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  • Alipay Ventures Further into AI Commerce: Introduces Worlds First AI Wallet and Token Pay

    Alipay Ventures Further into AI Commerce: Introduces Worlds First AI Wallet and Token Pay

    Chinese fintech titan, Alipay, is ramping up its endeavors in AI-driven commerce with the introduction of an innovative AI payment infrastructure devised to bolster the burgeoning “agentic economy”.

    As per a press release issued on Monday, Alipay unveiled the world’s inaugural “AI Wallet” along with a novel service dubbed “Token Pay”, both targeted at AI firms and developers. This announcement was made at the Alipay AI Payment Ecosystem Conference held in Hangzhou.

    AI Agents in the Commercial World

    The crux of this initiative is Alipay’s AI payment ecosystem, where users can execute transactions via AI agents using voice commands and automated processes.

    Cyril Han, CEO of Ant Group, said, “Even though the quintessence of commerce remains intact in the AI era, AI agents are revolutionizing every aspect.” Han added that based on 22 years of technological prowess and commercial knowledge, Alipay is creating the next wave of AI payment services to boost the growth of the agentic commerce ecosystem.

    The firm disclosed that its AI-native payment products have already surpassed 100 million users since their February 2026 launch. As per Alipay, the system has processed approximately 300 million transactions so far, making it the first commercially scaled AI-native global payment infrastructure.

    Introduction of the “AI Wallet”

    The AI Wallet, a crucial part of this expansion, has been recently introduced and is now accessible via the Alipay app.

    The product is engineered to provide users more supervision and command over transactions executed by AI agents. This includes the ability to monitor tasks prior to and during payment and to analyze spending behavior after the transaction.

    In an effort to augment trust in autonomous AI transactions, Alipay also launched China’s maiden “Agentic Commerce Trust Protocol”, aimed to establish a standardized framework between AI systems and service platforms.

    Simultaneously, the firm introduced an intelligent security system designed to safeguard AI-driven transactions.

    “Token Pay” Designed for AI Companies

    Along with the AI Wallet, Alipay launched “Token Pay”, which the firm describes as the first integrated payment solution specifically tailored for AI model firms.

    The platform enables AI enterprises to handle subscription payments, token top-ups, and associated transactions on a global scale via a single infrastructure.

    Weiqi Hu, Vice President of MiniMax, said, “Payments are instrumental in facilitating massive growth in the AI sector. Together with Alipay, we aim to strengthen collaboration across multiple domains to accelerate the growth of AI commerce.”

    Payments Integration within AI

    Industry experts anticipate payments to become an inherent feature within AI applications rather than a separate step in digital commerce.

    “AI is redefining every facet of commerce,” said Lin Zhu, General Manager of Alipay’s AI payment business at Ant Group. Zhu added that payments are transitioning from a final step to a capability embedded from the outset. According to Zhu, only with trusted transactions, seamless payments, and secure controls, can agentic commerce genuinely proliferate.

    Extensive Expansion Across Industries

    Alipay’s AI payment infrastructure is already being widely used across a plethora of sectors and devices in China, such as AI-powered services embedded in retail apps including Luckin Coffee, smart glasses by Rokid, Alibaba’s Qwen AI ecosystem, OpenClaw-style AI agents, smart vehicle cockpits, AI development platforms like Coze and Qoder, and “One Person Companies”.

    Alipay announced additional investment in developer support programs, including token incentives and waiving payment-processing fees for individual AI developers.

    Through the latest rollout, Alipay is striving to establish itself not merely as a payment provider, but increasingly as the financial infrastructure supporting the next generation of AI-driven digital commerce.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the AI Wallet introduced by Alipay?
    The AI Wallet is a product designed to give users more control over transactions carried out by AI agents. Users can monitor tasks before and during payment execution and analyze spending behavior afterward.

    What is the purpose of Alipay’s “Token Pay”?
    Token Pay is an integrated payment solution created specifically for AI model companies. It allows AI firms to manage subscription payments, token top-ups, and related transactions globally through a single infrastructure.

    What is Alipay’s strategy with the introduction of the new AI payment infrastructure?
    Alipay’s strategy is to position itself not only as a payment provider, but increasingly as the financial infrastructure underpinning the next generation of AI-driven digital commerce.

  • Southeast Asia’s First Tokenized Gold Fund: OCBC Launches GOLDX Token on Ethereum and Solana Blockchains

    Southeast Asia’s First Tokenized Gold Fund: OCBC Launches GOLDX Token on Ethereum and Solana Blockchains

    OCBC, in collaboration with its asset management arm, Lion Global Investors, and digital asset exchange DigiFT, have recently introduced the OCBC-LionGlobal Physical Gold Fund Token (GOLDX token). Notably, this is Southeast Asia’s first tokenised physical gold fund that is accessible on a public blockchain. The GOLDX token is issued on two different blockchains – Ethereum and Solana.

    Investing in GOLDX Tokens

    The new DigiFT platform allows various institutional investors, such as banks, hedge funds, and asset managers, as well as accredited corporate investors, to subscribe to the GOLDX token. They can do this using either stablecoins or fiat currencies. As per the statement, these tokens will be directly delivered to the investors’ blockchain wallets. They can then be redeemed for either stablecoins or fiat currencies.

