Custody & Infrastructure

SFC Seeks Budget Increase to Boost Headcount for Digital Assets, IPOs

04/02/2026

Six of 18 new positions are designated for digital assets licensing and supervision work as well as the SFC's "ASPIRe" virtual asset roadmap.

Anti-Money Laundering

Hong Kong to Raise Licensing Fees for Money Service Operators

04/02/2026

The government plans to increase licensing fees for money service operators by up to 15 percent, with implementation set for May 2026.

Stablecoins

Hong Kong to Issue First Stablecoin Licences in March

03/02/2026

Eddie Yue said the HKMA plans to grant a "very small number" of stablecoin issuer licences under its new regulatory regime.

Cybersecurity

Hong Kong Law Reform Commission Eyes Update to Cybercrime Law

03/02/2026

Report recommends five new cyber-dependent offences, expanded jurisdiction, and a formal accreditation regime for cybersecurity practitioners.

Structural Regulation

Australia Fines Foreign Investors A$14 Million Over Critical Minerals Breach

03/02/2026

This is the first case brought by a government leader under Australia's foreign investment laws since their introduction in 1975.

Supervision & Enforcement

Australia Appoints Sarah Court to Serve as Next ASIC Chair

03/02/2026

Sarah Court, a seasoned litigator known for a tough enforcement record, will take the helm in a milestone move for the regulator.

Emerging Prudential Risks

Hong Kong to Align First Five-Year Plan with Mainland China Blueprint

03/02/2026

Hong Kong will create its first five-year development framework, personally led by its chief executive, to synchronise with Mainland China's national strategy.

Cryptocurrency

Philippines Bans Banks From Dealing with Unregistered Crypto Firms

03/02/2026

New rules prohibit dealings with unlicensed virtual asset service providers and restrict retail customer access to offshore platforms.

Conduct, Culture & Accountability

Australian Mortgage and Finance Brokers Urged to Review Ads

03/02/2026

The move by the MFAA follows an ASIC review into misleading digital and social media content, including the rise of "finfluencers".