Ant Group Signals Renewed Crypto Ambitions With Bold Hong Kong Filings

After years of keeping its distance from cryptocurrencies, Ant Group is quietly positioning itself back into the digital asset space.

The Chinese fintech giant has filed multiple trademark applications in Hong Kong tied to virtual currencies, blockchain systems, and stablecoin services – one of which introduces the term “ANTCOIN.”

Public records show that the filings, made in June, span a wide range of financial products, from electronic wallets and online payment tools to the creation and transfer of digital tokens. Though still awaiting approval, the move signals Ant’s intent to secure a foothold in Hong Kong’s expanding Web3 ecosystem.

Industry observers view the decision as a calculated play to preserve intellectual property amid uncertain regulation. Joshua Chu, lawyer and co-chair of the Hong Kong Web3 Association, noted that trademarking “ANTCOIN” allows Ant Group to protect its brand should stablecoin ventures regain traction. Earlier this month, Beijing reportedly froze private stablecoin initiatives by major tech companies – including Ant and JD.com – in a push to maintain state dominance over currency issuance.

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Despite that setback, Ant Group has continued weaving blockchain into its financial infrastructure. This year, it teamed up with U.S.-based Circle to test cross-border payments using the USDC stablecoin via Alipay+, and later unveiled a blockchain platform designed to tokenize nearly $8 billion in Chinese energy assets.

For now, Ant’s crypto ambitions remain constrained by policy, but its latest filings suggest it isn’t stepping away from the sector – only waiting for the right moment to reemerge.