Story perspectives

HSBC, Anchorpoint Get Hong Kong's First Stablecoin Licenses

4/10/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Hong Kong Monetary Authority issued first stablecoin licenses to HSBC and Anchorpoint Financial, a consortium led by Standard Chartered.
The move advances Hong Kong's digital currency strategy to expand regulated assets.
HSBC and Anchorpoint plan HKD-stablecoins in 2026's second half for cross-border payments and trading.
Hong Kong Monetary Authority Chief Executive Eddie Yue says the agency will cap licenses after receiving 36 applications and prioritizing established banks.

History

Historical Context

In 1983, Hong Kong established the Linked Exchange Rate System, pegging the Hong Kong dollar to the US dollar at 7.8 HKD amid a monetary crisis that followed a 15% devaluation. This system, overseen by the Hong Kong Monetary Authority, stabilized the economy and attracted investment. The recent issuance of stablecoin licenses to HSBC and Anchorpoint Financial reflects Hong Kong's ongoing evolution towards digital assets and enhanced cross-border transactions.

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Story summary

The Hong Kong Monetary Authority issued first stablecoin licenses to HSBC and Anchorpoint Financial, a consortium led by Standard Chartered.
The move advances Hong Kong's digital currency strategy to expand regulated assets.
HSBC and Anchorpoint plan HKD-stablecoins in 2026's second half for cross-border payments and trading.
Hong Kong Monetary Authority Chief Executive Eddie Yue says the agency will cap licenses after receiving 36 applications and prioritizing established banks.

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