Hong Kong's Stablecoin Push Gains Momentum: Anchorpoint to Pursue Licensed Digital Asset Issuance

Anchored by blockchain expertise, traditional banking strength, and telecom infrastructure, three major entities are charting a new course in Hong Kong’s digital finance landscape. Anchorpoint Financial Limited—a newly established joint venture between Animoca Brands, Standard Chartered Bank Hong Kong (SCBHK), and HKT—has formally signaled its intent to the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) to pursue a stablecoin issuer license under the city’s groundbreaking regulatory framework.

Hong Kong’s New Era for Regulated Stablecoins

The timing is strategic. Hong Kong unveiled its Stablecoins Ordinance on August 1, 2025, creating a formal licensing pathway for digital asset issuers. This development reflects the city’s determination to position itself as a gateway for blockchain innovation while maintaining rigorous financial oversight. For Anchorpoint, the new regulatory environment presents an ideal window to transition from sandbox testing into full commercial operations.

From Sandbox to Market: Building Licensed Solutions

The three partners have been collaborating since July 2024 within the HKMA’s stablecoin issuer sandbox program, a controlled environment where they tested how fiat-pegged digital assets could streamline payments, unlock market efficiencies, and seamlessly connect decentralized finance with established banking systems. This hands-on experience now positions Anchorpoint to pursue license approval with confidence, backed by months of real-world testing data.

A Convergence of Complementary Strengths

Each participant brings distinct advantages to the venture. Animoca Brands supplies deep blockchain expertise and access to the broader web3 ecosystem. SCBHK contributes its expansive global banking network and institutional credibility. HKT rounds out the consortium with critical telecommunications infrastructure. Together, they’ve constructed a uniquely integrated platform—bridging decentralized innovation with traditional finance.

Why This Matters for Hong Kong

According to Evan Auyang, Group President of Animoca Brands: “Stablecoins represent one of the most compelling use cases within web3. As assets continue to move on-chain, the HKMA-regulated fiat-referenced stablecoin is important in reinforcing Hong Kong’s position as a leading international financial center.”

If Anchorpoint’s license application succeeds, the implications extend far beyond the three partners. Licensed stablecoins could become the backbone of Hong Kong’s digital asset infrastructure, supporting everything from institutional settlements to retail payments. The approval would also signal that Hong Kong remains serious about maintaining its competitive edge in the post-crypto regulatory environment—attracting further blockchain projects and talent to the region.