Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited (HKEx) issued the following statement in response to media enquiries in relation to the proposed measures for the financial markets revealed in today's Budget Speech.

The transaction levy forms part of the transaction cost of trading. HKEx expects the proposed reduction will help lower overall transaction costs in securities and futures and options trading, and will be welcomed by investors and market participants.  HKEx believes the Government’s initiative will encourage greater market participation, and increase the competitiveness of Hong Kong’s financial markets.

HKEx supports the Government's proposal to expand the scope of renminbi business.  HKEx will closely monitor market demand and take into account the market infrastructure when assessing the need for any new measures and/or products.

HKEx will continue its efforts to strengthen the quality of our financial markets and boost Hong Kong’s position as an international financial centre.