It was rare to see hundreds of regulators, financiers and executives of listed companies – including chairmen and CEOs – come together in Central on Sunday morning without striking deals. Instead, they were taking part in a charity run, raising HK$9.7 million (US$1.2 million).
The Community Chest HKEX Gong Run, co-organised by the bourse operator and the charity organisation, was aimed at encouraging listed companies and financiers to become more involved in philanthropy. The event’s title was a reference to the symbolic batons, which are the mallets used in gong-striking listing ceremonies.
“This event reinforces HKEX’s role as a superconnector by bringing together market participants and stakeholders to foster growth and progress for the benefit of society,” said HKEX chairman Carlson Tong Ka-shing at the opening ceremony.
A highlight was the All-Stars Challenge, featuring the who’s who of Hong Kong’s financial sector, with the HKEX Foundation donating HK$88,000 each on their behalf.
