May 9, 2024 — The Bitcoin Conference “Bitcoin Asia 2024”, has been successfully kicked off today at the Kai Tak Cruise Terminal in Hong Kong. As the leading Web3 financial technology summit globally, it is held annually in the United States and attracts over 50,000 attendees. The summit aims to promote the global development and cooperation of Bitcoin and Web3 technologies.
This marks the first ever Bitcoin Conference in Asia, and finally choosing Hong Kong as the event venue. The first day drew over 10,000 participants from all over the world, highlighting Hong Kong as the global center for Web3 and virtual assets. This summit is not only a platform for technical exchange but also a significant milestone in driving global financial innovation. It brings together numerous Bitcoin experts, developers, investors, and over 50 exhibitors from around the globe to showcase and discuss the future development of Bitcoin and blockchain technology.
The opening ceremony of the summit had invited four Hong Kong Legislative Councillors, namely Dr Hon Johnny Ng Kit-chong, Hon Duncan Chiu Tat-kun, Hon Michael Lee Chun-keung, and Hon SHANG Hai-long.
Dr. Hon Johnny Ng delivered his key note speech and highlighted that Hong Kong, as an international financial and technology innovation center, is actively promoting the development of Web3. Since the “Policy Statement on the Development of Virtual Assets in Hong Kong” issued in October 2022, the virtual assets (VA) market has seen rapid growth, demonstrating the government’s commitment to exploring financial innovation in the industry. In December 2022, the government approved the listing of Bitcoin and Ethereum spot ETFs, and on June 1, 2023, established a licensing system and regulatory requirements for Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASP), now offering Bitcoin and Ethereum (ETH) trading services to retail investors.
Additionally, the summit features several panel discussions and workshops covering various aspects of blockchain technology, such as cyber security, legal environment, and market trends. Moreover, over 50 exhibitors showcase the latest applications and ecosystems of Bitcoin and Web3 technologies, providing participants with a deep understanding and hands-on experience. Leading thinkers and innovators within the industry will also share their insights and forecasts, helping participants grasp the development trajectory of the industry.
