Asia Backs Crypto Big: CMB International Opens 24/7 BTC, ETH, and USDT Trading in Hong Kong

TLDR:

CMB International becomes the first Chinese bank-owned securities firm to launch compliant crypto trading in Hong Kong.
The platform supports 24/7 Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Tether trading with KYC and AML requirements for investors.
CMB International gained upgraded SFC licenses and partnered with OKX Planet for liquidity and trading stability.
Hong Kong’s push for a global virtual asset hub accelerates as traditional finance embraces regulated crypto services.

Crypto adoption in Asia has taken another step forward. On August 18, 2025, CMB International Securities, a subsidiary of China Merchants Bank, launched a regulated crypto trading platform in Hong Kong. 

The move makes it the first Chinese bank-owned securities firm to introduce 24/7 digital asset trading under local rules. Industry watchers see it as a milestone for the city’s ambition to be a global hub for virtual assets. 

Regulated 24/7 Crypto Trading Service

According to reports, the service covers three cryptocurrencies: Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Tether. Investors can access the trading feature through CMB International’s mobile app at any time. 

To participate, users must complete Know Your Customer and Anti-Money Laundering checks. Transactions run under Hong Kong’s Securities and Futures Ordinance and the new Stablecoin Ordinance, which came into force earlier this month.

CMB International secured Type 1 and Type 7 licenses from the Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission in July 2024. These licenses give it the ability to offer securities dealing and automated trading services legally. With these upgrades, the firm became eligible to extend its portfolio into virtual assets while maintaining compliance.

The platform also integrates strict risk controls. Features include cold storage, multiple security checks, and third-party audits. This setup aligns with requirements outlined by the Hong Kong regulator for licensed virtual asset service providers. 

A partnership with OKX Planet supplies trading engines and liquidity support, allowing for smooth execution even under heavy volumes.

💥BREAKING:

🇨🇳🇭🇰 CMB International Securities, a unit of China Merchants Bank, launches 24/7 crypto trading in Hong Kong.

ASIA IS GOING ALL-IN. pic.twitter.com/2JqCWwhLx3

— Crypto Rover (@rovercrc) August 18, 2025

Integration of Traditional Finance and Crypto

CMB International’s entry into the digital asset space strengthens its parent company’s position in Hong Kong’s financial market. By late 2024, the firm managed assets worth more than 130 billion yuan. Adding crypto services allows it to offer clients a more diversified portfolio that spans both traditional and digital markets.

The expansion also echoes the Hong Kong government’s fintech strategy. Earlier this year, the city’s regulator unveiled a five-pillar plan to build a secure ecosystem for digital assets. Market observers noted that CMB International’s future plan to tokenize money market funds under the name CMBMINT fits this policy direction.

Compared to platforms like HashKey and OSL, CMB International leverages its reputation and customer base in traditional finance. Its integrated account system allows clients to manage crypto, stocks, and bonds in one place. This model appeals strongly to institutional investors looking for efficient portfolio management.

Wider Market and Regulatory Implications

Industry analysts believe this development may encourage other Chinese securities firms to follow. 

Firms such as Guotai Junan International and Tianfeng International are reportedly seeking similar license upgrades. With Hong Kong’s stablecoin framework in place, products like the Hong Kong dollar-backed stablecoin HKDG are expected to draw competition.

Legal experts point out that while Hong Kong supports crypto growth, restrictions in mainland China remain. Virtual currency trading is still considered illegal within mainland borders. Investors are advised to stay compliant with local rules before engaging in offshore markets.

Hong Kong’s Financial Services Secretary Paul Chan confirmed the government’s continued commitment to balancing regulation with innovation. He noted that allowing traditional banks and securities firms into the crypto market helps strengthen Hong Kong’s global standing.