The Hong Kong virtual asset market has entered a new era. On June 24, 2025, Guotai Junan International Holdings Limited (GTJA International) became the first mainland Chinese broker to officially receive regulatory approval to offer full-scale virtual asset trading services in Hong Kong. This landmark development has sent shockwaves across financial markets, igniting investor enthusiasm and signaling a potential shift in how traditional finance embraces digital assets.
A Historic Milestone for Mainland Financial Institutions
GTJA International has officially upgraded its Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) Type 1 license to include virtual asset trading services. This means clients can now directly trade major cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH), as well as stablecoins like Tether (USDT), through its regulated platform.
This move marks a pivotal moment for Chinese financial institutions. As a leading international arm of one of China’s top brokerage firms, GTJA International is now positioned at the forefront of the digital finance revolution. By integrating crypto trading into its existing wealth management and brokerage ecosystem, it has created a seamless bridge between traditional finance and the fast-growing virtual asset market.
The market response was immediate and dramatic. On June 25, GTJA International's stock surged nearly 200%, closing at a decade-high. The momentum spilled over to other brokers, with First Shanghai and Shenwan Hongyuan Hong Kong gaining over 30%, while more than ten Hong Kong-listed brokerages rose by double digits.
Building a Comprehensive Virtual Asset Ecosystem
GTJA International didn’t arrive at this milestone overnight. Its success stems from years of strategic preparation in digital finance:
- In 2024, it launched structured products based on virtual asset spot ETFs, becoming the first in Hong Kong to do so.
- It secured SFC approval to act as an introducing agent for virtual asset trading platforms.
- In early 2025, it received green light to distribute tokenized securities and began issuing digital bonds.
Now, with full trading capabilities approved, GTJA International has completed a vertically integrated service chain covering advisory, trading, issuance, and asset management in the virtual asset space.
The firm emphasized its commitment to compliance, security, and innovation, stating it aims to contribute to Hong Kong’s vision of becoming a global virtual asset hub by delivering professional, regulated services that meet institutional and retail investor needs.
How the Regulatory Framework Enables Broker-Led Crypto Access
Hong Kong’s clear regulatory framework has made this transition possible. Under current SFC rules, intermediaries holding Type 1 (dealing in securities) or Type 4 (advising on securities) licenses can provide virtual asset trading or advisory services to existing clients—provided they partner with licensed virtual asset trading platforms (VATPs).
There are currently 11 SFC-licensed VATPs operating in Hong Kong, including major players like HashKey Exchange and OSL. These platforms serve as the underlying infrastructure for brokers entering the crypto space.
According to HashKey’s sales director Zhu Zhenyu, several top-tier Chinese brokers are already in advanced stages of system integration and licensing upgrades. Through omnibus brokerage models, these firms can offer users features like crypto deposits and withdrawals without building their own custody systems.
“Traditional brokers bring massive client bases and trusted brand reputations. Their entry will accelerate institutional adoption while driving healthy competition,” said Zhu.
Market Impact: From Brokers to Stablecoin Stocks
The ripple effects of GTJA International’s move extended beyond brokerage stocks. In mainland China’s A-share market, the stablecoin concept rebounded sharply after weeks of weakness.
Notable gains included:
- Jingbei North (002987.SZ): Closed limit-up
- Jida Zhengyuan (003029.SZ): Achieved three consecutive daily highs
- Xinguodu (300130.SZ) and Cuilin Shares (603123.SH): Both rose over 10%
These companies are linked to blockchain infrastructure, digital payments, or financial technology solutions supporting stablecoin ecosystems—highlighting investor confidence in broader adoption.
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Who Will Follow? The Race Among Chinese Brokers
GTJA International’s breakthrough has triggered a wave of interest among other major Chinese brokers:
- CITIC Securities: Confirming active exploration of virtual asset services
- Haitong International: Monitoring developments closely; likely to accelerate plans
- Guolian & Minsheng: Preparing application materials for similar SFC license upgrades
Industry analysts expect 1–2 years before more institutions launch comparable offerings. However, progress may be slower among mid-sized and smaller brokers due to regulatory caution, limited international presence, or risk sensitivity.
Still, the long-term trend is clear: virtual assets are no longer niche. They represent a high-growth frontier where brokers can expand revenue through:
- Crypto brokerage fees
- Structured product design
- Tokenized securities underwriting
- Digital asset custody partnerships
- Wealth management integration
Why This Matters for Investors
For everyday investors, this shift lowers barriers to entry. Instead of navigating standalone crypto exchanges—often perceived as complex or risky—users can now access Bitcoin and stablecoins through familiar, regulated securities apps.
This integration brings key benefits:
- Enhanced security via institutional-grade compliance
- Unified portfolio management (stocks + crypto)
- Access to professional research and risk tools
- Reduced operational friction
As南开大学金融发展研究院院长 Tian Lihui noted:
“When traditional brokers enter crypto, it signals maturation. It shifts the market from speculative retail dominance toward structured, diversified participation.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What does GTJA International’s license allow them to do?
A: They can now offer clients direct trading access to cryptocurrencies and stablecoins, provide investment advice on virtual assets, and distribute related financial products—all under SFC supervision.
Q: Can all Chinese brokers offer crypto trading now?
A: No. Only those with upgraded SFC licenses and partnerships with licensed virtual asset platforms can provide these services. GTJA International is currently the first mainland-backed broker approved.
Q: Is trading crypto through a broker safer than using an exchange?
A: Generally yes. Brokers operate under strict financial regulations, offer better consumer protection, and integrate crypto into broader wealth management frameworks—reducing risks associated with standalone platforms.
Q: Which cryptocurrencies are available through GTJA International?
A: While specifics depend on platform integration, initial offerings likely include Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), and major stablecoins like Tether (USDT).
Q: Will this lead to wider crypto adoption in China?
A: Not directly within mainland China due to existing restrictions. However, it strengthens offshore access for international clients and signals growing acceptance of digital assets in Chinese financial strategy.
Q: How are stablecoins involved in this development?
A: Stablecoins like USDT play a crucial role as trading pairs and value-transfer tools. Their inclusion highlights increasing recognition of digital dollars in cross-border finance and investment flows.
As traditional finance converges with blockchain innovation, GTJA International’s bold step may well mark the beginning of a new chapter—not just for brokers, but for global investors seeking secure, compliant access to the digital economy.