AML / KYC

FATF Issues Guidance on Securities Sector Risk-based Approach

02/11/2018

The guidance supports the design and implementation of the risk-based approach for securities products and services, which can create opportunities for criminals to launder proceeds of crime.

Enforcement

New Financial Complaints Body Launches in Australia

02/11/2018

AFCA will influence reform in financial services by raising standards and improving internal practices to reduce and resolve disputes, said the body’s independent chair Helen Coonan.

Market Infrastructure

AIMA Publishes FMCC Implementation Guide

01/11/2018

AIMA, Clifford Chance and Herbert Smith Freehills designed the guide to help Hong Kong asset managers better understand the expectations placed upon them and their constituents.

AML / KYC

Malaysia has ‘Robust’ AML/CFT Framework – APG-FATF

01/11/2018

More actions needed to further strengthen the framework, including a greater focus on terrorist financing risk from the private sector and foreign source threats.

Market Infrastructure

MAS, CSRC Enhance Cooperation on Capital Markets, Derivatives

01/11/2018

The derivatives MoU will enhance cross-border supervision and the development of futures markets, while staff exchanges will deepen ties between the agencies.

Crypto / Digital Assets

HKEX Develops Blockchain Prototype for Northbound Trade Settlement

01/11/2018

HKEX will work with Digital Asset to introduce the first blockchain platform for financial services in Hong Kong, said Charles Li in a speech at Hong Kong Fintech Week.

Fintech / Regtech

Japanese Banks Trial Blockchain-based Settlement for Small Transactions

31/10/2018

Nine banks will use Fujitsu technology to test the ability of a custom digital currency to achieve low-cost performance of real-time gross settlement for small-scale transactions.

Big Picture

Asia Struggles to Meet 2020 EU Benchmarks Regulation Deadline

31/10/2018

A number of non-EU benchmark administrators may fail to obtain BMR registration by January 2020, according to a new report from ASIFMA and Herbert Smith Freehills.

Market Infrastructure

NZX Overhauls Listing Rules in Transition to Single Board

30/10/2018

New listing rules to take effect from January, in advance of migration to a single board where equity, debt and fund issuers will be covered in a single rule set.