Hong Kong Stock Exchange
The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong, or SEHK, is a world-leading provider of financial services and a leading facilitator in the global economy. Established in 1891, the SEHK is the seventh largest stock exchange in the world. It is home to some of the most iconic companies in the world such as Tencent, Li & Fung, AIA, Swire Pacific, and Cathay Pacific.
The SEHK is the primary stock market and the most important stock market in Hong Kong. The main function of the SEHK is to provide a platform for trading shares and other securities.
The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong is regulated by the International Stock Exchange of Hong Kong (ISEHK), the Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission (SFC), and the Institute of Professional and Technical Accounting (IPTA). The listing requirements and rules of the SEHK are laid down by the Exchange itself and are monitored by the SFC and the IPTA. In addition, the Exchange is also regulated by the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) and the Companies Ordinance.
The Exchange is divided into two tiers: The Main Board, which consists mainly of large established companies, and the Growth Enterprise Market, which provides a platform for small and medium-sized enterprises. The Main Board operates on a system of shareholding disclosures and stringent listing rules, which were implemented in 2013. The exchange also offers a wide range of derivatives products and options, including ETFs, structured products, and bonds.
The primary activity of the exchange is to provide a continuous and orderly market for trading and dealing in securities. It consists of the Main Board and the Growth Enterprise Market, with the Main Board being the most active and commanding the majority of trading and dealing. The Main Board offers a wide variety of products ranging from blue chip stocks to innovative investment funds and from commodities to warrants.
Moreover, the SEHK provides a comprehensive listing platform for companies and issuers. Companies, or entities as they are known, will be listed on the Exchange if they meet eligibility criteria determined by the Exchange and approved by the SFC.
In conclusion, the Stock Exchange of Hong Kong is a premier financial exchange and a leading center for achieving advantageous transactions for a variety of entities and financial institutions in the international markets. It enjoys a distinguished reputation as the largest stock exchange in the region and a respected name across global financial markets.
