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
Data Privacy
China Tightens Exit Rules to Protect Industrial Secrets
11/08/2026
New regulations effective 15 September will allow authorities to bar individuals from leaving if they are deemed a risk to industrial security.
Data Privacy
Korea to Toughen Penalties for Obstructing Data Breach Probes
11/08/2026
The privacy watchdog has announced plans to introduce new criminal penalties and fines for companies that conceal or destroy evidence related to data breaches.
Cybersecurity
Major US Hedge Funds Targeted in Sophisticated Vishing Campaign
11/08/2026
Wave of cyberattacks on firms including Citadel and Point72 highlights the growing threat of AI-assisted social engineering.
Market Abuse
Korean FIs Face Record Fines in KRW 76 Trillion Bond-Rigging Probe
10/08/2026
The financial industry is pushing back against the antitrust regulator’s fine calculation method, which could result in penalties of over KRW 10 trillion.
Structural Regulation
Korea’s Tougher Delisting Rules Put Dozens of Firms at Risk
10/08/2026
New 'penny stock' and market cap requirements have triggered delisting warnings for nearly 70 firms, prompting a rush for defensive measures.
Credit Risk
China Fines Agricultural Bank CNY 12.1 Million for Loan Breaches
10/08/2026
The penalty, one of the largest this year, targets widespread failures in credit risk management and holds 14 individuals accountable.
Reporting & Disclosures
China Revises Financial Reporting Rules to Align With IFRS 18
10/08/2026
The move aligns with global standards, introducing a new income statement structure and new disclosure requirements with phased implementation from 2027.
Trading & Investment
Dalian Exchange Sets September Launch Date for New Coke Options
10/08/2026
The exchange has received regulatory approval and set a September launch date, releasing details on position limits, fees, and market-making rules for the new derivative.
Payments & Settlements
Standard Bank Becomes First African Firm to Secures RMB Clearing Status
07/08/2026
The bank has been appointed an official Renminbi clearing bank for Africa and is rolling out direct access to China's CIPS payment system in key markets.
Supervision & Enforcement
China Starts Enforcing 20 Percent Tax on Offshore Insurance Gains
06/08/2026
The move, part of a wider crackdown on capital flight, has spooked investors despite officials calling it an enforcement of existing law.
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