According to Blockworks , more and more companies are showing interest in entering the Hong Kong market after the Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) introduced new regulations allowing retail trading of cryptocurrencies starting June 1.
Huobi has revealed plans to launch a trading platform in Hong Kong on May 26, offering trading of cryptocurrencies including Bitcoin and Ethereum. The company aims to enter the market in a regulated manner, which will help promote the development of Hong Kong's Web3 ecosystem.
Hong Kong is trying to restore its status as a global financial center.
Gate Group, the company behind the Gate.io exchange, launched Gate.HK on May 23 in Hong Kong and is in the process of applying for a license with the SFC, like Huobi. Crypto-focused financial services provider Amber Group is also reportedly considering moving to Hong Kong, while BitMEX’s platform will open to Hong Kong users on May 29. The fintech arm of Chinese property developer Greenland has also shown interest in cryptocurrencies after the SFC announced new regulations.
Hong Kong’s securities regulator has introduced stricter rules for digital asset companies, including allowing licensed cryptocurrency exchanges to sell large-cap cryptocurrencies to investors. All trading platforms must apply for a license and comply with the rules. Failure to do so could result in fines and even criminal prosecution.
Head of research at Matrixport Markus Thielen believes that with government and financial regulator approval, Hong Kong is likely to regain its position as the leading cryptocurrency hub in Asia.
After a rocky year for the crypto industry with the collapse of FTX, Hong Kong regulation opens a new door for exchanges
There is currently a “gold rush” of international crypto companies catering to Hong Kong retail investors who are increasingly taking part in highly volatile products such as warrants and other derivatives, according to Thielen. With nearly 100 billionaires in Hong Kong, the city is home to many tycoons and deep-pocketed family offices that can fund crypto companies.
Matteo Greco, an analyst at blockchain investment firm Fineqia, said Hong Kong’s regulatory approach appears to have fostered a more cooperative and supportive environment for crypto businesses than markets like the U.S. or China. In 2021, China announced a ban on cryptocurrency trading and mining.
However, challenges remain and it is too early to determine whether the final outcome will be favorable. For example, there have been cases where Hong Kong banks have refused to open accounts for cryptocurrency businesses, Greco said.
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