Hong Kong time, first stablecoin license issuance scheduled for the first half of this year

Hong Kong is taking a further step in cryptocurrency asset regulation. According to Finance Secretary Paul Chan Mo-po’s remarks at the World Economic Forum in Davos on January 21, the region plans to issue its first stablecoin license in the first half of this year Hong Kong time. This demonstrates Hong Kong’s commitment to systematically developing the digital asset market under the principle of “same activity, same risk, same regulation.”

Minister Paul Chan’s Davos Remarks and Regulatory Approach

Finance Secretary Paul Chan Mo-po specifically discussed Hong Kong’s direction for digital asset regulation in Davos, Switzerland. He emphasized the three core principles of “same activity, same risk, same regulation,” indicating an intention to manage the existing financial system and the cryptocurrency asset market on an equal footing. This regulatory stance also reaffirms Hong Kong’s status as a global financial hub measured in Hong Kong time.

Current State of Hong Kong’s Digital Asset Ecosystem

Currently, Hong Kong has issued licenses to 11 virtual currency trading platforms. At the same time, the issuance of tokenized green bonds has reached approximately $2.1 billion, conducted in three phases. These figures indicate that Hong Kong is not only regulating but actively supporting the growth of the digital asset market.

Market Significance of Stablecoin Licensing

The issuance of stablecoin licenses in the first half of this year is expected to be a significant milestone for the cryptocurrency industry in Hong Kong. Finance Secretary Paul Chan emphasized that digital assets are more than just investment tools; they are key drivers for improving financial efficiency, advancing risk management, and integrating the real economy with technology. Once stablecoins are officially licensed, Hong Kong is likely to become a major hub for stablecoins in the Asia-Pacific region.