The panel will discuss the role of independent non-executive directors ("INEDs") in addressing effective corporate governance and corporate social responsibility of listed companies in Hong Kong. What qualities should INEDs possess to discharge their duties and functions? What challenges do INEDs face?

Listed companies and their directors often face the challenge of having to respond in a timely fashion to enquiries from the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. This session will focus on how a listed issuer may enhance its information and news release system and how the issuer will be affected by the Exchange's newly introduced publication rules.

This session will give a brief outline of the current disclosure of interests regime under Part XV of the Securities and Futures Ordinance ("SFO") of Hong Kong, with a discussion on the practical aspects of the requirements for listed companies.

Directors of companies listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange are required to conduct a review of the effectiveness of the internal control system at least annually and to report on it to shareholders in their corporate governance report. This session aims to provide practical guidance and recommendations to directors on how to accomplish an effective review and assessment of their company's internal control system and likely risks.