币界网报道：Hong Kong has granted its first approval for a licensed crypto broker, marking a significant step in the city's push to become a digital asset hub. HashKey Exchange received authorization from the Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) to operate as a virtual asset trading platform, allowing retail investors to trade major cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum. The approval comes under Hong Kong's new regulatory framework for virtual asset service providers, which took effect in June. HashKey, which previously served only professional investors, will now expand its services to the general public while complying with strict anti-money laundering and investor protection rules. The move aligns with Hong Kong's broader strategy to establish itself as a crypto-friendly jurisdiction while maintaining regulatory oversight. Industry observers view this as a potential catalyst for more institutional participation in Hong Kong's digital asset market.