【Perusahaan Sekuritas Internet】 Berita: Firstrade, perusahaan sekuritas AS, berencana memasuki pasar Hong Kong! Telah menunjuk RO dan sedang mengajukan lisensi, mengusung konsep "tanpa komisi"

Hong Kong Financial Market Gains a New Force! Reports indicate that Firstrade, a well-known American online brokerage with over 40 years of history, is secretly planning to establish a presence in Hong Kong. It is understood that Firstrade has recruited Responsible Officers (RO) and is applying for a license from the Securities and Futures Commission (SFC), targeting the huge business opportunity of Hong Kong residents’ enthusiasm for “trading US stocks.”

Firstrade responded to our inquiry, stating that as part of their internal assessment process, they have completed some preliminary administrative registration procedures in Hong Kong. However, they have not yet obtained authorization to provide any regulated services in Hong Kong, nor are they offering or promoting such services in the jurisdiction.

Firstrade indicated that any future business activities in Hong Kong will require approval from the relevant regulatory authorities. No decisions or specific timelines have been made at this stage.

Industry optimistic about international brokerages entering Hong Kong to enhance market competitiveness

Regarding Firstrade’s plan to join, the Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) did not comment on individual matters. The local securities industry generally holds a positive attitude, believing this will promote industry diversification:

1. Boosting local talent demand

Chen Zhihua, President of the Hong Kong Securities and Futures Professionals Association, pointed out that Firstrade has recruited twice through the association’s job services, reflecting ongoing international institutional demand for Hong Kong financial talent and highlighting Hong Kong’s attractiveness as an international financial center.

2. Promoting product and service diversification

Legislative Council Financial Services Sector Member Li Weihong stated that the arrival of foreign brokerages in Hong Kong is not merely competition but also an opportunity to bring mature overseas financial products into Hong Kong, making local market services more vibrant and internationally competitive.

Firstrade Background Introduction

Founded in 1985, Firstrade is known for low commissions and fees. In 1997, it expanded its online trading platform Firstrade.com, and in 2018, following market trends, it became part of the “zero commission” movement. In recent years, it has actively expanded into the Chinese-speaking market, launching 24/7 Chinese-language customer service in 2024, focusing on US stock trading, and covering exchange-traded funds (ETFs), options, bonds, treasury bonds, and over 11,000 mutual funds. It is a member of the US financial industry regulator FINRA and the US Securities Investor Protection Corporation (SIPC).