On August 19, 2020, the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) announced to relax the countercyclical macroprudential measures for mortgage loans on non-residential properties, adjusting the applicable loan-to-value ratio caps from 40% to 50% for general cases.The adjustment takes effect from August 20, 2020.

Mr. Eddie Yue, the Chief Executive of the HKMA, said the COVID-19 outbreak has led to significant pressure on the Hong Kong economy.

“While the residential property market has remained firm, we have seen major corrections in prices, as well as transaction volumes, of different types of non-residential properties including offices, flatted factories and retail premises. With the pandemic and escalating geopolitical tensions continuing to weigh on business confidence, non-residential property markets are likely to remain under pressure. Taking into account factors such as the price trends of non-residential properties, transaction volumes, economic fundamentals, and the external environment, the HKMA considers it appropriate to adjust the countercyclical macroprudential measures on non-residential properties.”

The HKMA also reiterated in its circular to banks that its countercyclical macroprudential measures are intended to apply to mortgage loans for the purpose of financing property transactions or the refinancing of existing properties.

Mr.Yue added that, “The outlook for the Hong Kong economy and the property market remains highly uncertain. The HKMA will continue to monitor developments closely and introduce appropriate measures in response to changes in the property market cycle to safeguard banking stability.”