MONEY AND FINANCE IN HONG KONG: RETROSPECT AND PROSPECT

Hong Kong's reunification with China on July 1, 1997 after 156 years of British rule was a historic event of worldwide significance. While the transition to Chinese sovereignty has so far been smoother than expected, there are lingering doubts concerning three interrelated issues: whether the Hong Kong dollar can continue to exist, whether the linked exchange rate can survive and whether Hong Kong can retain its role as an international financial centre. These issues are analyzed and discussed objectively in the first article of this book.The second article confines itself to the workings of the currency board. In addition, the future of the system after Hong Kong's historic reunification with China is briefly discussed.