Hong Kong freezes stablecoin licensing through 2025 as rules take effect

Hong Kong’s decision to hold off on stablecoin licensing until 2025, as the regulatory regime prepares for Gazette publication on August 1, signals caution over rapid adoption. But is this a strategic pause or a bottleneck for crypto’s next frontier?

On July 29, the Hong Kong Monetary Authority confirmed it will not issue any stablecoin licenses this year, despite finalizing a comprehensive regulatory framework that takes effect on August 1.

The guidelines impose strict requirements on issuers, including anti-money laundering controls and reserve transparency. Deputy CEO Darryl Chan Wai-man cited the “heavy workload” of vetting applications, with approvals unlikely before early 2025, and even then, it might be only for a select few.

Hong Kong chooses rigor over speed in stablecoin blueprint

While Hong Kong’s stablecoin licensing pause stretches into 2025, the newly finalized rules reveal a regulatory framework designed for precision. The HKMA’s July 29 release outlines two core guidelines: one dictating capital and operational requirements for licensed issuers, and another enforcing stringent anti-money laundering protocols, while clarifying how existing issuers will be transitioned into the new regime.

After taking effect next month, violators risk penalties under Hong Kong’s Stablecoins Ordinance. Meanwhile, prospective applicants face a tight timeline, with the regulator urging them to signal intent by August 31 for preliminary feedback, with full submissions due by September 30 for early consideration.

Though licensing remains “ongoing,” the HKMA’s phased approach suggests a bottleneck: only the most compliant candidates will clear initial scrutiny. Deputy CEO Darryl Chan’s warning, that explosive growth is unlikely, hints at a deliberate throttling of market entry.

The U.S. contrast

Hong Kong’s measured rollout clashes starkly with Washington’s aggressive stablecoin strategy. Signed by President Trump on July 18, the GENIUS Act mandates 100% reserve backing for stablecoins, monthly transparency reports, and federal AML oversight, all while fast-tracking approvals. Where Hong Kong prioritizes deliberation, the U.S. framework thrives on speed, explicitly aiming to “move LIGHTNING FAST” (as Trump tweeted) to dominate digital asset innovation.

The divergence reflects deeper priorities: Hong Kong seeks stability through selective licensing, while America bets on scale and dollar hegemony. Yet both regimes share a focus on consumer safeguards. Hong Kong’s rules prohibit misleading claims about licensing status, mirroring the GENIUS Act’s crackdown on deceptive marketing.