Ant Group, the financial technology affiliate of Alibaba, has submitted a trademark application for ‘Antcoin’ in Hong Kong through a subsidiary registered in the Cayman Islands. This development emerges as Chinese authorities escalate their stringent regulatory measures against cryptocurrency activities nationwide. The trademark filing, recorded under international classification 36, covers financial and monetary services, though the company has not disclosed specific plans for the branding. Industry analysts observe that this move coincides with Beijing’s broader campaign to curb speculative digital asset trading and mining operations, which have faced increasing restrictions since 2021. While Ant Group maintains its focus on compliant blockchain applications separate from cryptocurrency trading, this trademark registration highlights how major Chinese tech firms continue exploring digital asset branding opportunities in permissible jurisdictions. The Cayman Islands subsidiary structure reflects common corporate approaches for international intellectual property management, though the timing raises questions about strategic positioning amid evolving regulatory landscapes. Financial regulators have repeatedly warned against unauthorized cryptocurrency ventures, emphasizing China’s commitment to developing its centralized digital currency infrastructure instead.
