Hong Kong Exchange Reviewing Trading Hours Extension Until 5 or 8 P.M., Says SCMP

According to South China Morning Post, Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing (HKEX) is reviewing proposals to extend afternoon trading hours to either 5 or 8 p.m., as announced on July 20. Currently, HKEX operates 5.5 hours daily on weekdays, from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. local time, excluding a one-hour lunch break. The exchange is not actively considering eliminating the lunch break.

HKEX and the Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) confirmed the discussions are underway but declined to provide specifics. An official stated the exchange is in early-stage discussions and will gather market feedback before implementing any long-term changes. The move reflects competitive pressure as Nasdaq plans to expand from 16 to 23 trading hours daily, and the London Stock Exchange considers introducing 24-hour trading.