HKEX has launched the "Exchange Square: Four Decades of Trading" photo exhibition, looking back on the development of Hong Kong's capital market over the four decades since the establishment of the modern stock exchange, according to an announcement.
The exhibition runs for four weeks, and HKEX held a launch ceremony for the event. Guests in attendance included Hong Kong Acting Financial Secretary Wong Wai-lun, Legislative Council members, representatives of market regulators, and financial sector leaders.
Former HKEX chairmen Ronald Arculli and Chow Chung-kong also attended, along with management from exhibition strategic partner Hongkong Land.
After a gong-striking ceremony opened the exhibition, HKEX Chairman Carlson Tong, Legislative Council Financial Services Sector lawmaker Lee Wai-hong, and veteran media professional Sun Wai-kiu shared anecdotes from their past involvement in Hong Kong's capital market, recounting the transformation of the Hong Kong capital market after The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited began operating at Exchange Square in 1986.
HKEX Chairman Carlson Tong said: "For four decades, Exchange Square has stood at the core of Hong Kong's capital market, witnessing Hong Kong's rise as a leading international financial center. Throughout this journey, the exchange, its markets, and market participants have supported Hong Kong's economic development by connecting capital with opportunities and linking China with the world. Establishing HKEX's permanent headquarters at Exchange Square demonstrates our confidence in Hong Kong's future, and we will continue to actively promote the development of the financial market and enhance its competitiveness."
HKEX Group Chief Executive Officer Bonnie Chan said: "Exchange Square is not only HKEX's home, but also a hub where the market, companies, investors, and the community meet and connect. Through this exhibition, we hope to share with the public the stories, people, and important moments that have shaped Hong Kong's capital market over the past 40 years. At the same time, we look forward to creating more opportunities to connect with the community after the upgrade works at HKEX's headquarters, the Hong Kong Finance Conference Hall, and the new museum are completed, helping Hong Kong's next generation understand the development history of Hong Kong's market."
Hongkong Land Group Chief Executive Michael Smith said: "Central's Exchange Square has been the home of the Hong Kong stock exchange from the very beginning, and Hongkong Land is deeply proud of this. Over the past four decades, we have worked together to build an ecosystem supporting Hong Kong's status as an international financial center, and our development journeys have been closely intertwined. Now, with HKEX confirming Exchange Square as its permanent headquarters, this investment demonstrates both parties' firm confidence and major commitment to Central and Hong Kong's future. We look forward to continuing to walk side by side for the next four decades."
The exhibition is located in the central lobbies of Exchange Square Tower 1 and Tower 2, showcasing the evolution of Exchange Square and Hong Kong's capital market through five themed zones.
The exhibition displays precious photographs, old newspaper clippings, historical footage, and multiple artifacts, reflecting the exchange's journey from the trading hall era to today's globally interconnected market.
Looking ahead, through its headquarters at Exchange Square and the upgraded Hong Kong Finance Conference Hall, HKEX is committed to fostering connections between Hong Kong's capital market and the wider community.
In addition, HKEX plans to open a reimagined financial museum in 2027, which will showcase Hong Kong's market development and financial history to a new generation through richer exhibits and interactive experiences.