Mondo Visione Worldwide Financial Markets Intelligence

FTSE Mondo Visione Exchanges Index:

HKEx Introduces New Features Of Investor Accounts In CCASS And Rewards Programmes

Date 23/08/2004

Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited (HKEx) today (Monday) introduced enhanced features of the Central Clearing and Settlement System’s (CCASS) Investor Account service, and rewards programmes for new and existing account holders.

The Investor Account service provides an additional choice for investors by offering a secure and low-cost share custody channel where they can keep their stockholdings and enjoy the benefits of the electronic book-entry settlement system. The service has been upgraded periodically since its introduction in 1998. The latest enhancements, which are in response to market demand, include:

  • Extended online window for CCASS Phone System and Internet users;
  • Access to the CCASS Internet System via ID and password;
  • Alert message service (SMS or short message service);
  • Streamlined stock transfer instructions;
  • Enhanced voting functions; and
  • Electronic statement service.
With the new features, Investor Account holders as well as their appointed brokers will find the upgraded service more convenient, easier to use and easier to support. In addition, holders of the Investor Accounts will continue to enjoy the following benefits:

  • Investors fully control the movements of their shares deposited in CCASS
  • Investors receive records of their shareholdings
  • Investors enjoy legal protection of their shareholdings
  • Investors receive corporate information directly from listed issuers

HKEx has developed rewards programmes to help introduce the new and enhanced features. They include lucky draws and incentives for existing and new account holders (see attached Highlights of Rewards Programmes).

“The new and enhanced features of the Investor Accounts in CCASS are designed to make the accounts more convenient and user-friendly,” said Stewart Shing, HKEx’s Head of Clearing. “We think the accounts are a cost-effective option for investors and the rewards programmes provide an added bonus.”

For more detailed information on the Investor Account service and the full terms and conditions of the rewards programmes, investors can see the webpage at www.hkex.com.hk/investor.htm