HK, Shanghai to begin cross-market trading

China unveiled a plan Thursday allowing cross-trading between Hong Kong and Shanghai's stock markets in the latest move by mainland leaders to open up the country's capital markets and promote the yuan as an international unit. The China Securities Regulatory Commission said in a joint statement with the Securities & Futures Commission of Hong Kong the trial will begin within six months and enable dealers to invest in designated shares. Chinese Premier Li Keqiang said at the Boao Forum for Asia that the plan "will enable us to expand market access, foster a better business environment to unleash greater dividends of reform, spark social creativity and stabilise market expectations," according to AFP.