Group 1 - The Hong Kong government is set to release its fourth policy report in September, with Deloitte suggesting several measures to enhance the stock market, including extending trading hours and reducing transaction taxes [1] - Deloitte recommends a phased extension of the Hong Kong stock market trading hours to 18:00, aligning with major European markets, and potentially moving towards 24-hour trading to attract international investors from different time zones [1] - The extension of trading hours is seen as a way to increase market liquidity, enhance competition, and improve the price discovery mechanism for listed companies [1] Group 2 - There has been a significant inflow of southbound funds into the Hong Kong stock market this year, with daily trading volume increasing by approximately 1.3 times, accounting for 23.1% of total trading volume, and net purchases reaching HKD 731.2 billion, which is 91% of last year's total [2] - Deloitte suggests that the Hong Kong government should consider expanding the Southbound Stock Connect to enhance liquidity, proposing a reduction in the asset threshold for individual investors from HKD 500,000 [2] - To attract more local and overseas funds, especially from the Middle East and ASEAN regions, Deloitte recommends expanding investment products and establishing capital market service stations in Jakarta and Bangkok to engage with regional investors [2]

Group 1 - The core viewpoint is that extending trading hours in Hong Kong is essential for developing the capital market and attracting both international and mainland funds, which would enhance market liquidity [1] - Deloitte's South China Managing Partner, Ou Zhenxing, suggests that Hong Kong could consider a phased approach to extend trading hours, starting with an extension to 6 PM to overlap with major European markets [1] - The proposal includes the potential for 24-hour trading in the future, which would cater to a broader range of international investors and improve overall stock liquidity, increase the number of participants, narrow bid-ask spreads, and enhance the price discovery process [1] Group 2 - The Hang Seng Index is currently at 25,426.53, reflecting a gain of 0.62% [2] - The National Enterprises Index stands at 9,130.71, with an increase of 1.01% [2] - The Hang Seng Technology Index is at 5,651.97, showing a rise of 1.96% [2]