Hong Kong’s Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) has issued new guidelines for virtual assets trade platforms (BATPs), aimed at strengthening the customer’s custody. The move responds to global security incidents and gaps that have been identified in recent local reviews.
Wu Blockchain reported that the guidance is part of the Aspire route map of the SFC, which outlines steps for advanced custody practices.
The Hong Kong SFC has issued new guidelines for virtual asset trade platforms to strengthen the standards of guardianship, referring to global security incidents and gaps found in a recent study. The circular contours minimum requirements for wallet infrastructure, access controls and management …
– Wu Blockchain (@wublockchain) August 15, 2025
Improved guardianship standards
The circular of the SFC Specifies minimum requirements for wallet infrastructure, access controls and management management. It emphasizes the need for Batps to revise existing guardianship practices and to ensure stronger protection. Dr. Eric Yip, executive director of intermediaries at the SFC, said: “Protection of client assets must always remain a top priority for all licensed VAT.”
The guidelines set standards for the senior management managements and the activities of Client Cold Wallets. Platforms using external wallet solutions must ensure sufficient security and verification processes. The regulator also expects real -time threat monitoring and strict approval device control.
Tackling global concerns of cyber security
Recent overseas cases Showed several virtual asset vlatforms members of losses due to custody of vulnerabilities. The SFC noticed weaknesses, including compromised portfolios of third parties and insufficient transaction verification. Such incidents reveal the need for stricter controls to protect customer funds.
The assessment of Hong Kong earlier this year also identified gaps in the cyber security practices of some operators. The SFC now requires that platforms strengthen their defense against digital threats. This guidance is intended to improve resilience and to reduce risks due to external attacks.
Building a trusted digital assets -ecosystem
The updated standards under the Aspire route map also supervise future virtual assets stations. These expectations form the core framework for industrial custody practices. According to Dr. YIP can use platforms the guidelines as a practical reference to improve security and operational procedures.
The SFC emphasizes that reliable custody is essential for a sustainable market for digital assets. The tackling of the regulator is intended to create a safer environment for customers. These measures will influence how BTATPS manage assets and tackle potential threats.
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