The HKMA and FSTB are seeking feedback on proposals for regulating stablecoins. (Ruslan Bardash/Unsplash)

Hong Kong Regulators Propose Mandatory Licenses for Fiat-Backed Stablecoin Issuers

Summary

Hong Kong's financial regulators have proposed a licensing regime and a regulatory sandbox for stablecoin issuers. The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) and the Financial Services and the Treasury Bureau (FSTB) are seeking feedback on the proposals by February 29. The new regime will require issuers who meet certain conditions to obtain a license from the HKMA. This applies to firms looking to issue a fiat-referenced stablecoin in Hong Kong, issue a Hong Kong dollar-referenced stablecoin, or market stablecoins to the Hong Kong public. The move is part of Hong Kong's efforts to position itself as a regional crypto hub.