HKEX reviews trading hours to boost market access

Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing (HKEX) is actively reviewing its market operations to boost accessibility, with a particular focus on trading hours. The move aims to reinforce Hong Kong's standing as a leading international financial center. Currently, HKEX's primary focus is on enhancing the trading hours for its derivatives market. This initiative is subject to further market engagement and requires regulatory approval before implementation. Any potential adjustments to the cash market trading hours are still in the preliminary, exploratory phase, indicating a cautious approach to significant changes. Recent reports suggest HKEX has presented proposals to major brokers and trading firms. One such proposal involves advancing the equities trading start time by 30 minutes and eliminating the traditional lunch break. These potential changes could impact mainland Chinese investors, who accounted for approximately 23% of Hong Kong's equity market turnover in 2025 via the southbound Stock Connect. Discussions surrounding trading hours have historically been a sensitive issue in Hong Kong. In 2011, adjustments to the morning session start time and a shortened lunch break led to protests from stockbrokers. They argued that such changes would negatively affect working conditions.

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HKEX is committed to continuously enhancing Hong Kong's competitiveness as an international financial centre.