October 08, 2025
By Our Correspondent
The Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) of Hong Kong declared that Julia Leung will serve as CEO for an additional three years, until 2028. This action is taken as the city intensifies its efforts to control digital assets and solidify its standing as a leading hub for innovation in virtual assets.
Significant regulatory modifications have already been directed by Leung’s leadership, and her ongoing employment is thought to be crucial for keeping the momentum going in this quickly changing industry.
The city’s confidence in Julia Leung’s competence to guide regulatory strategy during a period of significant financial transition is demonstrated by her reappointment. Leung has led reforms since taking office in 2023 with the goal of strengthening investor protection and creating thorough regulations for the cryptocurrency industry.
A key component of Hong Kong’s goals has been her role in developing and implementing the SFC’s framework for virtual asset licensing. Strict investor protections, cybersecurity standards, custody requirements, and new trading platform regulations are all part of the framework.
This year’s stablecoin ordinance requires fiat-linked tokens to have complete reserve backing.
In addition, the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) shares oversight duties.
To lower systemic risk, issuers must adhere to over-collateralization requirements.
Stablecoin license applications closed in September 2025, and approvals are anticipated by early 2026.
These actions are meant to encourage creativity and ensure the stablecoins’ secure functioning.
Hong Kong is rapidly becoming a leading center for tokenized assets and cryptocurrency. In addition to establishing strict compliance guidelines, the city’s officials are aggressively promoting innovation. International businesses looking for a trustworthy regulatory environment are interested in this dual strategy.
Leung, a former financial journalist, has encouraged industry cooperation, particularly with companies creating tokenized assets.
Blockchain technologies and traditional finance are connected through new partnerships.
Officials attribute the increasing vigor of the city’s initial public offering (IPO) market to Leung’s practical approach.
Leung’s leadership is anticipated to concentrate on improving infrastructure and safeguarding Hong Kong’s reputation in the international financial community as regulators seek to increase cross-agency collaboration.
The SFC and HKMA have warned investors in public about the dangers of hype and false information in response to growing speculation in crypto-related stocks. Leung reaffirmed her dedication to responsible market involvement by stressing the importance of making “clear-minded” judgments.
As Hong Kong tightens its control over market rules and improves its stablecoin policy, her continued leadership will be crucial.
The city wants to stay competitive while bringing its rules into line with international standards.
Reduced gray areas and increased institutional participation are two benefits of clearer regulations.
Hong Kong’s appeal as a listing and capital destination is already increasing due to increased transparency.
