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
Market Infrastructure
Korea Mulls 20 Percent Cap on Crypto Exchange Ownership
06/01/2026
The FSC is reviewing proposals to classify top exchanges as core infrastructure, potentially forcing founders to divest billions in KRW.
Crypto / Digital Assets
Thai SEC Suspends KuCoin Unit Over Capital Adequacy Breach
06/01/2026
Thai SEC orders halt to operations after exchange’s capital ratio fell below 60 percent of minimum requirement for five consecutive days.
Capital / Liquidity
Philippines Launches State Micro-Lending to Curb Predatory Credit
06/01/2026
The Department of Finance directs the Social Security System to partner with banks for a digital micro-loan pilot launching H1 2026.
Securities / Derivatives
CSRC Codifies Enforcement with New Securities, Futures Rules
05/01/2026
The CSRC releases comprehensive rules standardising regulatory measures, enhancing procedural rights while retaining emergency powers to contain market risks.
Capital / Liquidity
China NFRA Eases M&A Lending Rules for Commercial Banks
05/01/2026
New regulations permit loans for minority stakes for the first time and offer more generous terms for controlling acquisitions.
Securities / Derivatives
China Finalises New Rules on Fund Fees to Spur Long-Term Holding
05/01/2026
New rules effective 2026 cap subscription and service fees, standardise redemption charges and limit incentives for sales agencies.
Market Infrastructure
China’s Revised Cyber Law Enters into Force with Stricter AI, Penalty Rules
02/01/2026
Financial institutions face fines of up to CNY 10 million under a new tiered penalty regime effective 1 January.
Securities / Derivatives
China Expands REITs Market with Commercial Property Pilot
02/01/2026
Regulators roll out a unified framework to activate commercial assets, with exchanges streamlining review processes and waiving fees to boost participation.
Securities / Derivatives
SEBI Mandates NISM Certification for AIF Compliance Officers
02/01/2026
SEBI aims to raise professional standards amid rapid growth in the alternative investment fund sector.
ESG / Sustainability
Korea to Expand Gender Pay Gap Disclosures for Investment Firms
02/01/2026
KOFIA will require major securities firms and asset management companies to disclose gender and position-based compensation data from January.
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