Hong Kong - The board of directors of Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Ltd. notes recent media speculation with regard to its possible interest in the London Metal Exchange.

The Board reviews a range of strategic opportunities which arise from time to time and will consider pursuing those which are in accordance with HKEx's shareholders' interests. On 19 December 2011, the LME announced it was considering its future strategy as an independent entity or as part of a larger group and had engaged advisers on a process for that purpose.

The Board confirms HKEx continues to participate in that process and understands it is one of a number of interested parties studying this opportunity. If the need for additional financing in connection with that process arises, the Board will explore and evaluate appropriate available sources of funds in accordance with the interests of HKEx's shareholders. At this stage there can be no certainty as to the outcome of that process.

The Board will update the market if and when required in accordance with the Listing Rules.

This announcement is made pursuant to Rule 13.09(1) of the Rules Governing the Listing of Securities on The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited (the "Listing Rules").