Summary of Key Points from the Conference Call Industry Overview - The stablecoin trading volume in 2023 has approached that of traditional payment platforms, with a total trading volume of $35.5 trillion over the past 12 months, and $7.4 trillion when excluding high-frequency trading, significantly surpassing PayPal's $1.68 trillion and nearing Mastercard's $9.8 trillion, indicating its substantial potential in payment settlements [1][3] Core Insights and Arguments - Global stablecoin regulation is diverging, with the U.S. favoring strict regulations to reinforce the dollar's dominance, requiring stablecoin reserves to be held at a 1:1 ratio in U.S. dollar deposits or short-term U.S. Treasury securities, while Hong Kong adopts a more open regulatory approach, allowing the issuance of stablecoins backed by HKD or other currencies [1][6] - Hong Kong is actively promoting the synergy between stablecoins and Real World Assets (RWA), particularly in cross-border payments, where stablecoins can significantly reduce costs to less than $1 per transaction, compared to the global average of 6% for cross-border remittances, thus providing an efficient and low-cost solution [1][7] - The total market size of RWA has exceeded $23 billion, with platforms like Propety facilitating over $4 billion in real estate transactions, and Center Fusion converting receivables into tradable tokens [1][10] - The rise of RWA is driven by the need to address trust and efficiency issues in traditional asset transactions, utilizing reliable data and computation to enable real-time asset status updates and automated execution of returns [2][9] Regulatory Developments - The global regulatory landscape for stablecoins is evolving, with the U.S. pushing for legislation that mandates a 1:1 reserve ratio for stablecoin issuance, while Hong Kong's new regulations, effective August 1, 2025, allow for the issuance of stablecoins backed by various currencies with high reserve standards [6][12] Opportunities and Applications - The development of stablecoins and RWA presents opportunities for issuers, virtual asset trading platforms, and infrastructure service providers. Companies like Circle Internet may see revenue growth through expanded business lines and compliance services, while platforms like Coinbase Global will benefit from increased market scale and profitability [4][16] - Stablecoins are primarily used for currency trading and decentralized finance but are also expanding into payments, transfers, and liquidity management [5] Hong Kong's Initiatives - Hong Kong has been proactive in the digital asset space, launching the "Digital Asset Development Policy Declaration 2.0" and implementing the "Stablecoin Ordinance" to attract institutional participation in HKD stablecoin projects [4][12] - The government is also exploring the issuance of tokenized government bonds and encouraging innovative applications, such as tokenizing traditional financial products and enhancing liquidity in the digital currency ecosystem [13][14] Recent Progress - As of April 2024, three fund companies have launched spot Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, showcasing significant advancements in RWA development [15] Conclusion - The interplay between stablecoins and RWA is set to create substantial opportunities in the financial landscape, with potential benefits for various stakeholders involved in the ecosystem [11][16]

Core Viewpoint - The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government has released the "Hong Kong Digital Asset Development Policy Declaration 2.0," introducing the "LEAP" framework to enhance the legal and regulatory environment, expand tokenized product categories, promote application scenarios and cross-sector collaboration, and develop talent and partnerships, thereby advancing traditional finance into the digital asset era and solidifying Hong Kong's status as an international financial center [1][3]. Group 1: Policy Framework and Vision - The HKSAR government aims to create a balanced regulatory framework that manages risks while ensuring investor protection and industry development, establishing a trustworthy and sustainable digital asset ecosystem integrated with the real economy [1][2]. - The "LEAP" framework focuses on compliance regulation, asset tokenization, scenario expansion, and talent development, marking a transition from a testing ground for digital assets to a more institutionalized, scalable, and globalized approach [4][5]. Group 2: Economic Impact and Innovation - Digital assets are seen as a crucial component of financial technology, enabling more efficient and lower-cost financial transactions, thus enhancing financial inclusivity [2]. - The government plans to issue tokenized green bonds in 2023 and 2024, with ongoing preparations for a third batch, aiming to normalize the issuance of tokenized government bonds and broaden the tokenization of various assets, including precious metals and renewable energy [6][7]. Group 3: Industry Collaboration and Support - The Hong Kong Digital Port has launched a "Blockchain and Digital Asset Pilot Funding Scheme" to support startups in the relevant fields, providing up to 500,000 HKD for eligible pilot projects [7]. - The HKSAR government and the financial regulatory authorities are committed to creating a favorable market environment for the application of stablecoins across different scenarios, addressing long-standing issues in cross-border payments [2][4].

