摘要：How can finance better serve technological innovation? What innovative financing mechanisms do Asian countries possess?
How can finance better serve technological innovation? What innovative financing mechanisms do Asian countries possess?
Bonnie Y CHAN
Chief Executive Officer, Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited (HKEX)
Asia is becoming a hub for global technological innovation, driven by a younger techsavvy demographic, strong government support and a robust start-up culture. The region, with China as a key locomotive, has made rapid advancements in some of the fastest-growing sectors, including FinTech, renewable energy, artificial intelligence (AI) and Biotech. The breakthrough of DeepSeek recently is a prime example of private sector-led transformation and is likely to spark a new wave of tech innovation across the region. As such, capital markets have a role to play in supporting emerging enterprises’ capital needs to unlock their growth ambitions.
Underpinned by robust infrastructure, vibrant markets, diverse investor mix and depth of liquidity, Hong Kong is one of the most popular fundraising venues of choice for Chinese and international companies looking to expand globally. At HKEX, we have ensured that our listing regime would address the developments in innovation, supporting the fundraising needs of innovative companies. For instance, the introduction of Chapter 18A (Biotech companies), Chapter 18B (SPACs) and Chapter 18C (specialist technology companies) in recent years provided new listing pathways to companies from a range of emerging industries. Since the 2018 reforms, more than 330 new economy companies listed in Hong Kong, with a total of HK$1 trillion funds raised, establishing the city as a global new economy marketplace.
In addition, HKEX's Connect Programme, our pioneering mutual market access programme, offers unique and unrivalled two-way capital access between China and the world that no other markets can offer. The inclusion of international companies that are primary listed in Hong Kong in Southbound trading in 2023 has enabled tech entrepreneurs and innovators from around the world to tap into China's growing onshore capital pool.
We have also continued to deepen relationships with regional exchanges through the signing of memorandum of understanding (MoU) and by adding the Indonesia Stock Exchange, Saudi Exchange, Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange and Dubai Financial Market as Recognised Stock Exchange, offering seamless channels for regional issuers to access global capital through Hong Kong.
At HKEX, we see our markets not just as capital raising platforms, but as hubs that connect capital with ideas, innovation and opportunity. The positive momentum of technological innovation in Asia offers exciting prospects for us. We will continue to work closely with regulators, market participants and stakeholders to support the region's technological leap.
来源：博鳌亚洲论坛
