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
Crypto / Digital Assets
Chinese Bank Issues First Blockchain Bond Using e-CNY for Settlement
08/12/2025
Hua Xia Bank subsidiary completes issuance exclusively using CBDC, aiming to streamline settlement and reduce intermediaries.
Enforcement
US Authorities Seize Domain Tied to Myanmar Scam Compound
07/12/2025
The action targets the Tai Chang operation and follows recent sanctions against groups linked to Chinese organised crime and crypto fraud.
Fintech / Regtech
Taiwan Suspends Xiaohongshu for One Year Over Cyber, Fraud Risks
05/12/2025
Taiwan authorities are blocking the Chinese social media platform after it failed security assessments and was linked to TWD 247 million in scam losses.
Taiwan Proposes Easing Rules for FIs to Open Domestic Branches
05/12/2025
The FSC has proposed amendments allowing financial institutions to open one new physical branch annually despite missing profitability targets.
Capital / Liquidity
TAIFEX Tightens After-Hours Risk Controls for Futures Firms
05/12/2025
TAIFEX mandates new rules for managing customer risk from option trading strategies during extended sessions.
Securities / Derivatives
Taiwan to Revamp Corporate Financial Statements, Mandate Digital Filing
05/12/2025
The FSC proposes major changes to align with IFRS 18, introducing new performance metrics and requiring paperless reporting from 2026.
Fintech / Regtech
FSS Korea Probes Coupang Pay, Gmarket After Major Data Breaches
05/12/2025
The FSS is scrutinising payment systems at major e-commerce platforms amid concerns over inadequate cybersecurity investment in the sector.
Crypto / Digital Assets
Korea Forms New Advisory Committee to Attract Foreign Capital
04/12/2025
Deputy PM Koo Yoon-chul said the government aims to create an environment that supports greater inflows of foreign investment funds.
Capital / Liquidity
NBFI Growth Creates Uncertainty in Monetary Policy Transmission: BIS
04/12/2025
Rapid growth of investment funds and bond markets requires central banks to adopt gradual yet flexible policy approaches to manage transmission risks.
Securities / Derivatives
China Expands List of Assets Eligible for Investment by Infrastructure REITs
04/12/2025
China’s NDRC has updated its eligible asset list for 2025, adding specific conditions for energy, commercial and consumption projects.
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