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The following is issued on behalf of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority:
In view of the public order situation in Central and other areas, Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) and affected banks have activated their business continuity plans this morning (September 29) to maintain the normal operations of the core functions of the banking system.
The Hong Kong interbank markets will function normally today. The Currency Board mechanism will also function normally to maintain the stability of the Hong Kong dollar exchange rate. The HKMA will also inject liquidity into the banking system as and when necessary under the established mechanism.
The payment and settlement systems, including the HKD, USD, EUR and RMB Real Time Gross Settlement (RTGS) systems as well as the Central Moneymarkets Unit will continue to operate normally.
The HKMA and the relevant banks will closely monitor the developments. According to reports received by the HKMA from banks at 7am today, 29 branches, offices or ATMs of 17 banks are affected and will be closed temporarily until further notice. Customers can call the hotlines of the relevant banks for assistance, or browse the banks' websites for further information. HKMA will separately announce and update the list of affected banks.
Ends/Monday, September 29, 2014
Issued at HKT 09:00
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