全球虚拟资产中心的雄心：香港稳定币加速跑

Core Viewpoint - The establishment of the "Stablecoin Regulation" in Hong Kong marks a significant step in solidifying its position as an international financial center and a hub for virtual assets, with a comprehensive regulatory framework for fiat-backed stablecoins set to take effect on August 1 [2][11]. Group 1: Market Dynamics - The stablecoin market is experiencing a surge in interest, with the total issuance exceeding $250 billion as of June 4, 2025, dominated by USDT at over $150 billion and USDC at over $60 billion [3]. - The first stablecoin, Tether (USDT), was launched in 2014, pegging 1 USDT to 1 USD, and has since become a foundational tool in cryptocurrency trading and cross-border payments [3]. - The recent IPO of Circle, the issuer of USDC, saw its stock price rise nearly 170% on its first day, reflecting growing market enthusiasm for stablecoins [4]. Group 2: Regulatory Framework - Hong Kong is the first global financial center to establish a dedicated regulatory framework for fiat-backed stablecoins, with the "Stablecoin Regulation" passed by the Legislative Council on May 21, 2023 [7][11]. - The regulation includes a licensing system for stablecoin issuers, which will be implemented on August 1, 2023, requiring compliance with core responsibilities such as reserve management and risk management [8][9]. - The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) has initiated a "stablecoin issuer sandbox" to allow institutions to test their business models and technology under controlled conditions [9]. Group 3: Strategic Implications - The rapid implementation of the "Stablecoin Regulation" demonstrates Hong Kong's competitive awareness in the digital currency regulatory space, setting a new standard for global fiat-backed stablecoin development [2][11]. - The Hong Kong government aims to enhance market efficiency and liquidity through the "Hong Kong Digital Asset Development Policy Declaration 2.0," reinforcing its ambition to become a global digital asset center [11]. - The integration of stablecoins into the financial ecosystem is seen as a pivotal step towards the tokenization of financial assets, with potential implications for the international monetary system [12].