STO full-scale start?…LucentBlock·KDX·NTX, apply for preliminary approval for fractional investment OTC exchange

As a result of accepting applications for preliminary approval for fractional investment OTC exchanges (distribution platforms), a total of three companies submitted applications.

The Financial Services Commission announced on the 31st that, as a result of accepting preliminary approval applications from September 23 to October 31, three companies — tentatively named KDX, LucentBlock, and the NXT Consortium — applied.

KDX's largest shareholders are Kiwoom Securities, Kyobo Life Insurance, and KakaoPay Securities jointly, and shareholders holding 5% or more include Heungkuk Securities and the Korea Exchange. LucentBlock's largest shareholder is CEO Heo Se-young, and major shareholders include Korea South Pole Venture Investment Fund No.3 and Hana Beyond Finance. The NXT Consortium's largest shareholder is NextTrade, and major shareholders include Shinhan Investment Corp., Musicow, I&F Consulting, Hana Securities, Hanyang Securities, and Eugene Investment & Securities.

The Financial Services Commission plans to select up to two companies within the year and decide on preliminary approval after reviews by the Financial Supervisory Service and the External Evaluation Committee. However, it explained that the timing of approval may vary depending on fact-checks with related agencies and the schedule for document supplementation. A business that receives preliminary approval can begin official operations after meeting personnel and physical requirements, applying for final approval, and obtaining final approval from the Financial Services Commission.