On Thursday, July 18, the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) announced the list of participants for its stablecoin issuer sandbox. This initiative, launched in March 2024, aims to boost a sustainable and responsible development of the stablecoin ecosystem in Hong Kong. Key sandbox participants include Standard Chartered Bank and Animoca Brands.

Hong Kong’s Stablecoin Sandbox Details

The other participants include Jingdong Coinlink Technology, RD InnoTech, and Hong Kong Telecommunications. HKMA selected these institutions based on their genuine interest and impressive business plans for development of stablecoins in Hong Kong. Hence, they will start participating in the sandbox effective immediately.

Moreover, the HKMA emphasized that these operations will be conducted within a limited scope and under a risk-controllable framework. The sandbox is part of the HKMA’s broader effort to establish a regulatory regime for fiat-referenced stablecoin (FRS) issuers.

On July 17, the Financial Services and the Treasury Bureau (FSTB) and the HKMA jointly released the consultation conclusions on the legislative proposal for this regime. The consultation, conducted over two months and concluded in February, received 108 submissions from various market participants, industry associations, and other stakeholders.

Binance and Circle also participated in the Hong Kong regulatory consultation. A vast majority of respondents supported the introduction of a regulatory framework for FRS issuers. This support is rooted in the increasing prevalence and evolving nature of virtual assets.

It also reflects the need to manage potential monetary and financial stability risks effectively. Hence, the proposed regulatory requirements and implementation arrangements received broad support. Meanwhile, the respondents also suggested some changes to the regime.

Official Statements By HK Authorities

The Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury, Mr. Christopher Hui weighed in the development. He stated, “In addition to the existing regulatory regime for VA trading platforms, the establishment of a licensing regime for FRS issuers will further strengthen the VA regulatory framework in Hong Kong in line with international standards and effectively mitigate possible financial stability risks associated with FRS issuance activities.”

The Chief Executive of the HKMA, Mr. Eddie Yue, expressed gratitude for the valuable feedback received during the consultation period. He noted, “We are grateful for the respondents’ valuable comments and are encouraged by the general support for the proposed regulatory regime. We believe that a well-regulated environment is conducive to the sustainable and responsible development of the stablecoin ecosystem in Hong Kong.”

Sandbox Operations And Safeguards

Hong Kong Monetary Authority’s sandbox allows selected institutions to test their stablecoin issuance operational plans within a controlled environment. This initiative facilitates two-way communication on proposed regulatory requirements. Hence, it aids in the formulation of a fit-for-purpose and risk-based regulatory regime.

Thus, participants are expected to comply with stringent sandbox requirements. Initially, they will not handle the general public’s funds or solicit funding from the public. The HKMA has cautioned the public to remain vigilant against potential scams related to the sandbox and promised timely announcements if sandbox participants are allowed to handle public funds under limited scope adjustments.

The sandbox is designed to enable participants to develop and refine their stablecoin issuance models while ensuring risks are minimized. This step-by-step approach aims to balance innovation with the need for robust regulatory oversight. This enables a secure and dynamic environment for virtual asset development in Hong Kong.

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