
Bank of China (Hong Kong) has officially started the licensing procedure for issuing stablecoins, following the new rules established by the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA).
Before submitting the application, a special team was created that thoroughly studied all the technical aspects and regulatory requirements. The Bank actively consulted with regulatory authorities and conducted its risk assessment to ensure that the application was as complete as possible and complied with the strict HKMA rules.
On August 1, 2025, new rules came into force for those who issue stablecoins. Now there are clear requirements for how these assets should be secured with reserves, how their liquidity should be maintained, how tokens are redeemed, as well as for protecting customers and combating money laundering. Each issuer must constantly prove that it fully complies with these standards.
The news that the bank had applied did not go unnoticed – the bank's shares immediately went up on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. It is clear that investors reacted positively to the bank's decision to move towards digital assets.
The HKMA and the SFC warn that applications will be considered very carefully and in several stages. Regulators emphasize that all rules must be strictly observed, and hint that the process may take a long time.
If the bank obtains a license, it will be able to issue a stablecoin that will be fully backed by Hong Kong dollars or other authorized assets. This can help develop the digital asset market in Hong Kong and strengthen its position as a leader in financial innovation in Asia.
For Bank of China (Hong Kong), this is a chance to offer customers even more services and become more competitive in a rapidly changing financial market. The release of a stablecoin can open up new opportunities for settlements between banks and servicing companies.