Exchange Fund

A fund established in 1935 by the Currency Ordinance (later renamed the Exchange Fund Ordinance) as a reserve to back the issue of Hong Kong's banknotes. In 1976, the bulk of the foreign exchange assets of the Government's General Revenue Account and all of the assets of the Coinage Security Fund (i.e. funds received against the issue of coin) were transferred to the Exchange Fund and debt certificates were issued in exchange. Thus, the resources available to regulate the exchange value of the Hong Kong dollar were centralised in the Fund. The Exchange Fund is under the control of the Financial Secretary and is used primarily for 'affecting, either directly or indirectly the exchange value of the currency of Hong Kong'. In addition, it may be used to maintain the stability and integrity of the monetary and financial systems of Hong Kong with a view to maintaining Hong Kong as an international financial centre. The Exchange Fund may be held in Hong Kong currency, foreign exchange, gold or silver, or in such securities or assets as the Financial Secretary considers appropriate after having consulted the Exchange Fund Advisory Committee. The Monetary Authority is appointed by the Financial Secretary to manage the Exchange Fund, among other duties.