HKMA reports decrease in Exchange Fund foreign assets for December

The Hong Kong Monetary Authority released its analytical accounts for the Exchange Fund at the end of December 2025. Foreign assets, representing the external assets of the Exchange Fund, decreased during the month by HK$12.5 billion to HK$3,525.5 billion.

Exchange Fund's external assets decline

The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) today published the key analytical accounts of the Exchange Fund for December 2025.

The data revealed a decrease in foreign assets, which constitute the external assets of the Exchange Fund.

These assets declined by HK$12.5 billion during the month, settling at HK$3,525.5 billion.

The Monetary Base, a crucial component comprising Certificates of Indebtedness, Government-issued currency notes and coins in circulation, the balance of the banking system, and Exchange Fund Bills and Notes issued, stood at HK$2,040.0 billion.

Additionally, claims on the private sector in Hong Kong were recorded at HK$388.1 billion, while foreign liabilities amounted to HK$52.3 billion.

This release aligns with the International Monetary Fund's Special Data Dissemination Standard (SDDS), specifically referred to as the Analytical Accounts of the Central Bank.

Transparency through regular data releases

The Hong Kong Monetary Authority's commitment to transparency is underscored by its regular data releases, including these analytical accounts.

The publication adheres to the International Monetary Fund's Special Data Dissemination Standard (SDDS), ensuring timely and comprehensive disclosure of monetary data.

The HKMA issues four press releases monthly concerning the Exchange Fund, with three dedicated to SDDS compliance.

This consistent reporting framework supports informed analysis of Hong Kong's financial stability and monetary policy operations.

Minor shift in a robust fund

The reported decrease in foreign assets, while notable, represents a minor fluctuation within the substantial scale of the Exchange Fund.

This regular data release provides crucial insight into the ongoing management of Hong Kong's monetary stability and its currency board system.

For financial professionals, these consistent updates are essential for tracking the underlying strength and operational dynamics of the HKMA's reserves.