HKMA unveils DART fintech framework with agentic AI, quantum security and tokenization
The Hong Kong Monetary Authority launched the DART framework at FinTech Week 2026, covering agentic finance, post-quantum cryptography, tokenization and cross-border payments. New initiatives include Project SAGE for AI governance, a quantum computing toolbox with HKUST, 24/7 interbank tokenized dep
The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) unveiled sweeping fintech initiatives – the DART framework – at the Hong Kong FinTech Week x StartmeupHK 2026 on Monday, spanning agentic finance, post-quantum cryptography, tokenization and cross-border payments.
DART stands for data, artificial intelligence, tokenization, and cybersecurity, according to HKMA chief executive Eddie Yue Wai-man, who noted that the authority will expand four key areas from the framework announced at last year's FinTech Week. Yue said AI has evolved from a question-answering tool into an agent capable of executing tasks autonomously, while tokenization has moved from sandbox experimentation into real-world finance.
On agentic finance, the HKMA launched Project SAGE to promote its application while addressing governance. A cross-sector expert group covering finance, payments, professional services, technology and academia will explore new use cases for agentic AI in controlled environments, examine interoperability standards between AI agents, and develop a governance framework and safeguards. The HKMA also released a discussion paper on Monday to solicit industry views on banks' governance models and responsibility arrangements when using AI agents, including whether a central register of trusted agents or an industry-wide 'know your agent' standard – akin to KYC – is needed.
Warning that quantum computing could arrive within three to 15 years and could rapidly break existing cryptography, Yue said banks need several years to prepare for the post-quantum transition. Partnering with the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, the HKMA launched a post-quantum cryptography toolbox covering transition timelines, assessment, planning and implementation, including methods to achieve cryptographic agility.
On tokenization, Yue noted that as Hong Kong is already running tokenized bonds, money market funds and gold, the Ensemble project is entering a new stage with the introduction of tokenized Hong Kong currency, enabling interbank tokenized deposits with 24/7 real-value transactions. The pilot scope for Exchange Fund bills and notes will continue to expand, and participation will be broadened to enable cross-bank transfers around the clock. The HKMA will further expand pilot trading of tokenized Exchange Fund bills and notes and will explore including regulated stablecoins as payment targets. A new collaboration platform, 'e-connect launchpad', launched with Cyberport, will open participation beyond financial institutions to fintech and digital asset companies and will begin accepting applications on Monday.
On payments, the Faster Payment System will connect with global banks this year, gradually supporting more than 40 global markets and over 100 million UnionPay and partner merchants where QR code payments can be made, offering more options for users in local spending and travel. Yue stressed that innovation must go hand in hand with risk management so that fintech development lands steadily and benefits more people. He noted that the HKMA's strategy, first set for 2030, has seen much progress in a single year, with four years remaining.