In a significant move to streamline cross-border payments in Southeast Asia, StraitsX has launched a stablecoin-powered payment system in collaboration with Ant International and Grab. Designed to facilitate seamless transactions for inbound tourists in Singapore, the new system harnesses the power of blockchain technology and stablecoins, marking a pivotal step in digital finance for the region.
Using Alipay+ apps, tourists can now make hassle-free purchases at GrabPay merchants in Singapore, from popular spots like CHAGEE, BreadTalk, and iStudio. This streamlined solution enables transactions in tourists’ local currencies while providing instant Singapore dollar settlement for merchants—a feature powered by Singapore dollar-denominated stablecoins regulated by the Monetary Authority of Singapore. By leveraging blockchain networks, such as Avalanche, StraitsX ensures security and efficiency in handling transactions through Purpose Bound Money (PBM), a protocol that dictates the specific use of underlying digital assets like stablecoins.
Expanding Alipay+ Network and Local Merchant Accessibility
This partnership extends the Alipay+ network’s reach, making it easier for international travelers to transact in Singapore without worrying about currency conversion hassles. The integration with GrabPay offers visitors from across Asia, Europe, and beyond a more familiar and convenient payment experience.
Strengthening Digital Payment Solutions in Asia’s Booming Economy
The collaboration couldn’t have come at a better time. As tourism in Singapore rebounds, reaching nearly 16.5 million visitors in 2024, merchants now have a robust solution to cater to this surge, while international travelers enjoy a seamless payment experience. Furthermore, Southeast Asia’s cross-border e-commerce is projected to reach a staggering $148 billion by 2027, highlighting the need for more efficient and accessible payment solutions for small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs).
Ant International’s next-generation treasury management solution, Whale, plays a crucial role in this collaboration, ensuring interoperability and efficiency across PBM transactions. The regional collaboration between StraitsX, Ant International, and Grab marks a critical advancement towards a connected and inclusive digital economy, offering SMEs and consumers alike access to modern, efficient financial services.
With the combined expertise of StraitsX’s payment infrastructure, Grab’s super-app ecosystem, and Ant International’s innovative digital solutions, this initiative sets a new standard for cross-border payments in Asia, helping build a sustainable and accessible financial network across diverse economies.
