Bybit Kazakhstan Signs MoC with Alatau City to Develop Digital Asset Solutions

Bybit's Kazakhstan division has signed a Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) with the Alatau City Authority to explore the integration of digital asset solutions into the developing smart city. The partnership, announced on October 22, aims to establish a framework for tokenization, digital payments, and cross-border settlements.

Key Areas of Cooperation

The agreement, signed at the AI & Digital Bridge 2026 forum in Astana, outlines three primary areas for potential collaboration between the crypto exchange and the city's management organization. The shared vision focuses on leveraging blockchain technology for the city's growth as a financial hub.

The memorandum covers the following initiatives:

• Tokenization of real-world assets: Exploring models for the issuance, circulation, and trading of tokenized assets and financial instruments.
• Digital asset payments: Developing payment solutions for residents, businesses, and visitors within Alatau City.
• Cross-border remittances: Creating solutions for international remittances and settlements using digital assets.

Strategic Context

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Alatau City is being developed as a smart city with its own special legal framework, which includes dedicated rules for digital asset activities. This partnership allows Bybit to provide expertise as the city formulates its financial regulations from the ground up.

"Alatau City is a rare opportunity to build digital finance into a city from the very start, within a clear legal framework," said Ablaikhan Aubakir, Country Manager at Bybit Kazakhstan, in a statement. "We look forward to contributing our experience in regulated digital asset infrastructure as the city’s framework develops."

A Non-Binding Framework

Investors should note that the Memorandum of Cooperation is a non-binding expression of intent. According to the announcement, the agreement does not constitute a license, regulatory approval, or an endorsement of any specific product or service.

Instead, the MoC establishes a formal channel for dialogue as Alatau City's regulatory environment takes shape. Bybit Kazakhstan operates as a participant in the Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC) and is licensed by the Astana Financial Services Authority (AFSA) to operate a digital asset trading facility.