Core Viewpoint - The growing demand for extended trading hours by retail investors is prompting global exchanges to consider longer trading periods, with the London Stock Exchange Group (LSEG) exploring the feasibility of a 24-hour trading mechanism [1][2]. Group 1: Global Exchange Trends - Major exchanges, including those in the U.S., are applying for all-day trading licenses, with the New York Stock Exchange, Nasdaq, and Chicago Options Exchange collectively accounting for about 40% of all on-exchange stock trading in the U.S. [2] - The LSEG is assessing various aspects of extending trading hours, including technological upgrades, regulatory issues, and potential impacts on liquidity and dual-listed companies [1][2]. Group 2: Market Dynamics - The rise of younger investors using smartphones for trading and the 24-hour nature of the cryptocurrency market are significant factors driving exchanges to consider longer trading hours [1]. - The LSEG generates most of its revenue from selling financial data to banks and brokers, with only 2.7% of its revenue coming from stock trading fees in the first quarter of this year [1]. Group 3: Professional Investor Sentiment - While retail investors are enthusiastic about trading during non-standard hours, professional fund managers express caution regarding the additional costs and regulatory risks associated with extended trading hours [3]. - The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) has indicated that while extending trading windows may attract retail trading, the sustainability and long-term benefits of such a model remain uncertain [3].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the upcoming LSEG 2025 Market Outlook Forum, focusing on the financial market trends and opportunities in China for the year 2025, emphasizing the importance of financial technology and data development [1][2]. Agenda Summary - The forum will feature prominent guests from various financial sectors, including banking, securities, insurance, asset management, fintech, and corporations, to discuss the outlook for the Chinese market in 2025 [2]. - The event will commence with a welcome speech addressing the recovery of the Chinese market and new opportunities in fintech and data development [2]. - David Day, President of LSEG Asia Pacific, will deliver a keynote speech analyzing the macroeconomic situation and policy outlook for 2025 [4]. - A series of roundtable discussions will cover various topics, including asset allocation in a low-interest-rate environment, future trends of ETFs, the impact of AI on smart finance, and the internationalization process of Chinese institutions [5][6][19][21]. - The forum will also include a special session focusing on the uncertainties in the commodity market and strategies for futures market development [31][32]. Participants and Hosts - Notable participants include chief economists, fund managers, and executives from leading financial institutions, such as the Industrial Bank of China and Huatai-PB Fund Management [5][10][27]. - Each roundtable will have designated hosts to facilitate discussions, ensuring a comprehensive exploration of the topics [5][19][21]. Company Overview - LSEG (London Stock Exchange Group) is a leading provider of financial market infrastructure, serving over 40,000 clients across more than 170 countries with financial data, analysis, news, and index products [39]. - The company emphasizes its commitment to promoting financial stability, enhancing economic capabilities, and supporting sustainable growth through innovative financing and risk management solutions [39].