    Regulatory Framework and Assurance

    The issuance of the GOLDX token is regulated, and the process is anchored by three entities which are regulated by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), namely OCBC, Lion Global Investors, and DigiFT. Together, these entities provide strong governance, institutional-grade risk management controls, and transparent, verifiable asset backing. Thus, investors can be assured of the safety of their investment while still reaping the benefits of the efficiency and interoperability that are inherent to public-blockchain-based RWAs.

    Exposure to Gold Fund Performance

    The GOLDX token provides regulated, on-chain exposure to the LionGlobal Singapore Physical Gold Fund (Underlying Fund) that is managed by Lion Global Investors. Amid the ongoing geopolitical and economic uncertainties, the Underlying Fund has shown immense growth, with S$669.4 million (US$525.9 million) in assets under management as of 16 April 2026, only four months after its inception.

    OCBC’s Role in the GOLDX Token

    OCBC was the originator of the GOLDX token’s issuance and led its structuring, shaping the product architecture and commercial framework. The bank collaborated with DigiFT to facilitate the tokenisation and digital distribution of the token. Simultaneously, Lion Global Investors supplied the necessary investment framework and governance for the Underlying Fund.

    Prospective Demand

    The GOLDX token is anticipated to attract significant demand from participants within the Web3 ecosystem, including family offices and high-net-worth individuals operating within decentralized, blockchain-based environments. This group possesses considerable capital in stablecoins in Asia, much of which is currently unutilised.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the GOLDX token?
    The GOLDX token is Southeast Asia’s first tokenised physical gold fund available on a public blockchain. It is issued on both the Ethereum and Solana blockchains.

    Who can invest in the GOLDX token?
    The DigiFT platform allows various institutional investors, such as banks, hedge funds, asset managers, as well as accredited corporate investors to subscribe to the GOLDX token using either stablecoins or fiat currencies.

    How is the issuance of the GOLDX token regulated?
    The issuance of the GOLDX token is regulated by three entities which are governed by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS): OCBC, Lion Global Investors, and DigiFT. This ensures strong governance and transparency, offering assurance to investors.

  • Bhutan Pioneers Digital Gold Revolution with Launch of Sovereign-Backed Token: A New Era of State-Led Digital Asset Innovation

    Bhutan Pioneers Digital Gold Revolution with Launch of Sovereign-Backed Token: A New Era of State-Led Digital Asset Innovation

    The Kingdom of Bhutan is preparing to launch one of the first-ever sovereign-backed gold tokens, a groundbreaking move that places it at the forefront of governmental digital asset innovation. This bold step signifies the country’s attempt to combine traditional stores of value with cutting-edge financial infrastructure.

    Introducing TER: A Gold-Backed Token

    Bhutan’s new token, known as TER, is completely backed by physical gold and is expected to launch on 17 December 2025. This marks a significant step forward for Gelephu Mindfulness City, which aims to become a global center for responsible digital finance.

    TER, which is derived from the Dzongkha word for “Treasure,” represents Bhutan’s ambition to preserve its cultural heritage while embracing digital transformation. This token is part of Bhutan’s wider national strategy to incorporate blockchain technology into public and financial systems. The launch emphasizes the country’s commitment to fostering a digital economy that is driven by values and grounded in sustainable, tangible assets.

    Gelephu Mindfulness City: A Hub for Mindful Innovation

    TER, issued by Gelephu Mindfulness City, aims to set a new benchmark for asset-backed digital currencies underpinned by sovereign trust. The initiative is in line with Gelephu’s vision of becoming a hub for mindful innovation, utilizing technology in a manner that is transparent, secure, and in sync with Bhutanese values.

    Board Director Jigdrel Singay has stated that the launch of TER is a foundational move towards building a value-driven digital economy based on real-world assets and sovereign trust.

    Ensuring Security with DK Bank

    DK Bank, Bhutan’s premier digital bank, will function as the exclusive distributor and custodian to ensure utmost security and regulated access. Governed by the Royal Monetary Authority and the Gelephu Mindfulness City Authority, DK Bank provides the necessary infrastructure to reassure both domestic and international investors. The first phase of distribution will allow users to buy TER directly through the bank, with tokens kept in institutional-grade custody.

    Using Solana’s Blockchain Infrastructure

    TER will be issued on Solana’s enterprise-grade blockchain, chosen for its speed, low transaction costs, and minimal environmental impact. This technical foundation fortifies Bhutan’s strategy to deploy efficient, scalable, and eco-friendly digital systems.

    Collaboration with Matrixdock Strengthens Credibility

    Matrixdock, a leading entity in real-world asset tokenization and a Matrixport subsidiary, has been chosen as the technology partner for TER. This partnership strengthens the credibility of Bhutan’s digital asset ambitions by adding institutional weight and adhering to international best practices.

