Interview with CSOP CIO Wang Yi: Tokenization hinges on compliance framework, AI remains the main thrust of global capital

CSOP Asset Management, in collaboration with HSBC and OSL, launched Hong Kong's first tokenized HKD money market ETF in June 2024. This initiative marks a transition for the Hong Kong RWA market from theoretical proof-of-concept to a fully compliant, regulated implementation. By utilizing the Ethereum blockchain, CSOP aims to bridge the gap between traditional finance and the Web3 ecosystem, specifically addressing the yield mismatch between declining DeFi returns and stable cash assets. The project relies on a robust compliance framework where HSBC acts as the custodian and OSL serves as the licensed virtual asset trading platform. While the on-chain tokens currently serve as a record of ownership, final reconciliation remains tied to the custodian's traditional book-entry system to ensure regulatory safety. Wang Yi, Deputy CEO of CSOP, emphasized that the firm intends to expand tokenization to other asset classes, including commodities and gold, as the ecosystem matures. This development is significant as it demonstrates how major institutional players are leveraging Hong Kong's evolving regulatory environment to integrate traditional financial products into on-chain infrastructures.