The Securities & Futures Commission will launch a consultation on investment product sales and disclosure guidelines by the end of this month, Secretary for Financial Services & the Treasury Prof KC Chan says.

Speaking on a radio talk show today, Prof Chan said it is difficult for general investors to understand the risks posed by structured products, and regulation of their sales must be enhanced.

Complicated investment products are not suitable for general investors, he said, adding measures should be introduced to offer general investors more opportunities to buy simple products.

Speaking on the global economy, Prof Chan said although the financial crisis is largely over, the path to recovery will be long because the US economy was particularly hard hit and its weak consumption sentiment will continue to affect the global economy.

He said all governments should closely monitor the situation and not be in a rush to withdraw their stimulus measures. Although there are uncertainties in financial markets, Hong Kong people should have confidence in the city's economic strength, he added.