Hong Kong Expands Investment Options for Mainland Investors Under Greater Bay Area Scheme

Hong Kong is pursuing an expansion of the Cross-boundary Wealth Management Connect scheme to provide mainland Chinese investors with access to a broader range of investment products, the city's Financial Secretary Paul Chan Mo-po announced as Hong Kong marked the 29th anniversary of its return to Chinese rule on July 1, 2026.

The scheme currently allows residents of Hong Kong, Macau, and nine Guangdong cities within the Greater Bay Area to invest directly in approved wealth management products across borders. However, initial offerings have been limited primarily to fixed-income and low-risk products. Authorities on both sides are now reviewing ways to expand eligibility, increase quotas, and diversify the product range to include higher-return, more innovative investment options alongside their increased risk profiles.

Chan emphasized that enhancements to the scheme would take time to finalize, but stressed that mainland investors are seeking access to more sophisticated products beyond conservative offerings. "In the past, especially in the initial stages, we had to play it safe, so many were fixed-income and very low-risk products," Chan told the South China Morning Post. "Meanwhile, mainland investors hope to access more innovative products, maybe with a higher return – though the risk will be higher as well. These are under discussion."

The expansion comes as part of Hong Kong's broader efforts to strengthen its position as a financial hub and deepen economic integration within the Greater Bay Area. Chan also noted that a recent crackdown on illegal cross-border stock trading would support rather than undermine the city's appeal, as it ensures the integrity of regulated schemes and protects investors.