Hong Kong Stock Exchange

The Hong Kong Stock Exchange (traditional Chinese: 香港交易所, also 港交所 (HKEX), SEHK: 0388) is the stock exchange of Hong Kong. The exchange has predominantly been the main exchange for Hong Kong where shares of listed companies are traded. It is Asia's third largest stock exchange in terms of market capitalization, behind the Tokyo Stock Exchange and the Shanghai Stock Exchange. As of 31 December 2007, the Hong Kong Stock Exchange had 1,241 listed companies with a combined market capitalization of $2.7 trillion.[1] Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing is the holding company for the exchange.

History:

The history of the securities exchange began formally in the late 19th century with the first establishment in 1891, though informal securities exchanges have been known to take place since 1861[2]. The exchange has predominantly been the main exchange for Hong Kong despite co-existing with other exchanges at different point in time. After a series of complex mergers and acquisitions, HKSE remains to be the core. From 1947 to 1969 the exchange monopolized the market.
Association of Stockbrokers in Hong Kong (Founded 1891)

(1914) Renamed to Hong Kong Stock Exchange

(1947) A merger is made after World War II with Hong Kong Stock Exchange retaining the name

Hong Kong Stockbrokers Association (Founded 1921)

Hong Kong Stockholders Association Ltd (Founded 1978) allow info sharing between HKSE and other exchanges

Far East Exchange Ltd (Founded 1969)

Kam Ngan Stock Exchange Ltd (Founded 1971)

Kowloon Stock Exchange Ltd (Founded 1972)

(1986) HKSE merges with other exchanges and retain the name but also presented as Stock Exchange of Hong Kong

(2000) Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing becomes the holding company for Hong Kong Stock Exchange

Hong Kong Futures Exchange Ltd (Founded 1976)

Hong Kong Securities Clearing Company Ltd (Founded 1989)