Cybersecurity
Cybersecurity: Lessons to learn from the recent SFC thematic review
More than 95% of all active traders in Hong Kong trade through internet trading systems. In this article, Pádraig Walsh from our Cybersecurity team highlights key points in a report from a recent thematic cybersecurity review of licensed corporations published by the Securities and Future…Read More
New SFC Circular streamlines licensing for Virtual Asset Trading Platforms
In this news update, Pádraig Walsh from our Fintech practice group looks at the streamlined licensing process for virtual asset trading platforms (VATPs) introduced for all applicants by the Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) in its 16 January 2025 Circular[1]. Streamlined licensing process This Circular…Read More
Not yet the last word on efforts to scrap scraping
In our legal update of 3 October 2023 (link), we reported that the Privacy Commissioner for Personal Data in Hong Kong (“PCPD”) joined the international effort along with eleven other privacy authorities in issuing a joint statement in respect of illegal data scraping practices. The…Read More
Looking back, looking forward: Highlights and prospects in Hong Kong data privacy regulation
There is never a dull moment in data privacy and protection. The global landscape is becoming increasingly complex with overlapping regulation and lack of international convergence. Although Hong Kong does not have these issues yet, 2024 witnessed some significant developments in 2024, setting the stage…Read More
Social media regulation in Hong Kong: An overview
1. Legal and enforcement framework 1.1 Which legislative and regulatory provisions govern social media in Hong Kong? The most relevant legislative and regulatory provisions in respect of social media are the following: 1.2 Which bodies are responsible for enforcing the applicable laws and regulations in the social…Read More
The Hong Kong Market Entry Playbook
Hong Kong has a long history as a business-friendly location and regional hub to access markets in China and the Asia Pacific region. In this article, we explain key points about Hong Kong as a regional and international business centre, and how to establish your…Read More
What you need to know about VATP regulation in Hong Kong
Hong Kong is a virtual asset hub, with a number of Web3 businesses operating in and from Hong Kong or targeting the Hong Kong market. In this overview, Pádraig Walsh and Shirley Kong from the Fintech practice group of Tanner De Witt review the regulation…Read More
VATP regulation in Hong Kong: The VATP Guidelines
As part of its application for a virtual asset trading platform (VATP) licence in Hong Kong, the applicant must demonstrate full compliance with conditions and guidelines of the Securities and Futures Commission (SFC). This is required both to obtain the VATP licence, and then as…Read More
The regulatory framework for security token offerings in Hong Kong
On 2 November 2023, the Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) published two circulars that outlined and updated regulatory framework for security token offerings in Hong Kong. In this article, Pádraig Walsh, who leads our Fintech practice group, summarises the key points of these circulars and…Read More
AI Impact Assessments: A practical guide for businesses
As AI becomes broadly integrated into enterprise applications and adopted by businesses, impact assessments before the adoption of AI driven technology will be essential – whether as a requirement of law or as prudent risk management and awareness. In this article, we highlight key principles…Read More
Legal Update: PCPD investigation report on credit reference agency data subject complaint
In this snapshot legal update, the Office of the Privacy Commissioner for Personal Data (“PCPD”) published an investigation report on 1 June 2023 concerning the TE Credit Reference System, developed by Softmedia Technology Company Limited (“Softmedia”) in January 2016. Softmedia was not a credit reference…Read More
The Chambers and Partners Greater China Region 2023 rankings are announced
Tanner De Witt is delighted once again to be recognised by Chambers & Partners in their inaugural 2023 Greater China Region Guide for each of its main practice areas. Please see full results and editorial commentary below. Corporate/M&A: Independent Hong Kong Firms (Band 2)Full ranking here. Tanner…Read More