ETH Beginner Guide: Pros and Cons of buying ETH
The market cap of ETH comes second in the world, and it is the second-largest cryptocurrency by volume, which is just behind Bitcoin. Even if you don’t follow the financial world closely, you are likely to be aware that cryptocurrencies have become one of its biggest stories recently.
However, the price of crypto can fluctuate a lot, which can be concerning to many investors. This article will detail what ETH is and compare it with Bitcoin. Moreover, it will also cover the trend of ETH, its key features and its risks.

Getting to know ETH (Ethereum)
What is Ethereum (ETH)?
Ethereum, which is the specific blockchain technology, was invented by programmer Vitalik Buterin and it was first released in 2015. Ethereum’s native cryptocurrency is called Ether (ETH).
Like other cryptos, Ethereum was built on the principles of decentralized finance. Ethereum embraces an open-source software platform which allows developers to create cryptocurrencies and other secured digital applications, which can be anything from lending apps to payment platforms and with the potential to do far more. This is the reason why some believe that it could one day shunt Bitcoin from the top cryptocurrency spot.
Over the past year, Ethereum has gained in popularity and it is adopted by both retail and institutional investors alike.
Best Crypto Exchange
HashKey Exchange
- Transaction fees
- Up to 0.29%
- Custody Fee
- HK$0
- Account Opening Min. Funding
- HK$10,000
【HashKey Aug: HK$300 Welcome Offer, No Retention】🎉💰🎁
FromAug 1–31, open an account via the MoneySmart designated link or promo code【MS2026】and complete the conditions below to claim an HK$300 cash voucher:
⭐️ Complete 1 digital asset transaction of at least HK$100 within 14 days of account opening to get: 🔥HK$300 cash* or ParknShop cash e-voucher
‼️ For full promo and reward details, please see 【Reward Details】below
Futu Securities Account
- Min. Commission Fee US Stocks
- US$0.99
- Commission Fee HK Stocks
- HK$0
- Account Opening Min. Funding
- HK$10,000
【August Bonus Reward】1- 15 August: Download the Futu Moomoo App, enter promo code【MSFUTU】before completing opening, and then fulfill balance retention requirements to receive up to HK$7,234 in welcome rewards.
1️⃣【Deposit HK$80,000 & Hold for 60 days】💰 HK$2,000 cash*/ 💦 Philips RO Hot & Cold Pure Water Dispenser ADD6912/90 (value: HK$3,788)
🧭 Limited-time offer with a HK$80,000 deposit:
- HK$2,000 for SONY PlayStation 5 Digital Edition 825GB (Slim Version) (Value: HK$4.257)
- HK$3,000 for Apple MacBook Neo 13" A18 Pro chip (8GB 256GB SSD) (Value : HK$5,499)
- HK$2,400 for Osmo Pocket 4 Creator Combo (Value: HK$4,419)
2️⃣【Deposit HK$10,000 or Student Exclusive Offer & Hold for 60 days】💰 HK$1,000 cash*/ PHILIPS ADD5981 All-in-One Water Dispenser (vlaue: HK$1,688)/ Dyson HushJet™ Mini Cool Fan & HK$200 ParknShop e-Vouchers (total value: HK$1,090)
🧭 Limited-time offer with a HK$10,000 deposit:
- HK$1,500 for Philips 6000 Series XW6264/11 Vacuum & Wash Cordless (Value: HK$5,398)
- HK$3,100 for SONY PlayStation 5 Digital Edition 825GB (Slim Version) (Value: HK$4.257)
⚡️ All new account holders during the promo also get: HK$100 Buy&Ship New Member Exclusive Consolidated Shipping Cash Voucher
‼️Tap on【More Details】below to find out more about the campaign and rewards!
OSL
- Trading Fee
- HK$0
- Custody Fee
- HK$0
- Account Opening Min. Funding
- HK$10,000
【OSL Aug Welcome Offer, Get HK$2,388】
From August 1 to 31, open an account successfully via the MoneySmart link and using referral code 【0DchG】, then complete the designated conditions to claim rewards
1️⃣ Deposit HK$80,000 or more within 14 days of account opening and hold for 30 days to receive HK$888 worth of Bitcoin.
