Sanctions

Japan Announces New Round of Sanctions on Russia

04/03/2024

The sanctions target a total of 12 individuals and 37 entities, add new export restrictions, and implement the G7 ban on Russian diamonds.

Crypto / Digital Assets

Russia Re-rated on Four FATF Recommendations

04/03/2024

Russia was upgraded on R.6, R.7, and R.25, and downgraded on R.15 because digital currency activities are largely unregulated.

Sanctions

Canada Sanctions Six Over Death of Alexei Navalny

03/03/2024

The targets include senior officials and high-ranking employees of Russia’s prosecution, judicial and correctional services.

Fintech / Regtech

China to Improve Payment Convenience for Foreign Visitors

03/03/2024

Alipay and WeChat Pay are directed to raise their transaction limits for foreigners and improve their ability to link to foreign bank cards.

Enforcement

NY Court Allows Bangladesh Case Against RCBC to Proceed

03/03/2024

Bangladesh Bank’s lawsuit against the Philippines’ RCBC and its senior executives will be allowed to proceed, minus three causes of action.

Enforcement

Japan: Major Insurers Commit to Divesting Cross-Held Shares

03/03/2024

The insurers also imposed disciplinary measures against 132 executives and employees, including pay cuts, over a price-fixing scandal.

Securities / Derivatives

Taiwan FSC to Enhance Regulatory System for ETFs

03/03/2024

The FSC will draw from the set of good practices published by IOSCO in May 2023 to improve its regulatory system for ETFs.

ESG / Sustainability

Hong Kong Launches Prototype ‘Green Fintech Map’

03/03/2024

The Map is a directory of more than 50 green fintech firms so far, intended to help firms identify solutions that meet their business needs.

Enforcement

FSS Punishment of Hana CEO “Excessive”, Seoul Court Rules

03/03/2024

The Court directed the FSS to adjust the punishment, but ruled that Hana Bank’s six-month suspension for mis-selling risky funds was justified.