4th August 2026
By Shubhii Verma
The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) is exploring tokenised payments and digital settlement technologies as part of its efforts to modernise treasury operations while expanding its presence in global capital markets. The Beijing-based multilateral lender is also preparing to establish a new office in Hong Kong later this year, strengthening its position in one of Asia’s fastest-growing digital finance hubs.
AIIB Explores Tokenised Payments to Modernise Treasury Operations
Speaking about the bank’s strategy, AIIB Treasurer and Acting Chief Financial Officer Domenico Nardelli said the institution is evaluating whether emerging technologies such as tokenised settlement and digital payments can be integrated into treasury and funding operations. The bank aims to better understand how blockchain-powered financial infrastructure could improve efficiency, transparency, AIIB Targets Record US$11 Billion Fundraising in 2026 and cross-border transactions.
AIIB Targets Record US$11 Billion Fundraising in 2026
The digital finance initiative comes alongside AIIB’s ambitious fundraising target for 2026. After raising approximately US$10 billion in each of the previous two years, the bank is aiming to secure a record US$11 billion through debt markets this year.
Why Hong Kong Is Central to AIIB’s Expansion Strategy
Hong Kong will play a central role in that strategy. The upcoming office will become AIIB’s second overseas hub after Abu Dhabi and is expected to improve access to investors across Asia while strengthening the bank’s presence in offshore capital markets. Nardelli noted that a Hong Kong base would help AIIB tap into investors active in Hong Kong dollars and other regional currencies, broadening its funding sources.
Hong Kong Strengthens Its Position as a Digital Asset and Tokenisation Hub
The city has rapidly positioned itself as a leader in digital assets and tokenisation. Recently, Hong Kong approved its first blockchain-based “digitally native” tokenised investment fund, allowing professional investors to own underlying assets directly on a public blockchain. Regulators are also developing a digital asset platform designed to support the issuance and settlement of tokenised bonds, moving blockchain technology beyond pilot projects into mainstream financial infrastructure.
AIIB Expands Its Presence in Hong Kong’s Debt Market
AIIB has already been active in Hong Kong’s debt market. Earlier this year, the bank issued a HK$4 billion (US$510 million) three-year sustainable development bond, marking its second public bond offering in the city after its inaugural issuance in 2025.
Geopolitical Risks Continue to Shape AIIB’s Funding Strategy
Despite its expansion plans, AIIB acknowledged that global geopolitical uncertainty remains a significant challenge. Rising energy prices, inflationary pressures, and volatility in U.S. dollar funding markets continue to influence investor sentiment and capital flows. To help member countries cope with these risks, particularly those linked to food and energy security, the bank has approved a dedicated financing facility.
Future Outlook for AIIB’s Blockchain and Digital Finance Strategy
Looking ahead, AIIB remains optimistic about expanding its global investor base through its Hong Kong hub while diversifying its debt instruments. By the end of 2025, the bank had provided more than US$38.4 billion in financing for infrastructure projects spanning energy, digital infrastructure, transportation, and education. As it continues to grow, AIIB expects blockchain-enabled financial technologies and stronger regional market access to play an increasingly important role in supporting its long-term funding and investment strategy.
