Stablecoin-related stocks saw broad gains in trading. At the time of writing, LIANLIAN (02598) rose 7.32% to HK$7.04, GUOTAI JUNAN I (01788) increased 5.6% to HK$2.83, YUNFENG FIN (00376) climbed 3.54% to HK$3.22, and LINKLOGIS-W (09959) advanced 1.89% to HK$2.16. The activity follows recent statements regarding Hong Kong's push to become a global hub for Web3 and cryptocurrency innovation. A key development was the implementation of the Stablecoin Ordinance in August last year, which established a licensing framework for issuers of fiat-backed stablecoins in Hong Kong. The Hong Kong Monetary Authority is actively processing license applications and is expected to issue the first batch of stablecoin issuer licenses next month. The authority aims to position Hong Kong as a global innovation center for digital assets. It has been reported that the HKMA is reviewing received applications and has requested additional details from some institutions, including specific use cases for stablecoins, risk management frameworks, and types of reserve assets. The goal is to issue Hong Kong’s first stablecoin licenses by March. However, it was emphasized that the number of licenses issued in the initial round will be limited, with a focus on ensuring stability and security.