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

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    Fintech / Regtech

    China, UAE to Advance Cross-Border Payment Cooperation

    10/06/2025

    China’s CIPS and CBUAE to develop a cross-border payment connectivity programme that provides local currency clearing services for FIs in the MENA region.

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    Crypto / Digital Assets

    SEC Philippines Finalises Regulatory Framework for Crypto Industry

    09/06/2025

    SEC mandates registration and licensing for crypto asset service providers (CASPs) to enhance consumer protection and combat fraud.

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    Enforcement

    South Korean Court Rules in Novel Predatory Lending Case

    05/06/2025

    A South Korean court ruling mandates full repayment plus damages in a predatory lending case, setting a new precedent for consumer protection.

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    AML / KYC

    Korea Enhances Fraud Compensation Scheme for Bank Customers

    03/06/2025

    New rules to be implemented by Q3 2025 will speed up and increase payouts to bank customers hit by scams.

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    Fintech / Regtech

    RBI Establishes Six-Member Board to Regulate Payment Systems

    29/05/2025

    The new Payments Regulatory Board integrates government-nominated representatives while keeping the RBI at the helm.

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    Capital / Liquidity

    RBI Proposes New Capital-Raising Pathways for UCBs

    26/05/2025

    RBI unveils new capital-raising avenues for urban co-operative banks, while also boosting transparency and market accessibility.

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    AML / KYC

    SEBI Mandates Inclusive Digital KYC for Users With Disabilities

    26/05/2025

    SEBI has mandated that digital KYC processes be made accessible for persons with disabilities to ensure equal access to financial services.

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    Enforcement

    Thai Police Arrest Three Bank Employees for Aiding Scammers

    26/05/2025

    The bank employees reportedly helped Chinese scammers open bank accounts which enabled them to withdraw scam proceeds.

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    Enforcement

    Thai SEC Suspends KGI Securities and Execs Over IPO Due Diligence Lapses

    25/05/2025

    The SEC order suspends KGI’s approval to act as a financial advisor and suspends two individuals from acting as operations controllers for one year.

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    Vietnam Establishes Steering Committee to Develop IFCs

    25/05/2025

    Ho Chi Minh City would focus on traditional financial services while Danang would specialise in areas like green finance, trade facilitation, and fintech.

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