Zhang Yong Joins HKEX's Mainland China Advisory Group

The Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited (HKEX) has appointed Zhang Yong, Managing Partner of Firstlight Capital and former Chairman and CEO of Alibaba Group, to its Mainland China Advisory Group.

The announcement, made by HKEX Chairman Carlson Tong, highlights Zhang's extensive experience in China's corporate and financial sectors. "His wealth of experience and deep knowledge in China's business and financial markets will provide invaluable support to the HKEX Board," Tong said.

Established in 2021, the Mainland China Advisory Group serves as a strategic body offering insights on developments in China's economy and financial system. It is chaired by Zhang Yichen, a non-executive director of HKEX and Chairman and CEO of CITIC Capital Holdings. With Zhang Yong's addition, the group now comprises nine senior figures from across the business and finance spectrum.

Zhang Yong has held key leadership roles at Alibaba since 2007, including serving as Chairman and CEO. He currently heads Firstlight Capital and also holds an independent non-executive directorship at Hysan Development.

His appointment is seen as a reinforcement of HKEX's focus on strengthening its connections with the Mainland, in line with its broader China-centric strategy.