Investment Rating - The report does not explicitly state an investment rating for the industry Core Insights - The global virtual asset licensing system has essentially taken shape, with a systematic regional regulatory framework established [3] - Different regions exhibit variations in virtual asset licensing, reflecting distinct regulatory logics and strategic focuses [3] - Three major collaborative trends are emerging: local currency anchoring, asset custody, and anti-money laundering compliance [3] - Licensed operators and service providers are expected to become mainstream, with regulated trading platforms and stablecoin assets presenting lower risks [3] - The licensing will serve as a significant valuation support factor, with leading companies holding core licenses enjoying first-mover advantages and competitive moats [3] Summary by Sections 01 Global Virtual Asset Licensing System - The licensing framework in Hong Kong includes a dual regulatory structure for stablecoin issuers and virtual asset service providers (VASP) [8][9] - Hong Kong's VASP license requires compliance with strict operational and auditing standards, enhancing market transparency and investor safety [10] - Singapore's regulatory approach emphasizes innovation while ensuring market safety through a clear regulatory framework [11][12] - The European MiCA framework provides comprehensive regulations for crypto assets, categorizing them into electronic money tokens, asset-referenced tokens, and utility tokens [13][14] - The U.S. regulatory landscape is characterized by a complex multi-layered system involving federal and state-level oversight [17][18] 02 Differences and Collaborations in Regional Licensing - Hong Kong's licensing system is more inclusive for retail investors compared to Singapore's cautious approach [26] - The regulatory frameworks in Hong Kong and Europe aim to provide clear guidelines to foster innovation while ensuring compliance [26] - The U.S. regulatory environment is fragmented, requiring compliance with both federal and state regulations [26] 03 Investment Recommendations - Beneficial targets include licensed firms such as Zhongyou Capital, Bank of China Hong Kong, and Coinbase Global [4] - The report highlights the importance of holding licenses as a key factor for valuation and competitive advantage in the virtual asset industry [3][4]

Group 1 - The market saw a significant increase in trading volume, surpassing 1.6 trillion, with the Shanghai Composite Index reaching a new high of 3450 points for the year [1] - The brokerage sector experienced a substantial rise, driven by the acquisition of a virtual asset license by Guotai Junan International, alongside industry consolidation, regulatory reforms, and low valuations as the main catalysts for the increase [1] - The outlook for the brokerage sector remains positive, with a focus on holding positions after valuations become reasonable [1] Group 2 - Attention is drawn to two key factors: the impending deadline of July 9 for US tariff negotiations, which may impact China based on outcomes with Europe and Japan, and the emphasis on technological independence and domestic demand in the "14th Five-Year Plan" [1] - There are multiple industry news, company earnings, and international developments that warrant attention [1]

Group 1 - Several local Hong Kong brokerages, such as Victory Securities and Adept Securities, have completed the upgrade of the first license [1] - Guotai Junan International is not the only Chinese brokerage applying for a license, indicating potential for more institutions to enter the market in the future [1] - Brokerages are primarily engaged in "distribution" type trading services rather than operating proprietary exchanges [1]