Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the significant divergence between the 3-month HIBOR rate and the Federal Funds rate, highlighting a liquidity paradox in Hong Kong where low interest rates do not correlate with rising stock prices [1][3][5]. Group 1: Liquidity and Stock Market Relationship - After May 20, the inversion of the HIBOR rate exceeded 250 basis points, indicating a liquidity surplus in Hong Kong [3]. - Despite low funding rates, the Hang Seng Index only increased by 1.64%, suggesting that liquidity does not necessarily lead to stock market gains [5]. - The relationship between funding rates and stock prices is complex; low rates can lead to deposit outflows, which may suppress risk asset prices [9][12]. Group 2: Capital Flows and Currency Impact - The outflow of deposits in Hong Kong, due to low interest rates, does not lead to a decline in stock prices but results in stagnation [12]. - When capital flows out of Hong Kong, it converts local currency deposits into USD, leading to increased excess reserves and liquidity in the interbank market [14]. - The relationship between exchange rates and stock prices is direct: currency appreciation typically supports stock market gains, while depreciation can lead to declines [16]. Group 3: Monetary Policy and External Influences - The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) injected significant liquidity into the market, with a total of 1,166 million HKD released over four days [18]. - The 3-month HIBOR rate fell to 1.32% due to both the HKMA's liquidity injections and foreign capital outflows [22][23]. - The HKMA's actions reflect a strategy to manage foreign capital flows, with the potential to adjust liquidity based on market conditions [25][27]. Group 4: Theoretical Implications and Market Behavior - The article suggests that the HKMA's large liquidity injections are not necessarily positive for the market, as they may be aimed at curbing excessive foreign capital inflows [32]. - The divergence between theoretical expectations and actual market behavior indicates a need for investors to trust market signals over theoretical models [32]. - The 3-month HIBOR rate is not a reliable indicator of Hong Kong stock market liquidity due to the complexities of capital flows [35].