In August 2025, CMB International, the investment banking arm of China Merchants Bank, launched virtual asset trading services in Hong Kong, making it the first state-backed Chinese firm to receive regulatory approval.
Launch of Crypto Trading
On August 18, 2025, CMB International launched its new crypto trading platform via a mobile application. The service operates 24/7, allowing eligible professional investors to buy and sell BTC, ETH, and USDT. The platform is strictly limited to 'qualified professional investors' who must undergo a rigorous KYC and AML process.
Compliance and Regulatory Framework
CMB International secured its license from the Hong Kong SFC, which emphasizes strong investor protection measures. The platform implements cold wallet storage, independent audits, and real-time risk monitoring to ensure asset security while minimizing risks.
Expansion into Tokenized Products
CMB International also announced the launch of CMBMINT, the world's first cross-border tokenized fund recognized by regulators in Hong Kong and Singapore. This product is a USD money market fund tokenized on the Solana blockchain, providing investors access to digital fund shares.
The launch of CMB International's virtual asset trading and tokenized fund services marks significant progress for Hong Kong and the broader Chinese financial ecosystem. The platform sets new standards for integrating traditional finance with digital assets.
