Key Takeaways
- Leon Lin Li co-founded HTX in 2013 after working as a computer engineer at Oracle and earning a Master’s from Tsinghua University.
- Before HTX, Li launched several internet businesses, including Renrenzhe, a lifestyle search platform he founded in 2009.
- Under Li’s leadership, HTX became a top crypto exchange, serving users in 130+ countries and shaping blockchain discussions globally.
Who Is Leon Lin Li?
Leon Lin Li is a co-founder of HTX. Before launching HTX Group in 2013, he worked as a computer engineer at Oracle. In 2007, he completed his Master’s in Control Science and Engineering from Tsinghua University. A strong supporter of Bitcoin from the start, Leon focused on promoting the growth and adoption of blockchain and cryptocurrency technologies.
Early Career and Business Ventures
After finishing his studies, Li began working as a computer engineer at Oracle, where he gained experience in software and systems engineering. However, his desire to start his own business led him to create several Internet companies. In 2009, he founded Renrenzhe, a lifestyle search platform in China, which was his first big business project.
Founding of HTX
In 2013, Li started HTX.com(previously Huobi), a cryptocurrency exchange that grew quickly and began serving users in more than 130 countries. With his leadership, HTX became one of the most well-known platforms for trading digital assets. As CEO, Li took part in global discussions about blockchain technology, explaining how it affects business strategies, the way people trade value, and financial systems.
Recognition and Accomplishments
Li’s work in blockchain earned him important awards, including the 2018 China Fintech Award for Outstanding Contribution and the 2018 China Internet Finance Association Award for Outstanding Entrepreneur. These awards recognized his influence in cryptocurrency and financial technology, strengthening his reputation as a key figure in digital finance.
HTX’s Growth and Bitcoin’s Future
In an interview with Jon Southurst, Leon Li, CEO of Huobi, and Wendy Wang talk about HTX’s growth as one of China’s biggest Bitcoin exchanges. They discuss Bitcoin’s future, the changing market, and the challenges of running a crypto exchange. They also touch on China’s rules for cryptocurrency and how HTX adapts to global trends. The interview occurred near the Global Bitcoin Summit in Beijing in May 2014.
Regulatory Challenges and Adaptation
As China made stricter rules for cryptocurrency trading, HTX had to deal with several government crackdowns, including the 2017 ban on ICOs (Initial Coin Offerings) and local crypto exchanges. To adjust, Li moved parts of HTX’s business to other countries, growing its presence in Singapore, South Korea, and other regions. This decision helped HTX stay active worldwide despite the restrictions in China.
Leaving HTX and New Business Moves
In October 2022, Li officially left HTX by selling all his shares to a buyout firm under About Capital Management (HK). A spokesperson confirmed he was no longer involved in the company’s operations after the sale. His departure marked a new direction as he focused on other blockchain projects and investments.
FTX Collapse and Sinohope’s Financial Challenges
After FTX collapsed in November 2022, Li’s investment firm, Sinohope, had $18.1 million stuck on the FTX exchange. Sinohope sold its claims to Ceratosaurus Investors LLC to get the money back and recovered 108% of the lost funds. However, even with this recovery, Sinohope still faced big financial losses. To help, Li personally lent $14 million to cover customer payments and keep the business stable.
Legal Fight Over the Huobi Trademark
Li’s company, X-Spot Global, won a court order stopping Huobi Global from using the “Huobi” trademark in Hong Kong. Even though Li had sold HTX, the trademark rights stayed with X-Spot, causing legal issues over who owns the brand. The decision confirmed Li’s legal control over the Huobi name, allowing him to maintain his influence in the crypto industry.
Investments and Blockchain Contributions
Besides HTX, Li has invested in and supported blockchain startups in decentralized finance (DeFi), digital asset systems, and Web3 apps. His investments show his belief in blockchain’s long-term value beyond crypto exchanges.
Impact and Ongoing Role in Blockchain
Even after leaving HTX, Leon Li remains essential in the cryptocurrency industry. He is known for handling market changes, regulatory challenges, and financial crises. His work in building secure digital asset platforms, leading financial recovery efforts, and investing in new blockchain ideas continues to influence the growing crypto industry.
Final Thoughts
Leon Lin Li’s journey from computer engineer to cryptocurrency leader shows how much he has influenced the industry. As the co-founder of HTX, he helped build one of the most well-known crypto exchanges, expanding its reach to many countries while dealing with strict regulations.
Even after leaving HTX, he stayed involved in blockchain by supporting new projects and helping businesses recover from financial troubles. His work continues to shape the future of digital finance, showing his lasting impact on the industry.
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