Core Viewpoint - The recent surge in the Hong Kong stock market has led to increased attention on the ability of mainland investors to open accounts with online brokers like Futu Holdings and Tiger International, with both companies adjusting their policies in response to regulatory changes [1][5][6]. Group 1: Company Policies - Futu Holdings has completely stopped allowing new account openings for mainland users, only permitting those who live or work abroad to open accounts, requiring both a mainland ID and proof of residence or employment abroad [1][3]. - Tiger International still allows existing customers to open accounts if they had previously opened accounts with other overseas brokers before May 19, 2023, but does not accept new mainland investors [2][3]. Group 2: Regulatory Environment - The regulatory scrutiny of online brokers like Futu and Tiger began in October 2021, with the China Securities Regulatory Commission (CSRC) declaring their cross-border securities operations as non-compliant with existing laws [2]. - In December 2022, the CSRC formally classified the cross-border operations of these brokers as "illegal" and mandated them to cease new business activities while allowing existing clients to continue trading [2]. Group 3: Market Conditions - The Hong Kong stock market has shown significant recovery, with the Hang Seng Index rebounding from a drop of over 13% in early April to reach a new closing high since March 2025 by June 5, 2023 [5]. - The interest in Hong Kong stocks has been further fueled by successful IPOs of major mainland companies, such as CATL and Heng Rui Pharmaceutical, which saw substantial first-day gains [6]. Group 4: Investment Channels - Mainland investors can access Hong Kong stocks primarily through two channels: the Stock Connect program and Hong Kong-listed ETFs, with different eligibility criteria [7]. - The Stock Connect requires a minimum average asset of 500,000 RMB in the investor's securities and funds accounts over the previous 20 trading days, while the ETF route has no such financial threshold, making it more accessible for retail investors [7].
港股市场大热,富途证券、老虎证券均不支持境内新增投资者开户!布局港股可通过这两种方式