Hong Kong to Implement New Crypto Rules for Banks in 2026

The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) has announced a new set of regulations for crypto assets under the Basel Capital Rules, which will take effect on January 1, 2026. This policy will significantly impact how banks manage digital assets and is designed to align Hong Kong's standards with global financial norms.

The new rules establish a tiered classification for crypto assets:

• Favorable Treatment: Stablecoins and tokenized assets that are backed by real-world assets will receive more favorable regulatory treatment, as they are seen as lower risk.
• Stricter Rules: Unsecured tokens like Bitcoin and Ethereum will face stricter capitalization requirements.

The HKMA, the lead regulatory authority, stated that this framework will ensure that banks can effectively manage the risks associated with crypto assets. The new regulations may encourage the adoption of licensed stablecoins while potentially making unsecured tokens less attractive to institutional investors due to the more stringent capital requirements.

September 2025, Cryptoniteuae