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".

Conduct, Culture & Accountability

New Zealand FMA Issues Warning to Japanese Insurer for Overcharging Customers

03/02/2026

Aioi Nissay Dowa Insurance overcharged more than 5,000 customers due to system failures, prompting a regulatory call for better industry-wide controls.

Trading & Investment

SFC Official Outlines Planned Reforms to Boost REIT Market

03/02/2026

The SFC is streamlining listing rules, planning a new M&A framework, and prioritising REIT Connect to enhance market competitiveness and liquidity.