Hong Kong Stock Exchange (00388) will implement a new arrangement for maintaining the operation of the securities market in inclement weather starting from September 23, as Chief Executive Li Ka-chiu announced on the 18th. Investors will be able to continue buying and selling Hong Kong stocks and derivative products as usual during a No. 8 or above typhoon signal, or even under a black rainstorm warning, and also trade mainland A-shares through the Stock Connect with Shanghai and Shenzhen.
When Li announced the effective date, he mistakenly said it was September 25, but later clarified that the correct date is September 23. The Treasury Department is expected to announce the details and timetable of the “non-stop market” arrangement after the market closes.
Li stated that major stock markets globally, including Shenzhen and Shanghai, continue to operate in inclement weather. He emphasized that since most of the trading in Hong Kong is electronic, there is no reason why other markets can stay open while Hong Kong cannot.
He also mentioned that the Hong Kong Stock Exchange conducted a public consultation earlier, with around 90% of brokerages and banks supporting the implementation of the non-stop market arrangement. The new arrangement will be implemented in late September, allowing the industry sufficient time to prepare. Additionally, the government and relevant authorities will support small securities firms in their preparations.
Overall, this new development in the “non-stop market” policy is aimed at providing greater flexibility for investors in Hong Kong, ensuring continuous trading opportunities even during adverse weather conditions.