopt technologies that can make a real difference in reducing carbon footprints of real assets.