2️⃣ Deposit HK$800,000 or more within 14 days of account opening and hold for 30 days to receive HK$1,888 worth of Bitcoin
Complete 1️⃣ or 2️⃣ to select one of the following MoneySmart Extra Rewards
1. HK$500 cash (via 5,000 SmartPoints to FPS)
2. HK$500 Apple Store e-Gift Card
3. HK$500 ParknShop e-Voucher
4. Hong Kong Plaza Premium Lounge APAC 3 hrs Access Pass x2 (Value HK$1,300)
Best brokerage accounts in Hong Kong
Webull Securities Account
- Commission Fee US Stocks
- US$0
- Commission Fee HK Stocks
- HK$0
- US stocks minimum trade
- US$1
【HK$1,900 Cash Welcome Offer 💰】From Aug 1 - 15, open an account via the designated MoneySmart link
1️⃣ Deposit HK$80,000–HK$499,999 within 30 days, then maintain for another 30 days. Choose one:
🔥 HK$1,900 cash* / Apple Store e-gift card/ De'Longhi Dedica Duo Pump-driven Espresso Coffee Machine (EC890) (Value HK$3,588)
🧭 Limited-time offer with a HK$80,000 deposit :
- Redeem at a discounted price of HK$2,300 - PHILIPS ADD6922CG Hot and Cold RO Water Dispenser with Auto Ice-Maker (Value: HK$6,488)
- Redeem at a discounted price of HK$2,000 - SONY PlayStation 5 Digital Edition 825GB (Slim Version) (Value: HK$4.257)
2️⃣ Deposit HK$10,000 – HK$79,999 within 30 days, then maintain for another 30 days. Choose one:
🔥 HK$700 cash* / Apple Store e-gift card / 🆕 TEA CHÂTEAU Modern Tea Machine Set (Value: HK$1,838)
🧭 Limited-time offer with a HK$10,000 deposit :
- Redeem at a discounted price of HK$1,500 - Sony WF-1000XM6 earphones (Value HK$3,699)
⭐️ Webull Official Reward # : Deposit HK$500,000+ for a Webull cash coupon worth 1% of your deposit (max HK$100,000)
‼️ 1️⃣ & 2️⃣ rewards cannot be combined.
‼️ Deposit ≥HK$500,000 → auto 1% Webull cash coupon; NOT combinable with MoneySmart's HK$10,000/ HK$80,000 reward.
‼️ See【Reward Details】below for full promotion details and gift list.
Futu Securities Account
- Min. Commission Fee US Stocks
- US$0.99
- Commission Fee HK Stocks
- HK$0
- Futu Cash Plus average return over the past 12 months
- 3.6%
【August Bonus Reward】1- 15 August: Download the Futu Moomoo App, enter promo code【MSFUTU】before completing opening, and then fulfill balance retention requirements to receive up to HK$7,234 in welcome rewards.
1️⃣【Deposit HK$80,000 & Hold for 60 days】💰 HK$2,000 cash*/ 💦 Philips RO Hot & Cold Pure Water Dispenser ADD6912/90 (value: HK$3,788)
🧭 Limited-time offer with a HK$80,000 deposit:
- HK$2,000 for SONY PlayStation 5 Digital Edition 825GB (Slim Version) (Value: HK$4.257)
- HK$3,000 for Apple MacBook Neo 13" A18 Pro chip (8GB 256GB SSD) (Value : HK$5,499)
- HK$2,400 for Osmo Pocket 4 Creator Combo (Value: HK$4,419)
2️⃣【Deposit HK$10,000 or Student Exclusive Offer & Hold for 60 days】💰 HK$1,000 cash*/ PHILIPS ADD5981 All-in-One Water Dispenser (vlaue: HK$1,688)/ Dyson HushJet™ Mini Cool Fan & HK$200 ParknShop e-Vouchers (total value: HK$1,090)
🧭 Limited-time offer with a HK$10,000 deposit:
- HK$1,500 for Philips 6000 Series XW6264/11 Vacuum & Wash Cordless (Value: HK$5,398)
- HK$3,100 for SONY PlayStation 5 Digital Edition 825GB (Slim Version) (Value: HK$4.257)
⚡️ All new account holders during the promo also get: HK$100 Buy&Ship New Member Exclusive Consolidated Shipping Cash Voucher
‼️Tap on【More Details】below to find out more about the campaign and rewards!
Huatai Zhangle Global
- Min. Commission - US Stocks (V2)
- US$0
- Min. Commission - HK Stocks (V1)
- HK$0
- HK IPO subscription fee
- HK$0
【August Rewards, Up to HK$10,698】Aug 1–31: open via the MoneySmart link, deposit, and meet holding terms to claim:
1️⃣ First deposit HK$10,000+ in account-opening month, then accumulate HK$80,000+ net deposits and maintain avg daily net assets HK$80,000+ after Oct 31, 2026 — choose: HK$1,800 cash*/ Apple Store Gift Card/ 🆕 Philips 3000 Series Lightweight Cordless Vacuum (XC3031/61)(Value: HK$3,498)/ 🆕 LOJEL Alto 29-inch Ultra-Lightweight Suitcase (Black) + Plaza Premium Lounge APAC 3 hrs Access Pass (total: HK$3,300)
🧭 Limited-time offer with a HK$10,000 deposit - HK$1,600 for Osmo Pocket 4 Standard Combo (Value HK$3,489)
🧭 Limited-time offer with a HK$10,000 deposit - HK$1,600 for Philips Baristina Espresso Machine BAR300/00 (Value: HK$5,698)
⭐️ Deposit HK$80,000+ for an extra official Huatai reward: HK$600 stock cashback voucher
2️⃣ Deposit HK$10,000+ and maintain monthly average daily net assets ≥HK$10,000 after Oct 31, 2026. Choose from: HK$500 cash* / HK$600 PARKnSHOP or HKTVmall e-voucher / SONY WF-C710N Earphones (HK$799)
🧭 Limited-time offer with a HK$10,000 deposit - HK$1,600 for Osmo Pocket 4 Standard Combo (Value HK$3,489)
🧭 Limited-time offer with a HK$10,000 deposit - HK$1,600 for Philips Baristina Espresso Machine BAR300/00 (Value: HK$5,698)
‼️ Rewards 1️⃣ and 2️⃣ cannot be combined.
