Payments & Settlements

Hong Kong Details Four-Pronged Strategy to Bolster Offshore Yuan Hub Status

23/05/2026

Hong Kong has detailed a comprehensive strategy to enhance yuan liquidity, product diversity, and financial infrastructure, while expanding outreach to emerging markets.

Clearing & Post-Trade

Hong Kong Set to Launch New Gold Clearing House By July

22/05/2026

Hong Kong is set to launch a new gold clearing system by July, as officials outline a strategy to use the precious metal and a unified regulatory approach to bridge conventional and digital finance.

Cryptocurrency

Hong Kong Tables Bill for OECD Crypto Tax Reporting Framework

22/05/2026

The new legislation will require crypto-asset service providers to report transaction information to tax authorities starting in 2027.

Structural Regulation

Hong Kong Passes Bill to Raise Stamp Duty for Luxury Property

22/05/2026

The measure raises the levy on residential properties over HKD 100 million, aiming to boost revenue despite concerns over market impact and attracting investment.

Cryptocurrency

ASIC Licenses Crypto Firm Block Earner Despite Ongoing Court Battle

22/05/2026

ASIC has granted a crypto firm its first credit licence, even as it continues to sue the company in the nation's highest court over a separate product.

Conduct, Culture & Accountability

Korea Targets Leveraged ETFs, ‘Finfluencers’ in Consumer Protection Push

21/05/2026

The regulator has voiced concerns over retail speculation and market volatility, unveiling pre-emptive measures for securities, insurance, and social media influencers.

Anti-Money Laundering

AUSTRAC Orders External Audit of NSW Club Over AML Weaknesses

21/05/2026

AUSTRAC has ordered a major Sydney club operator to appoint an external auditor amid concerns over money laundering controls for poker machines.

Conduct, Culture & Accountability

FMA Sets Out Expectations for New Zealand Insurance Act

21/05/2026

New Zealand’s financial regulator has warned insurers to begin preparations now for the new Contracts of Insurance Act, which comes into force in November 2027.

Market Data & Technology

SFC Mandates Firms to Participate in Rehearsal for HKEX Network Upgrade

21/05/2026

Regulators are requiring exchange participants to test a significant network overhaul, with a focus on operational readiness and investor ID systems.