Digital asset innovation has reached a pivotal milestone with OSL securing a license from the Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) of Hong Kong. This landmark achievement marks OSL as the world’s first digital asset exchange to be fully licensed by the Hong Kong SFC, publicly listed, insured, and independently audited by one of the Big Four accounting firms—setting a new global benchmark for institutional-grade digital asset platforms.
A New Era for Institutional Digital Asset Trading
On December 15, 2020, OSL—part of BC Technology Group (Hong Kong Stock Code: 863)—officially received its license from the Hong Kong SFC to conduct regulated activities under Type 1 (Dealing in Securities) and Type 7 (Providing Automated Trading Services). This authorization enables OSL Digital Securities to offer compliant brokerage and automated trading services for digital assets, catering exclusively to institutional and professional investors.
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The licensing follows OSL’s voluntary submission to the SFC’s rigorous digital asset regulatory framework, which includes strict requirements on investor protection, anti-money laundering (AML), cybersecurity, and market integrity. By meeting these standards, OSL reinforces Hong Kong’s position as one of the most comprehensive and investor-friendly jurisdictions in Asia for digital asset innovation.
Secure, Compliant Access to High-Quality Digital Assets
With the license in place, OSL is now empowered to provide a secure and compliant trading environment for premium digital assets, including:
- Bitcoin (BTC)
- Ethereum (ETH)
- Select security token offerings (STOs) that pass rigorous due diligence
Clients benefit from advanced safeguards, including:
- Segregated digital asset wallets with full insurance coverage
- Mandatory KYC and AML compliance procedures
- Real-time market surveillance and trade monitoring systems to prevent market abuse
These protections align digital asset trading with traditional financial market standards—offering institutional clients the confidence to enter the digital economy within a regulated framework they can trust.
“As institutions increasingly allocate capital to digital assets like Bitcoin, Hong Kong’s regulatory clarity creates a powerful gateway,” said Wayne Trench, CEO of OSL. “Professional investors—including high-net-worth individuals and family offices—can now access the region’s most robust and reliable digital asset platform, backed by one of the world’s leading regulators.”
Why Institutional Trust Matters in Digital Finance
In today’s rapidly evolving financial landscape, trust is paramount. OSL stands out as the only digital asset platform globally that combines four critical pillars of institutional credibility:
- Regulated by the Hong Kong SFC – Operating under one of Asia’s strictest financial watchdogs
- Publicly listed on HKEX – Transparent governance and financial reporting
- Insured custody solutions – Protection for client-held digital assets
- Audited by a Big Four firm – Independent validation of financial integrity
This unique combination positions OSL at the forefront of bridging traditional finance with the digital asset economy.
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Matt Long, Head of Sales and Prime Brokerage at OSL, emphasized:
“Licensed platforms will define the future of digital finance. As hedge funds, family offices, and professional investors accelerate their digital asset allocations, they demand security, compliance, and transparency. OSL delivers all three.”
Expanding Footprint Across Asia
Beyond Hong Kong, OSL has also submitted an application for a digital asset license under Singapore’s Payment Services Act, signaling its commitment to expanding regulated services across key Asian markets. This dual-jurisdiction strategy strengthens its role as a trusted gateway for institutional capital entering the digital asset space.
Client onboarding for professional investors is already underway, with trading expected to commence within weeks. OSL is preparing its platform infrastructure and client support systems to ensure a seamless launch experience.
Proven Performance and Market Leadership
OSL’s leadership isn’t just regulatory—it’s backed by strong performance. According to BC Technology Group’s interim report released on August 12, 2020:
- Annualized trading volume reached $28 billion in the first half of 2020
- Group revenue grew by 47% year-on-year
This growth reflects rising institutional demand and validates OSL’s strategy of building a secure, scalable, and compliant infrastructure for digital asset trading.
“Our licensing achievement reaffirms our mission: to build a safe, regulated gateway for institutions into the digital economy,” added Wayne Trench. “Digital assets are no longer speculative—they’re becoming integral to the global financial ecosystem. We’re committed to leading this transformation with integrity and innovation.”
About OSL and BC Technology Group
OSL operates under BC Technology Group—the only listed fintech company in Asia that is licensed, Big Four-audited, and offering insured digital asset services. As Asia’s largest digital asset platform, OSL provides:
- Institutional-grade prime brokerage
- Secure digital asset custody
- Advanced electronic trading platforms
- SaaS solutions for enterprise clients
Through its OTC desk, smart quote engine, and electronic trading services, OSL delivers high liquidity, rapid settlement, and military-grade security—making it a trusted portal into the digital asset economy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What makes OSL different from other crypto exchanges?
A: OSL is the only platform globally that is licensed by the Hong Kong SFC, publicly listed (HKEX: 863), insured for client assets, and audited by a Big Four accounting firm—making it uniquely suited for institutional investors.
Q: Is OSL available to retail investors?
A: No. OSL serves exclusively institutional and professional investors who meet regulatory criteria for accredited or sophisticated investor status.
Q: Are client funds insured on OSL?
A: Yes. Digital assets held in OSL’s segregated wallets—including Bitcoin—are fully insured against theft or loss.
Q: Does OSL operate outside Hong Kong?
A: While headquartered in Hong Kong, OSL has applied for licensing in Singapore under the Payment Services Act and aims to expand regulated services across Asia.
Q: What types of assets can be traded on OSL?
A: OSL supports trading in major cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH), as well as vetted security token offerings (STOs) that meet strict compliance standards.
Q: How does OSL ensure regulatory compliance?
A: The platform enforces rigorous KYC/AML checks, real-time transaction monitoring, market surveillance tools, and regular audits by top-tier financial regulators and accounting firms.
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