HashKey Capital Receives SFC Approval for Virtual Asset Discretionary Account Management

Highlights:

• HashKey Capital gains approval to manage discretionary cryptocurrency accounts for high-net-worth clients in Hong Kong.
• The firm offers access to spot crypto, derivatives, and OTC trades across multiple secure and compliant platforms.
• Hong Kong plans to expand its crypto oversight team with 15 new hires to strengthen market regulation.

HashKey Capital, a blockchain-focused global venture firm, announced on Feb. 5 that it has gained approval from Hong Kong’s Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) to offer discretionary cryptocurrency account management under its existing type 9 license.

With regulatory approval, HashKey Capital can now actively manage clients’ investment portfolios by making strategic decisions that align with their financial goals. The firm will offer access to selected investment products for high-net-worth clients, including spot crypto, derivatives, and over-the-counter trades. Professional investors can select from HashKey Capital’s predefined strategies or collaborate with the firm to create personalized investment plans.

HashKey Capital Boosts Confidence in Virtual Assets with SFC Approval

HashKey Capital ensures investors aren’t tied to just one platform by getting approval to manage discretionary accounts on several exchanges. They can choose from a handpicked list of trading venues, each known for its strong security, regulatory compliance, and efficient operations. Vivien Wong, Partner at Liquid Funds, emphasized that professional investors aim to seize emerging opportunities in crypto while ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.

“From portfolio allocation to ongoing risk management, we handle the full investment lifecycle — so investors can focus on broader financial goals,” said HashKey.

Once an investment strategy is finalized, HashKey Capital takes charge of asset allocation, trading, portfolio monitoring, rebalancing, and reporting, allowing clients to focus on their financial goals. Wong highlighted that investors have traditionally been cautious about entering the virtual asset space due to its risks. “With our discretionary account management services, we provide clients with the confidence to explore this sector,” he said. 

🚨 HashKey Capital Secures SFC Approval for Virtual Asset Discretionary Account Management 🇭🇰

We’re now authorized to expand access to compliant, institutional-grade crypto investment strategies to professional investors.

🔗 Full announcement: https://t.co/Ns1DBTE5L2

🧵👇

— HashKey Capital (@HashKey_Capital) February 5, 2025

Besides this, HashKey Europe has received a Virtual Asset Service Provider (VASP) license from Ireland’s Central Bank. In May last year, HashKey Capital Limited achieved another major milestone by securing a Type 4 license from the SFC. This makes it the first licensed corporation in Hong Kong authorized to offer securities, virtual asset management, and advisory services to retail investors under specific conditions.

Hong Kong Expands Crypto Regulation Plans

Hong Kong is strengthening its aim to become a global crypto hub, with its securities regulator proposing an expansion of its oversight team. The Securities and Futures Commission plans to boost staff to improve market surveillance and enforce regulations on virtual asset trading platforms. In its budget plan for the 2025–26 financial year, the SFC requests 15 new hires, with eight dedicated specifically to virtual asset regulation.