Mark Johnston

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    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

    Market Infrastructure

    New Alliances Target Energy Infrastructure, Lower Emissions

    05/11/2021

    The GEAPP has committed $100bn to clean energy infrastructure. ADB announced a plan to finance early closures of coal plants in Indonesia and the Philippines.

    ESG / Sustainability

    Tokyo Revises Global City Vision, Pivots To Green Finance

    04/11/2021

    Tokyo has launched version 2.0 of its global financial city ambitions, with green financing and fintech becoming central pillars of its revised strategy.

    Capital / Liquidity

    MAS to Implement Contractual Recognition Requirement

    03/11/2021

    Singapore banks have three years to ensure their foreign law financial contracts recognise MAS’ temporary stay powers regarding termination rights.

    Market Infrastructure

    China State Council Unveils Climate Action Plan Ahead of COP26

    29/10/2021

    The action plan commits China to reaching 25% in non-fossil energy consumption in its mix by 2030, compared to 16 percent in 2020.

    ESG / Sustainability

    Japan Developing Certification Framework For ESG Related Bonds

    29/10/2021

    Japan’s FSA will also formulate codes of conduct for ESG evaluation organisations, covering transparency, fairness, and good governance.

    Market Infrastructure

    SGX Opens GIFT City Office Ahead of India Trading Link Launch

    27/10/2021

    The new office will house a data centre referred to as GIFT Data Connect. The NSE-SGX GIFT City Connect is expected to be fully-operational by January 2022.

    Fintech / Regtech

    HKMA, PBOC Agree to Link Regulatory Sandbox Across Borders

    22/10/2021

    The arrangement will facilitate cross-border financial innovation in the Greater Bay Area and strengthen supervisory exchanges.

    Enforcement

    CFTC Fines Tether as US Regulators Scrutinise Crypto Markets

    21/10/2021

    The CFTC has fined Tether $41mn and Bitfinex’s parent $1.5mn. Meanwhile New York prosecutors have directed two crypto lending platforms to cease operations.

    Big Picture

    Crypto Asset Regulation “A Matter Of Urgency”, says BOE

    18/10/2021

    Deputy governor Jon Cunliffe says a “plausible scenario” involving a collapse in crypto-asset prices would have financial stability implications.

    Market Infrastructure

    PBOC Tightens Rules on Use of Payment Acceptance Terminals

    17/10/2021

    The geographical location of bank card and barcode payment acceptance terminals must be established and monitored to ensure consistency with the merchant’s registered location.

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