Exclusive Interview with Huobi COO Zhu Jiawei: Decoding the Operational Strategies of a 6-Year Industry Veteran

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Introduction

As a seasoned professional with six years in the cryptocurrency industry, Zhu Jiawei, Chief Operating Officer at Huobi, has been instrumental in driving the platform's secure, stable, and rapid growth.

Recently, ahead of its 7th anniversary, Huobi delivered impressive results to the crypto community. Founded in 2013, Huobi has emerged as a pioneer in blockchain technology, shaping the development of the cryptocurrency market—not only by servicing China’s foundational blockchain ecosystem but also by influencing global digital asset trends.

In an exclusive interview with Cointelegraph Chinese, Zhu Jiawei shares insights from his six-year journey at Huobi. Known for his industry evangelism through the widely recognized course "Mastering Blockchain from 0 to 1", Zhu balances educational initiatives with overseeing Huobi’s expansive business lines. Below, we uncover his operational strategies behind Huobi’s success.


1. Business Scope of Huobi

Q: Besides operating a top-tier global digital asset exchange, Huobi also manages Huobi Research, Huobi University, and a Product Enablement Center. Could you elaborate on Huobi’s business landscape?

A: While Huobi began as a trading platform, it has since evolved into a comprehensive blockchain ecosystem. Today, we span multiple sectors—crypto custody, brokerage, public welfare, DeFi, mining pools, compliant stablecoins, blockchain research, consulting, and talent development.

Key divisions like Huobi University and Huobi Research focus on commercializing blockchain applications and nurturing industry talent. Notably:


2. Blockchain Public Education

Q: Given the surge in public-facing blockchain courses, how has Huobi advanced mass education?

A: Huobi University spearheads our educational efforts through a multi-tiered approach:

  1. Collaborations: Partnered with the University of Gibraltar to launch premium MBA programs (180+ trainees) and 10 technical bootcamps (500+ participants).
  2. Academic Integration: Co-developed university-level blockchain textbooks and undergraduate courses to cultivate technical experts.
  3. Research Impact: Published studies referenced by institutions like the People’s Bank of China.

We remain committed to driving industry standards and practical blockchain adoption.


3. Success Behind Huobi Futures

Q: Despite its recent launch, Huobi Futures excels in trading volume and liquidity. What’s the secret?

A: Three factors:

  1. Preparation: Over a year of R&D focused on risk management and user-centric product design.
  2. Resources: Leveraging Huobi Group’s infrastructure and expertise.
  3. Market Timing: Capitalizing on rising institutional interest in derivatives.

4. Chainlink Partnership & Decentralized Oracles

Q: What’s the significance of Huobi becoming Chainlink’s first exchange node operator?

A: This DeFi innovation extends our CeFi-tested models into Ethereum’s ecosystem, enhancing data reliability for DeFi projects. By providing Huobi Global’s market data via Chainlink, we bolster transparency—a step toward decentralized finance infrastructure.


5. HT’s Compliance Milestone in Japan

Q: How does HT’s approval by Japanese regulators impact Huobi?

A: Japan’s endorsement (HT ranks #7 among 26 compliant assets there) validates Huobi’s global compliance strategy. With licenses in Thailand, Gibraltar, and beyond, we lead in regulatory adherence—a trust signal for investors eyeing alternatives to Bitcoin.


6. Security & Compliance Measures

Q: How does Huobi prioritize user asset safety?

A: Our "Asset Custody" service for institutional clients combines Huobi’s security tech with regulatory rigor. Licensing expansions (e.g., Hong Kong) will further solidify our compliance framework.


7. Blockchain Adoption Progress

Q: Any updates on Huobi’s real-world blockchain applications?

A: Our BaaS platform powers projects like:


8. HT’s Deflationary Model

Q: HT’s annual burn hit $206M—the highest among exchanges. Comments?

A: HT’s absolute deflation (5.89-year burn cycle) reflects its scarcity-driven value. Community optimism aligns with our mission to empower HT’s ecosystem.


9. DeFi Strategy

Q: Why hasn’t Huobi listed COMP, and what’s your DeFi outlook?

A: Listing decisions follow strict criteria. DeFi’s potential is immense but nascent—it demands patience and robust experimentation.


10. Data Website Plans

Q: Will Huobi launch a crypto data platform?

A: We’ve explored it, but user retention and service quality outweigh mere traffic acquisition.


11. Blockchain’s Core Value

Q: What motivates your long-term commitment?

A: Gratitude—for the industry’s opportunities and Huobi’s trust. Blockchain’s power lies in revolutionizing global finance, and participating in this transformation is exhilarating.


👉 Discover Huobi’s latest innovations

👉 Explore HT’s deflationary mechanics


FAQ

1. How does Huobi ensure platform security?
Huobi employs multi-signature cold wallets, real-time monitoring, and regular audits.

2. What distinguishes Huobi Research from competitors?
Its actionable insights bridge academia and enterprise, backed by Huobi’s industry clout.

3. Can HT’s burn rate sustain its value?
Yes, reduced supply and increased utility (e.g., fee discounts) create upward pressure.

4. Is Huobi planning more DeFi integrations?
Yes, but with a focus on sustainable, compliant models.

5. How does Huobi University support professionals?
Through tailored courses, from executive education to technical deep dives.

6. What’s next for Huobi’s global compliance?
Expanding licenses in strategic markets to serve diverse regulatory environments.

Disclaimer: Views expressed are the interviewee’s and do not reflect institutional stances.