Hong Kong to keep stock market open when typhoons hit

Change aims to boost competitiveness; some wonder if infrastructure is up to task

A typhoon approaches Hong Kong in September 2023. The city's stock exchange will end its decadeslong practice of closing during such storms. © Reuters

KENJI KAWASE and ECHO WONG, Nikkei staff writers

June 18, 2024 15:13 JST

Updated on June 18, 2024 20:12 JST

HONG KONG -- Hong Kong will keep its stock exchange open even during severe weather like typhoons, the government announced Tuesday, breaking a decadeslong practice as it strives to shore up the market's competitiveness.

The city's Chief Executive John Lee made the announcement during his weekly news conference, saying the change would take effect Sept. 23. He said he had "completely accepted" the recommendations of a government task force and a public consultation process initiated by the Hong Kong Exchange.