Singapore Unveils BLOOM: The AI–Crypto Settlement Plan
- BLOOM by MAS builds a global AI–blockchain network for multi-currency settlements.
- The plan changes crypto from “Wild West” innovation to “Garden City” governance.
- Singapore and Hong Kong align roles to strengthen Asia’s Web3 financial ecosystem.
At the 2025 Shanghai International Blockchain Week, Li Guoquan, Dean of the Global Fintech Academy, unveiled details of Singapore’s new “BLOOM” initiative led by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS).
The project; short for Borderless, Liquid, Open, Online, Multi-currency aims to create a unified AI and blockchain-driven financial network for global settlements. It is Singapore’s latest move to establish a structured, compliant Web3 framework after years of fast crypto expansion across Asia.
From “Wild West” to “Garden City” Web3 Governance
According to Li Guoquan, the BLOOM framework is a change from the “Wild West” era of unregulated crypto activity to Singapore’s “Garden City” model of structured innovation. MAS designed the program to merge tokenized commercial bank currencies, regulated stablecoins and decentralized settlements under strict compliance oversight. Li said that BLOOM replaces messy innovation with organized teamwork and clear rules. The system focuses on following regulations, managing risks, and being transparent, creating a controlled space where digital assets work alongside traditional banks.
It builds on past MAS projects like Project Ubin and uses insights from mBridge and ASEAN payment trials. By using tokenized settlements, BLOOM aims to make global banking more efficient while keeping proper oversight.
MAS’s method highlights how clear regulations build trust. Unlike older decentralized systems, BLOOM brings together banks, fintech firms, and crypto companies under one framework for smooth cooperation and consistent monitoring. This transition positions Singapore as a hub for responsible financial technology innovation.
AI and Blockchain
Li Guoquan explained that BLOOM’s multi-currency network is powered by both AI and blockchain. The system spreads out how bank deposits and debts are managed using a controlled blockchain, while stablecoins handle the payments. AI tools help watch over risks, rules, and cash flow, keeping things automated but still under proper supervision.
According to MAS, Circle will provide the USDC infrastructure, Coinbase will handle institutional custody and local banks such as DBS, OCBC and UOB will participate in settlement trials.
Partior, the multi-bank blockchain network, will support the underlying methods for interoperability. These partnerships link traditional banks with new crypto companies to create a safe, open, and automated payment system.
The setup is designed to make business payments, trade deals, and international transactions quicker and more affordable. Companies can automate their cash management, cut down delays in record matching, and improve how they handle funds.
Smaller banks will also get access to global payment systems that were once limited to big players. With AI monitoring and blockchain support, transactions become smoother while reports and audits stay accurate and transparent.
Related: Singapore Tells Crypto Firms to Stop Overseas Deals by June 30
Singapore and Hong Kong Synergy in Web3
Li also described the growing roles of Singapore and Hong Kong in the new Web3 economy. He observed that Singapore’s strength is in infrastructure development and regulatory design, while Hong Kong’s focus is on trading and financing activities.
The BLOOM project represents Singapore’s infrastructure-centric contribution to this regional synergy. MAS’s emphasis on transparent risk controls ensures that all participants undergo stress tests, AML and KYC checks. This framework aims to minimize systemic shocks and enhance trust in digital transactions across borders.
BLOOM’s design allows interoperability between G10 and major Asian currencies, showing Singapore’s intent to align with international standards while maintaining operational resilience. The initiative could be the foundation for future integration with other cross-border systems, further strengthening the regional settlement network.
MAS has confirmed that BLOOM’s rollout will proceed in phases, focusing initially on controlled pilots involving tokenized bank debt and regulated stablecoins. As these pilots mature, broader adoption across institutional finance and corporate settlements is expected.
Meanwhile, BLOOM’s launch shows Singapore’s switch toward a regulated AI and blockchain-driven settlement system. The initiative combines tokenization, compliance and multi-currency integration to streamline cross-border transactions. It also supports Singapore’s role in building transparent and interoperable financial infrastructure alongside Hong Kong’s trading-focused Web3 sector.
