Hong Kong’s SFC Tightens Crypto Regulations Post-JPEX

Maxwell Mutuma
October 20, 2023 Updated April 12, 2024
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Hong Kong Police Investigate JPEX Exchange After $4.3mn In Complaints

The Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) of Hong Kong unveiled updated policies on virtual currency dealings. The new guidelines promise increased monitoring, citing developing market patterns and comments from industry insiders. Furthermore, these regulation changes come on the heels of a significant crypto exchange catastrophe.

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SFC Tightens Rules for Crypto Offerings

Under these revamped guidelines, specific virtual currency offerings will exclusively cater to professional investors. Furthermore, the SFC emphasized the crucial role of intermediaries in the crypto domain. Before conducting any transactions, these intermediaries should ascertain whether their clients know enough about investing in virtual assets.

The SFC voiced concerns over the varying global regulatory framework. “Although virtual assets are gaining traction in select global quarters, the overarching regulatory milieu remains disparate,” the commission remarked. Consequently, the inherent risks pinpointed by the SFC in 2018 persist.

Significantly, the new stipulations categorize virtual assets as “complex products” within the SFC’s purview. This categorization means they will follow the same regulatory procedures as their financial counterparts. Besides, the SFC specifically cited crypto exchange-traded funds and products from outside Hong Kong’s jurisdiction as examples of these complex products.

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Recent Controversies and Forward Moves

The JPEX crypto exchange scandal still overshadows many of Hong Kong’s crypto enthusiasts. Last month, startling revelations saw the SFC inundated with over 1,000 complaints against JPEX. Distraught users alleged losses amounting to a staggering sum. Consequently, local authorities apprehended six individuals linked to JPEX charged with helming an unauthorized crypto platform.

Although it’s still ambiguous whether this policy overhaul is a direct repercussion of the JPEX fiasco, the SFC had previously pledged to ramp up measures ensuring crypto investors remain abreast of potential hazards. Additionally, October witnessed the formation of a joint task force comprising the Hong Kong Police Force and the SFC to oversee and probe any illicit undertakings related to digital currencies.

Read Also: FTX Customers Targeted for Fake Priority Withdrawal

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Investment disclaimer: The content reflects the author’s personal views and current market conditions. Please conduct your own research before investing in cryptocurrencies, as neither the author nor the publication is responsible for any financial losses.
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Why Trust CoinGape

CoinGape has covered the cryptocurrency industry since 2017, aiming to provide informative insights Read more…to our readers. Our journal analysts bring years of experience in market analysis and blockchain technology to ensure factual accuracy and balanced reporting. By following our Editorial Policy, our writers verify every source, fact-check each story, rely on reputable sources, and attribute quotes and media correctly. We also follow a rigorous Review Methodology when evaluating exchanges and tools. From emerging blockchain projects and coin launches to industry events and technical developments, we cover all facets of the digital asset space with unwavering commitment to timely, relevant information.

About Author
About Author
Maxwell is a crypto-economic analyst and Blockchain enthusiast, passionate about helping people understand the potential of decentralized technology. I write extensively on topics such as blockchain, cryptocurrency, tokens, and more for many publications. My goal is to spread knowledge about this revolutionary technology and its implications for economic freedom and social good.
Investment disclaimer: The content reflects the author’s personal views and current market conditions. Please conduct your own research before investing in cryptocurrencies, as neither the author nor the publication is responsible for any financial losses.
Ad Disclosure: This site may feature sponsored content and affiliate links. All advertisements are clearly labeled, and ad partners have no influence over our editorial content.