Hong Kong Plans Four Crypto Licensing Categories in 2026 Bill
The proposed rules cover trading, custody, advisory and asset management. The bill would go to the Legislative Council for review before implementation.
Hong Kong plans to broaden crypto licensing beyond trading platforms, with a bill covering four digital asset services due by the end of 2026.
Hong Kong Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury Christopher Hui outlined the plan at a briefing.
The proposed framework would place trading, custody, advisory and asset management under the Securities and Futures Commission, Hong Kong’s securities regulator. The city began licensing virtual asset trading platforms in June 2023. Custody, advisory and asset management services do not have dedicated licensing requirements, though existing securities and anti-money laundering laws cover some aspects of those businesses.
Submitting the bill would begin the legislative process, not put new requirements into effect. The proposal would go to the Legislative Council for review before implementation.
Riza Dagoc
Riza Dagoc reports on regulation, investing and the digital-asset business for TokenPost. Send corrections or tips to info@tokenpost.com.