HKEx is the operator and frontline regulator of the central securities and derivatives marketplace in Hong Kong.  In this role, HKEx works closely with the Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) to regulate listed issuers; administers listing, trading and clearing rules; and provides services at the wholesale level to customers of the exchanges and clearing houses, including issuers and intermediaries - namely investment banks or sponsors, securities and derivatives brokers, custodian banks and information vendors - who service the investor directly.  The only exception to HKEx's wholesale role is the Investor Participant Account Service, which is mainly a custody service provided to retail investors as well as institutions.

As an infrastructure provider, HKEx is essentially an IT-based enterprise. HKEx provides services along the core part of the securities and derivatives transaction chains. These services comprise trading, clearing and settlement, depository and nominee services, and information services.

In the HKEx Strategic Plan 2010-2012, HKEx adopts the following mission statement.

Our mission is to create and operate active international public financial markets in Hong Kong.