TLDR
- HKU Business School is set to accept Bitcoin and digital currencies for tuition and donations.
- All technical preparations for digital currency payments at HKU have been completed.
- The move aligns with Hong Kong’s stablecoin licensing regime launched on August 1, 2025.
- Lawmaker Johnny Ng says proper KYC is key as HK adopts crypto for everyday transactions.
The University of Hong Kong’s business school is preparing to accept Bitcoin and other digital currencies for tuition fees and donations. This move positions the institution as one of the first in Asia to explore cryptocurrency as a formal payment method in higher education. Officials say all technical preparations have been completed and discussions are now focused on secure implementation within current regulations.
Digital Currency Integration Underway
Professor Cai Hongbin, Dean of the Faculty of Business and Economics at HKU, stated at the CryptoFi Forum that the school is ready to move forward. “All the technical details have been sorted out. We will take Bitcoin and digital currencies for tuition fees and donations in the future,” he said in a recorded statement verified by the university.
The school confirmed that it is actively exploring this payment option. A spokesperson said the initiative shows the school’s commitment to financial innovation and secure digital finance practices. The university is working with partners to build a sustainable framework for accepting and managing these transactions.
Hong Kong is strengthening its virtual asset policy environment. The city introduced the Stablecoins Ordinance on August 1. This law regulates stablecoins and requires issuers to obtain licenses from the Securities and Futures Commission (SFC). HKU’s plan to adopt digital currencies aligns with this broader push to build trust in digital finance.
Risk Management and Regulation
Speaking at the same event, Professor Cai addressed the issue of cryptocurrency price volatility. He acknowledged that losses could occur but said, “If we lose money, we will be losing the money of the faculty… It’s ok, we can take care of it.” He added that it is important to try and test such innovations.
Lawmaker Johnny Ng Kit-chong commented on the city’s slow adoption of digital currencies for daily use. He explained that low public awareness is a barrier. However, he noted that fixing the value of Bitcoin at the point of payment or treating it as an investment could limit risks.
Ng emphasized the importance of regulatory compliance. He said institutions must conduct proper “know your customer” (KYC) procedures to prevent transactions from illegal sources. He added that offering cryptocurrency as a payment option could provide more convenience and diversity for users.
The SFC has already licensed 11 virtual asset trading platforms. These platforms are required to meet strict compliance standards, including capital, security, and anti-money laundering controls.
Push Towards Becoming a Virtual Asset Hub
Hong Kong aims to become a key location for virtual asset development. The stablecoin licensing regime launched by the Hong Kong Monetary Authority in August supports this goal. The first licenses under the new law are expected to be issued in early 2026.
Binance founder Zhao Changpeng attended the CryptoFi Forum and said that Hong Kong has the conditions to rival the US and UAE in this sector. However, he stressed that the government must move quickly to support innovation while ensuring safety.
HKU’s business school sees the move as a step toward preparing future professionals for a changing financial world. The school said it would continue to explore safe, regulated ways to introduce real-world applications of digital currency in education.
