With Hong Kong on the verge of approving spot crypto ETFs, almost a dozen hedge funds are queuing up to submit applications for the new financial product.
In an interview with Chinese news outlet Caixin, HashKey Group COO Livio Weng revealed that approximately a dozen hedge funds are preparing to submit applications for the launch of spot crypto exchange-traded funds (ETFs) in Hong Kong as the city is poised to become the first market in Asia allowing the listing of these financial products.
This development follows a joint circular issued by the Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) and the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) in December 2023, in which the regulators acknowledged the growing interest in launching spot crypto ETFs. The SFC emphasized its readiness to accept applications for the authorization of funds with exposure to cryptocurrencies, including spot crypto ETFs.
It’s worth noting that Hong Kong has already granted permission for futures crypto ETFs in the region, including Samsung Bitcoin Futures Active ETF, CSOP Bitcoin Futures ETF, and CSOP Ether Futures ETF. These ETFs are available to Hong Kong investors with portfolios exceeding $2 million through UBS’ local branch.
Despite this move, the regulators emphasized that stablecoin issuers would have to obtain a special HKMA license before offering their services in the region. The licensing requirements include comprehensive measures such as full backing of all stablecoins in circulation with reserves matching the face value, proper segregation and custody of reserve assets, transparent disclosure practices, and regular reporting.
