Hong Kong SFC Issues Alert on Bybit and Its Products

The Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) has issued a warning against the virtual asset trading platform Bybit. The alert pertains to multiple crypto-related products provided by Bybit that are suspected of being unlicensed and risky to investors located in Hong Kong. The SFC’s announcement aims to clarify the regulatory stance on virtual asset trading within the jurisdiction, emphasizing the need for platforms to obtain proper licenses for certain activities.

Overview of Bybit’s Unlicensed Products

In this regard, the warning issued by the SFC is specifically aimed at a variety of products offered by Bybit, including future contracts, options, leveraged tokens, and various innovative crypto investment schemes like Dual Asset and Shark Fin. According to the SFC, these offerings may constitute “futures contracts” or “securities” within the framework of the Securities and Futures Ordinance (SFO), and therefore, an operation with a license is required. Non-licensing and non-registration of these activities with the SFC raise major issues concerning the legality and safety of these investment products to the investing public in Hong Kong.

The SFC warning highlights the threats that come with investing in unlicensed virtual asset products. However, the investors may find it difficult to seek redress in case of termination of the platform or misappropriation of assets. The difficulty in obtaining legal remedies, especially against entities lacking a strong connection to Hong Kong, compounds the risk for local investors. To address these concerns, the SFC has added Bybit to its Suspicious Virtual Asset Trading Platforms Alert List, with specific products in question.

Hong Kong’s Regulatory Stance

The SFC’s caution also confirms the commission’s determination to take enforcement actions against unlicensed activities where needed. This position is a reflection of the wider agenda of Hong Kong to maintain a balance between investor protection and the goal of becoming the global center for crypto and virtual assets. This recent action against Bybit follows a similar warning issued to another crypto exchange, BitForex, highlighting the SFC’s vigilant approach to monitoring the crypto space.

As such, the SFC’s focus on licensing and regulation keeps tabs on the legal guidelines that control the trading and promotion of crypto-related products within the territory. Through such alerts, the SFC seeks to discourage unlicensed operations and maintain the integrity of the financial markets in Hong Kong.

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