KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 5 (Bernama) -- Bursa Malaysia closed lower on Friday amid mixed regional market performance as investors turned cautious over a possible rate hike by the Bank of Japan (BOJ) and upcoming US economic data that may influence the Federal Reserve’s (Fed) interest rate decision next week. At 5 pm, the FTSE Bursa Malaysia KLCI (FBM KLCI) pared most earlier losses to settle 4.55 points easier, or 0.28 per cent, to 1,616.52 from Thursday’s close of 1,621.07. The benchmark index, which opened 0.37 of-a-point lower at 1,620.70, moved between 1,609.67 and 1,621.25 throughout the day. The broader market was negative, with decliners outpacing advancers 604 to 439. A total of 550 counters were unchanged, 1,151 untraded, and 18 suspended. Turnover declined to 3.17 billion units worth RM2.24 billion from 4.48 billion units worth RM2.75 billion yesterday. Rakuten Trade Sdn Bhd vice-presiden...
The Catalyst: Crypto License Breakthrough
On June 24, Guotai Junan International (01788.HK) became the first Chinese-backed broker in Hong Kong to offer full-scale crypto and stablecoin trading services — and its stock soared 198% in a single day.
This strategic leap positions the broker not just as a trading firm but as a "digital asset comprehensive service hub."Traders can now access Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Tether directly through its platform.
Why This Matters — Beyond the Headlines:
- New Revenue Engine:Crypto trading fees are far higher than stock commissions. That means Guotai Junan just unlocked a premium margin business line. Expect strong earnings potential through derivatives, structured products, and tokenization.
- Digital Asset First-Mover Advantage:With Hong Kong eyeing the title of international virtual asset hub, being first gives Guotai Junan regulatory, branding, and strategic advantage in stablecoins and RWA (real-world asset) tokenization.
- Sector Revaluation Ahead:This move may force a revaluation of Chinese broker stocks, especially those with Hong Kong subsidiaries. Traditional brokers are being pulled into the high-growth Web3 and DeFi space.
Who Might Be Next?
Major firms with cross-border reach and Hong Kong presence could be next to jump into crypto, including:
CITIC Securities (06030.HK)
CICC (03908.HK)
CMSC (06099.HK)
GF Securities (01776.HK)
These firms have the capital, tech stack, and regulatory readiness to pivot fast. Investors should monitor news from these companies closely.
MoneyMaster Take:
✅ Guotai Junan's crypto license is a game-changer — expect others to follow.
✅ Look at firms with Hong Kong operations and strong digital ambitions.
✅ The race to build cross-border Web3 infrastructure has officially started.
Investor Insight:
This isn’t just a stock story — it’s a macro shift in financial infrastructure. As tokenization, DeFi, and stablecoin regulations firm up, brokerage firms that transform early will gain outsized market share and revaluation potential.
🔎 Watch for:
Announcements from other brokers on crypto licenses
Hong Kong SFC updates on stablecoin frameworks
RWA tokenization pilots tied to property, bonds, or carbon credits
Bottom Line:
The crypto gateway has opened for traditional Chinese brokers. Investors should position for a sector shift where “finance meets digital assets.” Don't just follow the hype — follow the licenses, the flows, and the real business shifts.
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