Historic Milestone: Chinese Brokerage Secures Hong Kong Virtual Asset Trading License

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The financial world is witnessing a transformative moment as Guotai Junan International Holdings Limited (GTJA International) becomes the first mainland-affiliated securities firm to receive formal approval from Hong Kong regulators to offer comprehensive virtual asset trading services. This landmark development not only marks a pivotal shift in the integration of traditional finance and digital assets but also signals growing institutional acceptance of cryptocurrencies in Asia’s financial hub.

A New Era for Traditional Finance and Digital Assets

On June 24, 2025, GTJA International announced it had successfully upgraded its existing securities trading license under the oversight of the Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission (SFC). The enhanced license now permits the firm to provide a full suite of virtual asset-related services, including:

This regulatory green light positions GTJA International at the forefront of a rapidly evolving financial landscape, where digitalization, tokenization, and decentralized finance are redefining how capital moves and value is stored.

👉 Discover how institutional adoption is reshaping the future of finance.

Market Reaction: Stock Surges 300% in One Week

The market response has been nothing short of explosive. Following the announcement, GTJA International’s stock price surged nearly 300% week-on-week, marking one of the most dramatic rallies in Hong Kong-listed financial stocks in recent history. By June 26, shares had risen for four consecutive days, reflecting strong investor confidence in the firm’s strategic pivot into digital assets.

Analysts attribute this surge not only to the immediate revenue potential of crypto trading but also to the broader implications: mainstream financial institutions are now officially entering the Web3 ecosystem.

Sharnie Wong, an analyst at Bloomberg Intelligence, commented:

“Guotai Junan appears to have gained first-mover advantage among Chinese brokerages in cryptocurrency and stablecoin trading, as well as advisory services. While crypto trading remains unapproved on the mainland, this SFC-approved license through its offshore arm opens a viable commercial pathway.”

Strategic Implications for Chinese Financial Institutions

GTJA International’s approval sets a precedent that could reshape the entire Chinese financial services industry. As the first IPO-listed Chinese brokerage on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, its success paves the way for other mainland-affiliated firms with international operations to follow suit.

According to reports from Securities Times, several major players are already in the pipeline:

All are actively seeking similar license upgrades to enter the virtual asset space.

This move aligns with Hong Kong’s broader strategy to become a global leader in digital finance. Just days after GTJA’s approval, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region government released a second policy statement on digital asset development, outlining plans to:

These initiatives underscore a coordinated effort to attract institutional capital into blockchain-based financial products—precisely the kind of services GTJA International is now authorized to offer.

Why This Matters: Bridging Traditional Finance and Web3

The integration of virtual assets into established brokerage platforms represents more than just a new product line—it's a fundamental evolution in how investors access and manage wealth.

For retail and institutional clients alike, having a trusted, regulated intermediary like GTJA International offer crypto trading means:

Moreover, the ability to issue and distribute OTC derivatives linked to virtual assets opens doors for structured products, hedging instruments, and yield-generating mechanisms—key components of mature financial markets.

👉 See how regulated platforms are driving institutional crypto adoption.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What does GTJA International’s new license allow?

The upgraded SFC license permits GTJA International to offer cryptocurrency trading (e.g., BTC, ETH), stablecoin services (e.g., USDT), investment advice on digital assets, and the issuance/distribution of virtual asset-related financial products, including OTC derivatives.

Is cryptocurrency trading now legal in mainland China?

No. Cryptocurrency trading remains prohibited within mainland China. However, GTJA International operates through its Hong Kong-based subsidiary, which is subject to local regulations and authorized by the SFC—making this an offshore business expansion.

How might this affect other Chinese brokerages?

GTJA’s approval creates a blueprint for other mainland-affiliated firms with international arms. With several major brokers reportedly applying for similar licenses, a wave of institutional-grade crypto offerings from Chinese financial institutions may be imminent.

What are stablecoins, and why are they important?

Stablecoins are digital currencies pegged to stable assets like the U.S. dollar. They enable fast, low-cost cross-border transactions and serve as a bridge between fiat and volatile cryptocurrencies. Their inclusion in regulated brokerage platforms enhances usability and trust.

Could this lead to tokenized stocks or ETFs in Hong Kong?

Yes. With infrastructure developing rapidly, Hong Kong is well-positioned to launch tokenized versions of traditional financial instruments. The government’s support for asset tokenization suggests such products could emerge in the near future.

Is this a sign of wider crypto acceptance in Asia?

Absolutely. Hong Kong continues to position itself as a pro-innovation financial center. Combined with recent developments in Japan, South Korea, and Singapore, this reflects a growing regional trend toward regulated digital asset adoption.

The Road Ahead: Institutional Crypto Goes Mainstream

GTJA International’s breakthrough is more than a corporate milestone—it's a signal flare for the future of finance. As regulatory frameworks mature and demand for digital assets grows, we can expect more traditional financial institutions to integrate blockchain-based services into their core offerings.

With Hong Kong acting as a bridge between East and West, and firms like GTJA leading the charge, the convergence of traditional finance and Web3 innovation is no longer speculative—it's operational.

👉 Stay ahead of the curve in institutional crypto trends.

Conclusion

The approval of GTJA International’s virtual asset trading license represents a historic convergence of legacy finance and emerging technologies. With its stock soaring 300%, market sentiment is clear: regulated access to digital assets is not just desirable—it’s profitable.

As more institutions prepare to enter this space, investors should watch closely for new product launches, cross-border investment opportunities, and further policy developments out of Hong Kong. The era of institutional crypto is here—and it’s being built on regulation, trust, and scalability.

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