Hong Kong passes stablecoin bill, set to open licensing by year-end

Hong Kong’s Legislative Council passed the Stablecoin Bill, paving the way for a regulated framework that could position the region as a global leader in digital assets and Web3 development.

In a May 21 post on X, Legislative Council member Johnny Ng Kit-Chong said the bill had passed its third reading, clearing the final hurdle for adoption.

“It is expected that by the end of this year, major institutions will be able to apply to the Hong Kong Monetary Authority to become licensed stablecoin issuers,” Ng said.

Image of the legislative assembly session. Source: Johnny Ng Kit-Chong

According to the new Hong Kong legislation, stablecoins must be backed by fiat currency as underlying assets. Ng said Hong Kong is welcoming “global enterprises and institutions interested in issuing stablecoins to apply in Hong Kong,” offering to personally assist with introductions and collaboration:

“I am also happy to facilitate connections and collaborate with all stakeholders to advance the development of Web3 in Asia and globally, with Hong Kong at the center.“

Hong Kong aims to become a Web3 powerhouse

Ng said the legislation marks the first step on the road toward building Web3 infrastructure in Hong Kong. “The most crucial step is to develop more real-world applications.”

Ng said stablecoin adoption has the potential to drive innovation in retail payments, cross-border trade and peer-to-peer transactions.

He added that he encourages the development and adoption of stablecoins, since “they represent a major financial innovation.” Regarding enhancing market stability, Ng suggested distributing interest earnings to stablecoin holders.

Interest for stablecoin holders

According to Ng, “providing interest will strengthen the competitiveness of stablecoins.” This increased competitiveness, he explained, incentivizes broader participation and expands stablecoin market share, which supports what he views as sustainable growth.

Ng’s remarks that yield-bearing stablecoins are more competitive follow recent positive data. Research indicates that yield-bearing stablecoins have soared to $11 billion in circulation, representing 4.5% of the total stablecoin market, a steep climb from just $1.5 billion and a 1% market share at the start of 2024.

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