This afternoon, Charles Chen, Chief Executive Officer of Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited (HKEx), revealed during the interim results conference that since the introduction of the 'Dedicated Financing Channel for Technology Companies', the exchange has witnessed an additional 50 IPO applications under Chapters 18A and 18C. Chen highlighted that it is a common practice globally for companies to submit IPO applications confidentially, a practice accepted by numerous exchanges. This is due to the fact that firms applying under Chapters 18A and 18C often have yet to generate revenue or profits, with their core technologies still in the research and development phase, encompassing highly sensitive information. HKEx accommodates such companies while emphasizing that this does not compromise transparency. IPO candidates are still required to disclose information publicly at pivotal moments, such as during share offerings, to ensure investors have ample time to assess the company's situation.