Hong Kong Monetary Authority: Stablecoin Issuers Regulatory Framework to Take Effect on August 1

BlockBeats News, July 29th, according to an official announcement, the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) today released multiple guidelines and explanatory documents on the stablecoin issuer regulatory regime to be implemented from August 1, 2025. The "Licensed Stablecoin Issuer Regulatory Guidance Consultation Summary" and "Guidance on Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Financing of Terrorism (Applicable to Licensed Stablecoin Issuers) Consultation Summary" will be officially published on August 1, 2025. With the regulatory regime coming into effect, market participants should comply with the Stablecoin Ordinance and relevant guidelines.

The HKMA encourages institutions intending to apply for a license to contact the HKMA through the official email address by August 31, 2025, or earlier, so that the HKMA can communicate regulatory expectations and provide appropriate feedback. The licensing process will be an ongoing one. If individual institutions believe they are fully prepared and wish to be considered at the earliest opportunity, they should submit their application to the HKMA by September 30, 2025, or earlier.

The HKMA reminds market participants to exercise caution in their public communications to avoid making statements that may be misunderstood or create unrealistic expectations. Under the Stablecoin Ordinance, falsely claiming to be a licensee or an applicant is illegal.

As of today, the HKMA has not issued any licenses. The public can refer to the HKMA website in the future for announcements of licensed stablecoin issuers. The public should remain vigilant against any claims of regulated or licensed stablecoin issuers in Hong Kong, as well as individuals claiming to be in the process of applying for a license. If the public holds unlicensed stablecoins, they do so at their own risk.