US Regulators Curbing Crypto Sector; IBKR Launched Crypto Trading

• The United States is escalating its efforts to curb the crypto sector.
• An automated global electronic broker launched its cryptocurrency trading in Hong Kong.

According to a recent Bloomberg report, the U.S. regulatory crackdown subdues crypto markets ahead of key inflation data. The digital assets nurse losses after the latest US restrictions. Now the traders are awaiting US CPI figures that could impact risk appetite. The efforts kept a lid on digital-asset prices as the investors are digesting the implications of an aggressive American regulatory posture.

On the other hand, Interactive Brokers (Nasdaq:IBKR), an automated global electronic broker, yesterday announced its launch of cryptocurrency trading in Hong Kong. This enables Professional Investor clients of Interactive Brokers Hong Kong to trade Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH).

The eligible clients including individuals with over HKD 8 million in investable assets or institutions with assets greater than HKD 40 Million who are residents of Hong Kong, can now trade cryptocurrency alongside other asset classes available on the platform of an automated global electronic broker, creating a unified client experience.

The expansion of crypto trading

According to the press release, crypto trading via Interactive Brokers Hong Kong is powered by OSL Digital Securitie. It has low commissions of just 0.20% – 0.30% of trade value, depending on monthly volume, with a $2.25 minimum per order, with no added spreads or markups. 

It can be seen that the launch of these kinds of services comes at a pivotal moment in the evolution of the regulated digital asset landscape in Hong Kong. Investors are showing a growing interest in digital assets while this collaboration is poised to make an important impact on the Hong Kong digital asset market.

David Friedland, Head of APAC at Interactive Brokers said that “the investor demand for digital assets continues to grow in Hong Kong and around the world, and we are pleased to introduce cryptocurrency to address the trading objectives of clients in this important market.”

“Eligible clients will benefit from our low costs and the ability to trade crypto alongside many other global products from a single unified platform,” as Friedland noted.

Previously, trading cryptocurrency and other asset classes required investors to use different trading platforms from different brokers and exchanges. However, cryptocurrency trading on the Interactive Broker’s platform, allows investors to transact and view balances through a single platform that provides a unified view.

The clients of Interactive Brokers benefit from the convenience of centralized cash management. They can also trade Bitcoin and Ethereum along with stocks, options, futures, bonds, event contracts, mutual funds, and ETFs from a single screen.

Hugh Madden, CEO at BC Group and OSL states that “they are excited to bring their expertise in the digital asset space to the market through these initiatives. The launch of regulated digital asset trading services marks the inception of a transformative process in the digital asset market. They eagerly anticipate the emergence of additional market alliances that will drive growth and increase market share.”

Steve Anderson is an Australian crypto enthusiast. He is a specialist in management and trading for over 5 years. Steve has worked as a crypto trader, he loves learning about decentralisation, understanding the true potential of the blockchain.

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