HKMA and SFC unveil digital-asset plans for stablecoins and tokenized gold

The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) and the Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) have unveiled comprehensive plans to integrate blockchain technology into core financial market infrastructure. By the end of 2026, the HKMA will upgrade its Central Moneymarkets Unit to support 24/7 real-time on-chain settlement for digital Hong Kong dollars and CBDCs. Simultaneously, the SFC is developing a new licensing regime and a long-term regulatory framework specifically for tokenized investment products, including gold and other real-world assets. These initiatives aim to deepen financial connectivity between mainland China and global markets while enhancing oversight through AI-driven surveillance tools like CrypTech. The region has already begun issuing stablecoin licenses, with HSBC and Anchorpoint Financial leading early adoption. Furthermore, Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing (HKEX) is expanding its commodities offerings by introducing yuan-denominated gold futures. These coordinated regulatory and infrastructure efforts signal a major shift toward institutionalizing digital asset markets in Hong Kong. This development is critical for the RWA sector as it provides a clear legal pathway for tokenizing traditional assets within a major global financial hub.