Could Hong Kong stock market trading hours be extended? Julia Leung: HKEX will launch market consultation on feasibility.

Julia Leung, Chief Executive Officer of the Securities and Futures Commission, revealed that HKEX (00388) will launch a consultation with various stakeholders on the feasibility of extending stock market trading hours, with the relevant consultation expected to be initiated in the near future. Leung stated that the arrangement is intended to further optimize the operational efficiency of the Hong Kong stock market and enhance its international competitiveness. HKEX will study the feasibility and specific arrangements for extending trading hours by soliciting views from market participants and other stakeholders. Market observers noted that if Hong Kong stock trading sessions are further extended in the future, it would help strengthen trading connectivity between the Hong Kong market and other major international financial markets, providing more flexible trading arrangements for investors from different regions. However, the specific implementation plan will still depend on the results of the market consultation and related supporting arrangements.