AML / KYC

Japan FSA Flags Banks, Crypto as High-Risk for Money Laundering

03/07/2025

The FSA will focus on verifying the effectiveness of AML/CFT systems at FIs in preparation for the next FATF mutual evaluation.

Crypto / Digital Assets

SFC Grants Licences for Tokenised Securities to DigiFT

03/07/2025

Digital asset platform DigiFT has gained approval to deal in and advise on tokenised real-world assets, expanding its Asia footprint.

AML / KYC

Chinese Underground Banks Use Cartel Cash for TBML – Report

03/07/2025

A former senior DEA official has detailed a vast trade-based money laundering network linking Chinese investors, students, and the Sinaloa cartel.

Big Picture

North America’s T+1 Shift Squeezes APAC Trading Operations

03/07/2025

Report finds APAC  firms face compressed timelines, significant foreign exchange risks, and the need for overnight operations.

Taiwan Extends Tax Breaks for Offshore Insurance to Boost Asset Hub Goal

03/07/2025

Key tax exemptions for offshore insurance units were extended to bolster Taiwan’s asset management hub ambitions.

Market Infrastructure

IAIS Publishes Draft Operational Resilience Framework for Insurers

02/07/2025

New paper details objectives and tools for insurers, focusing on governance, stress testing, and managing third-party risks.

Securities / Derivatives

Shanghai and Astana Exchanges Sign New Cooperation Pact

02/07/2025

The agreement aims to enhance cooperation in areas such as stock and debt product development and market promotion.

Enforcement

Korean Banks in Cambodia Accused of Predatory Lending

02/07/2025

A new report alleges predatory lending by Korean-owned banks in Cambodia is causing widespread debt, land loss and rights abuses.

Market Infrastructure

China Extends Tax Incentives for Foreign Firms to Bolster Investment

02/07/2025

China has extended a preferential tax policy for foreign firms that reinvest profits into the country, a move aimed at boosting investor confidence.