11 Crypto Exchanges in Hong Kong Closer to Securing Permits

As an experienced financial analyst, I believe that Hong Kong’s crypto ambitions are a promising development for the industry. The city’s decision to grant “deemed licensed” status to 11 crypto exchanges is a significant step towards establishing Hong Kong as a major player in the digital asset space.


As an analyst, I would rephrase it as: I’m excited to report that Hong Kong’s plans for a significant role in the crypto industry are progressing, with 11 exchanges such as Crypto.com and Bullish now recognized as licensed by the Securities & Futures Commission (SFC). This development follows the SFC’s release of a comprehensive digital-asset regulatory framework last year, which aims to establish Hong Kong as a major hub for crypto trading and innovation.

A notable development: Although industry giants such as Binance, Coinbase, and Kraken have yet to apply, Hong Kong’s move to set a June 1 deadline for cryptocurrency exchanges to secure a license represents a substantial advancement in the city’s efforts to foster a thriving crypto sector.

As a researcher studying the financial regulatory landscape, I’ve come across an interesting development. A Bloomberg article has revealed that certain cryptocurrency exchanges, deemed to have met initial licensing requirements, are now allowed to operate in Hong Kong. However, they will only be granted full licenses once they successfully pass the Securities and Futures Commission (SFC)’s rigorous compliance checks.

In the last quarter of 2022, Hong Kong initiated a shift towards cryptocurrencies as part of an effort to reinvent its reputation as a financial hub, following suppression of political protests. Competing against Dubai and Singapore, this vibrant city aspires to establish itself as a major player in the digital asset sector.

As a crypto investor, I’d put it this way: Around twenty-five companies expressed their interest in obtaining licenses to run crypto exchanges before the February 29 cut-off. At present, only two platforms, HashKey Exchange and OSL Group, have been granted full licenses to operate digital asset trading businesses in Hong Kong.

Hong Kong prioritizes safeguards for investors and strict anti-money laundering regulations, which could be a barrier for some with more stringent compliance needs. Yet, the financial hub provides access to China’s vast wealth, making it an attractive option despite China’s ban on cryptocurrency trading.

As an analyst, I’d argue that the tumultuous history of the crypto industry, marked by high-profile incidents like the FTX collapse and Binance’s sanctions for money laundering infringements, underscores the complexities Hong Kong faces in implementing effective regulations in this rapidly evolving sector. Moreover, users can employ strategies such as using Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) or engaging in peer-to-peer transactions to circumvent regulatory frameworks, further complicating matters for authorities.

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2024-06-01 15:17