Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited (HKEx) announced today the listing of its first gold Exchange Traded Fund (ETF), SPDR Gold Trust (Stock Code: 2840) on the Main Board of The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of HKEx tomorrow (Thursday, 31 July).

The gold ETF is one of the largest and most liquid commodity ETFs globally with total net assets of approximately $148 billion.  The listing of the gold ETF on the Stock Exchange will give investors an additional channel to access the international gold market.

Hong Kong is currently the leading ETF market in Asia based on turnover value.  Following the addition of the gold ETF, there will be 24 ETFs listed on the Stock Exchange with underlying assets that range from Hong Kong, regional and international stocks to bonds and commodities (for details, please see the HKEx website pages).  All 24 ETFs are designated for short selling with tick rule exemption and with market makers to enhance liquidity.

Eric Yip, HKEx’s Head of Cash Market, said: “The introduction of the gold ETF complements the already wide range of commodity ETFs and structured products listed on HKEx securities market, covering commodity indices and single asset classes such as gold, silver, platinum, oil and wheat.  We will continue to work closely with the Securities and Futures Commission and market participants to promote a more diverse product platform for the Hong Kong securities market.”