Hong Kong Crypto Regulation Tightens With Limited Stablecoin Licenses

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The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) is moving carefully as it begins the stablecoin licensing process. Despite receiving interest from 77 institutions by the end of last month, the regulator plans to issue only a few licenses in the first phase. This cautious rollout aims to maintain oversight while gradually testing Hong Kong’s stablecoin ecosystem.

Major Banks Join the Race

Big players are lining up. Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC), the world’s largest bank by assets, has applied through its Hong Kong arm, ICBC (Asia). This makes it the second Chinese banking giant in the race after Bank of China (Hong Kong). HSBC has also shown interest, while industry insiders believe Standard Chartered and BOC Hong Kong could be among the first to secure approvals. If granted, these licenses will anchor Hong Kong’s ambition to be a trusted global hub for regulated digital assets.

Screening Before Approval

The HKMA has stressed that ongoing talks with institutions are part of an initial screening—not a guarantee of approval. “Whether a licence is ultimately granted will depend on whether the application meets the licensing requirements,” an HKMA spokesperson explained. The authority has also reminded the public to be cautious of unlicensed stablecoins and misleading promotions from non-approved entities.

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Global Impact of HKMA’s Approach

Formal applications are expected soon, but the final number of approvals remains unclear. Experts believe the limited supply of licenses may push firms to delay, form partnerships, or explore alternative compliance strategies.

The HKMA’s measured rollout is being closely watched worldwide. Early decisions on transparency, eligibility, and retail access will likely influence how other regulators design their own stablecoin rules. For now, Hong Kong is in the spotlight as global banks prepare to take part in its tightly regulated stablecoin experiment.