Guotai Junan International (GTJAI), a leading Hong Kong-listed securities firm, saw its shares skyrocket nearly 90% in early trading following its groundbreaking approval from Hong Kong's Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) to provide virtual asset trading services.
Key Developments
Pioneering License Approval
On June 24, 2025, GTJAI became:
- The first China-backed brokerage in Hong Kong authorized for full-spectrum virtual asset services
Approved to upgrade its Type 1 license (securities trading) to include:
- Virtual asset trading execution
- Investment advisory services for digital assets
Market Impact
- Stock price surged 200% post-announcement (highest since July 2015)
- Current rally extends gains to +90% in early session trading
Strategic Positioning in Virtual Assets
Preparatory Moves (2024-2025)
- Launched virtual asset ETF-based structured products
Secured SFC approval for:
- Virtual asset platform referral services
- Tokenized securities distribution
- Initiated digital bond issuance services
👉 Discover how leading platforms facilitate virtual asset trading
Operational Framework
According to HashKey Exchange's Sales Director Zhu Zhenyu:
- Dual-platform model: Brokerages interface with licensed exchanges
Compliance requirements:
- Type 1/4 license upgrades for execution/advisory
- Separate custody for traditional/digital assets (per regulatory mandates)
Industry Landscape and Trends
Current Market Players
| Category | Examples |
|---|---|
| Licensed Exchanges | 11 SFC-approved platforms |
| Brokerage Services | Futu Securities, Tiger Brokers, Interactive Brokers |
| Traditional Firms | GTJAI, Haitong International |
Future Growth Pathways
Per CITIC Securities analysis:
Brokerage Services
- Crypto-fiat gateway integration
- Cross-platform asset transfers
Investment Banking
- Virtual asset company IPOs
- M&A advisory for blockchain firms
👉 Explore virtual asset investment opportunities
FAQs
Q: Why is GTJAI's license significant?
A: It represents the first mainland-backed brokerage to bridge traditional securities and regulated virtual asset trading in Hong Kong.
Q: What services can investors expect?
A: Tokenized securities trading, digital asset custody, and compliant crypto investment products.
Q: Will more brokerages follow suit?
A: Industry experts anticipate rapid adoption among international subsidiaries of major Chinese securities firms.
Q: How does this impact Hong Kong's financial landscape?
A: Accelerates the city's position as a global virtual asset hub by integrating traditional finance with emerging digital markets.