Hong Kong’s SFC Strives to Foster Crypto Innovation While Safeguarding Investors Amid DAT Challenges

Hong Kong’s primary financial watchdog has expressed concerns about the dangers linked to digital asset treasuries (DATs), cautioning that firms trading at high premiums compared to their actual asset values may subject investors to unnecessary market swings. According to local reports, the Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) is closely observing how companies handle DATs and is evaluating the potential need for updated regulatory measures, as referenced by

. SFC Chair Kelvin Wong Tin-yau underscored the importance of educating investors about these risks during a press briefing on Tuesday, pointing to U.S. cases where DAT-related stocks have traded well above their intrinsic worth.

The SFC’s apprehension arises from a rising pattern of publicly listed firms turning to cryptocurrencies and digital assets to manage surplus funds—a strategy gaining momentum worldwide but still lacking oversight in Hong Kong. Wong remarked that there are currently no dedicated regulations for DAT activities in the city and mentioned that the regulator will assess whether such rules should be introduced. This follows the Hong Kong Stock Exchange’s decision to turn down applications from at least five companies aiming to structure their businesses around DATs, citing existing restrictions on substantial liquid asset holdings.

Wong’s statements illustrate the SFC’s commitment to balancing innovation with investor protection. “The reform will examine whether more firms can be listed under this framework while still safeguarding investor interests,” he said, referring to ongoing initiatives to update Hong Kong’s listing rules to attract technology companies, as reported by the

. The review seeks to expand upon the 2018 policy that allowed pre-revenue biotech companies and businesses with weighted voting rights to go public, but Wong emphasized that protecting investors remains a top priority.

The SFC’s prudent stance mirrors a worldwide discussion about DATs, with critics claiming that the premiums seen on these stocks are often driven by speculation rather than real value. Wong cautioned that retail investors might not fully understand the associated risks, advising them to carefully examine the underlying assets and governance structures of DAT firms. His comments are consistent with Hong Kong’s general regulatory philosophy, which has traditionally favored stability over the rapid embrace of crypto innovations.