Yeahka Sets New ESG Benchmark for Chinese Fintech on Global Stage

HONG KONG – February 27, 2026 – In a significant nod to its commitment to sustainable practices, Chinese fintech leader Yeahka (9923.HK) has secured a coveted spot in the S&P Global Sustainability Yearbook 2026. This inclusion places the company among the world's top-performing businesses for Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives, a recognition that is particularly noteworthy as Yeahka is one of only two companies from mainland China to be selected in its category.

The achievement not only validates Yeahka's corporate strategy but also positions it as a benchmark for the rapidly evolving sustainable finance landscape in China, where global standards are becoming increasingly crucial for market trust and long-term valuation.

A New Standard for Sustainable Finance in China

Yeahka's inclusion in the prestigious yearbook comes at a pivotal moment for Chinese corporations. As global capital markets increasingly integrate ESG performance into their valuation frameworks, international validation has become a powerful driver for sustainable development. For a company operating in the competitive Diversified Financial Services and Capital Markets sector, this recognition from S&P Global serves as a powerful differentiator.

The distinction of being one of just two mainland Chinese firms in its category underscores the exceptional nature of Yeahka's performance. It signals a shift where leading Chinese companies are not just adopting ESG principles but are excelling at a level commensurate with global industry leaders. This achievement is set against a backdrop of China's broader push towards green and inclusive finance, where technology platforms play a critical role in driving national sustainability goals.

Industry analysts note that fintech is increasingly seen as a key enabler of corporate ESG performance in China. By enhancing information disclosure, easing financing constraints for smaller enterprises, and strengthening internal controls, companies like Yeahka are demonstrating that technological innovation and sustainable development can be mutually reinforcing.

Beyond the Balance Sheet: Deconstructing Yeahka's ESG Strategy

Yeahka's recognition is not based on pledges alone, but on a robust, action-oriented framework that is deeply embedded in its core operations. The company's ESG strategy is guided by its mission to "create a better future for merchants and consumers," with concrete initiatives across all three pillars.

On the environmental front, Yeahka has moved beyond simple green office practices. The company has invested significantly in optimizing its infrastructure, notably adopting green server rooms with low energy consumption. This initiative has reduced its Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE) value to 1.56 and is projected to save 798 MWh of electricity annually, a tangible contribution to low-carbon operations.

Socially, the company's impact is most visible in its support for the real economy. Through its fintech capabilities, Yeahka has driven digital transformation for over 9.2 million small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Programs like the "Power of Small Shops" have provided crucial financial support, with RMB 22 million disbursed in 2023 alone in partnership with third-party institutions. This commitment to SME empowerment is matched by a strong focus on data security and consumer protection. Yeahka has fortified its systems with multiple authoritative certifications, including the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI-DSS) and China's stringent Multi-Level Protection Scheme (MLPS) Grade 3, ensuring the integrity of its platform.

At the governance level, Yeahka has established a mature oversight structure. The board of directors includes a dedicated Environmental, Social and Governance Committee, which was formed in 2022 to ensure that ESG considerations are central to strategic decision-making. This, combined with regular and transparent reporting aligned with Hong Kong Stock Exchange requirements and the UN Sustainable Development Goals, ensures accountability and fosters long-term stability.

The Rigor of Recognition: Inside the S&P Global Assessment

The S&P Global Sustainability Yearbook is widely regarded as one of the most rigorous and authoritative assessments of corporate sustainability worldwide. Inclusion is not a matter of application but of excelling in the S&P Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment (CSA), a demanding, data-driven analysis.

For the 2026 edition, more than 9,200 companies across 62 industries were evaluated. The methodology is exhaustive, with industry-specific questionnaires covering hundreds of indicators on topics from climate strategy and data privacy to supply chain management and corporate governance. Only 848 companies made the final cut.

To be listed, a company must score within the top 15% of its industry and achieve a CSA Score within 30% of the top-performing company's score in that field. This high bar for entry means that inclusion in the yearbook is a definitive statement of a company's leadership in financially material sustainability issues. It reflects a proven ability to manage long-term risks and create value for both shareholders and society.

Navigating Global Markets and Investor Expectations

For Yeahka, this top-tier ESG recognition has profound implications for its position on the world stage. As a Chinese technology company listed in Hong Kong, demonstrating adherence to global standards is critical for attracting and retaining international capital. The S&P Global recognition provides an independent, credible signal to investors that the company's growth is not only robust but also sustainable.

This is especially relevant as investors globally place a higher premium on ESG performance. The data and scores from the CSA are used by asset managers who collectively manage trillions of dollars, making visibility in the Sustainability Yearbook a significant advantage. It enhances market trust, reduces perceived risk, and can positively influence long-term valuation.

Looking ahead, Yeahka has stated its intention to use this milestone as a foundation for further action. The company plans to deepen its ESG strategic layout, setting more ambitious targets in areas like data privacy, green operations, and SME empowerment. By continuing to intertwine its technological innovation with a firm commitment to sustainability, Yeahka aims to generate broader societal impact while delivering lasting business value, solidifying its role as a leader in the global transition to a more sustainable economy.