CMB International Debuts 24/7 Crypto Trading of BTC, ETH, USDT in Hong Kong

CMB International Securities, a subsidiary of China Merchants Bank, has introduced round-the-clock trading for Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), and Tether (USDT) via its mobile app—marking a strategic push toward mainstream integration of cryptocurrencies within Hong Kong’s regulated financial landscape.

Aug 18, 2025 - 17:05
CMB International Debuts 24/7 Crypto Trading of BTC, ETH, USDT in Hong Kong

Market Context

This launch aligns with Hong Kong’s ambition to establish itself as a central digital assets hub in Asia. The move by CMBI underscores growing institutional confidence in crypto, reflecting a global trend where traditional finance bridges with digital assets through regulated frameworks—similar to Coinbase's recent launch of 24/7 Bitcoin futures in the U.S.


Technical Details

  • Round-the-Clock Access: Qualified investors in Hong Kong can now trade BTC, ETH, and USDT at any time directly through the CMBI mobile app.
  • Regulatory Milestone: CMBI is the first mainland Chinese bank-affiliated entity to offer licensed crypto services in Hong Kong, including trading, custody, and advisory.
  • Strategic Expansion with Care: While pioneering crypto access, CMBI emphasizes a phased rollout under strict compliance and risk-control measures.

Analyst Perspectives

Analysts view this as a promising step toward mainstream crypto adoption, especially as a bank-backed institution enters regulated digital trading. However, they caution that operational maturity and regulatory evolution remain critical. Observers note that while overnight trading can enhance accessibility, it also introduces risks such as potential liquidity fluctuations outside normal market hours—underscoring the need for robust infrastructure and investor education, much like extended-hours trading in traditional markets.


Global Impact Note

By enabling secure, 24/7 crypto trading, CMBI may set a precedent that accelerates similar regulatory adoption across Asia. The move could also encourage institutional participation and spark innovations in digital asset services—pushing forward the integration of decentralized finance within established financial systems worldwide.