Crypto-forward AMINA Bank AG has gained authorization in Hong Kong to extend its institutional cryptocurrency services. This follows a 233% surge in trading volume within the first half of 2025.

AMINA has received a ‘Type 1 license uplift’ from the Securities and Futures Commission, allowing it to bridge the gap in the Hong Kong market, which has struggled to access bank-quality cryptocurrency services due to stringent regulations.

Its Hong Kong branch can now trade in 13 cryptocurrencies including Bitcoin, Ether, USDC, Tether, and notable DeFi tokens.

📢 Crypto trading and custody – now available at AMINA Hong Kong!
Today, AMINA becomes the first international banking group to launch comprehensive crypto trading and custody services in Hong Kong.
What this means for institutions, corporates, family offices, and UHNWI… 📸
— AMINA Bank (@AMINABankGlobal) November 18, 2025

As AMINA observes a significant uptick in trading activity, the company aims to diversify into private fund management and structured products to enhance crypto offerings.

Hong Kong Welcomes International Crypto Firms

Hong Kong is cultivating its position as a prime crypto hub. While AMINA asserts its title as the first international bank to secure a Type 1 license upgrade, it enters an already competitive landscape filled with local entities like Tiger Brokers and HashKey.

New Stablecoin Regulations in Hong Kong

Hong Kong has taken a careful stance on cryptocurrencies, implementing stablecoin regulations in August, leading major banks like HSBC and ICBC to consider pursuing licenses. The region also recently approved its first Solana exchange-traded fund, marking a step ahead of the U.S.

However, regulatory tightening around self-custody of crypto was designed more for cybersecurity than limiting user capabilities.