CMB International Securities, a subsidiary of China Merchants Bank, made history by launching a 24/7 crypto trading service in Hong Kong on August 18, 2025. The initiative makes CMB International the first Chinese bank-affiliated securities firm to legally provide crypto services under the oversight of Hong Kong regulators.
This move further strengthens Hong Kong’s ambition to position itself as a global hub for digital assets and marks a new chapter in institutional adoption of cryptocurrencies.
24/7 Crypto Trading Services
The trading platform developed by CMB International supports Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), and Tether (USDT). Through the official mobile app, users who complete KYC (Know Your Customer) and AML (Anti-Money Laundering) verification can instantly access digital asset trading.
By operating 24 hours a day, seven days a week, the service provides maximum flexibility for professional investors who need real-time access to the crypto market.
Official Regulation and Licensing
CMB International obtained Type 1 and Type 7 licenses from the Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) in July 2024. These licenses allow the company to engage in dealing and automated trading, including digital assets.
The platform also complies with the Securities and Futures Ordinance (SFO) and the Stablecoin Ordinance, which officially came into effect on August 1, 2025. With this framework, Hong Kong demonstrates its commitment to creating a safe and transparent crypto ecosystem.
Security Systems and Technology Partners
To ensure investor trust, the platform uses cold wallets as the primary storage method for digital assets, combined with real-time risk monitoring and independent audits.
Additionally, CMB International has partnered with OKX Planet to secure liquidity and maintain stability even during high trading volumes.
Strategic Impact on the Market
The launch not only highlights CMB International’s bold step into crypto markets but also encourages blockchain adoption within traditional finance.
Market analysts believe this initiative could push other banks to explore similar services. With a clear regulatory framework, Hong Kong is well-positioned to compete with Singapore and Dubai as a crypto hub in Asia.
This strategic move also aligns with the global trend of tokenizing traditional assets such as digital bonds and tokenized gold, which are increasingly being integrated into financial systems.
Global Context
The 24/7 crypto trading launch comes at a time when global attention on digital asset adoption is accelerating. While the United States and the European Union are still debating stricter regulations, Hong Kong has chosen a proactive path with clearer and more innovation-friendly rules.
CMB International’s entry into this sector proves that major banks no longer view crypto as competition, but as an integral part of the future of finance.
Conclusion
CMB International Securities has set a new milestone in digital finance. With official regulatory backing, advanced security systems, and around-the-clock operations, the platform represents a significant shift in how traditional institutions embrace cryptocurrencies.
The move is expected to accelerate the integration of digital assets into global finance and reinforce Hong Kong’s role as a leading crypto trading hub in Asia.
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