Digital asset innovation has taken a major leap forward with OSL securing a landmark regulatory milestone. As the world’s first digital asset exchange to be licensed by the Securities and Futures Commission of Hong Kong (SFC), publicly listed, insured, and audited by a Big Four accounting firm, OSL is setting a new global standard for institutional-grade digital asset platforms.
This achievement marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of crypto markets, reinforcing Hong Kong’s position as a leading jurisdiction for regulated digital finance. OSL, a subsidiary of BC Technology Group (HKEX: 863), has officially received SFC approval for Type 1 (Securities Dealing) and Type 7 (Automated Trading Services) regulated activities—validating its compliance with one of the most rigorous regulatory frameworks in the industry.
👉 Discover how OSL is redefining secure digital asset trading for institutions.
A New Era for Institutional Digital Asset Trading
With this license, OSL Digital Securities is now authorized to operate regulated digital asset brokerage and automated trading services. The platform enables institutional and professional investors—including hedge funds, family offices, and high-net-worth individuals—to trade top-tier cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH), as well as rigorously vetted security token offerings (STOs).
The SFC’s approach integrates digital assets into its established securities regulatory framework, offering robust investor protections similar to traditional financial markets. This alignment provides institutional players with the confidence to enter the digital asset economy within a familiar and trusted environment.
Wayne Trench, CEO of OSL, emphasized the significance:
“In recent years, institutional interest in Bitcoin and digital assets has accelerated. With the formal issuance of digital asset licenses, Hong Kong has entered a new long-term phase of institutional adoption. Investors can now access digital assets through OSL—the region’s most comprehensive and reliable platform—backed by world-class regulation and investor safeguards.”
Built for Security, Trust, and Compliance
Beyond regulatory approval, OSL reinforces trust through multiple layers of operational integrity:
- Insured Custody: Client digital assets held in segregated wallets—including BTC—are fully insured.
- Strict Onboarding: All clients undergo rigorous know-your-customer (KYC) and anti-money laundering (AML) checks.
- Market Integrity: Advanced market surveillance, transaction monitoring, and fraud prevention tools help deter market abuse.
These measures ensure that OSL not only meets but exceeds the expectations of institutional clients who demand transparency, security, and accountability.
Matt Long, Head of Sales and Prime Brokerage at OSL, added:
“In the digital age, licensed platforms will define the future of capital markets. Professional investors are increasingly allocating to digital assets like Bitcoin. As an innovator, OSL stands alone as the only exchange that is listed, SFC-licensed, Big Four-audited, and offers insured custody—providing a secure gateway into the digital asset economy.”
👉 See why top institutions are choosing regulated platforms for crypto exposure.
Expanding Global Reach with Singapore Ambitions
While Hong Kong remains a strategic hub, OSL is also advancing its international presence. The company has formally applied for a digital asset license under Singapore’s Payment Services Act with the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), signaling its intent to become a pan-Asian leader in compliant digital finance.
This dual-jurisdiction strategy positions OSL at the forefront of Asia’s evolving regulatory landscape, where clarity and oversight are driving institutional adoption.
Proven Performance and Market Leadership
OSL’s regulatory achievements are backed by strong business fundamentals. In the first half of 2020, BC Technology Group reported an annualized trading volume of $28 billion on the OSL platform—an all-time high—and a 47% year-on-year revenue increase, according to its interim results released on August 12, 2020.
This growth reflects rising demand for secure, transparent trading infrastructure amid increasing institutional participation in digital assets.
Trench further noted:
“Our unique market position underscores our commitment to building a safe, compliant, institutional-grade platform. This license reaffirms our belief that digital assets are a critical component of the global economy and technology-driven financial ecosystems. We remain steadfast in paving the way for institutional investment in this transformative space.”
About OSL and BC Technology Group
OSL operates as Asia’s largest digital asset platform under BC Technology Group (HKEX: 863)—the only publicly traded fintech firm in Asia that is licensed, Big Four-audited, and offering insured digital asset services.
The platform delivers:
- Over-the-counter (OTC) trading
- Smart quote request systems
- Electronic trading solutions
- Institutional-grade custody
- SaaS solutions for enterprise clients
With deep liquidity, secure wallet infrastructure, and seamless trade settlement, OSL serves as a trusted gateway to the digital asset economy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What makes OSL different from other crypto exchanges?
A: OSL is the world’s first digital asset exchange that is licensed by the Hong Kong SFC, publicly listed (via BC Technology Group), insured for custodied assets, and audited by a Big Four accounting firm—setting it apart as a truly institutional-grade platform.
Q: Is OSL available to retail investors?
A: OSL primarily serves institutional and professional investors. Access is subject to strict eligibility criteria, including accreditation requirements and comprehensive KYC/AML verification.
Q: Are customer funds protected on OSL?
A: Yes. Client digital assets are held in segregated wallets and covered by insurance. Additionally, OSL adheres to strict compliance protocols to protect against fraud and market manipulation.
Q: Which cryptocurrencies can I trade on OSL?
A: OSL supports major digital assets like Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH), along with select security tokens that pass rigorous screening processes.
Q: Does OSL operate outside Hong Kong?
A: While headquartered in Hong Kong, OSL has applied for a license in Singapore and aims to expand its regulated services across key Asian markets.
Q: How does OSL ensure regulatory compliance?
A: OSL voluntarily adheres to the SFC’s stringent digital asset framework, undergoes regular audits, implements advanced surveillance tools, and maintains full transparency with regulators.
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