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
Credit Risk
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.
Cryptocurrency
Korea’s Crypto Exchange Ownership Cap Faces Constitutional Challenge
06/03/2026
A plan to cap shareholder stakes at 20% has been delayed and faces warnings it may infringe on property rights.
Structural Regulation
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.
Stablecoins
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.
Conduct, Culture & Accountability
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.
Payments & Settlements
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.
Trading & Investment
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.
Credit Risk
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.
Credit Risk
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.
Data Privacy
China Proposes Tighter Oversight for Corporate Credit Reporting
04/03/2026
The PBOC has issued draft rules to strengthen the regulation and market exit mechanisms for corporate credit reporting agencies.
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