Hong Kong has granted its first stablecoin issuer licenses to HSBC Holdings and
a Standard Chartered-led joint venture, enabling them to issue Hong Kong
dollar-pegged cryptocurrencies. The Hong Kong Monetary Authority selected them
from 36 applicants. The Standard Chartered venture, Anchorpoint Financial Ltd.,
includes Hong Kong Telecommunications and Animoca Brands. Issuance is expected
in mid- to second-half 2026 after preparatory work. The move expands Hong Kong’s
crypto regulatory framework, including exchange licensing introduced in 2023 and
stablecoin rules last year. The HKMA said future licenses will be limited.
