Javier Hernandez The Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) of Hong Kong has announced that it will now publicly disclose the names of corporations aiming to establish cryptocurrency trading platforms in the territory. Julia Leung Fung-yee, the Chief Executive Officer of the SFC, indicated that the publication of such information aims to alleviate concerns among the investment community, particularly in the wake of the recent Jpex crisis.
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Easing Concerns Among Hong Kong Cryptocurrency Users
The decision by Hong Kong’s Securities and Futures Commission to make public the names of entities interested in operating cryptocurrency trading platforms designed for regional consumers is a shift in policy. Julia Leung Fung-yee, the CEO of the SFC, stated that the initiative was undertaken to assuage public concerns.
A recent article in the South China Morning Post remarked that this move signifies a notable divergence from the SFC’s previous policy of withholding names of applicants. This policy alteration was announced shortly after Jpex, a cryptocurrency exchange, had to cease its trading activities.
At that time, a news report by CryptokenTop.com highlighted that the cessation of Jpex’s trading was followed by several arrests and increased scrutiny of the cryptocurrency sector within the region. A subsequent statement from the SFC emphasized that the Jpex incident underlined the need for stringent regulation of cryptocurrency trading platforms.
Significance of Information Dissemination to Investors
The SFC also elaborated on the importance of disseminating vital information to cryptocurrency investors through its alert lists, cautionary announcements, and educational endeavors. The commission further noted:
The SFC is in discussions with law enforcement agencies to establish a dedicated channel for the exchange of information concerning suspicious activities and violations by Virtual Asset Trading Platforms (VATPs), with a view to investigate the Jpex case thoroughly and ensure legal action against the culprits.
While commenting on the new policy of disclosing applicant names, CEO Julia Leung Fung-yee clarified that inclusion on the list does not equate to regulatory compliance. According to the SFC’s official website, only two firms—OSL Digital Securities and Hash Blockchain—are currently licensed to operate cryptocurrency trading platforms. Four other organizations—HKVAX, Hkbitex, Hong Kong BGE Limited, and Victory Fintech Company Limited—have submitted applications for the same license.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission
What is the new policy announced by Hong Kong’s Securities and Futures Commission (SFC)?
The Securities and Futures Commission of Hong Kong has announced that it will now publicly disclose the names of firms applying for licenses to operate cryptocurrency trading platforms in the region.
Why has the SFC decided to implement this new policy?
The SFC aims to alleviate concerns among the investment community, particularly after the recent turmoil caused by the Jpex incident. The public disclosure is designed to bring transparency and instill a sense of confidence among investors.
Does being listed mean that the firms are compliant with the regulations?
No, being listed does not equate to being compliant with regulatory requirements. Julia Leung Fung-yee, the CEO of the SFC, explicitly stated that inclusion on the list does not imply regulatory compliance.
What are the current companies licensed by the SFC to operate as crypto platforms?
According to the SFC’s official website, only OSL Digital Securities and Hash Blockchain are currently licensed to operate as cryptocurrency trading platforms.
How many other companies have applied for the same license?
Four other entities have submitted applications to receive the same license for operating a cryptocurrency trading platform. These companies are HKVAX, Hkbitex, Hong Kong BGE Limited, and Victory Fintech Company Limited.
What does the SFC intend to do concerning the Jpex incident?
The SFC is in discussions with law enforcement agencies to establish a dedicated channel for exchanging information about suspicious activities and violations by Virtual Asset Trading Platforms (VATPs). The aim is to thoroughly investigate the Jpex case and ensure legal action against the responsible parties.
Will the SFC also disseminate other forms of information to crypto users?
Yes, the SFC also plans to continue disseminating vital information to cryptocurrency investors through its alert lists, cautionary announcements, and educational initiatives to help them understand the risks associated with crypto assets.
More about Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission
- Hong Kong’s Securities and Futures Commission Official Website
- South China Morning Post Article on SFC’s New Policy
- CryptokenTop.com News Report on Jpex Incident
- OSL Digital Securities Official Website
- Hash Blockchain Official Website
