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
CBDCs
China Steps Up Digital Yuan Push with New Bank Incentives
05/06/2026
The central bank is expanding the e-CNY’s use in domestic payments and cross-border trade, but faces significant hurdles to widespread adoption.
Structural Regulation
Bangladesh Continuing to Face Protests Over Leadership Change at Islami Bank
05/06/2026
Bangladesh Bank is standing firm on a controversial chairman appointment at the country's largest Islamic lender, despite street protests and clashes with police.
Trading & Investment
Korea to Launch 24-Hour FX Trading Amid Volatility Concerns
05/06/2026
The move, effective from July, is part of a push for MSCI developed market status but raises concerns about currency stability during illiquid hours.
Trading & Investment
Shanghai Unveils Roadmap to Become Global Asset Management Hub
04/06/2026
The plan sets a CNY 55 trillion target for 2030 and details measures to expand product offerings, enhance cross-border access, and integrate new technologies.
Market Risk
BOJ Faces Calls to Slow Bond Taper Amid Rising Yields
03/06/2026
A summary of investor opinions and recent market volatility are increasing pressure on BOJ to consider a more gradual approach to quantitative tightening.
Payments & Settlements
China and Malaysia Launch Electronic System for Trade Documents
03/06/2026
The new system digitises the exchange of certificates of origin under the RCEP and China-ASEAN agreements to streamline customs clearance for importers.
Stablecoins
Japan’s Ruling Party Proposes Rules for Crypto ETFs, Yen Stablecoins
02/06/2026
A policy panel has urged the government to create a legal framework for crypto ETFs and promote yen-denominated stablecoins for payments.
Data Privacy
China Issues Sweeping New Rules on Outbound Investment
02/06/2026
The new regulation, effective 1 July, formalises national security reviews, tightens controls on technology transfers, and creates a legal framework for countermeasures against foreign restrictions.
Emerging Prudential Risks
China Accelerates Major Financial Legislation to Bolster Stability
02/06/2026
Beijing is fast-tracking four key laws, including a new Financial Law and a Financial Stability Law, to overhaul its regulatory architecture and strengthen risk management.
Cybersecurity
Korea Forms Expert Panel to Advise on AI Security and Network Rules
02/06/2026
The new advisory body will help shape policy on risks from advanced AI and the potential relaxation of the country's strict network segmentation rules for financial firms.
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