HKEX Weighs Expanding Private IPO Filings to Boost Listings

Hong Kong is considering a plan to allow a broader range of companies to file for initial public offerings confidentially, according to people familiar with the matter, as the city seeks to cement its lead among global listing venues.

The proposal would expand the privilege of private filings beyond technology and biotech to include traditional sectors, said the people, who asked not to be identified discussing private deliberations. The change is expected to be part of a wide-ranging market consultation paper to be published by Hong Kong Exchanges & Clearing Ltd. as soon as the end of February.