Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited (HKEx) is introducing Internet access to CCASS, the Central Clearing and Settlement System, for Investor Participants, as an alternative to access through the CCASS phone system. The IP Internet service will be introduced in two phases, beginning on 3 October.

During Phase 1, Investor Participants will be able to use the Internet access to affirm Investor Settlement Instructions, check account details and apply for shares through HKEx's Electronic Initial Public Offering service. On-line activities available during phase 2, scheduled to begin before year-end, will include viewing and downloading account statements and giving dividend election and voting instructions.

Details of the IP Internet Service is available from http://www.hkex.com.hk. Investor Participants can access the service directly through the website https://ip.ccass.com/.

To use the service, Investor Participants need access to the Internet and an e-Cert available from Hongkong Post, which provides secure on-line environments by authenticating the identity of the subscriber.