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
AML / KYC
EU, Vietnam Agree to Cooperate on Banking Supervision, AML, Sustainable Finance
02/02/2026
New Comprehensive Strategic Partnership includes commitments to align financial standards, combat sanctions circumvention and develop emissions trading systems.
Crypto / Digital Assets
StanChart Warns Stablecoins Could Siphon $500b from Lenders
02/02/2026
Report predicts massive deposit flight by 2028 as pending US legislation paves the way for yield-bearing digital assets to compete with traditional banking models.
ESG / Sustainability
Korea Proposes Bank Contribution Exemptions to Boost ‘Stepping Stone’ Lending
30/01/2026
The FSC plans to exempt specific transition loans from agency contributions to encourage lending to conscientious borrowers.
Market Infrastructure
KRX Facing Backlash in Push for Extended Trading Hours
30/01/2026
The KRX plan to boost competitiveness is met with fierce opposition from its securities union, which warns of risks from inadequate market surveillance.
Enforcement
South Korea to Launch One-Stop System for Illegal Lending Victims
29/01/2026
Proposed legal amendments will allow a single report to trigger simultaneous relief measures and expand the powers of the Credit Counseling & Recovery Service.
Fintech / Regtech
China Drafts Four-Tier Data Rules for Financial Information Firms
29/01/2026
The CAC releases draft guidelines requiring firms to grade data by sensitivity to national security and submit “important” data catalogues to authorities.
Securities / Derivatives
China Tightens Rules on Fund Performance Benchmarks
28/01/2026
New rules will transform benchmarks from a loose reference into a binding constraint on investment, disclosure, and even fund manager compensation.
Securities / Derivatives
China Hits Private Fund with Record CNY 41M Fine for Systemic Fraud
28/01/2026
Regulators impose a record penalty and lifetime ban for a scheme involving market manipulation, misappropriated funds, and a vast fundraising network.
Enforcement
SHFE Imposes Trading Curbs on 16 Firms Trading Metals Markets
28/01/2026
The Shanghai exchange has imposed trading curbs on 16 clients and tightened position limits, sending tin prices tumbling.
Enforcement
Korea: KDIC to Deploy AI to Recover Overseas and Digital Assets
28/01/2026
South Korea’s deposit insurer outlines 2026 plans to utilise artificial intelligence and third-party litigation funding to recover hidden overseas and digital assets.
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