Hong Kong Aims to Finalize Crypto Licensing Bill by 2026

Hong Kong regulators have reaffirmed their commitment to establishing a licensing regime for digital asset activities by the end of 2026. The city's government plans to submit an amendment bill this year to create a framework for four key categories: digital asset trading, custody, advisory, and management services. According to Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury Christopher Hui, the bill aims to address the evolving landscape of financial technology.

In January, Hui had announced that regulators intended to propose a draft for crypto asset regulation before the end of 2026. Additionally, the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) has begun processing license applications for stablecoin issuers. Earlier this year, the HKMA granted its first stablecoin issuer licenses to Anchorpoint Financial and the Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation.

The upcoming amendment bill is part of Hong Kong's broader efforts to integrate digital asset activities into its financial regulatory framework. The city's proactive approach underscores its ambition to become a leading hub for cryptocurrency and blockchain innovation.