Structural Regulation

SFC Ramps Up IPO Banker Licence Approvals After Quality Clampdown

15/04/2026

The SFC issued 53 percent more licences in March, signalling a cautious easing after a period of intense scrutiny over IPO application quality.

Payments & Settlements

Hong Kong to Propose Bill for RMB Stamp Duty Payments

15/04/2026

The government plans to introduce legislation allowing stamp duty on RMB-denominated stock trades to be paid in yuan, alongside the move to a scripless market.

Tokenisation

HSBC Completes Tokenised Deposits Pilot on Public Blockchain

15/04/2026

The bank has simulated issuing its tokenised deposits on the Canton Network, a move demonstrating interoperability and testing public blockchain infrastructure.

Conduct, Culture & Accountability

ASIC Tackles Retirement Anxiety With New Guidance Tools

14/04/2026

ASIC has launched new resources after research revealed low financial literacy and significant retirement planning gaps among older Australians.

Supervision & Enforcement

Australia Proposes Tougher Penalties for Tax Practitioners After PwC Tax Leaks Scandal

14/04/2026

Treasury releases draft legislation to significantly strengthen the TPB’s powers, introducing criminal penalties and higher fines.

Trading & Investment

HKEX Launches Tech Indices to Boost ETF Connect Scope

14/04/2026

HKEX has launched two technology-focused indices and licensed five issuers, aiming to expand product options for mainland investors.

Trading & Investment

HKEX to Conduct Mandatory Rehearsal for Spreads Reduction on 25 April

13/04/2026

HKEX has scheduled a mandatory market rehearsal for late April as it prepares for Phase 2 of an initiative to reduce the minimum spreads permitted in the securities market.

Anti-Money Laundering

Australian Accountants Face Major AML Reform Readiness Gap

13/04/2026

A recent survey reveals widespread unpreparedness among Australian accountants for impending AML reforms, raising concerns about compliance burdens and potential penalties.

Sustainable Finance

Australia to Tighten Foreign Investor CGT Rules, Offer Renewables Discount

13/04/2026

New draft legislation aims to strengthen Australia’s foreign resident capital gains tax regime while offering a temporary, targeted discount for renewable energy investments.