HKEX official says GCC firms interested in dual listings

Core Insights - HKEX has expanded its regional presence with a new representative office in Riyadh to strengthen local stakeholder engagement and explore cooperation opportunities [1][2] - The exchange has signed memoranda of understanding with regional regulators and financial markets, including Saudi Exchange and Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange, to collaborate on financial innovation and develop investment products like ETFs [2] - There is a growing interest from international companies, particularly Gulf-based firms, in dual listings in Hong Kong, as it offers access to a large investor base and high market liquidity [3][4] Market Performance - HKEX welcomed over 75 initial public offerings (IPOs) by the end of October 2025, raising over $27 billion, with secondary offerings totaling about $60 billion [5] - Key sectors represented in these listings include technology, healthcare, clean energy, and mining, with over 300 companies in the listing pipeline, half of which are in the technology sector [5] - The Hang Seng Index has risen nearly 30% year-to-date, making it one of the top-performing markets in Asia and globally [7] Trading Activity - Daily trading volumes range between $30-35 billion, driven by strong activity from institutional investors across various regions [8] - Approximately 25% of total daily trading is executed through the Stock Connect program, allowing mainland Chinese investors to trade directly in Hong Kong [8]