Secretary for Financial Services & the Treasury Prof KC Chan says investor confidence is based on the stability of the financial market and economy.
Prof Chan told reporters today there are concerns about the financial markets' stability, given what is happening on the streets of Hong Kong, and that the city's international credit ratings could suffer if the Occupy Central movement continues.
A stable legal environment is crucial for a financial hub and it was important to consider overseas investors' concerns that the rule of law was being challenged here, Prof Chan stressed.
He urged people joining the protests to consider whether their actions are effective or harming the rule of law in Hong Kong.
Prof Chan also warned the protest movement may harm the overall economy in terms of the potential drop in the number of tourists, convention and business meeting cancellations, and a possible fall in overall consumer sentiment.
Responding to speculation that the Shanghai-Hong Kong Stock Connect could be delayed, Prof Chan noted that market participants on both sides have nearly finished their preparations, and regulators will decide on a launch date after reviewing the overall readiness.