Core Viewpoint - The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region government has released the "Hong Kong Digital Asset Development Policy Declaration 2.0," marking a significant step in the systematic layout for the future development of digital assets, positioning them as a strategic tool for structural transformation in the local financial market [1] Regulatory Framework - The declaration emphasizes a prudent regulatory philosophy, establishing a multi-layered and segmented regulatory mechanism, with the Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission as the main regulatory body [2] - A licensing system for digital asset trading service providers and custodians will be implemented, addressing legal barriers related to the tokenization of real-world assets [2] Product Innovation - The declaration proposes the normalization of tokenized government bond issuance and supports the development of tokenized ETF products, aiming to integrate tokenized assets into mainstream financial products [3] - It also highlights plans to advance tokenization experiments in non-financial physical assets such as precious metals and renewable energy, enhancing liquidity and cross-border trading attributes [3] Application Promotion and Talent Development - A dual strategy of "regulatory experimentation + market-driven" is emphasized, with a licensing mechanism for stablecoins set to be implemented on August 1 [4] - The declaration outlines a detailed plan for talent cultivation and international cooperation, aiming to establish Hong Kong as a global knowledge hub for digital assets [4] Terminology and Regulatory Recognition - The declaration distinguishes between "virtual assets" and "digital assets," reflecting a significant advancement in regulatory understanding and aligning with international financial center trends [5]

Investment Rating - The industry investment rating is "Recommended," indicating an expected increase in the industry index by more than 5% over the next 3-6 months compared to the benchmark index [18]. Core Insights - The "Policy Declaration 2.0" aims to establish Hong Kong as a global innovation center for digital assets, building on the initiatives from the first declaration in October 2022 [2]. - The declaration introduces the "LEAP" framework, focusing on optimizing legal and regulatory frameworks, expanding tokenized product varieties, promoting application scenarios and cross-sector collaboration, and developing talent and partnerships [2][3][4]. - The framework emphasizes the establishment of a comprehensive regulatory framework for digital asset service providers, including trading platforms and custodians, with the Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission as the main regulatory body [2]. - The declaration encourages the tokenization of a wider range of assets and financial instruments, including government bonds and traditional financial products, to stimulate innovation [2][4]. - The report highlights the importance of linking financial tools with the real economy, suggesting that the development of the RWA (Real World Asset) market in Hong Kong is a key focus area [4]. Summary by Sections Legal and Regulatory Optimization - Establish a unified regulatory framework for digital asset service providers, including trading platforms and custodians [2]. - The Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission will oversee the licensing mechanism for digital asset service providers [2]. Expansion of Tokenized Products - Promote the tokenization of various assets and financial instruments, including government bonds and traditional financial products [2][4]. - Encourage innovative applications through projects like the HKMA's Ensemble project [2]. Application Scenarios and Cross-Sector Collaboration - Support the development of digital asset infrastructure and provide funding for impactful projects through initiatives like the Digital Port's blockchain pilot funding scheme [3]. Talent and Partnership Development - Invest in professional talent development and infrastructure to enhance the financial system's service capabilities abroad [4]. - Address the mismatch between trade and financial status in the context of Chinese enterprises going global [4]. Investment Recommendations - The report suggests tracking the progress of Hong Kong's Web 3.0 development and the entry of significant financial institutions into the digital asset ecosystem [6]. - Recommended stocks include Nanhua Futures, Ruida Futures, Tianfeng Securities, and Guangfa Securities for A-shares, and ZhongAn Online, Lianyi Technology for Hong Kong stocks [6].

