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
South Korea to Tighten SPAC Rules to Combat 'Irrational' Trading
23/03/2026
The FSS plans to enhance disclosures and close regulatory gaps as data shows rising speculation despite a contracting market.
Enforcement
South Korea Cracks Down on Finfluencer Market Abuse
23/03/2026
Regulators are targeting front-running and rumour-spreading amid heightened market volatility, launching a whistleblower drive and promising stern action.
Securities / Derivatives
China Defines New Professional Framework for Investment Advisers
23/03/2026
The SAC has released its first-ever competency model for the country's nearly 87,000 investment advisers, pushing a shift from sales to fiduciary duty.
Enforcement
China Sentences ex-President of Bank of Guizhou for Taking $24m in Bribes
22/03/2026
A Chinese court has handed a suspended death sentence to a former bank president for nearly two decades of bribery, embezzlement and money laundering.
Crypto / Digital Assets
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.
Capital / Liquidity
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.
ESG / Sustainability
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.
Capital / Liquidity
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.
Crypto / Digital Assets
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.
Securities / Derivatives
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.
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