TLDR
- CZ emphasizes that Hong Kong needs to expand its list of tradable cryptocurrencies to remain competitive globally.
- Hong Kong’s current crypto offerings are limited to just four tokens, which may hinder its growth in the sector.
- CZ compares Hong Kong’s regulatory approach to Japan’s more flexible system, which has led to a broader range of assets.
- Hong Kong has 11 licensed virtual asset platforms but has not yet approved Binance for operation.
- CZ believes Hong Kong’s conservative stance may hold back innovation, despite the city’s proactive Web3 policies.
Binance founder Changpeng Zhao (CZ) has stated that Hong Kong must widen the range of cryptocurrencies available on licensed exchanges to stay competitive with global hubs like the US and UAE. In an interview with the South China Morning Post, Zhao pointed out that Hong Kong’s approach to Web3 has been positive but remains limited. He emphasized that expanding the list of tradable cryptocurrencies could help Hong Kong become a stronger contender on the global stage.
Hong Kong Current Crypto Limitations
As it stands, Hong Kong’s retail traders are limited to trading only four cryptocurrencies on licensed platforms: Bitcoin, Ether, Avalanche, and Chainlink. The Securities and Futures Commission introduced these restrictions when retail trading was legalized in August 2023. The move requires tokens to be part of at least two major investible indices, one of which must come from traditional finance.
Zhao believes that these four cryptocurrencies are “not enough” to attract more global interest. He also pointed to Japan, where exchanges enjoy more autonomy in listing assets. This flexibility has allowed Japan to offer a wider range of tokens, making it a more attractive destination for crypto investors. Hong Kong could benefit from adopting a similar system.
Hong Kong’s current policy has created a conservative environment for virtual asset trading. While this approach reduces risk, it may hinder the city’s ability to compete with other regions, such as the US and UAE. Zhao believes Hong Kong could strike a better balance between regulation and innovation.
CZ’s Call for Greater Crypto Flexibility
Zhao praised Hong Kong for its proactive stance on embracing Web3 technologies. He noted that the city’s government has acted quickly to implement policies supporting digital assets. However, he warned that without broader cryptocurrency offerings, Hong Kong may struggle to rival established hubs like the US and UAE.
Exclusive | Hong Kong can rival US, UAE as a crypto hub, Binance founder CZ says https://t.co/kGtcWhrQ60
— South China Morning Post (@SCMPNews) August 29, 2025
Binance has not applied for a license to operate in Hong Kong, even though the city currently has 11 licensed virtual asset trading platforms. Zhao explained that Hong Kong’s regulatory approach, while cautious, might be holding back growth. Nevertheless, Zhao remains confident that the city’s government is open to adjusting its stance.
Zhao’s continued engagement with global regulators highlights his commitment to shaping the future of the crypto industry. Even though he no longer leads Binance, Zhao’s influence remains significant.
