Cathay Securities International (stock code: 1788) has officially announced that it has received approval from the Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) of Hong Kong to upgrade its existing securities trading license. This enhancement allows the firm to offer virtual asset trading services and provide investment advice related to digital assets. As a result, clients will now be able to trade major cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Tether directly through the company’s platform. The market responded strongly to this development—shares surged by 198% during the trading session, closing at HK$3.70, the highest level of the day.
👉 Discover how traditional financial institutions are embracing crypto trading innovation.
First Chinese-Influenced Broker in Hong Kong to Offer Full Virtual Asset Services
Cathay Securities International marks a significant milestone by becoming the first mainland-influenced securities firm in Hong Kong authorized to deliver comprehensive virtual asset trading solutions. The newly approved license enables the company to not only facilitate crypto transactions but also offer advisory services during trading processes and distribute virtual asset-related financial products—including over-the-counter derivatives.
This regulatory green light reflects a growing convergence between traditional finance and digital asset markets in Asia’s leading financial hub. With institutional-grade infrastructure and compliance frameworks already in place, Cathay is well-positioned to serve both retail and professional investors seeking secure exposure to blockchain-based assets.
The move aligns with broader industry trends where established financial players are integrating digital assets into their core offerings. By leveraging its strong reputation and client base, Cathay aims to become a trusted gateway for investors navigating the evolving crypto landscape.
Early Mover in Structured Crypto Products
Long before receiving full trading authorization, Cathay Securities International demonstrated forward-thinking strategy in the digital asset space. In 2024, the firm launched Hong Kong's first structured financial product based on spot virtual asset ETFs—a pioneering step that signaled its commitment to innovation. At the same time, it obtained SFC approval to act as an introducing agent for licensed virtual asset trading platforms.
In the first half of 2025, the company expanded its capabilities further by securing regulatory confirmation to distribute tokenized securities and provide investment recommendations on them. It also initiated a digital bond issuance program, showcasing its ability to blend traditional capital markets expertise with emerging blockchain technologies.
These developments highlight Cathay’s methodical approach: building foundational services under strict regulatory oversight while gradually expanding into more complex digital finance solutions.
SFC’s “ASPIRe” Roadmap Shapes Hong Kong’s Crypto Future
In February 2025, the SFC unveiled its strategic framework for virtual asset regulation called ASPIRe—an acronym representing five key pillars: Access (A), Safeguards (S), Products (P), Infrastructure (I), and Relationships (Re). This comprehensive plan outlines 12 actionable initiatives aimed at fostering a secure, transparent, and innovative digital asset ecosystem in Hong Kong.
Key components of the ASPIRe roadmap include:
- Establishing a licensing regime for virtual asset custody services, with legislative preparations targeted for completion by end-2025.
- Exploring expanded product offerings such as staking services, margin financing (leveraged trading), and virtual asset lending—initially limited to professional investors.
- Introducing new token listings and derivatives products tailored for institutional participants.
- Enhancing operational standards for virtual asset trading platforms to ensure market integrity.
- Strengthening anti-money laundering (AML) controls and combating illicit financial activities.
- Launching investor education campaigns to promote responsible participation in crypto markets.
- Developing a regulatory framework for financial influencers ("finfluencers") who promote investment products online.
While no fixed timeline has been set for all proposed measures, the SFC emphasized its intent to progressively implement these reforms in coordination with market readiness and technological advancements.
👉 Learn how global regulators are shaping the future of crypto compliance and adoption.
Strategic Implications for Investors and Market Participants
The approval granted to Cathay Securities International is more than just a corporate achievement—it represents a pivotal moment in Hong Kong’s ambition to become a global hub for digital finance. As one of the few fully regulated brokers offering direct access to crypto trading within a traditional brokerage environment, Cathay bridges two worlds that were once seen as mutually exclusive.
For investors, this means greater convenience, enhanced security, and access to professionally managed digital asset portfolios—all within a familiar, regulated framework. Unlike standalone crypto exchanges, traditional brokers like Cathay bring decades of experience in risk management, client protection, and regulatory compliance.
Moreover, the integration of virtual assets into mainstream financial platforms signals growing institutional acceptance. It reduces barriers to entry for conservative investors who may have previously avoided crypto due to concerns about volatility or platform reliability.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What virtual assets can I trade through Cathay Securities International?
A: Initially, clients can trade major cryptocurrencies including Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), and Tether (USDT). More assets may be added as the platform expands.
Q: Is Cathay Securities International’s crypto service available to all investors?
A: While retail access is available, certain advanced features like margin trading or staking may be restricted to professional investors, depending on final SFC guidelines.
Q: How does this approval impact Hong Kong’s position in global finance?
A: It strengthens Hong Kong’s role as a bridge between traditional finance and Web3 innovation, attracting institutions looking for regulated access to Asian crypto markets.
Q: Are there any fees associated with crypto trading on this platform?
A: Fee structures will be disclosed by Cathay directly; they are expected to align with standard brokerage pricing models while reflecting the operational costs of handling digital assets.
Q: Will Cathay offer custody solutions for self-directed investors?
A: While full custody services are still under development as part of the SFC’s roadmap, the firm currently uses secure third-party custodians to protect client holdings.
Q: Can I link my existing brokerage account to trade crypto?
A: Yes—clients will be able to access virtual asset trading through their existing accounts, streamlining portfolio management across asset classes.
👉 See how integrated crypto-brokerage platforms are transforming investment experiences.
Looking Ahead: The Rise of Digital Finance in Asia
Cathay Securities International’s breakthrough underscores a larger transformation taking place across Asia’s financial sector. As regulators refine frameworks and institutions adopt blockchain-based tools, the line between conventional investing and digital asset management continues to blur.
With Hong Kong actively promoting itself as a fintech-friendly jurisdiction, more brokerages are expected to follow Cathay’s lead. The ASPIRe initiative provides a clear signal: innovation is welcome—but only within robust regulatory boundaries.
For investors, this evolution means safer, more accessible pathways into the world of crypto. For firms, it presents opportunities to differentiate through technology, compliance excellence, and client-centric design.
As digital securities, tokenized assets, and decentralized finance gain traction, early adopters like Cathay are setting the pace—not just in Hong Kong, but across the entire Asia-Pacific region.
Core Keywords: virtual asset trading, Cathay Securities International, Hong Kong SFC, crypto brokerage, digital finance, tokenized securities, ASPIRe roadmap