The HKMA has released the results of its SME credit conditions survey for the third quarter of 2026, indicating a slight improvement in credit conditions. The survey shows that 83% of surveyed SMEs believe banks' credit approval attitudes are "similar" or "easier" compared with six months ago, higher than 78% in the previous quarter; while 17% consider approvals "more difficult," down from 22% in the previous quarter. Regarding existing credit limits, 2% of respondents reported that banks' attitudes have "tightened," lower than 4% in the previous quarter. As for new credit applications, 2% of respondents stated they applied for new bank credit in the third quarter. Among respondents who were aware of their application outcomes, 78% reported full or partial success, down from 85% in the previous quarter. The HKMA noted that due to the relatively small sample size of SMEs with existing credit limits and new credit applications, the survey results may be subject to significant volatility and should be interpreted with caution.