Hong Kong bankers to retain right to access corporate registry: report

A new government rule plans to tighten public access to company director’s personal info.

Hong Kong bankers and lawyers will be able to retain access to the city’s companies registry under proposed exemptions to plans to tighten public access to personal information of company directors, reports Reuters, based on a statement made by Secretary of Financial Services Christopher Hui.

Speaking to a RTHK radio programme, Hui said that lawyers, bankers and accountants could now apply to the company registry to gain access to documents for work purposes.

Dealmakers working through the due diligence phase of corporate transactions regularly consult the database to research and verify the history and identities of executives and directors.

Also Read: Debates arise on security law's effects on Hong Kong finance sector

"But the premise is that they have to be really doing relevant checks and work, because we need to strike a balance and protect privacy," Hui was quoted as saying on the RTHK website.

Business and governance experts have criticised a government plan to restrict access to the personal information of company directors, warning that it will reduce transparency in Hong Kong’s corporate sector.

Here’s more from Reuters.

Follow the link s for more news on

Join Hong Kong Business community
Since you're here...

...there are many ways you can work with us to advertise your company and connect to your customers. Our team can help you dight and create an advertising campaign, in print and digital, on this website and in print magazine.

We can also organize a real life or digital event for you and find thought leader speakers as well as industry leaders, who could be your potential partners, to join the event. We also run some awards programmes which give you an opportunity to be recognized for your achievements during the year and you can join this as a participant or a sponsor.

Let us help you drive your business forward with a good partnership!

Top News

Hong Kong to review capital rules to boost insurers’ infrastructure assets
It also plans to attract enterprises to establish captive insurers locally.Hong Kong will review the risk-based capital regime introduced in July, assessing capital requirements related to infrastructure investments to diversify insurance companies' asset allocations and encourage future investments.
Insurance
AlixPartner names Una Ge as new HK partner and managing director
She was previously a partner at Deloitte China, focusing on cross-border restructuring.

Exclusives

Braillic’s AR tech helps brain surgeons see through the walls
The medical software provider plans to expand its use to spinal and orthopaedic procedures.
Healthcare
Stellerus helps organisations manage hazard, climate risks
The Hong Kong startup offers a fast and accurate early warning system for natural disasters.
K11 MUSEA bridges art, culture, and retail
Visitors find top-tier brands and museum-grade art pieces at the cultural-retail landmark.