Best Crypto Exchanges in Hong Kong

Top Crypto Trading Platforms in Hong Kong

The best digital asset trading platforms in Hong Kong should support HKD deposits and withdrawals, offer competitive trading fees, have an intuitive interface and operate under the oversight of the Securities and Futures Commission (SFC). Below is a detailed table comparing the five best cryptocurrency exchanges for traders in Hong Kong.

‍

1. Kraken

Kraken is one of the most trusted cryptocurrency exchanges in Hong Kong, known for its robust security measures, transparent audits, and institutional-grade trading tools. The platform supports over 340 cryptocurrencies, providing spot, margin, and derivatives trading options with 5x leverage.

Local investors prefer Kraken for its regular proof-of-reserves audits, ensuring full transparency regarding user funds. Kraken Pro is a professional trading platform that caters to advanced traders, offering customizable charts, low-latency execution, and an OTC desk for high-volume trades.

Beyond trading, it provides staking services, allowing users to earn up to 16% APY on select digital assets. With over $207 billion in quarterly trading volume, Kraken remains a dominant force in the crypto market, fully compliant with Hong Kong’s Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) regulations.

• Fees: Maker fees from 0.16%, taker fees starting at 0.26%.
• Supported Assets: Over 340 spot trading options and 100+ futures contracts.
• Regulation and Licensing: Globally licensed by the FCA, FINTRAC, FinCEN, and is available in Hong Kong.
• HKD Deposit Methods: SWIFT, bank transfers, credit cards and debit cards.

‍

2. OKX

OKX is a versatile exchange that not only offers traditional crypto trading but also bridges the gap between centralized finance (CeFi) and decentralized finance (DeFi). Users can trade over 350 coins with access to spot, futures, perpetual swaps, and options trading with leverage up to 100x.

The platform is a leader in Web3 adoption, offering an integrated self-custody wallet, OKX Wallet, that connects users to NFTs and DeFi protocols. It also provides yield farming and savings products through its Earn program, allowing users to stake assets and participate in liquidity pools.

With over 50 million users worldwide, OKX continues to expand its offerings in Hong Kong, aligning itself with the SFC’s virtual asset regulatory framework to ensure compliance. Thanks to its global accessibility, the interface is accessible in English, Cantonese and Mandarin.

• Fees: Spot trading fees start at 0.08% for makers and 0.1% for takers.
• Supported Assets: Over 350 digital assets.
• Regulation & Licensing: Operating in compliance with the SFC under OKX Hong Kong FinTech Company Limited.
• HKD Deposit Methods: Credit cards and debit cards.

‍

3. Binance

Binance dominates the global crypto market, and its presence in Hong Kong is no exception, with over 250 million customers worldwide. Supporting more than 600 cryptocurrencies and 1,000+ trading pairs, it provides access to spot, futures, margin, and options trading with up to 125x leverage.

Beyond its massive trading volume, the platform offers an all-in-one crypto ecosystem that includes Binance Earn for staking and savings, an NFT marketplace, a Visa-backed crypto debit card, an AI-powered trading assistant, and access to the BNB Chain for DeFi applications.

With over an average daily trading volume of $65 billion across both spot and futures order books, Binance remains one of the most liquid exchanges in the world. While still working on full regulatory compliance in Hong Kong, Binance is engaging with the SFC to meet licensing requirements.

• Fees: 0.1% for spot trades and 0.06% for derivatives.
• Supported Assets: Over 600 cryptocurrencies.
• Regulation & Licensing: In the process of applying for an SFC license, but it is available in Hong Kong.‍
• HKD Deposit Methods: Bank transfers and credit or debit cards.

‍

4. Gate.io

Gate.io has established itself as a top exchange in Hong Kong, offering access to a vast range of 3,600 digital assets, including major stablecoins, as well as a diverse selection of altcoins, memecoins and gaming tokens. This extensive offering enables users to diversify their portfolios effectively.

In May 2023, Gate.io launched Gate.HK, a dedicated platform for the Hong Kong market. The platform emphasizes security, implementing robust measures to protect user assets and data. Additionally, Gate.io has initiated preparations to apply for licensing with the SFC.

It also offers innovative features such as the "Startup Project Free Airdrop Program," providing opportunities to receive tokens from new blockchain projects. With a daily trading volume exceeding $10 billion and a global user base of 21 million, Gate.io has a significant presence.

• Fees: Maker fees are at 0.1%, and taker fees are at 0.2%.
• Supported Cryptocurrencies: Over 3,600 digital currencies.
• Regulation & Licensing: Based in the Seychelles, accessible to Hong Kong users without local licensing.
• HKD Deposit Methods: Apple Pay, Google Pay, credit or debit cards.

