GBA Series | Gao Xupeng (MScBA 2016): Witnessing Dongguan’s evolution from the world’s factory
Having lived and worked in Hong Kong, Shenzhen, and Dongguan, Gao Xupeng (MScBA 2016) possesses a deep understanding of the investment appeal and opportunities within these three dynamic cities of the Greater Bay Area (GBA). Currently a programme manager at an energy investment group in Dongguan, he leverages the advanced data analysis skills honed at CUHK Business School to bridge theoretical knowledge with real-world market conditions, developing precise investment strategies and managing projects effectively. He is highly optimistic about Dongguan’s future in energy investments, particularly in new energy, which he believes will become a major focal point both nationally and globally.
Specialising in pre-investment activities: From Shenzhen to Dongguan
Graduating from CUHK Business School in 2016, Xupeng recognised the burgeoning prospects within the financial investment sector. He chose Shenzhen as the launchpad for his career and began working in a private equity firm, where he was introduced to securities investment. Drawing on the data mining and modelling techniques he learned during his MSc in Business Analytics programme, he applied these skills to develop quantitative investment models for analysis. “Although my undergraduate degree was not in computer science or statistics, my postgraduate studies provided me with these critical skills, which have been immensely beneficial to my work,” he notes.
Xupeng has dedicated himself to pre-investment activities, assisting listed companies with equity investments and executing investment and merger projects in primary markets. His work, which spans various sectors, aligns with the company’s strategic positioning, industry focus, and technology objectives. This extensive experience has laid a solid foundation for his subsequent roles in investment management and post-investment (portfolio management) oversight.
Later, attracted by Dongguan’s strategic location and promising job opportunities, Xupeng joined his current company to focus on energy-related equity investments. With a strategic shift in departmental functions, he took on responsibilities for managing both investment and post-investment projects. His role now encompasses overseeing operational management, integrating and restructuring investments within the group, and handling the transfer and exit of projects.
Xupeng finds value in every phase of the investment process. “Pre-investment, investment, and post-investment stages are all vital and interconnected. My accumulated experience has enhanced my ability to identify key elements in managing investments and post-investment tasks. Conversely, challenges and insights from these stages offer a clearer understanding of critical issues during the pre-investment phase, leading to more precise decision-making.”
From the world’s factory to a new energy powerhouse
Dubbed “the world’s factory”, Dongguan capitalises on its strong industrial foundation to shift from traditional manufacturing to advanced manufacturing. This fertile ground has become a burgeoning hub for new energy sectors, with rapid growth in photovoltaics, energy storage, charging infrastructure, and hydrogen energy. These advancements are fuelling the city’s transformation and providing strong momentum for its evolution.
The local new energy sector has evolved into a well-established industry chain, making significant strides in research, production, and even application. New energy solutions are visible throughout the city, showcasing the effectiveness of these technologies and bolstering Dongguan’s green transformation. The local government also actively supports this growth, enacting a range of policies to assist energy companies in thriving. “I currently work and live in the Songshan Lake area, a high-tech park that the government has strongly promoted. It attracts leading domestic and international companies and talent, serving as an incubator for innovation and creating an exceptional business environment,” he says.
Xupeng believes Dongguan holds substantial potential for energy investment, particularly in the era of “carbon peak and carbon neutrality”. He is confident that green and clean energy will become a focal point both nationally and globally.
Boundless opportunities in GBA: Insights for younger peers at CUHK Business School
Having navigated Hong Kong, Shenzhen, and Dongguan, Xupeng highlights the unique advantages and strong synergies among the cities in the GBA. “Hong Kong’s financial investment sector is distinguished by its maturity and professionalism; Shenzhen excels in innovation and has substantial growth potential; and Dongguan’s financial investment industry is vibrant and full of promise. With a solid foundation in key sectors, the investment landscape is set for robust and expansive growth,” he notes. He believes that as the GBA integrates further, inter-city connections will strengthen, fostering collaborative and strategic development.
For young alumni aspiring to enter the investment field, especially in industry and strategic investment, Xupeng advises building core competencies at the outset. “First, it is essential to develop strong analytical skills, such as data analysis, market research, and project management. These will enable you to make more accurate predictions and evaluations in investment decisions. Additionally, gaining knowledge in finance and legal aspects is beneficial. If possible, consider obtaining relevant certifications. It is also important to focus on one or a few sectors that interest you or present favourable outlooks. Working within these sectors will offer deeper insights and a clearer grasp of their investment logic.”
CUHK Business School alumni are everywhere, transcending geographical and industrial boundaries. To explore more inspiring alumni stories, please click HERE.