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Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) is at a crucial juncture for crypto asset trading platforms. With the licensing requirement starting on June 1, companies operating in the crypto world aim to be under regulatory supervision. SFC’s move aims to ensure stricter oversight and regulation in the crypto industry.
SFC Issues Important Notification
On May 28, SFC issued a firm reminder that crypto companies must obtain a license by the specified date. Companies that do not apply for a license by this date will be considered illegal and face criminal penalties. This strict approach has forced some crypto firms to withdraw their license applications. For example, major players like OKX and Huobi have withdrawn their applications to comply with SFC’s regulations.
However, eighteen companies continuing their license applications have shown interest in operating within a regulated framework. SFC’s strategy includes a transition period for firms already active in the market. These firms will be subject to a temporary regulatory framework until their applications are fully processed and will face on-site inspections by SFC during this period.
What Are the Focus Areas of the Inspections?
The focus of the inspections will be on the protection of customer assets and the implementation of Know Your Customer (KYC) protocols. Additionally, firms are emphasized not to engage in aggressive marketing or accept new individual customers until they obtain a license. SFC also clearly stated that services should not be accessible to users in mainland China.
Investor protection is among SFC’s priorities. In this context, the public was urged to interact only with SFC-licensed platforms. This step aims to reduce risks associated with unregulated trading and increase market stability.
New Regulatory Environment Affects Companies
The new regulatory environment has already started to affect some firms’ operations. For example, Gate.HK halted all activities related to new user acquisition, marketing, and token listings from May 23. The company announced plans to resume services after restructuring its platform to meet SFC’s strict requirements.
So far, only two firms, OSL Digital Securities Limited and Hash Blockchain Limited, have obtained licenses to operate in Hong Kong. This limited number reflects SFC’s stringent standards and the challenges many companies face in complying with these regulations.
With SFC increasing its compliance checks, the landscape of the crypto industry in Hong Kong seems poised for significant transformation. This situation should be viewed as part of the global trend towards increased regulation and oversight in the crypto asset space.
