The financial world is witnessing a pivotal shift as Guotai Junan International Holdings Limited (GTJA International) becomes the first mainland-affiliated securities firm to receive regulatory approval from Hong Kong to offer comprehensive virtual asset trading services. This landmark development has not only triggered a surge in investor confidence but also marked a new chapter in the integration of traditional finance and digital assets.
A Historic Regulatory Breakthrough
On June 24, 2025, GTJA International was officially granted an upgraded license by the Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission (SFC), allowing it to provide full-scale virtual asset trading services. This includes direct trading of major cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH), as well as stablecoins like Tether (USDT), all within its existing brokerage platform.
This regulatory green light positions GTJA International at the forefront of a rapidly evolving financial ecosystem, where digital assets are increasingly recognized as legitimate investment vehicles. For investors, this means seamless access to crypto markets through a trusted, regulated financial institution — a significant leap toward mainstream adoption.
👉 Discover how regulated platforms are shaping the future of digital asset investing.
Stock Surge Reflects Market Confidence
The market reaction was immediate and dramatic. Following the announcement, GTJA International’s stock price soared nearly 300% week-on-week, marking one of the most impressive rallies in its history. By June 26, shares had climbed for four consecutive days, reflecting strong investor sentiment and expectations of long-term growth.
Analysts attribute this surge not just to the license itself, but to the strategic implications it carries. As Sharnie Wong, Analyst at Bloomberg Intelligence, noted:
"Guotai appears to have gained first-mover advantage in crypto and stablecoin trading among Chinese brokers. While cryptocurrency trading remains restricted on the mainland, this SFC-approved license for its Hong Kong subsidiary opens a viable offshore business opportunity."
This move underscores how global expansion and regulatory compliance can unlock new revenue streams — especially in high-growth sectors like digital assets.
Expanding Into High-Growth Digital Asset Markets
By integrating virtual asset services into its core offerings, GTJA International is diversifying its business model beyond traditional wealth management, brokerage, investment banking, and asset management. The upgraded license allows the firm to:
- Offer direct crypto trading
- Provide advisory services on digital assets
- Issue and distribute virtual asset-related products, including over-the-counter (OTC) derivatives
This expansion not only enhances client experience but also strengthens GTJA International’s competitive edge among Chinese financial institutions with international operations.
Industry experts believe this could set a precedent for other mainland-affiliated brokers. According to reports from Securities Times, firms such as Huatai International Financial Holdings and China Merchants Securities International are already in the process of applying for similar license upgrades — signaling a broader industry shift toward digital finance.
Hong Kong’s Proactive Digital Asset Strategy
The timing of this approval aligns with Hong Kong’s ongoing efforts to position itself as a global hub for digital asset innovation. On June 26, 2025, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region government released its second policy statement on digital asset development, outlining a clear regulatory framework for service providers.
Key initiatives include:
- Establishing guidelines for tokenized government bonds
- Encouraging real-world asset (RWA) tokenization to improve liquidity and accessibility
- Strengthening investor protection while fostering fintech innovation
These moves reinforce Hong Kong’s reputation as a forward-thinking financial center that balances innovation with oversight — making it an ideal testing ground for institutions like GTJA International to launch regulated crypto services.
Broader Market Impact and Sector Momentum
GTJA International’s breakthrough has energized the broader financial sector. Mainland-listed Guosheng Financial Holding saw its stock hit the daily trading limit for three consecutive days, rising 10% each session. Similarly, TF Securities surged up to 8%, indicating renewed market optimism in financial firms embracing digital transformation.
This momentum reflects growing recognition that virtual assets are no longer niche investments — they are becoming integral components of modern portfolios. As more traditional financial players enter the space, demand for secure, compliant, and user-friendly platforms will continue to rise.
👉 Explore how institutional adoption is accelerating crypto market maturity.
Core Keywords Driving Visibility
To ensure alignment with search intent and SEO performance, the following core keywords have been naturally integrated throughout this article:
- virtual asset trading
- Hong Kong SFC license
- Bitcoin ETF
- GTJA International
- crypto trading platform
- digital asset regulation
- regulated cryptocurrency exchange
- institutional crypto adoption
These terms reflect both user search behavior and the strategic themes shaping the future of finance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What does GTJA International’s new license allow?
A: The upgraded SFC license permits GTJA International to offer direct trading of cryptocurrencies (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum), stablecoins (e.g., USDT), and related products like OTC derivatives, along with advisory services on virtual assets.
Q: Why did GTJA International’s stock jump 300%?
A: The surge followed market excitement over its status as the first Chinese-affiliated broker approved for full virtual asset trading in Hong Kong — a move seen as a major growth catalyst and competitive differentiator.
Q: Is cryptocurrency trading legal in mainland China?
A: No, crypto trading remains prohibited on the mainland. However, offshore subsidiaries operating under foreign regulations — such as GTJA International in Hong Kong — can legally offer these services.
Q: How does this affect other Chinese brokers?
A: It sets a strategic benchmark. Several major brokers, including Huatai and China Merchants Securities, are reportedly seeking similar approvals, suggesting a wave of institutional entry into digital assets via Hong Kong.
Q: What role does Hong Kong play in digital asset regulation?
A: Hong Kong has adopted a balanced regulatory approach, promoting innovation while ensuring investor protection. Its clear licensing framework makes it a preferred gateway for institutions launching compliant crypto services in Asia.
Q: Can retail investors use GTJA International’s crypto platform?
A: Yes, once fully operational, the platform will be available to both retail and institutional clients who meet regulatory requirements for virtual asset investments.
👉 Learn how compliant platforms are building trust in digital finance.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Institutional Crypto Integration
GTJA International’s milestone is more than a corporate achievement — it’s a signal of deeper structural change in global finance. As regulatory clarity improves and institutional infrastructure matures, we can expect more traditional financial firms to follow suit.
The convergence of regulated markets, digital assets, and advanced financial services is no longer speculative; it's happening now. For investors, this means greater access, enhanced security, and new opportunities across asset classes.
As Hong Kong continues to lead in digital asset policy innovation, and firms like GTJA International execute bold strategic shifts, the bridge between legacy finance and decentralized economies grows stronger every day.