CBUAE and HKMA strengthen financial cooperation and market connectivity, with CBUAE joining CMU for debt capital market access.
This article was generated using SAMS, an AI technology by Timothy Loh LLP.
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On 12 February 2026, the Central Bank of the United Arab Emirates ("CBUAE") and the Hong Kong Monetary Authority ("HKMA") held their third meeting in Abu Dhabi, co-chaired by H.E. Khaled Mohamed Balama, Governor of the CBUAE, and Mr Eddie Yue, Chief Executive of the HKMA. The meeting emphasized deepening financial cooperation and market connectivity between the two jurisdictions.
The key discussion areas covered cross-border debt capital market connectivity, digital assets, tokenisation, central bank digital currency, regulatory frameworks for stablecoins, and supply chain financing. Both sides pledged to advance financial and technical cooperation, and promote institutional coordination.
A significant development was the CBUAE's formal entry into the Central Moneymarkets Unit ("CMU"), Hong Kong's core central securities depository for debt securities. This move grants direct, cost-effective access to China's capital markets and financial assets, utilizing Hong Kong's financial infrastructure. It marks a substantial step forward in advancing market connectivity and deepening financial integration.
H.E. Khaled Mohamed Balama, Governor of the CBUAE, highlighted that the collaboration underscores a mutual commitment to strengthening cross-border financial market connectivity and international partnership. The CBUAE's membership in the CMU supports diversification of investment opportunities and reinforces the country's role as a leading international capital market hub.
Mr Eddie Yue, Chief Executive of the HKMA, emphasized that the progress in debt capital market connectivity reflects Hong Kong's status as an offshore Renminbi business hub and a premier gateway for international investors. The cooperation illustrates a clear vision for mutual growth and innovation, and the HKMA looks forward to continued collaboration with the CBUAE.
On 11 February, H.E. Saif Humaid Al Dhaheri, Assistant Governor of the CBUAE, and Mr Howard Lee, Deputy Chief Executive of the HKMA, signed an agreement on CMU membership. This agreement aims to further enhance cross-border debt capital market collaboration.
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