Leonard Hong
I am a political economist specialising in macroeconomics, international economics, urban development, and state capacity in small open economies. Recognised in national media as a prominent “Generation Z economist” on macroeconomic reform, I focus on building long-term national wealth through strategic domestic asset accumulation and regulatory improvements to boost productivity.
As an active contributor to the economic policy debate, my research focuses on transitioning New Zealand to a resilient and high-savings economy. Drawing on international frameworks, specifically the Singapore Central Provident Fund and Australia’s compulsory superannuation model, I have advocated for pragmatic institutional frameworks that deepen domestic capital markets and secure structural fiscal stability. My perspectives on these structural shifts have been featured across various business media, including the New Zealand Herald, The Post, Newsroom, BusinessDesk and Stuff.
My professional track record spans advisory work, macroeconomic research, and sector strategy across the Asia-Pacific region. I previously served as an advisor in the New Zealand Parliament to the Hon. Andrew Bayly MP, former Minister of Commerce and Consumer Affairs, and as an economic researcher for the think tank, The New Zealand Initiative. Additionally, my time managing policy and regulatory strategy within the property sectors of New Zealand and Australia has given me a practical understanding of market operations and capital flows.
I hold a Master’s degree in International Political Economy with First Class Honours from Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, completed as an individual recipient of the New Zealand Prime Minister’s Scholarship for Asia. I graduated from the University of Auckland with a dual Bachelor of Commerce and Bachelor of Arts degree, majoring in Economics, International Business, and Politics, and received the group award of the Prime Minister’s Scholarship for Latin America.
As a passionate student of political science and economics, I always strive for greater knowledge and intellectual growth. My main interests lie in globalisation, macroeconomics, international political economy, and great power politics. I enjoy reading and digesting non-fiction books in my field of interest and aspire to emulate my intellectual heroes.
“Practical men who believe themselves to be quite exempt from any intellectual influence, are usually the slaves of some defunct economist.” – John Maynard Keynes
Leonard Hong 