Hong Kong’s Stock Connect must upgrade to lure more foreign investors, industry body says.

Hong Kong’s Stock Connect program, established in 2014, has been instrumental in linking the Hong Kong, Shanghai, and Shenzhen stock exchanges, facilitating cross-border investments between international and Mainland Chinese investors. Over the years, the program has expanded to include over 3,300 eligible stocks, covering nearly 90% of the total market capitalization of the connected markets.

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Despite these advancements, industry bodies have highlighted the need for further enhancements to attract more foreign investors. One significant development is the introduction of a new channel on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange aimed at expediting the listing process for technology companies. Announced by Financial Secretary Paul Chan during the 2025-26 budget speech, this “technology enterprises channel” is designed to assist specialist technology and biotechnology firms, particularly those already listed in Mainland China, in obtaining a listing in Hong Kong. The Securities and Futures Commission is collaborating with the exchange to streamline the application process, thereby bolstering Hong Kong’s appeal as a fundraising hub.

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Additionally, efforts have been made to enhance the Stock Connect program itself. In August 2023, Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited (HKEX) announced forthcoming enhancements that would allow offshore investors to conduct block trades via Northbound trading under Stock Connect on both the Shanghai and Shenzhen stock exchanges. Conversely, Mainland investors would be able to conduct manual trades via Southbound trading on Hong Kong’s stock market.

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These initiatives reflect a concerted effort to address industry feedback and make Hong Kong’s financial markets more accessible and attractive to foreign investors.

Hong Kong Enhances Stock Connect to Attract Tech Listings

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