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
Capital / Liquidity
China Signals Major Financial Push Including Bank Capital Injections
06/03/2026
Beijing unveils a multi-pronged strategy using bank injections, special bonds, and targeted monetary policy to bolster the economy and foster "new quality productive forces".
Capital / Liquidity
Korea FSS Urges Savings Banks to Be 'Dependable Partners' for Local Economies
06/03/2026
The call comes as the regulator mandates new executive responsibility maps and offers incentives for inclusive lending to smaller businesses.
Crypto / Digital Assets
Korea Proposes Ownership Cap for Cryptocurrency Exchanges
06/03/2026
South Korean regulators and the ruling party have agreed to limit major cryptocurrency exchange ownership stakes to 20 percent.
Securities / Derivatives
Korea Eases OTC Trading Rules for Foreign Investors
05/03/2026
South Korea's FSC has proposed amending investment rules to allow foreign investors to trade restricted shares over-the-counter without prior approval.
Crypto / Digital Assets
Sony Bank and JPYC Explore Direct Stablecoin Integration
05/03/2026
Japan’s Sony Bank and stablecoin issuer JPYC will explore integrating bank deposits with blockchain infrastructure for seamless digital asset transactions.
Securities / Derivatives
BSEC Seeks Public Feedback on Draft Whistleblower Protection Rules
05/03/2026
New regulations aim to shield whistleblowers from retaliation while enhancing transparency in Bangladesh's financial sector.
Market Infrastructure
China Implements Revised to Ease Foreign Lender Entry to CIPS
05/03/2026
New regulatory changes to China's cross-border payment system permit foreign lenders to appoint overseas custodians, aiming to boost market liquidity.
Securities / Derivatives
China Optimises Mechanism for Sci-Tech Innovation Bonds
04/03/2026
NAFMII has unveiled optimised rules for sci-tech innovation bonds to channel long-term funds towards technological advancement.
Capital / Liquidity
China Revamps Microcredit Scheme, Doubles Loan Cap to CNY 100,000
04/03/2026
The new policy expands support to a wider rural population and provides greater flexibility for banks and borrowers after the post-poverty transition period.
Capital / Liquidity
Korea Tightens Risk Rules for Mutual Finance Sector Over PF Loan Concerns
04/03/2026
The FSC proposes lending caps, stricter recovery estimates, and higher capital ratios for credit unions and cooperatives.
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