Core Viewpoint - The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region government has released the "Hong Kong Digital Asset Development Policy Declaration 2.0," aiming to establish Hong Kong as a global innovation center in the digital asset sector, with a focus on stablecoins and tokenized real-world assets (RWA) as core pillars of the policy [1][2][4] Group 1: Policy Upgrades - The new declaration represents a systematic upgrade from the 2022 version, transitioning from a "testing ground" for digital assets to a more institutionalized, scaled, and global approach [1] - The declaration is structured around the "LEAP" strategy, focusing on compliance regulation, asset tokenization, scenario expansion, and talent development [1] Group 2: Terminology Shift - A significant change in terminology from "virtual assets" to "digital assets" reflects a broader regulatory perspective and a shift in focus, encompassing cryptocurrencies, stablecoins, and various forms of tokenized real assets [2] Group 3: Stablecoin Regulation - The declaration emphasizes support for stablecoins and other tokenized projects, particularly exploring the use of stablecoins as payment tools, which could revolutionize payment systems, supply chain management, and capital market activities [2] - A regulatory framework for stablecoin issuers will be implemented starting August 1, 2025, establishing requirements for reserve asset management, stability mechanisms, redemption processes, and prudent risk management [2][4] Group 4: Tokenization of Assets - The Hong Kong government plans to regularize the issuance of tokenized government bonds and promote the tokenization of a wider range of assets and financial instruments, including precious metals and renewable energy [3] - The declaration positions the tokenization of RWA as a key industry development direction, aiming to bridge the gap between the virtual economy and the real economy [4] Group 5: Institutional Innovations - The declaration outlines a clear timeline for stablecoin regulation, with Hong Kong set to become one of the few jurisdictions to provide a "landing pass" for stablecoins, facilitating their legalization and standardization [4] - Tokenized ETFs and digital asset funds, if legislated, will enjoy the same stamp duty and profits tax exemptions as traditional ETFs, significantly reshaping financial market rules and attracting international capital to Hong Kong [4]

Economic Resilience and Growth - Hong Kong's GDP has shown resilience, achieving growth for nine consecutive quarters, surpassing HKD 3 trillion [3] - The city is focusing on emerging sectors such as innovation technology, green finance, and cultural arts, playing a significant role in national development [3] Celebratory Activities - To celebrate the 28th anniversary of Hong Kong's return to China, the government and various sectors will launch special offers and activities across public transport, cultural arts, and dining [4] - Over 1,000 restaurants and merchants are expected to provide dining discounts, alongside various transportation and cultural venue promotions [4] National Security Law Impact - The National Security Law, implemented five years ago, has created a stable business environment, with the number of overseas and mainland companies in Hong Kong increasing by 10% to 9,960 [6] - The law is viewed as a safeguard for investors' rights and has contributed to a focus on economic development [6] Financial Connectivity and Innovation - The launch of the "Cross-Border Payment" system enhances financial efficiency between mainland China and Hong Kong, allowing real-time cross-border remittances [7] - The Hong Kong government aims to position the city as a global innovation center for digital assets, with plans for regulatory optimization and the expansion of tokenized products [7] Integration into the Greater Bay Area - Hong Kong is increasingly integrating into the Greater Bay Area, with infrastructure projects like the high-speed rail and the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge enhancing connectivity [9] - The city is expected to leverage opportunities in green finance and emerging sectors to secure a strategic position in the new economy [9]

Core Viewpoint - The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region government aims to establish Hong Kong as a global innovation center in the digital asset sector through the release of the "Hong Kong Digital Asset Development Policy Declaration 2.0" [2][3]. Regulatory Framework - The government is constructing a unified and comprehensive regulatory framework for digital asset service providers, which includes digital asset trading platforms, stablecoin issuers, and custodians [5]. - The Securities and Futures Commission will be the main regulatory body for licensing digital asset trading and custody service providers [5]. - A comprehensive review of laws will be conducted to facilitate the tokenization of real-world assets and financial instruments, including the issuance and trading of tokenized bonds [5]. Tokenization Product Expansion - The government plans to regularize the issuance of tokenized government bonds and support the tokenization of real-world assets to enhance liquidity and accessibility [5]. - There will be initiatives to promote the trading of tokenized exchange-traded funds on licensed digital asset trading platforms [5]. - The government aims to showcase the diverse applications of tokenization technology across various sectors, including precious metals and renewable energy [5]. Application Scenarios and Cross-Sector Collaboration - A licensing mechanism for stablecoin issuers will be implemented on August 1, which will help advance practical application scenarios [6]. - The government is committed to enhancing collaboration among regulatory bodies, law enforcement agencies, and technology providers to develop digital asset infrastructure [6]. - A funding program will be launched to support blockchain and digital asset pilot projects with significant market impact [7]. Talent and Partnership Development - The government is focused on collaborating with industry and academia to foster talent development, aiming to build a sustainable talent pool of entrepreneurs, researchers, and technical experts [7]. Industry Insights - The policy declaration signifies a new phase in building a digital asset ecosystem in Hong Kong, establishing a benchmark for "compliance innovation" in the sector [10]. - Major financial institutions and companies are entering the digital asset space, with firms like Guotai Junan International and Ant Group actively pursuing licensing for virtual asset services [10]. - JD Group has already obtained a sandbox entry qualification for stablecoin issuance from the Hong Kong Monetary Authority, indicating a proactive approach to digital asset integration [10].

