Four new initiatives aimed at improving payment systems, adopting artificial intelligence (AI), strengthening financial infrastructure resilience, and advancing tokenization were unveiled during Hong Kong FinTech Week 2026.
The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) announced the launch of new projects focused on artificial intelligence, post-quantum cryptography, asset tokenization, and cross-border payments. The initiatives aim to modernize financial infrastructure under the Fintech 2030 strategy.
The regulator outlined 4 main areas of focus:
- Adoption of Autonomous AI Systems. The HKMA launched Project SAGE to advance AI agent-based financial services and develop oversight mechanisms for their use. A cross-industry expert group was established to support the initiative. The regulator also published a consultation paper on supervisory requirements for the use of these technologies in banks.
- Transition to Post-Quantum Cryptography. In collaboration with the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, the HKMA introduced the PQC Toolkit. It provides guidance and practical solutions to help banks prepare for the adoption of encryption methods resistant to quantum computing attacks. The toolkit will be updated based on testing results and evolving industry standards.
- Expansion of Cross-Border Payments. Hong Kong’s Faster Payment System (FPS) is expected to connect with the UnionPay International network by the end of 2026. The integration will gradually enable users to make QR code payments at more than 100 million merchant locations across Hong Kong, mainland China, and over 40 overseas markets.
- Advancement of Asset Tokenization. Under Project Ensemble, the regulator advanced the EnsembleTX platform to a new phase, enabling 24/7 settlement using real funds. The HKMA also completed trials of secondary market transactions involving tokenized Hong Kong Exchange Fund Bills, including secured financing transactions. The next phase will involve testing regulated stablecoins.
The HKMA placed particular emphasis on the practical applications of tokenization. Round-the-clock settlement through EnsembleTX is expected to simplify international liquidity allocation, digital asset portfolio management, and corporate treasury operations. Trials involving tokenized debt instruments also aim to improve the efficiency of secondary market trading and repurchase transactions.
In addition, the regulator launched the tConnect Launchpad initiative in collaboration with technology hub Cyberport. The program will bring together financial institutions, technology companies, and digital asset solution developers to test new tokenization use cases.
HKMA Chief Executive Eddie Yue said the progress achieved under Fintech 2030 is creating opportunities for broader adoption of data, artificial intelligence, and tokenization across the financial industry. According to Yue, the regulator will continue supporting technological innovation while prioritizing the security, resilience, and long-term development of Hong Kong’s financial system.
The HKMA previously introduced its Fintech 2030 strategy in November 2025. The initiative aims to develop the region’s financial infrastructure through asset tokenization, AI adoption, and stronger technological and quantum resilience.
