Hong Kong exchange profits powered by pandemic stock-trading boom

New listings from Chinese technology companies also spark surge in HKEX volume

A flag bearing the logo of Hong Kong Exchanges & Clearing. The exchange has become the default secondary-listing destination for Chinese companies threatened by delisting in the U.S. © Reuters

NARAYANAN SOMASUNDARAM, Nikkei Asian Review chief banking and financial correspondent

August 19, 2020 16:31 JST

Updated on August 19, 2020 21:30 JST

HONG KONG -- Hong Kong Exchanges & Clearing, the operator of the world's most valuable stock exchange, reported record half-year profit that benefited from a surge in trading volumes from new listings by Chinese technology companies and increased volatility brought on by the global pandemic and local political tensions.