On Monday’s Backchat, we’re talking about salary trends in the Greater Bay Area . The latest pay trend survey by the Hong Kong Institute of Human Resource Management shows that the average salary for Hong Kong employees increased by 3.2 percent this year, while workers in other parts of the GBA received an average salary increase of 4.8 percent. But overall, the average salary for the GBA area has dipped slightly compared to a year earlier.

On the outlook for 2025 - salary increases are planned by many companies in Hong Kong and other parts of the GBA, but a significant number of companies remain undecided. The survey organiser, says global economic uncertainty is a factor for companies’ to consider when forecasting pay adjustments, and a more cautious approach is expected for next year. So what do these findings show when it comes to workforce competitiveness? Is salary still the main factor when it comes to attracting talent?

After 9.30, we discuss Hurricane Milton in the United States, that intensified from a minimal hurricane to a massive Category 5 in less than ten hours. What made it so fierce and unusual? We’ll find out.

Tell us what you think. If you'd like to take part in the conversation, call us on 2338 8266. WhatsApp us on 6899 8518. Comment on our Facebook page. Or email backchat@rthk.hk.