1.2.1 The Depository may from time to time issue, without limitation, Circulars, Practice Notes or Directives to provide guidance on the interpretation or application of these CDP Rules.

1.2.2 Circulars, Practice Note and Directives may only be used in the manner and for such purposes as expressly contemplated under these CDP Rules. "Circulars" are binding notices issued by the Depository regarding regulatory and non-regulatory matters pertaining to Depository Agents; "Practice Notes" are non-binding guidelines that seek to explain the application and interpretation of a CDP Rule. "Directives" are binding notices directing Depository Agents to take corrective or other actions in light of investor protection concerns.

1.2.3 The order of precedence of the following instruments applicable to the Depository and Depository Agents shall be (in descending order of precedence):

1.2.4 In the event of any conflict between the provisions of the aforesaid instruments, the provisions in an instrument with a higher level of precedence shall prevail over the provisions in an instrument with a lower level of precedence.

1.2.5 In the interpretation of any provision of these CDP Rules, a construction that would promote the purpose or object underlying these CDP Rules (whether the purpose is expressly stated in these CDP Rules or not) is to be preferred to a construction that would not promote that purpose or object.