- Hong Kong will open its doors to regulated crypto trading on June 1
- The country had created a set of strict regulations that will protect traders
- Hong Kong was moved to act following the collapse of the Terra ecosystem
Hong Kong will open its doors to regulated crypto trading from June 1, formalizing a long-awaited eventuality that many in the crypto space see as a key move in bringing about the next bull run. The Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) of Hong Kong has created a new, stricter set of regulations for digital asset companies aimed at safeguarding retail investors who want to participate in the cryptocurrency market. Hong Kong has been moved to act following the collapse of the Terra ecosystem in 2022 which was operated on its shores.
Customer Protection Drives Regulations
Hong Kong has been swift in tightening crypto regulations in the wake of the Terra disaster, ensuring that all trading platforms and exchanges operating in the region obtain a license. Failure to do so may lead to penalties and potential imprisonment, requirements the SFC is actively imposing in order to ensure compliance across the sector. To further safeguard investors, operators are also obligated to conduct thorough client checks, with Chinese customers not allowed.
The new measures aim to enhance investor protection and include several key provisions. Companies will be required to establish exposure limits for retail investors, ensuring that they maintain a reasonable level of risk. Additionally, retail trading will be limited to highly liquid tokens that have been in circulation for at least one year, reducing the potential risks associated with newly issued tokens.
East Wind Could Power Crypto Bull Run
The new system also encompasses regulations regarding the marketing of services offered by unlicensed platforms, a move that is intended to address concerns related to unregulated entities operating in the market, promoting a safer environment for investors. By implementing these measures, the SFC aims to safeguard the interests of retail investors and promote a more secure and transparent digital asset trading ecosystem.
Hong Kong’s actions are the polar opposite of those being sought in other countries, most prominently the US, which has led to many believing that it is investment from the East that will drive the next crypto bull run.
