Hong Kong vs United States · Real-time payment systems compared
| Capability | FPS | RTP |
|---|---|---|
| QR Code Payments | ◐ | — |
| Wallet Support | — | — |
| 24/7 Availability | ✓ | ✓ |
| Cross-Border | ◐ | — |
| ISO 20022 | ✓ | ✓ |
| Request to Pay | — | ✓ |
| Open API | ◐ | ✓ |
| Alias/Proxy | ✓ | — |
Hong Kong's Faster Payment System enables 24/7 real-time transfers in both HKD and RMB between banks and stored-value facilities. Uniquely dual-currency by design, it supports proxy-based addressing via mobile number, email, or FPS ID. Operated by HKMA with settlement through the CHATS RTGS system, it has become the backbone of Hong Kong's digital payment ecosystem with 12M+ registrations.
The first modern US instant payment system, operated by The Clearing House (owned by 22 of the largest US banks). RTP launched in 2017 and supports credit transfers up to $1M with immediate finality — no chargebacks or returns. It also offers Request for Payment (RfP) messaging for bill pay and invoicing. While FedNow provides Fed-backed infrastructure, RTP has a head start with broader bank connectivity and higher transaction limits, and processes the majority of US instant payment volume today.