Mark Johnston
Based in Singapore, Mark is an experienced journalist and editor with over a decade of experience reporting on technology and business trends throughout Asia. Mark got his start as an engineer, graduating from the UK's Queen's University of Belfast with a Master's degree in Electrical and Electronic Engineering. As senior reporter for Regulation Asia, Mark focuses on regulatory changes impacting financial markets, with particular interest in fintech, cybersecurity and crypto markets.
Articles by Mark Johnston
Securities / Derivatives
CFFEX Proposes Split of Trading and Settlement Rules, Tightens Algo Oversight
12/01/2026
The Shanghai-based exchange seeks market feedback on a new standalone settlement framework and enhanced risk controls for algorithmic strategies under the Futures and Derivatives Law.
Crypto / Digital Assets
Vietnam Sets Mid-January Deadline to License Pilot Digital Asset Exchanges
12/01/2026
Vietnam’s Prime Minister instructs regulators to approve five pilot exchanges under a sandbox regime with strict capital and ownership requirements.
Securities / Derivatives
Thailand Targets Gold, Crypto in Sweeping ‘Grey Money’ Crackdown
12/01/2026
New rules include trading limits, a centralised data bureau, and stricter reporting to combat money laundering and curb baht volatility.
Enforcement
Korean Prosecutors Seek to Arrest Chairman of of Private Equity Giant
12/01/2026
Prosecutors allege executives of MBK Partners knew of a credit downgrade before a bond issuance.
Fintech / Regtech
OJK Indonesia Mandates Stronger IT Governance for Rural Banks
12/01/2026
Indonesia’s OJK has issued new rules requiring rural lenders to overhaul digital security, data protection, and disaster recovery protocols.
Sanctions
China Restricts Dual-Use Exports to Japan for Military-Related Uses
08/01/2026
Beijing has banned the export of dual-use items to Japanese military users or for any purpose that enhances military strength.
Securities / Derivatives
JPMorgan, DBS Secure China Interbank Bond Underwriting Licence
08/01/2026
The US bank is one of two foreign lenders granted a general lead underwriting licence for corporate bonds in China.
Capital / Liquidity
China Extends Bulk Bad Loan Disposal Policy to 2026 Amid Rising Defaults
08/01/2026
Regulators give banks another year to offload soured loans as lenders grapple with rising consumer defaults and deteriorating asset quality.
Capital / Liquidity
China to Expand Cross-Border Fund Rules, Deepen FX Reforms in 2026
08/01/2026
The FX regulator will roll out nationwide MNC cash pooling, expand banking reforms, and call for cheaper SME hedging products.
Crypto / Digital Assets
Cambodia Approves Draft Framework for Digital Asset Business Licensing
08/01/2026
Cambodia’s FSA Council has approved a draft proclamation establishing licensing requirements and operational obligations for digital asset service providers.
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