Hong Kong Monetary Authority

Custody & Infrastructure

HKMA Sets New Rules for Virtual Asset Financing and Custody

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 29/05/2026

The regulator has issued new guidance permitting virtual asset financing and updating custody standards for banks and institutions.

KYC & CDD

Hong Kong Banks Tighten Rules on Mainland Client Accounts

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 29/05/2026

Lenders are requiring new declarations on fund origins and raising account opening thresholds following new directives from local regulators.

Cryptocurrency

Hong Kong Finalises Rules for Retail Funds’ Crypto and Staking Activities

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 28/05/2026

The SFC has detailed requirements for authorised funds to invest in spot virtual assets and engage in staking, while clarifying the treatment of licensed stablecoins.

Climate Risk

NGFS Urges Action on Extreme Weather as Financial Risks Mount

By Manesh Samtani | 27/05/2026

New report highlights severe economic and financial stability risks in Asia-Pacific, urging regulators to improve data and supervision.

Stablecoins

Hong Kong Tests First Regulated HKD Stablecoin on Public Blockchain

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 25/05/2026

Licensed firms have completed a live transfer test of the HKDAP stablecoin on Ethereum, marking a key step towards practical implementation.

KYC & CDD

Hong Kong Regulators Mandate Stricter Controls on Client Onboarding

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 25/05/2026

The SFC and HKMA have ordered firms to review client accounts and tighten controls following a probe into onboarding deficiencies.

AI Risk & Governance

StanChart Faces Regulator Scrutiny in Asia Over CEO’s AI Job Cut Remarks

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 25/05/2026

Regulators in Hong Kong and Singapore have questioned Standard Chartered over its CEO’s comments on replacing staff with artificial intelligence.

Structural Regulation

Hong Kong Can Leapfrog Europe in Fixed Income Market Design

By Manesh Samtani | 25/05/2026

As Hong Kong develops its FIC roadmap, it has a unique opportunity to learn from Europe’s past struggles and build a bond market framework that is fit for the future.

Payments & Settlements

Hong Kong Details Four-Pronged Strategy to Bolster Offshore Yuan Hub Status

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 23/05/2026

Hong Kong has detailed a comprehensive strategy to enhance yuan liquidity, product diversity, and financial infrastructure, while expanding outreach to emerging markets.