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
CBDCs
China Set to Expand of Digital Yuan Operator Network - Report
20/03/2026
China's central bank is preparing to more than double the number of banks authorised to operate the digital yuan, as a shift to interest-bearing status boosts commercial incentives.
Operational Risk
China Mandates Credit-Based Regulation for Transport Sector
20/03/2026
Five authorities have set a 2030 deadline for a unified credit system linking ratings to regulatory treatment, market access, and consumer services.
Sustainable Finance
Taiwan Carbon Exchange Signs Climate Finance MOU with CABEI
20/03/2026
TCX and CABEI's non-binding agreement signals Taiwan's push for cross-regional carbon market connectivity as it develops a domestic emissions trading system.
Trading & Investment
Korea FSC Designates NH Investment as Third IMA-Licensed Broker
20/03/2026
NH Investment & Securities joins an exclusive group of firms authorised to operate integrated management accounts, expanding Korea's prime brokerage market.
Market Abuse
FSC Korea Refers 'Horse Racing' Crypto Manipulator for Prosecution
19/03/2026
Regulators have referred a market manipulator for prosecution and mandated new exchange duties to combat unfair trading practices.
Structural Regulation
China Tightens Grip on Hong Kong IPOs, Pushes 'Red-Chips' to Restructure
19/03/2026
The CSRC is discouraging overseas-incorporated firms from listing in Hong Kong, citing compliance risks and capital flight concerns.
Credit Risk
Shanghai Cuts Commercial Property Loan Down Payment Requirements
19/03/2026
Shanghai's first commercial property lending adjustment in nearly 20 years signals a nationwide push to clear persistent inventory overhangs in the commercial real estate sector.
Conduct, Culture & Accountability
China Intensifies Banker Pay Reforms With Steep Bonus Cuts
18/03/2026
Regulators are enforcing bonus reductions of up to 50 percent at state-owned firms to correct pay imbalances and advance 'common prosperity'
Supervision & Enforcement
China Introduces Rating System for Wealth Management Firms
18/03/2026
The new system will link ratings to market access and regulatory intensity, aiming to curb a focus on scale over quality.
Cybersecurity
China's NIFA Issues Security Alert on 'Openclaw' AI Agent
18/03/2026
China's internet finance body has warned firms and consumers about financial loss, data compliance, and fraud risks from the popular open-source AI tool.
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