October 2, 2024
By Our Correspondent
ZA Bank has successfully obtained the necessary license and is preparing to introduce user-friendly cryptocurrency investment services by the end of this year.
As Hong Kong’s first digital-only bank, ZA Bank has received approval to incorporate cryptocurrency services, thereby broadening its regulated operations.
The bank plans to begin by offering straightforward and accessible investment products to its 500,000 users.
After a 12-month wait for regulatory approval, which followed the implementation of a new rulebook for cryptocurrency exchanges in June 2023, ZA Bank is now positioned to expand its services.
Licensed by the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA), ZA Bank has been granted regulatory approval to enhance its business offerings with crypto investment services.
On September 30, the company announced that it had become the first local virtual bank to secure a Type 1 license from the Securities and Futures Commission (SFC), enabling it to engage in securities transactions, including those involving cryptocurrencies.
This approval comes after a year-long wait following the establishment of Hong Kong’s new licensing framework, which mandates that all unlicensed crypto firms exit the market by February 2024.
With the license now in hand, ZA Bank is poised to launch user-friendly cryptocurrency investment services. The initial emphasis will be on providing a novel investment experience, with a range of compliant products expected to debut in the upcoming months, in accordance with local regulations.
The bank takes pride in offering one of the most extensive product portfolios among digital banks in Hong Kong, providing 24/7 services that encompass deposits, loans, transfers, payments, and insurance. Within just two years of its launch, the bank has attracted a total of 500,000 users engaging with its diverse offerings.
ZA Bank has achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first digital-only bank in Hong Kong to report a record monthly profit this year, alongside a growing user base of 500,000.
The institution is actively enhancing its operations to solidify its position in the cryptocurrency market.
Earlier this year, the bank revealed that it is engaged in discussions with multiple stablecoin issuers to establish reserve accounts in anticipation of the launch of the Hong Kong stablecoin, HKDA.
The bank is committed to ensuring that the digital asset retains its value amid market fluctuations.
Devon Sin, the company’s chief, asserts that stablecoins possess considerable potential in both wholesale and retail sectors.
“The applications for stablecoins are extensive, whether in wholesale or retail markets, tokenization, settlement for exchange trading, or addressing challenges in overseas remittances. We are eager to investigate practical applications in collaboration with potential issuers,” he stated.
In March 2024, financial authorities in Hong Kong began accepting applications from prospective issuers to participate in its stablecoin sandbox. Additionally, they have recently completed their consultation on digital assets and are preparing to implement a new regulatory framework tailored for the issuance and utilization of stablecoins in Hong Kong.
