HK tribunal's ruling on short seller could stifle critical commentary, analysts fear

Hong Kong

US short-seller Andrew Left says he will appeal a Hong Kong tribunal's ruling that he must repay profits and refrain from trading in the territory for five years because he published "false and/or misleading" claims.

Mr Left must repay HK$1.6 million (S$286,000) in trading profits and pay about HK$4 million in legal expenses, the Market Misconduct Tribunal said on Wednesday. He will face criminal prosecution if he breaks Hong Kong rules again.