HKEX CEO Chan Seeks Market Consensus Before Extending Trading Hours
SingTao · 1 SOURCESabout 2 hours ago2 MIN

Summary
HKEX Chief Executive Bonnie Chan stated at an earnings briefing that extending spot market trading hours requires careful consideration due to the diverse investor base including local retail, international investors and southbound Stock Connect participants with significantly different trading habits. The derivatives market, which has already extended trading to 3 a.m., may see further extensions based on demand. Hong Kong's IPO market has demonstrated strong recovery, with 2025 fundraising exceeding HK$280 billion, ranking first globally.
Key Points
- Extended trading hours aim to improve investor market access and liquidity, but spot market decisions require consensus from all investor segments before implementation
- Derivatives trading has already extended to 3 a.m. given its institutional investor base, with further extensions possible based on market demand
- Hong Kong IPO fundraising reached HK$280 billion in 2025, ranking first globally, with August figures already exceeding last year's full-year total
- More than ten foreign companies have submitted listing applications, with AI, robotics, mining, biotech and new energy sectors driving the pipeline
- Mainland insurance funds can now invest in Stock Connect ETFs through Hong Kong, with RMB counters and REITs connectivity also progressing
Why It Matters
Bonnie Chan's strategic direction underscores Hong Kong's ambition to build a multi-asset ecosystem encompassing stocks, fixed income, commodities and index products to attract international investors. With IPO contributions accounting for 7% of average daily trading volume and over ten foreign companies entering the queue, Hong Kong is positioning itself as a gateway for global capital seeking exposure to Chinese markets through diversified financial products.
Bonnie Chan's strategic direction underscores Hong Kong's ambition to build a multi-asset ecosystem encompassing stocks, fixed income, commodities and index products to attract international investors. With IPO contributions accounting for 7% of average daily trading volume and over ten foreign companies entering the queue, Hong Kong is positioning itself as a gateway for global capital seeking exposure to Chinese markets through diversified financial products.