Payments & Settlements

Australia Set to Ban Card Surcharges in Major Payments Overhaul

14/09/2026

The reform will prohibit merchant surcharges on most card payments, impacting business costs and shaking up the credit card rewards landscape.

Liquidity Risk

NZ FMA Eyes Private Assets, ESG Claims in KiwiSaver Scheme

14/09/2026

The FMA has detailed its focus on private asset valuations, liquidity risk, and sustainability claims within its annual review of the KiwiSaver scheme.

Cybersecurity

FSS Warns Korean FIs of "Tough Measures" Over AI Security Lapses

14/09/2026

The FSS has told financial firms to fix basic IT controls and prepare for sophisticated AI-driven attacks, promising leniency for proactive firms.

Structural Regulation

FSDC Charts Hong Kong's Course to Become 'Multi-Polar' Capital Nexus

14/09/2026

In two new reports, the FSDC has outlined a strategy to become a capital hub for emerging growth corridors.

Market Risk

Japan FSA Heightens Scrutiny as Rate Risks Mount for Banks

11/09/2026

The FSA is intensifying its monitoring of banks' risk management amid rising rates, focusing on bond portfolios and mortgages.

Emerging Prudential Risks

APRA Launches Final Consultation on Retirement Reporting Framework

11/09/2026

APRA has released revised retirement reporting standards for consultation, part of a wider government push to improve retirement outcomes, product innovation, and data sharing.

Trading & Investment

SFC Official Outlines Plan to Elevate Hong Kong as FIC Hub

11/09/2026

Hong Kong is exploring the phased introduction of central clearing for bond repos and the establishment of a dedicated clearing system.

Anti-Money Laundering

New Zealand Reports 'Medium' Money Laundering Risk in Accounting Sector

11/09/2026

New risk assessment finds accountants are exposed to significant money laundering risks, particularly through trust and company services.

Sustainable Finance

New HKGFA Paper Urges Asia to Adopt China’s Water Financing Models

11/09/2026

New white paper outlines a policy roadmap for scaling up water resilience financing using innovative asset-backed securities pioneered in China.