HONG KONG, Nov. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Payment Asia Group ("Payment Asia" or "the Group") today announced the appointment of Hong Kong professional basketball player Adam Xu as Special Advisor to the Chairman's Office. Xu will support strategic initiatives while continuing his playing career with WINLING Basketball Club, bringing together his experience in professional sports, business and cross-border environments.

Xu, a multiple-time winner of the Hong Kong Basketball League (Men's Division A1) championship, has recently returned to WINLING Basketball Club, where he played earlier in his career and laid the foundation for his professional journey. He returns with nearly a decade of additional professional experience and a clear intention to help the club compete for championships.

Alongside his professional basketball career, Xu will support the Chairman's Office of Payment Asia on strategic initiatives, leadership development and talent engagement. He will also learn the Group's operating businesses and explore where his background in sport, business and international relationships can contribute to partnerships and community programs.

A Career Built Across Basketball and Business

"Xu has developed many of the qualities that define successful athletes, including discipline, resilience, accountability and the ability to perform under pressure," said Kenneth Lai, Founder and Chairman of Payment Asia Group. "These are strengths that are equally valuable in business. His athlete mentality will bring a valuable perspective to our organization and strengthen our culture of performance, teamwork and continuous improvement. We look forward to seeing him apply these strengths both internally and externally as he contributes to our people, partnerships and strategic growth."

"WINLING is where my professional career started, and I'm coming back with nearly ten more years of experience. I still want to compete and help the team win," said Xu. "At the same time, joining Payment Asia allows me to build on my business background while continuing my playing career. I'm not arriving as a fintech expert. I'm here to learn the business, contribute and earn my place."

Continuing to Compete While Building for the Long Term

Before turning professional at 24, Xu studied business at New York University, where he played varsity basketball and was named to the Dean's List. He subsequently worked as an analyst at a consulting firm and in commercial real estate in New York. His decision to leave that path to pursue basketball in Asia began a professional playing career that has included four Hong Kong Basketball League (Men's Division A1) championships, an ASEAN Basketball League title and two Asian Games appearances for Hong Kong.

Xu's appointment does not mark a move away from basketball. He will remain an active player while developing his business experience at Payment Asia. He is particularly interested in cross-border business, investment and how athletes can make informed decisions about their careers and finances. His approach reflects the Group's commitment to learning, talent development and creating opportunities for people with different professional backgrounds.

About Payment Asia Group

Established in 1999 and based in Hong Kong, Payment Asia Group is a leading e-payment technology and e-commerce management company specializing in offering a secure and prompt payment processing network to local and global businesses. The Group also invests in and operates several fintech companies, building a diversified ecosystem spanning digital payments, asset management, trust, lending, and other financial services. Driven by professionalism, dedication, and innovation, Payment Asia aspires to grow together with our clients and shape the future together. For more information, please visit: https://paymentasia.com/.