CBSL Approves Acquisition of HSBC Retail Arm in Sri Lanka

05/12/2025

The deal, impacting around 200,000 customers, is expected to close in the first half of 2026 pending further requirements.

Sanctions

Australia Sanctions Russian 'Shadow Fleet' to Enforce G7+ Oil Price Cap

04/12/2025

Australia designated 45 vessels as part of a new sanctions package aimed at curbing Russia's ability to finance its war in Ukraine.

ESG / Sustainability

Thailand Cabinet Approves Climate Bill with Carbon Tax, ETS

04/12/2025

The draft law, awaiting parliamentary approval, establishes a framework for carbon pricing, a climate fund, and a green taxonomy.

Capital / Liquidity

China Vanke Plan to Delay Debt Repayment Shakes Markets

03/12/2025

Vanke's plan to delay a CNY 2 billion bond payment with no upfront cash has intensified concerns over the limits of government support.

ASIC Issues Final Warning as 2,300 Financial Advisers Risk Exit

03/12/2025

Regulator warns nearly 15% of industry has not met new education standards ahead of the 1 January 2026 deadline.

China Halts Public Release of Key Property Sales Data - Reports

03/12/2025

The move raises transparency concerns as paying financial institutions are told to keep the sensitive housing data confidential.

AML / KYC

Bendigo Bank Uncovers Systemic AML/CTF Deficiencies

01/12/2025

An independent review found widespread weaknesses in risk management, prompting a fully funded overhaul with unknown costs and regulatory scrutiny.

Capital / Liquidity

China Directs Lenders to Boost Consumer Finance in New Action Plan

01/12/2025

The plan details specific financial tools, including relending facilities and new consumer credit products, to cultivate trillion-yuan consumer markets.

Capital / Liquidity

South Korea Proposes Making Landlord Loan Relief Permanent

01/12/2025

Regulators aim to remove the sunset clause on eased lending rules for landlords returning 'jeonse' rental deposits.