OSL Group Secures HK$2.36 Billion Funding Amid Hong Kong Stablecoin Regulatory Shifts
Hong Kong’s leading digital asset exchange, OSL Group, announced it will raise approximately HK$2.36 billion (around US$300 million) via a new share issuance. The exchange operator cited expansion and infrastructure investments as primary objectives.
A significant portion of the funding, approximately HK$700 million (around US$90 million), is earmarked for stablecoin and payment infrastructure development, alongside general global expansion and new initiatives.
Context and Regulatory Drivers
OSL’s funding announcement comes shortly before Hong Kong’s stablecoin bill takes effect and ahead of expected OTC crypto trading licensing rules. The financially-regulatory framework is seen as a key factor facilitating the move.
Legislators in Hong Kong have already passed the stablecoin bill, establishing a licensing framework for public-facing Hong Kong stablecoins. Experts suggest this regulatory clarity is encouraging licensed firms like OSL and Hex Trust to accelerate infrastructure development for compliant stablecoins, describing the trend as a shift from experimentation to execution.
“It’s encouraging to see licensed firms in Hong Kong putting stablecoin development on the roadmap,” stated Giorgia Pellizzari of Hex Trust. “There’s a real need for stablecoins that meet regulatory standards and integrate smoothly with existing finance infrastructure.” Stablecoins are viewed not just as payment tools, but also as foundational infrastructure for broader crypto applications like settlement and liquidity.
Peter Chung of Presto Labs added, “Consequently, OSL appears to be ‘taking full advantage of its status’… Having ammunition for such opportunities is…the smart thing to do.” The investment underscores Hong Kong’s potential to drive blockchain adoption.
Execution and Stock Performance
OSL, the first licensed digital asset exchange in Hong Kong, provided the funding details via filing with the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. Trading in OSL shares was suspended briefly on Friday following the announcement. All new shares in the deal carry a fixed subscription price of HK$14.90, a 15.3% discount to Thursday’s close.
Notably, the stock has climbed nearly 88% since late January, reflecting investor confidence ahead of regulatory developments.
Resolution Outlook
OSL anticipates completing the new share issuance by mid-August, contingent on receiving regulatory approval.
