HashKey’s lukewarm debut tests Hong Kong’s ambitions as digital asset hub


Shares of HashKey Holdings, operator of Hong Kong’s largest licensed cryptocurrency exchange, were flat on their trading debut, as investors shunned risk amid a downturn in both equity and digital asset markets.

Trading under the stock code 3887, HashKey shares first changed hands on Wednesday at HK$6.70, or 0.3 per cent above the offer price of HK$6.68 a share.

The firm, one of 11 licensed virtual asset trading platforms in Hong Kong, raised HK$1.6 billion (US$206 million) in the city’s first crypto-native initial public offering (IPO). OSL Group, another licensed crypto exchange operator formerly known as BC Technology, was listed in Hong Kong in 2012, long before it pivoted into digital assets.

“Today’s successful trading on the Hong Kong stock exchange proves that taking a compliant route can also lead to success,” said HashKey chairman and CEO Xiao Feng, before striking a ceremonial gong to mark the start of trading. “I believe that, in the long run, following a compliant path actually gives a company greater longevity and more sustainable vitality.”

HashKey, founded in 2018, offers crypto transaction facilitation, as well as on-chain, asset management and tokenisation services. Photo: Images/LightRocket via Getty Images
HashKey, founded in 2018, offers crypto transaction facilitation, as well as on-chain, asset management and tokenisation services. Photo: Images/LightRocket via Getty Images
The debut comes as bitcoin, the largest cryptocurrency, sinks deeper into bear-market territory amid a broader risk-off shift driven by an uncertain interest-rate trajectory, profit-taking after record market highs and cascading liquidations of leveraged positions.
The broader stock market in Hong Kong fell to its lowest level in three weeks on Tuesday as investors were concerned at China’s deteriorating growth prospects and the US Federal Reserve’s interest-rate path.
  • Related Posts

    China’s eastern and southern economic powerhouses vie for innovation leadership

    China’s most powerful economic regions – the Yangtze River Delta and the Greater Bay Area – are racing to meet President Xi Jinping’s call for breakthroughs in core technologies including…

    Continue reading
    China’s securities regulator vows tougher oversight to shore up stock-market confidence

    China’s top securities regulator outlined a plan on Friday to strengthen corporate governance, boost investor returns and cultivate globally competitive companies, as Beijing seeks to reinforce confidence in the country’s…

    Continue reading

    Leave a Reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *