Mark Johnston
Based in Singapore, Mark is an experienced journalist and editor with over a decade of experience reporting on technology and business trends throughout Asia. Mark got his start as an engineer, graduating from the UK's Queen's University of Belfast with a Master's degree in Electrical and Electronic Engineering. As senior reporter for Regulation Asia, Mark focuses on regulatory changes impacting financial markets, with particular interest in fintech, cybersecurity and crypto markets.
Articles by Mark Johnston
Data Privacy
China Proposes New Rules for Large-Scale Data Processors
12/08/2026
The draft rules would require firms handling data on over 10 million users to establish external-led oversight committees and appoint senior-level data protection officers.
Stablecoins
SBI and Nodeinfra to Build Japan-Korea Stablecoin Payment Rail
12/08/2026
The project will use the Canton Network to enable direct, atomically-settled payments, bypassing the US dollar in the busy trade corridor.
Trading & Investment
BOK to Overhaul Monetary Stabilisation Bond Framework
12/08/2026
The central bank will extend issuance periods, increase redemption frequency, and introduce benchmark securities to improve secondary market liquidity.
CBDCs
Guangdong FTZ Plan Proposes Expanded Digital Yuan, New Account Systems
11/08/2026
Draft five-year plan proposes major financial opening, including new cross-border payment pilots and account systems.
Structural Regulation
China Proposes Delisting Rules for Certain Listed Funds
11/08/2026
The new rules target QDII, commodity, and small-scale funds to curb speculative trading and high premium risks, affecting around 125 funds.
Data Privacy
China Tightens Exit Rules to Protect Industrial Secrets
11/08/2026
New regulations effective 15 September will allow authorities to bar individuals from leaving if they are deemed a risk to industrial security.
Data Privacy
Korea to Toughen Penalties for Obstructing Data Breach Probes
11/08/2026
The privacy watchdog has announced plans to introduce new criminal penalties and fines for companies that conceal or destroy evidence related to data breaches.
Cybersecurity
Major US Hedge Funds Targeted in Sophisticated Vishing Campaign
11/08/2026
Wave of cyberattacks on firms including Citadel and Point72 highlights the growing threat of AI-assisted social engineering.
Market Abuse
Korean FIs Face Record Fines in KRW 76 Trillion Bond-Rigging Probe
10/08/2026
The financial industry is pushing back against the antitrust regulator’s fine calculation method, which could result in penalties of over KRW 10 trillion.
Structural Regulation
Korea’s Tougher Delisting Rules Put Dozens of Firms at Risk
10/08/2026
New 'penny stock' and market cap requirements have triggered delisting warnings for nearly 70 firms, prompting a rush for defensive measures.
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