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 Tightens Bond Underwriting Rules to Curb Unfair Pricing
22/06/2025
NAFMII moves to boost transparency in China’s bond market, targeting fee abuse and profit transfers.
Capital / Liquidity
KRX Prepares to Launch New “Rapid Investigation Department”
19/06/2025
The new department would rely on an expanded team of market surveillance personnel to more quickly identify and respond to unfair trades.
China to Broaden FTZ Reforms, Stabilise Real Estate Market
18/06/2025
Top Chinese officials pledged to expands free trade reforms nationwide, and address the property market slump with a multi-pronged approach.
Market Infrastructure
Taiwan Relaxes Rules for Banks Entering Asset Management Zones
18/06/2025
Taiwan’s FSC is easing its branch licensing rules to incentivise FIs to establish operations in designated asset management zones.
Sanctions
Taiwan Bans Chip Exports to Huawei, SMIC and Other Entities
18/06/2025
In total, 601 entities “involved in arms proliferation activities” were added to an export blacklist in Taiwan.
Capital / Liquidity
Vietnam Weighs New Housing Credit Packages to Boost Home Ownership
18/06/2025
Vietnam is set to roll out credit reforms to help young homebuyers, aiming to revitalise real estate and fuel growth.
Enforcement
Bangladesh Considers Settlement Deals in Bid to Recover Illicit Funds
17/06/2025
The interim administration is considering civil suits and financial deals as part of broader efforts to reclaim assets and stabilise the economy.
Market Infrastructure
Taiwan Tightens Circuit Breaker Mechanism in Futures Market
17/06/2025
TAIFEX will have shorter trading halt periods if the mechanism is triggered, and oil contracts are given wider price bands.
Enforcement
Hong Kong Court Jails Four in Taiping Life Commission Scam
12/06/2025
HKD 4.6 million in commission and bonuses were paid out despite policyholders never signing application forms or paying premiums.
Capital / Liquidity
Taiwan Amends Insurance Act to Enhance Consumer Protections
12/06/2025
The amendments also provide a legal basis for insurance companies to outsource operations and allow insurance policies to be purchased from foreign insurers through brokers.
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