The Government's shareholding in Hong Kong Exchanges & Clearing for the Exchange Fund account has grown beyond 5% to 5.88%. Financial Secretary John Tsang said the move shows the Government's long-term confidence in HKEx.

The holdings in HKEx will be retained by the Exchange Fund as a strategic asset in support of the maintenance of Hong Kong as an international financial centre.

"HKEx is one of Hong Kong's principal engines of growth, an important part of our financial infrastructure, and a key agent in the growth of Hong Kong as an international financial centre," Mr Tsang said.

"This acquisition underlines the Government's support for HKEx and enables the Government, over the longer term, to contribute as a shareholder to the promotion of HKEx's strategic development."