HKEX CEO Bonnie Chan says geopolitics and economic uncertainty may dim IPO outlook

Core Insights - Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing (HKEX) is currently leading the global IPO rankings, but CEO Bonnie Chan Yiting warns that fundraising activities may slow down due to geopolitical and economic risks [1][3] - Despite the caution, there is a strong pipeline of over 300 companies waiting to list on the HKEX, including the world's largest IPOs this year from Contemporary Amperex Technology (CATL) and Zijin Gold International [1][2][5] IPO Performance - In the first nine months of the year, 66 companies raised a total of US$23.27 billion on HKEX's main board, marking a 220% increase compared to the previous year [5] - CATL's IPO in May raised US$5.3 billion, while Zijin's fundraising last month amounted to HK$24.98 billion (US$3.2 billion) [2] Listing Trends - Approximately half of the listing applicants are classified as "new economy" companies, focusing on sectors such as electric vehicles, biotechnology, and AI [3] - HKEX, along with the Securities and Futures Commission, has implemented reforms to simplify the listing process, aiming to attract more international firms and specialized technology companies [4] Future Outlook - HKEX is positioned to reclaim the title of the world's annual IPO leader by 2025, supported by a robust pipeline of over 300 companies [5]