HKEX Welcomes Mainland Insurance Funds to Invest in Hong Kong ETFs

On 18 August 2026, Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited (HKEX) welcomed the National Financial Regulatory Administration’s (NFRA) announcement allowing Mainland insurance funds to invest in Hong Kong exchange-traded funds (ETFs) via Southbound Stock Connect.

HKEX Chief Executive Officer Bonnie Y Chan described the move as a milestone for Stock Connect, highlighting that Mainland insurers diversifying through Hong Kong ETFs will enhance market depth and vibrancy. She noted that this development strengthens Hong Kong’s role as a “superconnector” between China and global markets, while offering Mainland institutions access to HKEX’s broad product suite and risk-management tools.

Since ETFs were added to Stock Connect in 2022, trading activity has grown steadily. In the first seven months of 2026, average daily turnover for Southbound ETFs reached HK$5.8 billion, up 61 per cent year-on-year, while Northbound ETFs recorded RMB5.1 billion, an 86 per cent increase. Hong Kong’s overall ETF market also expanded, with average daily turnover rising 22 per cent to HK$40.6 billion.

HKEX reaffirmed its commitment to fostering two-way capital flows and strengthening Hong Kong’s position as a leading international financial centre, connecting Mainland investors with global opportunities.

https://www.hkex.com.hk/News/News-Release/2026/260818news?sc_lang=en