‍

5. Hashkey Exchange

HashKey Exchange is Hong Kong's premier licensed virtual asset trading platform. It supports 25 cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin and Ethereum, facilitating seamless trading between fiat currencies like Hong Kong dollars (HKD) and U.S. dollars (USD) and digital currencies.

Committed to regulatory compliance, HashKey Exchange holds Type 1 (Dealing in Securities) and Type 7 (Providing Automated Trading Services) licenses from the SFC of Hong Kong. Additionally, it has obtained the ISO 27001 certification, highlighting its dedication to information security.

The platform offers user-friendly features, including the ability to buy crypto directly with bank cards in HKD or USD. The platform collaborates with leading commercial banks, including Hong Kong's note-issuing banks. For on-the-go trading, users can download the HashKey Exchange app.

• Fees: 0.5% Spot trading fee.
• Supported Assets: 25 cryptocurrencies.
• Regulation & Licensing: Fully licensed by the SFC, holding Type 1 and Type 7 licenses, and compliant with Hong Kong's Anti-Money Laundering Ordinance.
• HKD Deposit Methods: Bank cards.

‍

Is Crypto Regulated in Hong Kong?

Hong Kong has established a structured regulatory framework for cryptocurrency. The Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) oversees virtual asset trading platforms, requiring them to obtain licenses and adhere to strict anti-money laundering (AML) and investor protection measures.

Beyond exchange regulations, Hong Kong has also made a groundbreaking move by accepting cryptocurrency as proof of assets for investment immigration applications. Under the New Capital Investment Entrant Scheme, applicants seeking residency must demonstrate ownership of at least HK$30 million ($3.8 million) in assets. 

Additionally, the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) is advancing regulation on stablecoins, requiring issuers to obtain a license before launching their tokens. This regulatory clarity positions Hong Kong as a leader in responsible crypto adoption.

‍

How is Crypto Taxed in Hong Kong?

Unlike jurisdictions that impose capital gains taxes on crypto transactions, Hong Kong does not levy capital gains tax on individuals who buy, hold, and sell digital assets as a form of long-term investment. However, taxation applies to businesses and active traders, depending on how the assets are used.

The Inland Revenue Department (IRD) determines tax liability based on the nature of crypto transactions. If a business actively trades, mines, or accepts cryptocurrency as payment for goods and services, profits are subject to standard corporate tax rates, which currently stand at 8.25% for the first HK$2 million in profits and 16.5% thereafter.

Additionally, Hong Kong has introduced tax exemptions for hedge funds, private equity funds, and family offices investing in digital assets. Under a recent proposal from the Financial Services and the Treasury Bureau, investment gains from cryptocurrencies, alternative assets, and tokenized securities may qualify for exemptions.

‍

Cryptocurrency Adoption in Hong Kong

Hong Kong’s crypto market projected to generate US$68.8 million in revenue in 2025. Despite short-term fluctuations, the city continues to attract both institutional and retail investors, driven by regulatory clarity, licensed exchanges, and increasing mainstream acceptance. 

By the end of the year, the amount of investors is expected to reach 393,500, equating to 5.25% of the population. Additionally, major global exchanges, including Binance, Bitfinex, and OKX, maintain a significant presence in Hong Kong, offering deep liquidity and a diverse range of trading products. 

‍

How to Buy Bitcoin in Hong Kong

The process of purchasing Bitcoin in Hong Kong is straightforward, thanks to the availability of regulated crypto exchanges and clear licensing framework by the Securities and Futures Commission (SFC). Here’s how to get started:

1. Pick Exchange: Choose a cryptocurrency exchange that holds an SFC license and supports Hong Kong dollar (HKD) transactions. Trusted options include OSL, HashKey, and OKX, which operate legally under local regulations.
2. Create Account: Regulatory requirements in Hong Kong mandate Know Your Customer (KYC) verification. This means you’ll need to provide a government-issued ID and proof of address to complete the onboarding process.
3. Deposit Funds in HKD: Once your account is verified, fund it by bank transfer or credit/debit card.
4. Purchase Bitcoin: Navigate to the trading section of your exchange and select the BTC/HKD or BTC/USDT trading pair. Enter the amount you want to buy, confirm the order, and complete the transaction.
5. Store Your Bitcoin Safely: Consider transferring your Bitcoin to a hardware wallet or a secure non-custodial wallet rather than keeping it on an exchange.

Hong Kong's strong regulatory environment and growing crypto market allow investors to confidently buy and trade Bitcoin while ensuring compliance with local financial guidelines.

‍

Final Thoughts

Hong Kong’s crypto market is evolving, with a strong regulatory framework that supports both institutional and retail investors. Choosing the right exchange depends on factors like security, asset selection, fees, and access to DeFi services. 

Platforms like Kraken and HashKey offer high compliance and security, while OKX and Binance provide access to a broader range of trading and Web3 products. With clear regulations, tax advantages, and increasing adoption, Hong Kong remains a prime location for crypto trading.