Best Crypto Exchange Platform in Hong Kong 2025
Heidi Unrau
3 min read

FAQ
HashKey Exchange, OSL Group, and HKbitEX are fully licensed by the SFC and follow strict security protocols. OSL even offers US$1 billion in custody insurance and holds both a Type 1 (brokerage) and Type 7 (automated trading) license.
Yes. As of 2024, only crypto exchanges licensed or deemed to be licensed by the Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) can legally serve retail traders in Hong Kong.
Yes, with some caveats. HashKey is the most beginner-friendly among the licensed platforms. But the high deposit requirements and KYC processes at all major VATPs can be overwhelming to true first-timers.
- Trading Fees: 0% to 0.29% depending on platform and volume
- Withdrawal Fees: Varies. Some fiat withdrawals are free (like OSL), others charge HK$100+
- Discounts: Some platforms offer fee discounts if you pay with their native token (e.g. HashKey's HSK token)
Only SFC-licensed VATPs can legally serve retail investors in Hong Kong. Online cryptocurrency exchanges without a license had to cease operations by June 1, 2025. Alternatives like Localcoin ATMs are regulated differently and, therefore, accessible to Hong Kong users.
Hong Kong does not impose capital gains tax on cryptocurrency. Profits from buying, holding, or selling crypto as a long-term investment are tax-free for individual retail investors. However, if you engage in frequent crypto trading or operate a crypto-related business, profits are treated as ordinary business income and are subject to Hong Kong’s profits tax.