Ant International, the overseas division of Chinese fintech giant Ant Group, is preparing to apply for stablecoin licenses in Hong Kong and Singapore, according to a recent report. This strategic move signals the company’s deeper entry into the digital currency space and highlights its ambition to enhance cross-border financial services.
The firm intends to submit its application as soon as Hong Kong’s new Stablecoin Ordinance comes into effect on August 1, 2025. Alongside its plans in Hong Kong, Ant International is also considering applying for similar licenses in Singapore and Luxembourg.
Expanding Blockchain and Payment Infrastructure
Ant International has already established a strong presence in global transactions. In the past year alone, the company processed over $1 trillion in transaction volume, with approximately one-third of that amount—around $333 billion—handled through its proprietary blockchain platform, Whale.
This platform supports a variety of tokenized assets from financial institutions worldwide and incorporates advanced privacy technologies such as homomorphic encryption and multi-party computation systems.
The firm’s push into stablecoins is aimed at improving cross-border payment efficiency and fund management services. By leveraging blockchain, Ant International seeks to reduce costs and enhance transparency in international money transfers.
Strategic Banking Partnerships
To support these initiatives, Ant International has formed partnerships with more than ten major global banks. Collaborating institutions include HSBC, BNP Paribas, JPMorgan, and Standard Chartered. The company also recently announced a strategic partnership with Deutsche Bank to jointly develop payment solutions and treasury management services.
These alliances are expected to provide a robust foundation for the issuance and adoption of Ant’s upcoming stablecoin offerings.
The Role of Stablecoins in the Crypto Ecosystem
Stablecoins are digital currencies pegged to stable assets like fiat currencies. They are widely used for trading cryptocurrencies, remittances, and as safe-haven assets during market volatility.
The growing adoption of compliant stablecoins is anticipated to bring more liquidity and stability to digital asset markets. It may also encourage broader acceptance of cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin among traditional investors and financial institutions.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is a stablecoin?
A stablecoin is a type of cryptocurrency designed to maintain a stable value by being pegged to a reserve asset like the US dollar or gold.
Why is Ant International entering the stablecoin market?
The company aims to improve its cross-border payment and capital management services by using blockchain technology to increase efficiency and reduce costs.
Which regions is Ant International targeting?
The firm is focusing on Hong Kong and Singapore initially, with Luxembourg also under consideration for future licensing.
What is the Whale platform?
Whale is Ant International’s blockchain-based settlement platform that supports tokenized assets and uses advanced privacy-enhancing technologies.
How do stablecoins benefit everyday users?
They enable faster, cheaper, and more transparent international money transfers compared to traditional banking systems.
Are stablecoins regulated?
In jurisdictions like Hong Kong, stablecoin issuers must apply for licenses and comply with financial regulations to ensure consumer protection.
Ant International’s planned stablecoin initiatives represent a significant step in blending traditional finance with digital asset innovation. As regulatory frameworks mature, the company is well-positioned to play a key role in the future of global payments.