Standard Chartered, Animoca Brands, and HKT Collaborate in HKMA Stablecoin Issuer Sandbox

Standard Chartered Bank (Hong Kong) Limited (SCBHK), Animoca Brands, and HKT have announced their collaboration to participate in the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) stablecoin issuer sandbox, according to Animoca Brands. This initiative, unveiled in March 2024, aims to leverage the institutional digital asset custody capabilities of Zodia Custody, partly owned by Standard Chartered.

Driving Stablecoin Innovation

The coalition's objective is to foster the sustainable, transparent, and risk-managed growth of the digital asset market in Hong Kong and beyond. Their joint efforts will explore the role of stablecoins in transforming financial and payment markets, supporting Hong Kong's ambition to become a global digital asset hub.

SCBHK, a leading international bank, aims to support the burgeoning digital asset ecosystem in Hong Kong by understanding the opportunities and risks associated with the evolving stablecoin market. This aligns with Animoca Brands' vision of driving the mass adoption of digital assets and implementing blockchain technology solutions for real-world applications. HKT, as a leader in technology, media, and telecommunications, is keen to explore how innovations in stablecoins can benefit domestic and cross-border payments, enhancing the consumer and merchant experience.

Industry Leaders' Perspectives

Dominic Maffei, Head of Digital Assets & Fintech at Standard Chartered Hong Kong, stated, “Standard Chartered is committed to staying at the forefront of the growing digital asset market and driving fintech innovation in Hong Kong. We believe that regulated financial institutions have a key role to play in the development of these markets. Under the guidance of the HKMA, we are proud to take part in the Sandbox with innovative industry leaders, Animoca Brands and HKT, to transform the financial sector and create positive impact for our clients.”

Evan Auyang, Group President of Animoca Brands, expressed excitement about partnering with SCBHK and HKT, stating, “As a global Web3 ecosystem builder based in Hong Kong, we are excited about the mass adoption of digital assets via stablecoins issued under the HKMA’s proposed stablecoin issuer regime. We are delighted to explore opportunities and new ways to innovate through the Sandbox.”

Monita Leung, CEO of Digital Ventures at HKT, added, “HKT promotes fintech and digital economy through our consumer and merchant payment solutions. We are delighted to explore the immense potential of stablecoins in revolutionising payment systems. By facilitating efficient and seamless payment solutions, it paves the way for digital transformation and Web3 development in Hong Kong.”

Conclusion

The collaboration among SCBHK, Animoca Brands, and HKT in the HKMA's stablecoin issuer sandbox marks a significant step towards advancing digital asset innovation in Hong Kong. By leveraging their combined expertise, these organizations aim to drive the adoption of stablecoins and enhance the financial and payment landscape, positioning Hong Kong as a leading digital asset hub.