MetaComp & OSL link Singapore, Hong Kong in digital finance push
MetaComp and OSL Group have entered a strategic partnership focused on developing regulated cross-border digital finance infrastructure between Singapore and Hong Kong.
The collaboration between MetaComp, a Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS)-licensed FX and digital assets infrastructure provider under Alpha Ladder Group, and OSL Group, which is listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, is designed to address market needs for compliant digital asset connectivity between two of Asia's most active financial centres.
Liquidity integration
A core element of the partnership is the integration of liquidity networks to improve over-the-counter (OTC) trade execution for institutional clients. The joint effort will connect and enhance liquidity across both markets, supporting institutions that deal in digital assets and payment instruments.
This integration is expected to facilitate better pricing and reduce slippage, making it easier for institutions to access liquidity and execute large transactions efficiently. According to the companies, the aim is to support rising institutional demand for transparent and secure trading environments amidst settlement delays and intermediary costs that currently impact global foreign exchange flows, which exceed USD $7 trillion daily.
Stablecoin payments
MetaComp and OSL will also collaborate to build infrastructure for stablecoin-based cross-border payment settlement. By leveraging both companies' platforms, the initiative will allow financial institutions and payment service providers to transfer value between Singapore and Hong Kong with improved speed and cost efficiency, while ensuring full compliance with the regulatory requirements of both jurisdictions.
The collaboration has set its sights on reducing the time and costs associated with international settlements, a move particularly relevant for small and medium-sized businesses that rely on efficient cross-border payments to conduct business.
Real-world asset tokenisation
Responding to the growing importance of tokenisation in capital markets, the partnership will examine new ways to enable compliant listing and trading of real-world asset (RWA) tokens. MetaComp, OSL Group, and Alpha Ladder Finance, MetaComp's parent company which holds a Capital Markets Service Licence regulated by MAS, intend to establish liquid and transparent markets for tokenised assets that meet regulatory standards.
This will allow institutional and accredited investors in the region to access previously illiquid assets and use fiat or stablecoins for transactions. The expectation is that these efforts will unlock value in historically less accessible asset classes, further supporting Asia's status as a global centre for digital finance.
Compliance and security
Both firms have placed emphasis on enhancing compliance procedures as part of the partnership. The companies will use their respective know-your-customer (KYC) databases, on-chain wallet analytics, and cross-chain tracing tools to bolster anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing (AML/CFT) measures, aiming to protect clients and the broader digital ecosystem from illicit activity.
Tin Pei Ling, Co-President of MetaComp, said: "This partnership with OSL represents a significant milestone in our commitment to building the next generation of digital financial infrastructure. By combining our strengths, we are not only advancing regional connectivity but also setting new benchmarks for compliance and innovation in digital asset markets."
Eugene Cheung, Chief Commercial Officer of OSL Group, said:
"Hong Kong and Singapore are natural partners in shaping Asia's digital finance future. Through this collaboration with MetaComp, we're laying the groundwork for interoperable, real-world solutions that serve institutional needs and meet the highest regulatory expectations."
The integration of compliance tools is seen as essential by both companies as regulators in Singapore and Hong Kong continue to develop oversight frameworks for digital assets to maintain market integrity and investor protection.
Market context
The partnership is announced as both Singapore and Hong Kong position themselves as digital asset hubs in Asia. Governments in both jurisdictions have updated regulations and encouraged the adoption of digital assets to compete for institutional capital flows and technology investments.
The initiative is being positioned as a step towards responsible growth and innovation in digital finance, as the companies seek to enable more competitive and secure cross-border transactions while maintaining strong regulatory compliance. The partnership also aims to create opportunities for more effective collaboration between traditional financial institutions and providers operating in the rapidly evolving digital asset sector.
MetaComp and OSL Group have indicated that their combined efforts are aimed at building a robust digital finance ecosystem on a regional scale, as well as responding to demands from institutions seeking swift, transparent, and compliant transaction channels.
