Participating banks in IP Financing Sandbox complete credit approval for first batch of pilot cases
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The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) announced today (September 30) that the participating banks in the Intellectual Property (IP) Financing Sandbox have completed credit approvals for seven pilot cases, covering industries including electronics, construction, toy manufacturing and medical device (see Annex). The loan amounts range from HK$1 million to HK$39 million and will be used for working capital, business expansion and market promotion. This first batch of pilot cases has demonstrated the potential for leveraging IPs such as patents and trade marks to access financing, laying a practical foundation to bolster the IP financing ecosystem in Hong Kong.
The HKMA, in collaboration with the Commerce and Economic Development Bureau and Intellectual Property Department, launched the IP Financing Sandbox in December 2025. The initiative is supported by the Hong Kong Association of Banks (HKAB). Three major banks (Note) in Hong Kong took the lead in joining the Sandbox where they piloted IP financing arrangements with corporate customers from various industries and professional service providers under a risk-controlled environment. By incorporating IP valuation reports issued by valuation service providers into their credit assessment and approval processes, banks can offer higher loan amounts or more favourable interest rates to borrowers based on independent professional valuations, thereby enhancing the financing capability of small and medium enterprises which are rich in IP assets.
The first batch of pilot cases has provided valuable practical insights for banks, valuation service providers and other relevant professions. Participating institutions in the Sandbox also saw room to further enhance the broader IP financing ecosystem, including strengthening funding support for IP-related professional service fees, optimising the IP valuation process, and raising market awareness and professional capabilities.
The HKMA will continue to collaborate closely with the Government, HKAB, the banking sector and other relevant stakeholders to promote the development of Hong Kong as a regional IP trading centre.
Note: Bank of China (Hong Kong) Limited, The Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation and Standard Chartered Bank (Hong Kong) Limited.
Ends/Wednesday, September 30, 2026
Issued at HKT 12:25
Issued at HKT 12:25
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