Traditional finance and cryptocurrency are converging at an accelerating pace. On May 7, a Twitter user named FORAB revealed that FUTU Securities was internally testing a token deposit feature supporting Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), and Tether (USDT). Within hours, the news was confirmed: FUTU Securities International (Hong Kong) Limited—affiliated with Hong Kong-based fintech giant FUTU Holdings—officially launched BTC, ETH, and USDT deposit services on its flagship trading platform, Futu NiuNiu.
Eligible investors can now deposit crypto assets directly into their accounts, trade for capital, and seamlessly invest across multiple asset classes—including stocks, ETFs, and even withdraw funds. This integration marks a significant leap in FUTU’s evolution from a traditional brokerage to a diversified digital wealth management platform.
The Regulatory Foundation: VATP License Approval in Early 2025
FUTU Holdings, founded in 2012, is a leading Hong Kong fintech firm focused on digital securities brokerage and wealth management. As of Q4 2024, it reported over 34 million global registered users and approximately 2.5 million paying customers—an impressive 39.1% year-on-year growth. In Hong Kong alone, Futu NiuNiu reaches more than half of the adult population. The company achieved an 86.8% increase in total revenue and a 105.4% rise in non-GAAP net profit in 2024.
As a licensed securities firm under Hong Kong’s Securities and Futures Commission (SFC), FUTU holds Type 1 (Securities Trading), Type 4 (Advisory), and Type 9 (Asset Management) licenses. These ensure compliance with anti-money laundering (AML) and know-your-customer (KYC) regulations for traditional financial services.
However, crypto-related operations require additional authorization—specifically, a Virtual Asset Trading Platform (VATP) license. In January 2025, the SFC granted this license to PantherTrade, a wholly-owned subsidiary of FUTU Holdings. This regulatory milestone paved the way for the launch of crypto deposit services on Futu NiuNiu.
The new service allows retail users to deposit BTC (minimum 0.0002 BTC) and ETH (minimum 0.001 ETH), with funds typically credited within one hour. Professional investors can also deposit USDT via designated networks—free of transaction fees. This integration enables users to manage both crypto and traditional investments—such as U.S. stocks, Hong Kong equities, and ETFs—on a single interface.
Expanding Investment Horizons for Stock Traders
For existing stock traders on Futu NiuNiu, the addition of crypto deposits opens new doors.
First, portfolio diversification becomes easier than ever. While users are accustomed to trading equities and ETFs, cryptocurrencies represent a high-growth alternative asset class. With Bitcoin surpassing $100,000 in early 2024 during a bull run, demand for digital assets remains strong. By allowing direct BTC and ETH deposits, FUTU eliminates the need to register on separate exchanges—reducing complexity and entry barriers.
Second, risk hedging becomes more strategic. Stock markets and crypto markets often move in different cycles. For example, when equities dip during macroeconomic uncertainty, crypto may surge due to speculative or safe-haven demand. Users can now allocate small portions of their portfolios to crypto as a hedge—enhancing resilience against market volatility.
Moreover, USDT as a stable bridge empowers professional investors to shift capital fluidly between asset classes. Instead of converting crypto to fiat and waiting for bank settlements, they can use USDT as a short-term store of value before reallocating into stocks or withdrawing funds.
Compared to platforms like Robinhood—which derived nearly 20% of its 2023 revenue from crypto trading—FUTU’s user base includes a large segment of young, high-net-worth individuals already open to digital assets. This makes the timing ideal for boosting engagement and increasing average account balances.
Attracting Crypto-Native Users to Traditional Markets
While stock traders gain access to crypto, the reverse is also true: crypto enthusiasts now have a regulated gateway to traditional finance.
The supported assets—BTC, ETH, and USDT—cover the most liquid and widely recognized digital currencies. Bitcoin remains the market leader by capitalization; Ethereum powers decentralized applications; and USDT offers stability amid price swings.
More importantly, FUTU brings institutional-grade trust. Unlike some crypto-only exchanges that have suffered hacks or insolvency, FUTU operates under strict SFC oversight with robust security protocols. This appeals strongly to risk-conscious investors who prioritize safety and transparency—key factors behind Robinhood’s success in attracting millions of users.
Additionally, the one-stop investment experience streamlines asset management. Crypto users no longer need to juggle multiple platforms: they can hold Bitcoin alongside Apple shares or Hang Seng Index ETFs in one account. When crypto markets cool off but U.S. tech stocks rally, switching exposure takes just a few clicks.
This seamless transition supports tactical investing across market cycles, enabling users to capitalize on opportunities wherever they emerge.
Key Limitations and Eligibility Constraints
Despite its advantages, FUTU’s crypto service has notable limitations.
Currently, it serves Hong Kong and international users only. Due to mainland China’s strict regulatory stance on cryptocurrency, users from the Chinese mainland cannot participate.
Furthermore, USDT deposits are restricted to professional investors, defined as individuals with at least HK$8 million in investable assets. While this aligns with Hong Kong’s investor protection framework, it effectively excludes most retail traders—a move some have jokingly dubbed “locking out retail.”
The actual number of users engaging with the feature remains unclear, but early adoption patterns suggest strong interest among accredited investors seeking diversified exposure.
👉 See how integrated financial platforms are redefining investment flexibility in the digital age.
Industry Impact: A Catalyst for Financial Convergence
FUTU’s move isn’t just about user growth—it signals a broader trend of convergence between traditional finance and crypto.
By leveraging its regulatory compliance and trusted brand, FUTU enhances transparency in an industry often criticized for opacity. Its entry may encourage other licensed brokers—like Victory Securities, which already offers crypto deposits—to expand their offerings.
Over time, we could see more hybrid financial ecosystems emerge: platforms where users trade stocks, bonds, ETFs, and digital assets under unified KYC, reporting, and custody standards.
This shift benefits all stakeholders:
- Investors gain flexibility and security.
- Regulators benefit from greater oversight.
- Platforms unlock new revenue streams through transaction fees, custody services, and cross-selling opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Who can use FUTU’s crypto deposit service?
A: The service is available to Hong Kong and eligible international users. Mainland Chinese users are excluded due to local regulations.
Q: What cryptocurrencies are supported?
A: Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), and Tether (USDT) are currently supported for deposit.
Q: Is there a minimum deposit amount?
A: Yes—minimums are 0.0002 BTC and 0.001 ETH for retail users; USDT deposits require professional investor status.
Q: Are there fees for crypto deposits?
A: No fees apply for USDT deposits by professional investors using approved networks. BTC and ETH deposits may incur network fees depending on blockchain congestion.
Q: Can I withdraw crypto from my FUTU account?
A: As of now, FUTU supports incoming deposits only. Withdrawal functionality has not been announced.
Q: Why did FUTU wait until 2025 to launch this service?
A: Regulatory readiness was key. The SFC only began issuing VATP licenses in 2023, and FUTU secured approval in January 2025 after completing compliance requirements.
Final Thoughts
FUTU’s launch of crypto deposit services represents more than a product update—it’s a strategic pivot toward becoming a next-generation financial hub. By integrating digital assets into its core platform, FUTU meets evolving investor demands while reinforcing its position as a leader in compliant fintech innovation.
As boundaries between traditional finance and crypto continue to blur, platforms that offer security, diversification, and seamless user experience will lead the next wave of digital wealth management.
Core Keywords: FUTU Securities, crypto deposit service, BTC ETH USDT, VATP license, Futu NiuNiu, cryptocurrency investment platform, Hong Kong fintech