Hong Kong and Saudi Regulators Advance Market Connectivity Dialogue

Ms. Julia Leung, Chief Executive Officer of the Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) of Hong Kong, and His Excellency Mr. Mohammed bin Abdullah Elkuwaiz, Chairman of the Capital Market Authority (CMA) of Saudi Arabia, met in Hong Kong on Tuesday to discuss regulatory collaboration and foster increased market connectivity.

His Excellency Mr. Elkuwaiz led a delegation of senior executives and leading Saudi asset managers on their first official visit to Hong Kong. During the bilateral meeting, representatives from both the CMA and SFC exchanged views on various topics, including supervisory collaboration and the potential for dual listing of investment products such as exchange-traded funds and real estate investment trusts. Discussions also covered recent market and regulatory developments in both Hong Kong and Saudi Arabian markets.

His Excellency Mr. Elkuwaiz stated, "Strengthening regulatory ties with key global markets is integral to the CMA's strategy to advance the Saudi capital market's international integration." He added that their discussions with the SFC reflect a shared recognition of the importance of cross-border collaboration in supporting market development and enabling global investment flows. Ms. Leung emphasized that both the SFC and the CMA share a vision of market development through collaboration and diversification, noting ample room to deepen ties for the benefit of both markets. She expressed anticipation for strengthening ties to reinforce Hong Kong's role as Asia's premier capital intermediary.

Following the meeting, the regulators co-hosted a Saudi-Hong Kong asset management roundtable to facilitate further dialogue among leading asset managers from both markets. Dr. Kelvin Wong, Chairman of the SFC, highlighted the importance of strengthening global regulatory collaboration, particularly within Asia, stating, "Cross-market engagement is key to building future-ready financial markets that support sustainable growth." Approximately 30 senior representatives from Hong Kong's leading industry associations also met with their Saudi counterparts to discuss mutually beneficial initiatives, including expanding cross-border investment opportunities and potential partnerships.