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
Capital / Liquidity
Bangladesh Banks Facing Significant Hurdles Adopting IFRS 9
23/10/2025
Experts warn Bangladeshi banks face a "survival test" in implementing the IFRS 9 standard amid significant data, modelling, and technology challenges.
Enforcement
Vietnam Uncovers Widespread Bank, Corporate Bond Violations
23/10/2025
A government probe into misuse of funds and disclosure failures at banks and property firms sparks market turmoil and policy reforms.
Vietnam Establishes Framework for State Backed VC Funds
22/10/2025
New decree allows national and provincial-level venture funds to be set up and hire domestic or foreign professional managers.
Enforcement
Korean Regulators Draw Fire Over “Lenient” Penalties for Proxy Trading Breaches
22/10/2025
FSS data reveals 56 staff proxy trading cases worth billions of won, but zero criminal charges filed, prompting calls for reform.
Taiwan FSC Revamps 'Fair Treatment' Reviews, Adds Anti-Fraud Focus
21/10/2025
The FSC is increasing transparency and will add weight to firms’ anti-fraud measures and complaint handling in its annual assessments.
Enforcement
FSS Korea Launches Major Probe Into Mis-selling, "Incomplete Sales"
21/10/2025
The FSS launched inspections are several prominent financial firms after a fund invested in Belgian property lost KRW 90 billion for investors.
Securities / Derivatives
Korea Tightens Disclosure Rules for Treasury Stock Exchangeable Bonds
21/10/2025
The move addresses concerns that the instruments are being used to improperly strengthen major shareholder influence.
Capital / Liquidity
Vietnam Unveils Plans for Reining In Property Market Speculation
20/10/2025
The government is planning sweeping reforms to Vietnam's soaring property market, including a state-run digital trading platform and controversial credit limits.
Fintech / Regtech
Taiwan FSC Mandates E-Payment Firms to Join New Industry Body
17/10/2025
The move follows the establishment of the new Electronic Payment Business Association, which has been designated as a self-regulatory organisation.
Securities / Derivatives
Taiwan Insurers Asked to Hand Mandates to Local Asset Managers
17/10/2025
The FSC is urging insurers to shift TWD 1 trillion to local firms to contribute towards building Taiwan into a regional asset management hub.
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