DFSA and Hong Kong’s Securities and Futures Commission strengthen cross-border investment oversight
The Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA), regulator of the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), and Hong Kong’s Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance cooperation in supervising collective investment scheme managers across their respective markets.
The agreement, announced during the 10th Belt and Road Summit in Hong Kong, establishes a collaborative framework for consultation, information sharing, and coordinated oversight of firms engaged in cross-border investment management and advisory activities.
The MoU was signed by Mark Steward, Chief Executive of the DFSA, and Julia Leung, Chief Executive Officer of the SFC, in a ceremony officiated by John KC Lee, Chief Executive of Hong Kong SAR, and attended by Dr Kelvin Wong, Chairman of the SFC.
Mr. Steward highlighted the importance of the agreement, stating:
“Today’s MoU between the DFSA and the SFC will help firms operate in each other’s markets with confidence and integrity, and demonstrates our shared commitment to regulatory excellence and cross-border innovation.”
Ms. Leung added:
“The strengthened SFC-DFSA partnership underscores our commitment to enhancing regional market connectivity. This milestone reinforces Hong Kong’s pivotal role on the China-Middle East Corridor and strengthens DIFC and Hong Kong as leading international financial hubs.”
The MoU builds on ongoing joint efforts, including a high-level meeting and a co-hosted roundtable with asset managers in Hong Kong in 2024. It marks a significant step in advancing cross-border regulatory alignment, governance, and investor confidence in global capital markets.
