Hong Kong’s financial regulator is reportedly planning to approve its first stablecoin issuance licenses in March. The news comes as the global stablecoin market tops $170 billion, with demand rising for regulated digital dollars. This fits with a broader push by financial hubs to make crypto safer without blocking it.
Reports suggest that the Hong Kong Monetary Authority will begin issuing the first batch of stablecoin licenses in March 2026.$RLUSD $USDC $USDT pic.twitter.com/CAcXKm3KtL
— ALLINCRYPTO (@RealAllinCrypto) February 2, 2026
For everyday users, this marks a shift from experimental cryptocurrencies to versions that play by clear rules. That’s important if you use stablecoins to trade, send money, or park money during market fluctuations.
Hong Kong has positioned itself as a testbed for crypto regulation from 2023. It is now moving from testing to actual approval.
FIND OUT: Top 20 Cryptos to Buy in 2026
Why Hong Kong Policing Stablecoin?
The Hong Kong Monetary Authority, the city’s central banking body, says its review of license applications is underway. A very small number of applicants will make it past the first round. The regulator looks at reserves, anti-money laundering controls, and how each coin plans to operate across borders.
This warning is important. If a stablecoin fails, users can lose access to what they thought was “safe money.” Licensing sets up guardrails before problems hit wallets.
DISCOVER: The Best New Cryptocurrencies to Invest in 2026
Why These Licenses Are Changing the Stablecoin Power Map
Currently, two coins dominate the market. Tether’s USDT controls about 70% of all stablecoin value, with USDC close behind. Both operate globally, but face different laws in each region.
By issuing licenses, Hong Kong creates a local stamp of approval. That attracts banks, payment firms, and large corporations that shy away from unregulated crypto. We saw a similar effect with the approval of the UAE stablecoin, which opened the relationship almost overnight.
Big names have already lined up. Standard Chartered’s Hong Kong arm, Animoca Brands, HSBC, and ICBC have all expressed interest. Big institutions don’t emerge unless the rules seem favorable to the bank.
This market in 2025 was not defined by the assumed dilution. Instead the stablecoin infrastructure is standardized. Institutions built some and bought others.
Crypto has changed from speculation to construction.
Here’s what to expect in 2026. pic.twitter.com/XZRztyyeQj
– GSR (@GSR_io) January 27, 2026
How Can This Affect You As A Crypto User?
Regulated stablecoins generally mean better protection. Issuers must maintain quality goods and follow strict reporting rules. That reduces the risk of sudden freezes or hidden gaps in the support.
Money matters too. Clear rules encourage competition, which often lowers transmission costs for everyday users. This supports the wider adoption of stablecoin payments in Asia and beyond.
At the global level, Hong Kong’s move is increasing pressure on other regions to clarify their laws. The US and EU are already racing to define crypto oversight, as seen in broader crypto regulatory efforts around the world.
FIND: Top Solana Meme coins to buy in 2026
Follow 99Bitcoins on X for Latest Market Updates and Subscribe to YouTube for Daily Expert Market Analysis
The post Hong Kong Set to Approve First Stablecoin Licenses in March appeared first on 99Bitcoins.
