Ant Group, the company behind the widely used Alipay platform, has submitted an application to register a new trademark named "ANTCOIN" in Hong Kong. The company has also filed for other trademarks related to virtual assets, stablecoins, and blockchain services.
While Ant Group has not yet made a formal announcement regarding the release of a token or coin, the trademark filing suggests that the company is proactively establishing the necessary legal groundwork. This strategic move indicates preparation for future developments in the digital asset space.
The scope of the trademark registration covers areas such as virtual currencies, blockchain platforms, and digital payment systems. This implies that Ant Group is securing the brand name in anticipation of establishing or launching associated services. Such actions are common for large financial institutions when preparing for product development or seeking future licenses.
Hong Kong's Stablecoin License Framework
Ant Group's recent trademark filings coincide with the implementation of Hong Kong's new mandatory stablecoin licensing regime, which officially commenced on August 1, 2025. This regulatory framework was announced by the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) on July 29.
Under these regulations, both domestic and international firms are required to obtain a license before they can issue fiat-backed stablecoins to users in Hong Kong. The framework outlines Anti-Money Laundering (AML) requirements, details the licensing process, and provides a transitional path for prospective applicants.
Ant Group is not the only major Chinese company making preparations in this area. Fosun International has reportedly engaged in policy-level discussions with Hong Kong officials regarding stablecoin licensing. Additionally, JD.com, through its fintech arm JD Coinlink, has filed trademarks for "Jcoin" and "Joycoin." These activities highlight a growing trend among mainland-linked conglomerates to leverage Hong Kong's regulatory environment to establish a presence in digital asset infrastructure.