Core Viewpoint - Chinese securities firms are increasingly expanding their presence in the virtual asset business in Hong Kong, with recent approvals for virtual asset licenses from firms like Haitong Securities and China Merchants Bank's subsidiary, CM International Securities [2][3][4]. Group 1: License Acquisition - Haitong Securities and CM International have obtained licenses to provide virtual asset trading services through comprehensive account arrangements, with CM International also acting as an introducing agent for virtual asset trading platforms [2][3]. - As of July 14, 2023, the Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) has seen a continuous increase in the number of institutions holding various types of virtual asset licenses, with 15, 43, 19, 41, and 37 institutions approved for different categories of licenses respectively [3][6]. Group 2: Market Trends and Investor Demand - The growing acceptance of cryptocurrencies and digital assets in mainstream markets has led to a significant increase in investor demand for these emerging asset classes, prompting securities firms to acquire virtual asset licenses to meet client needs [2][8]. - The recent performance of several securities firms in the virtual asset sector has been positive, reflecting market optimism and encouraging more firms to enter this space [8]. Group 3: Regulatory Framework and Industry Dynamics - Hong Kong is accelerating its development as an international virtual asset center, with a regulatory framework that categorizes virtual asset-related businesses into five types, requiring corresponding licenses [6]. - Traditional financial institutions, particularly securities firms, are playing a crucial role in the rapid expansion of virtual asset services, with many firms upgrading their licenses to offer comprehensive trading services [6][8]. Group 4: Future Opportunities - The acquisition of virtual asset licenses allows securities firms to provide a wider range of investment options, enhancing client retention and expanding business opportunities [8]. - Firms like CM International anticipate that their newly acquired virtual asset licenses will open up more development opportunities for their stock business and create more efficient financial service solutions for investors [8].