The number of institutions participating in “Cross-border Wealth Management Connect” was expanded, and brokerage firms were approved to be included in the pilot project. The reporter learned from the industry that at present, many brokerage firms, such as Guoxin Securities, GF Securities, and CICC Wealth, have applied for the “Cross-border Wealth Connect 2.0” business qualification. Many brokerage firms have submitted materials and are awaiting approval. Some small to medium brokerage firms are also investigating the market, such as Century Securities and Great Wall Securities. “Financial market connectivity in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area is deepening. The gap between China and the US is still widening, and mainland Chinese investors are more enthusiastic about investing in Hong Kong and Macau products. Monetary funds and some equity funds in the Hong Kong stock market are the focus of major asset allocations for southbound investors.” Zhao Hongmei, head of the Sino-Thai International Research Department, said that “Cross-border Wealth Management Connect” is expected to raise the level of internationalization of brokerage firms and enhance the appeal of Hong Kong, China as an international asset management center. (Shanghai Securities Report)