Core Viewpoint - The Hong Kong government has released the "Hong Kong Digital Asset Development Policy Declaration 2.0," outlining a new roadmap for the development of digital assets, emphasizing the importance of tokenization, particularly for Real World Assets (RWA) [2][3][4]. Group 1: Policy Framework - The declaration aims to position Hong Kong as a global innovation center for digital assets, transitioning from "virtual assets" to "digital assets," reflecting the industry's maturation [3][4]. - The "LEAP" framework introduced in the declaration focuses on optimizing legal and regulatory aspects, expanding tokenized product categories, promoting application scenarios and cross-sector collaboration, and developing talent and partnerships [3][4]. Group 2: Tokenization and Regulation - The government is establishing a comprehensive regulatory framework for digital asset service providers, including trading platforms and custodians [4][7]. - The declaration includes plans to normalize the issuance of tokenized government bonds and provide incentives for RWA tokenization, such as clarifying stamp duty arrangements for tokenized ETFs [4][7]. Group 3: Market Development and Innovation - The government supports stablecoins and other tokenized projects, exploring the use of stablecoins as payment tools, which is expected to enhance the digital asset ecosystem [5][8]. - The total value of tokenized RWAs on public blockchains has reached nearly $23.4 billion, representing about 10% of the stablecoin market, indicating significant market potential [6][8]. Group 4: Future Directions - The Hong Kong government is actively promoting the tokenization of various assets, including green bonds and carbon credits, to enhance market accessibility and investor confidence [8][9]. - The declaration emphasizes the need for regulatory clarity to facilitate the growth of RWA projects, which are crucial for establishing Hong Kong as a digital asset hub [9].

Core Viewpoint - The Hong Kong government aims to establish the region as a global digital asset center through the "LEAP" framework, focusing on legal and regulatory optimization, expanding tokenized product offerings, advancing application scenarios, and developing talent and partnerships [1][6][28] Group 1: Legal and Regulatory Streamlining - A unified and comprehensive regulatory framework for digital asset service providers will be established, covering trading platforms, stablecoin issuers, and custodians [2][10] - The Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) will be the main regulatory body for digital asset trading and custody service providers, with a public consultation on licensing mechanisms planned [12][13] - The government will review laws and regulations to facilitate the tokenization of real-world assets and financial instruments, enhancing efficiency and transparency [15][18] Group 2: Expanding Tokenized Product Offerings - The issuance of tokenized government bonds will be regularized, with the government having previously issued approximately HKD 6.8 billion in tokenized green bonds [16][17] - Incentives will be provided for the tokenization of real-world assets and financial instruments, including tax exemptions for tokenized ETFs [19][20] - The government encourages the tokenization of various assets, including precious metals and renewable energy, to enhance market liquidity and accessibility [19][28] Group 3: Advancing Use Cases and Cross-Sectoral Collaboration - The stablecoin issuer licensing regime will be implemented on August 1, 2025, to support practical application scenarios [22][23] - Collaboration among regulatory bodies, law enforcement, and technology providers will be strengthened to develop digital asset infrastructure [23][24] - The government welcomes market participants to propose how to experiment with licensed stablecoins to improve payment efficiency [22][28] Group 4: People and Partnership Development - The government will collaborate with industry and academia to promote talent development in digital assets, focusing on blockchain applications and innovation [26][27] - Hong Kong aims to become a center for knowledge sharing and international cooperation in the digital asset field [27][28] - Initiatives will be launched to support startups and financial institutions, ensuring a sustainable talent pool for the digital asset industry [26][28]

Group 1 - The Hong Kong government aims to establish itself as a global innovation hub in the digital asset sector through the release of the "Hong Kong Digital Asset Development Policy Declaration 2.0" [1] - The declaration emphasizes building a trustworthy and innovative digital asset ecosystem, prioritizing risk management and investor protection while delivering tangible benefits to the real economy and financial markets [1] - A unified and comprehensive regulatory framework for digital asset service providers is being developed, covering exchanges, stablecoin issuers, trading service providers, and custodians [1] Group 2 - The government plans to regularize the issuance of tokenized government bonds and clarify stamp duty arrangements for tokenized exchange-traded funds to enhance liquidity and accessibility [2] - A licensing mechanism for stablecoin issuers will be implemented on August 1, facilitating the development of practical application scenarios [2] - The government is committed to collaborating with industry and academia to foster talent development, positioning Hong Kong as a center for digital asset knowledge sharing and international cooperation [2]