‼️ See【Reward Details】below for full details.
ETH vs BTC: What’s the difference between Ethereum and Bitcoin?
| ETH vs BTC | ETH | Bitcoin (BTC) |
|---|---|---|
| ETH vs BTCPrice | ETHUS$2,736.62 (As of 5 May 2022) | Bitcoin (BTC)US$2,736.62 (As of 5 May 2022) |
| ETH vs BTCSupply | ETHUnlimited | Bitcoin (BTC)21M |
| ETH vs BTCUnits | ETH1ETH=10^18 Wei | Bitcoin (BTC)1BTC=10^8 Satoshi |
ETH Market Trends
ETH has been the second-largest cryptocurrency by market cap since launch. In 2025, ETH is trading in the ballpark of US$3,400+. (as of 12 Nov, 2025), that represents a price increase of more than 3,000% in 5 years. With this steep rise and continued ecosystem growth, it’s no surprise that some analysts believe Ethereum could one day challenge Bitcoin for the top cryptocurrency spot.
Key Features of ETH
ETH has an Infinite Supply
However, ETH doesn’t work in this way. It can never run out and its prices are not supported by the cap but its digital applications and its market value.
Ethereum Can be Used Widely
ETH Price Has Been in a General Upward Trend

Step-by-Step Guide to Buy Ethereum in Hong Kong
Choose an SFC-licensed exchange
Create your account and begin KYC for Hong Kong crypto
Link a local payment method
Deposit funds to your account
Buy ETH on the exchange
Withdraw ETH to your crypto wallet
Follow crypto wallet safety tips
Know the risks: unlicensed exchange risks & common pitfalls
Why Buy Ethereum in Hong Kong?
Regulated local exchanges mean safer ETH trading
Direct HK$ deposits and fast withdrawals
No capital gains tax for most retail ETH investors
DeFi, NFTs, and Web3 opportunities
Multi-asset access for diversified investors
How to Sell Ethereum & Withdraw ETH
Pick a licensed exchange
Verify your account
Transfer ETH
Sell ETH for HKD
Withdraw via FPS or Bank Transfer
Confirm receipt
Risks of Investing in ETH
The Price of ETH Can be Volatile
Ethereum May Not be Widely Used Anymore
Security Issue
Virtual Commodity - Not Considered as Legal Tender
Points to Note in Trading ETH
Using ETH for NFT events
Peer-to-peer ETH transfers
Exploring DeFi apps safely
Staying safe and informed

How to Get Support When Crypto Goes Wrong
Step 1: Contact your crypto platform
Start with customer support; prepare screenshots and IDs.
Step 2: Escalate within the platform
Follow up using their formal complaint process.
Step 3: Approach the Consumer Council
They handle crypto-related service complaints.
Step 4: Contact the SFC or HKMA
The SFC manages trading issues; the HKMA oversees banking-related ones.
Step 5: Keep detailed records
Maintain logs and receipts for every interaction.
FAQ on investing in ETH
Is commission charged when purchasing ETH?
- No, you are not charged commissions in most cases.
Does ETH have a supply limit?
- No, it doesn’t have a cap.
What is the difference between ETH and BTC?
- ETH doesn’t have a cap in supply but the cap of BTC stands at 21M. Also, the key feature of ETH is that it can be used in Ethereum - which can be seen as a platform for any digital applications.
What is Ethereum? Are Ethereum and ETH the same?
- No, they are not the same. Ethereum is the specific blockchain technology, which allows developers to create any apps and Ethereum’s native cryptocurrency is called Ether (ETH).
Is Ethereum legal in Hong Kong?
- Yes, through SFC-licensed exchanges, the SFC in Hong Kong enforces AML and investor-protection standards.
How can I buy ETH safely?
- Use licensed exchanges; fund via FPS or bank transfer.
Do I pay tax on ETH profits?
- The IRD doesn’t charge capital gains tax for passive holdings.
Is Ethereum part of CIES?
- Yes, Hong Kong's CIES now accepts Bitcoin and Ethereum for investment immigration, with a net worth of HK$30 million required.
Are no-KYC platforms safe?
- No, they’re unregulated and risky.
Who should I contact for complaints?
- The Consumer Council, SFC, or HKMA handle crypto-related issues.
Term and Conditions
The content herein is provided for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as investment advice, a recommendation or solicitation to buy or sell any securities.
Investing involves risks, including but not limited to the loss of principal, changes in interest rates, tax complexities, market systemic risks, and industry-cycle risks. Dividends are not guaranteed, and past distributions or performance do not guarantee future results.
The author is not a registered or licensed institution under the Securities and Futures Commission (Hong Kong), and does not provide personalized investment advice of any kind. Before making any investment decision you should consult an independent professional adviser or a qualified licensed entity, and carefully assess whether any product is suitable in light of your own financial situation and investment objectives.




