Other External Risks and Uncertainties
Impact of local, national and international laws and regulations
CITIC Limited faces local business risks in different countries and regions. Such risks might have a significant impact on the financial condition, operations and business prospects of CITIC Limited in the relevant markets. The investments of CITIC Limited in countries and regions across the world might at present or in future be affected by changes in local, national or international political, social, legal, tax, regulatory and environmental requirements from time to time. In addition, new government policies or measures, if introducing changes in fiscal, tax, regulatory, environmental or other aspects that may affect competitiveness, could result in an additional or unforeseen increase in operating expenses and capital expenditures, produce risks to the overall return on investment of CITIC Limited, and delay or impede its business operations and hence adversely affect revenue and profit.
Impact of new accounting standards
The Hong Kong Institute of Certified Public Accountants (“HKICPA”) issues new and revised Hong Kong Financial Reporting Standards (“HKFRSs”) from time to time. As the accounting standards continue to evolve, HKICPA might further issue new and revised HKFRSs in the future. The new accounting policies, if required to be adopted by CITIC Limited, could have a significant impact on its financial condition and operations.
Natural disasters or events, terrorism and diseases
The business of CITIC Limited could be affected by events such as earthquakes, typhoons, tropical cyclones, inclement weather, acts or threats of terrorism, or outbreaks of highly contagious diseases, which would directly or indirectly reduce the supply of essential goods or services or reduce economic activities on a local, regional or global scale. Any of these disasters might damage the businesses of CITIC Limited, which would have a material adverse impact on the financial condition and operations of CITIC Limited.
The entire Group is committed to constantly improving its risk monitoring and management mechanism in order to promote risk identification and assessment at all levels; strengthen risk assessment and monitoring of major projects and key businesses; and manage counterparty credit risks. CITIC Limited stays fully informed of the operations, financial condition and major business progress of its subsidiaries through off-site monitoring, on-site inspections and other means to assess the risks that may arise. Through risk reports on weaknesses and potential risks, CITIC Limited supervises and implements risk management and control measures to improve its comprehensive risk management practices and initiatives across the Group.