Li Xiaojia says will stay in HK, keen on SME financing

Charles Li Xiaojia, chief executive of Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing (0388), said he is very likely to continue to work in Central after bringing forward his retirement on December 31.

Li said he will not leave Hong Kong, where he has lived for more than two decades, as he considers the city to be his home.

He said he wouldn't want to work for others, adding he is interested in small and medium enterprises financing.

There was a market rumor that Li will take up a government job after stepping down from the local stock exchange. But Li said he should not think about running for Chief Executive.

He also said he has no plan to work in Shenzhen.

Li said he has no regrets as he has achieved most targets as a chief executive over the past 11 years.

When asked about his early departure, Li said HKEX wasn't undergoing big projects but recorded strong business performance amid the pandemic. So it's good timing to retire as it is easier for HKEX to seek the new chief executive, he said.

He said he is confident about Hong Kong's future, while China and the United Staes will bring huge opportunities or difficulties to the market in the next decade, it depends on two governments and communities.