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
China to Open TSR 20, Bonded Copper Options to Foreign Investors
01/04/2026
The move marks a further step in opening China's commodity derivatives markets to international participants via the QFI scheme.
Capital / Liquidity
Bank Indonesia Launches FX Repo Facility to Deepen Markets
31/03/2026
The central bank will allow its foreign currency securities to be used as collateral in new repo transactions to boost liquidity and support the rupiah.
Securities / Derivatives
CSRC to Strengthen Legal Framework to Boost Long-Term Investment
31/03/2026
The regulator has detailed its 2026 legislative agenda, following a year that saw over CNY 15 billion in penalties and 172 criminal case referrals.
Enforcement
Korea FSS Set to Launch Investigations Unit, Sanction Crypto Firms
31/03/2026
FSS Governor also warned of mis-selling risks in overseas private debt and confirms internal control flaws at Bithumb crypto exchange.
Capital / Liquidity
South Korea Mandates Coordinated Support for Small Businesses
31/03/2026
The FSC and MSS have partnered with private banks and public agencies to create a one-stop support network for struggling firms.
Capital / Liquidity
Korea Policy Lenders Form 'One Team' to Expand Productive Finance
31/03/2026
Six state-backed financial institutions have signed an MOU to coordinate support for innovation industries, following a directive from the FSC.
AML / KYC
Japan Proposes Mandatory Information Sharing for Banks to Combat Fraud
31/03/2026
The FSA has released draft amendments requiring deposit-taking institutions to share data on fraudulent accounts through a centralised platform.
Crypto / Digital Assets
Japan FSA Warns KuCoin Amid Broader Crypto Oversight Push
30/03/2026
The regulator has flagged several offshore platforms for unregistered services ahead of planned legislative changes to strengthen its enforcement powers.
Securities / Derivatives
Korea Launches KRW 5 Trillion Bond Buyback to Calm Markets
30/03/2026
The emergency measure to stabilise bond yields is part of a wider economic response plan that also includes a supplementary budget.
Securities / Derivatives
Osaka Exchange Proposes Daily Maturities for Nikkei 225 Mini Options
30/03/2026
The exchange has launched a public consultation on plans to introduce new weekly contracts, scheduled for implementation in April 2027.
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