Alibaba's fintech arm, Ant Group, has filed a trademark application for “AntCoin” in Hong Kong, signaling a potential move into the cryptocurrency space. While the company has not confirmed a token launch, the filing is seen as a foundational step to merge its massive Alipay payments ecosystem with Hong Kong's new regulatory framework for Web3 and stablecoins. The timing aligns with Hong Kong's recent implementation of a stablecoin licensing regime, suggesting Ant Group is positioning itself to explore regulated digital finance. This development underscores a broader trend of major fintech players preparing for the integration of traditional finance and digital assets, potentially reshaping the payments landscape in Asia.