Animoca’s Evan Auyang worked in finance and public transit before crypto—Why he thinks the blockchain should be more like a bus

Evan Auyang, president of Animoca Brands, has an unusual background for someone leading a high-profile Web 3.0 startup. Before joining the cryptocurrency industry, Auyang held finance and consulting roles, and served as the deputy managing director of the Kowloon Motor Bus Company, one of Hong Kong's prominent bus operators.

Auyang believes buses are a powerful mode of transportation because they lower costs and can be deployed anywhere, regardless of profitability. His past experience with KMB influenced his involvement in Animoca's stablecoin venture. He aims to create a regulated and useful entity, similar to public transportation, rather than a speculative cryptocurrency like Tether.

In August 2025, Animoca, Standard Chartered, and Hong Kong Telecom (HKT) launched Anchorpoint, a Hong Kong dollar stablecoin. The venture is the first to apply for a stablecoin license from the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA), which requires a minimum of 25 million Hong Kong dollars ($3.2 million) in paid-up capital and reserves of safe, easy-to-sell assets. Despite skepticism from experts, a Hong Kong dollar stablecoin has the advantage of maintaining a stable value while remaining outside U.S. regulatory control.

Auyang emphasizes that Anchorpoint is an independent entity, but he still believes the venture needs experienced professionals to navigate the regulatory landscape. He argues that stablecoins can connect unbanked individuals, who currently lack access to financial services, to the system. Banks often refuse to serve such customers due to high costs, but stablecoins could provide an alternative solution.

Auyang's journey to crypto began in traditional finance. He started at Bankers Trust and Citigroup, then moved to McKinsey. His time working as a bus operator in Hong Kong led him to meet Yat Siu, Animoca's co-founder and executive chairman. After leaving his position at GLG, Auyang's colleague encouraged him to explore stablecoins. While Animoca initially focused on crypto, Auyang now views the company's pivot to AI as an extension of its capabilities, rather than a complete shift in direction.