In response to media enquiries Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited (HKEx) confirms that earlier today (Monday) its wholly owned subsidiary, The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited (the Exchange), advised all approved structured products issuers that they will be permitted to launch structured products (except Callable Bull/Bear Contracts) over the shares of Industrial and Commercial Bank of China Limited (ICBC) with effect from the date the offer price for the H shares under the Global Offering is published in the newspapers, 23 October 2006. 

The Exchange will accelerate its processing so that any structured products launched that day will commence trading when ICBC commences trading on Friday, 27 October 2006.

HKEx believes allowing the listing of structured products earlier will enable investors to invest in these instruments in a well regulated and transparent market rather than confining them to investing in over-the-counter or other instruments.

Structured product investments involve high risks; investors are advised to have a thorough understanding of the terms and conditions of the products offered and consult their brokers or professional investment advisers before trading in structured products.