Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited (HKEX)

Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited (HKEX) is a leading global financial market operator and one of the world's largest exchange organizations. Established in 2000, HKEX is the result of the merger between the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, Hong Kong Futures Exchange, and Hong Kong Securities Clearing Company. It is headquartered in Hong Kong and listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange under the stock code 0388.

HKEX operates and manages several key financial platforms in Hong Kong, including:

1. Hong Kong Stock Exchange (HKEX): Founded in 1891, the Hong Kong Stock Exchange is the main securities market in Hong Kong and one of the largest stock exchanges in the world by market capitalization. It offers a wide range of products and services, such as equities, bonds, Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs), Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs), and structured products.
2. Hong Kong Futures Exchange (HKFE): Established in 1976, HKFE is a derivatives market that offers trading in futures and options contracts on a variety of underlying assets, such as stock indices, interest rates, currencies, and commodities. HKFE is known for its flagship Hang Seng Index (HSI) and H-shares Index (HHI) futures and options contracts.
3. Hong Kong Securities Clearing Company Limited (HKSCC): Founded in 1989, HKSCC is responsible for clearing, settlement, and depository services for securities traded on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. It operates the Central Clearing and Settlement System (CCASS) to ensure efficient and safe clearing and settlement of securities transactions.
4. The London Metal Exchange (LME): Acquired by HKEX in 2012, LME is the world's leading non-ferrous metals exchange, offering futures and options contracts on metals such as aluminum, copper, nickel, zinc, and lead. LME plays a crucial role in setting global metal prices and provides a platform for hedging and risk management for industries that rely on these metals.

HKEX is regulated by the Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) of Hong Kong, which ensures that the exchange operates under a robust regulatory framework. The exchange also works closely with international regulatory bodies and other exchanges to maintain high standards of market integrity and transparency.

HKEX has been instrumental in connecting China's capital markets with international investors through initiatives such as Stock Connect, Bond Connect, and Mutual Recognition of Funds. These programs enable cross-border investment and trading between Hong Kong and mainland China, facilitating the integration of China's capital markets with the global financial system.

In summary, Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited (HKEX) is a leading global financial market operator that manages several key platforms, including the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, Hong Kong Futures Exchange, Hong Kong Securities Clearing Company, and the London Metal Exchange. HKEX plays a vital role in connecting international investors with China's capital markets and contributes to the development and growth of Hong Kong as an international financial center.