🔍 The Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) of Hong Kong has released a comprehensive policy statement that reshapes the regulatory landscape for:

- Virtual asset (VA) portfolio managers,
- Crypto-focused investment funds and distributors,
- Exchanges and trading platforms operating with digital assets.

🚨 What’s it about?

The SFC is introducing mandatory licensing and compliance standards for crypto-related activities — even if the tokens involved don’t qualify as “securities” under traditional legal definitions.

🔑 Key Highlights:

1. VA Funds and Managers:

Any fund with ≥10% of AUM in crypto must:

- Be licensed,
- Follow strict rules on custody, audits, disclosures, and AML/CFT,
- Serve professional investors only.

2. Fund Distribution:

- Distribution of VA funds (whether or not they include “securities”) is restricted to licensed Type 1 intermediaries.
- Full compliance with suitability and disclosure obligations is required.

3. Crypto Exchanges and Platforms:

The SFC is launching a Regulatory Sandbox for platforms willing to meet high regulatory standards.
Key conditions include:

- Access restricted to professional investors,
- Pre-funded trades only (no margin, no derivatives),
- Robust KYC/AML, custody rules, anti-manipulation safeguards,
- Mandatory insurance (100% hot wallet, ≥95% cold wallet).

📊 Why Does This Matter?

- A gateway to Asia’s Web3 market: Hong Kong aims to become a regulated crypto hub.
- Grey zones are closing: Unlicensed players risk exclusion.
- Reputation matters: SFC licensing can be a major credibility boost for projects, especially when seeking exchange listings or capital.

⚖️ Final Note from Legal Kornet

Legal Kornet monitors key regulatory developments across Hong Kong, the EU, the U.S., and other major jurisdictions. We support projects, funds, and platforms in aligning with SFC requirements — including navigating the licensing process and the Regulatory Sandbox.

#CryptoLaw #SFC #HongKong #CryptoCompliance #Web3