New HK-UAE regulatory pact signals end of cross-border crypto secrecy

The framework aligns Hong Kong and UAE's oversight of virtual asset platforms across borders.

Hong Kong’s Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) has signed a memorandum of understanding with the United Arab Emirates’ Capital Market Authority (CMA) to enhance regulatory cooperation on digital assets, according to a statement issued by the SFC.

The MoU establishes a framework for information sharing and cooperation on the supervision of digital asset-related activities.

This includes exchanges on regulatory approaches, market developments, and oversight of intermediaries and platforms operating across jurisdictions, the SFC said.

The agreement is aimed at strengthening supervisory coordination and supporting investor protection as digital asset markets become increasingly cross-border in nature.

The SFC said the MoU also reflects its broader strategy of deepening engagement with overseas regulators in fintech and digital finance, as Hong Kong continues to refine its virtual asset regulatory and licensing regime.

According to the statement, the agreement provides both regulators with a formal channel to coordinate responses to regulatory risks and developments in digital asset markets, particularly as international participation and institutional interest increase.