HKEX(00388): Planning to launch Hang Seng Biotechnology Index Futures on November 28th.

On October 14th, HKEX (00388) announced its plans to introduce the Hang Seng Biotech Index Futures. This new futures contract will begin trading on November 28, 2025, with the contract based on the performance of the Hang Seng Biotech Index (which tracks the performance of the 30 largest biotech, pharmaceutical, and medical device companies listed in Hong Kong and eligible for trading through the Stock Connect scheme), focusing on one of the fastest-growing and most dynamic sectors, providing investors with precise risk management tools. HKEX's Head of Markets, Calvin Yiu, stated: "Driven by technological innovation and the significant demand for global healthcare, the biotech industry is now one of the hottest sectors in the capital market. Therefore, we are pleased to introduce the Hang Seng Biotech Index Futures, enriching investors' opportunities to invest in the biotech industry and providing effective hedging tools, supporting the development of the biotech ecosystem in the region. The launch of this new futures product will further solidify Hong Kong's position as a leading derivatives trading and risk management center in Asia, and HKEX will continue to drive market development, increase market depth, and diversify product offerings to meet the evolving needs of global investors." Since HKEX's listing reform in 2018, biotech and healthcare have become one of the fastest-growing industries in the Hong Kong capital markets. Currently, more than 260 biotech and healthcare companies are listed on HKEX, with a combined market value of over HK$4.8 trillion, quadruple the value of approximately HK$1.2 trillion at the end of 2018.