    A Digital Gateway for Gold Investors

    TER provides a modern, tax-efficient alternative to physical gold, offering international investors a secure digital means to access one of the world’s safest assets. It is designed to emulate the trusted experience of buying physical gold through a major financial institution, while improving liquidity, accessibility, and settlement efficiency.

    Bhutan’s Digital Sovereignty

    Bhutan has already made significant strides in digital initiatives. Notable achievements include integrating various digital assets into Gelephu Mindfulness City’s strategic reserves, implementing a national digital identity system based on the Ethereum blockchain, utilizing Binance Pay for crypto-based transactions, and becoming one of the first nations to mine Bitcoin using renewable hydropower. These accomplishments underscore Bhutan’s evolving concept of digital sovereignty and its dedication to merging innovation with sustainability.

    State-Backed Assets: A New Model

    With the introduction of TER, Bhutan showcases how a nation can transition from traditional resource security to digital-era asset management while upholding cultural and regulatory integrity. As the global demand for reliable, gold-backed digital instruments grows, Bhutan’s initiative could serve as a model for other countries looking to combine heritage and advanced technology in the creation of contemporary financial ecosystems.

    Questions & Answers

    What is TER?
    TER is a gold-backed digital token issued by the Kingdom of Bhutan.

    What does the introduction of TER signify for Bhutan?
    The introduction of TER represents Bhutan’s intention to both preserve its cultural heritage and embrace digital transformation.

    Why is DK Bank involved in the distribution of TER?
    As Bhutan’s premier digital bank, DK Bank will ensure robust security and regulated access for the distribution of TER.

  • Thailand Reins in Speculation in Digital Assets

    Thailand Reins in Speculation in Digital Assets

    The country’s finance regulator is banning licensed digital asset exchanges from trading meme coins, fan-based tokens, NFTs, and social coins as part of its ongoing regulatory action against crypto trading.

    The Thai Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is prohibiting exchanges in the country from providing services related to utility tokens or cryptocurrencies to ensure customer protection and ward off attempts by anyone using digital assets to operate a grey business, the regulator announced on Friday.

    As a result, meme coins like Doge, which has attracted the interest of investors in the past year as its price surged by as much as 10,000 percent this year, will no longer be allowed to be traded in Thailand. The SEC said such coins have «No clear objective or substance or underlying, and whose price runs on social media trends.

    According to «The Bangkok Post,» the move came amid reports that publicly listed mobile phone retailer Jay Mart was making plans to launch the country’s first non-fungible tokens (NFTs) linked to nine local stars and celebrities. However, Jay Mart said it would go ahead with the launch this week as planned, though the NFTs will be listed on foreign exchanges.

    NFTs have garnered increasing popularity in recent months, particularly as a way to sell and invest in digital artworks as verification of authenticity and ownership are stored on the blockchain

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  • Standard Chartered Converts Physical to Mobile Tokens

    Standard Chartered Converts Physical to Mobile Tokens

    Standard Chartered will transition from physical to mobile tokens for its online corporate banking platform with expectations to benefit more than 100,000 clients in over 38 markets.

    The transition will be rolled out across the markets for the «Straight2Bank» platform, which focuses on cash management and trade transactions, over the next three months.

    According to the bank, «the process of mailing, tracking and continuous replacement required for the physical token activation was time-consuming». Previously, it would take 10 days to open accounts compared to instant account-opening with mobile tokens. The new tokens will also contain enhanced encryption and a built-in layer of security against malware targeting mobile applications.

    Standard Chartered noted that transition from physical to mobile tokens is only the beginning of a broader strategy to «simplify user authentication and security».

    The mobile token solution takes into account not just convenience, it also provides our corporate customers with a more secure solution compared to physical tokens, said Martijn De Jong, Standard Chartered’s co-head of digital channels & data analytics for corporate, commercial and institutional banking.

    This is a critical first step in our aspiration to simplify user authentication and security. The endgame will be to leverage physiological credentials of the user to establish user identity and continuous authentication to combat fraud.

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  • DBS debuts digital tokens in corporate m-payments

    DBS debuts digital tokens in corporate m-payments

    DBS Bank has launched a new mobile banking feature that eliminates physical tokens for corporate transactions.

    The feature added to DBS IDEAL Mobile uses digital tokens to make banking on the go simpler and more convenient for corporate treasurers and small business owners.

    Available to both Apple and Android users, the bank claims to be the first Asian bank to offer this integrated service on one mobile platform.

    Currently, corporate treasurers often have to carry several security tokens to conduct their business banking, with some having up to six physical tokens with them at any one time.

    Specifically for iPhone users, the digital token utilises the user’s fingerprint to ensure identity confirmation and conduct secure online transactions. Android users will continue to key in their PIN to carry out transactions.

    This new service is available to over 140,000 DBS IDEAL and DBS IDEAL Mobile customers across 10 markets. Over 3 million transactions a month are conducted on DBS IDEAL.

    “As a bank that is shaping the future of banking, we want to provide an easy, more convenient and secure solution to our corporate customers. The new digital token feature on DBS IDEAL Mobile is a great example of how we are leveraging technology to help create a more intuitive and seamless banking experience for them,” DBS Bank head of global transaction services John Laurens said.

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