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HKEX weighs extending trading hours, options include close at 8pm
Discussions with the SFC are at an early stage, and HKEX is considering choices such as moving the afternoon close to 5pm or as late as 8pm.
Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing is considering extending its trading hours, aiming to align with changes at global peers and strengthen Hong Kong’s position as an international financial centre, according to the South China Morning Post. HKEX and the Securities and Futures Commission confirmed they are discussing the idea, but provided no specifics. The review is described as early stage, and HKEX would consult the market before any long-term change, the outlet reported, citing two separate sources. One option under discussion would extend the afternoon close to 5pm, while another possibility goes further to an 8pm close. Scrapping the one-hour lunch break is not being actively considered, the report said. The review comes as other exchanges have explored longer sessions, the Financial Times reported in July 2025, citing sources, including the London Stock Exchange Group weighing 24-hour trading to meet retail demand. HKEX currently trades from 9.30am to 4pm on weekdays, including a one-hour lunch break, compared with shorter and longer weekday sessions across major markets, including four hours in Shanghai and Shenzhen and 14 hours in Frankfurt, according to the Post.