Rush for new banknotes: Appointment lots filling up at major banks

As the Chinese New Year draws near, the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) and the three note-issuing banks announced that new notes and good-as-new notes, i.e., used notes which are in good condition and suitable for use as lai-see, will be available for exchange at branches of the three note-issuing banks from Jan. 14 to 28.

Starting today (Jan. 7), public members can make online bookings to exchange new notes and good-as-new notes.

Reservations for new banknotes have been very popular. The HSBC, Standard Chartered Bank, and Bank of China Hong Kong are all fully booked.

The HKMA has reminded the public that the three banks will ensure the supply of new notes and good-as-new notes throughout the entire period of the banknote exchange service, so there is no need for the public to rush to exchange banknotes in the first few days of the service.

The HKMA also encourages members of the public to make use of electronic payment methods.

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