Part I Finance in Hong Kong, 2 Financial Regulatory Structure

Abstract

This chapter describes the overall legal and regulatory framework supporting financial markets in Hong Kong. This is developed in tandem with, and in response to, their characteristics. Regulatory reforms in the financial markets of Hong Kong have typically been developed after a financial crisis and market failure. However, while Hong Kong has not always had effective systems of financial regulation, it has been steadily strengthening its regulatory framework both for financial markets and institutions. This chapter argues that the increasing effectiveness of its legal and institutional regulatory framework has enhanced its development as an international financial centre over the past two decades and will be vital to its continued success in the future. The chapter concludes by outlining the common objectives of the Hong Kong financial regulators today.