Singapore Exchange (S68.SG) consulting public on proposal for all-day trading; says “could further entrench Singapore’s capital market as most international exchange and increase regularity of cross border trading activities, says Dow Jones.”

While story nothing new—SGX CEO Magnus Bocker said in July it was important to have an open dialogue with market participants about trading hours, though “too early” to talk about change—today’s news likely to get market participants talking again.

 

Bourse’s arguments for continuous trading appear sound, citing more overlap with other Asian exchanges, ability to trade SGX-listed international securities while underlying markets open, more timely response to news flow; would add to recent measures to boost SGX standing, such as ADRs listing, dark pool JV, introduction of more derivatives contracts, while Bocker said in July move would support brokers by adding up to 10% to volumes. But may cause consternation among some brokers, who value lunch break as time to meet clients, and most who enjoy the treats of Singapore CBD’s ’kopitiams’ served hot, and not in takeaway boxes. 

 

SGX shares off 1.1% at $9.93 at midday break; news unlikely to have an impact on stock, ADRs listing Friday likely next catalyst.