"Business as usual in Hong Kong is the wrong choice for these companies," said Senator Jeff Merkley and Representative Jim McGovern, Democrats who head the bipartisan Congressional-Executive Commission on China, which assesses human rights.

"Their presence only serves to legitimize the swift dismantling of Hong Kong's autonomy, free press and the rule of law by Hong Kong authorities acting along with the Chinese Communist Party," they said in a statement.

The lawmakers warned US financial executives they could draw "pertinent congressional concern" if they expand investments that further harm Hong Kong's autonomy.