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
Tokenisation
KOFIA Restructures to Support Capital Market, Digital Assets
03/02/2026
KOFIA is establishing a new “K-Capital Market Division” and a new Digital Strategy Team, while moving to strengthen its influence on policy and regulation.
Anti-Money Laundering
FSC Korea to Double Pool of Appointed AML Sanctions Committee Experts
03/02/2026
The FSC has proposed expanding its sanctions committee to handle a rising caseload and ensure diverse expertise in deliberations.
Reporting & Disclosures
China Finalises Technical ESG Guidelines Ahead of First Mandatory Reporting Cycle
02/02/2026
Shanghai, Shenzhen and Beijing bourses issue methodologies for energy, water and pollutant disclosures, enforcing double materiality standards for major indices.
Structural Regulation
AIA, Aegon Launch Insurance Asset Management Subsidiaries in Shanghai
02/02/2026
AIA Group and Aegon Group have established wholly-owned subsidiaries in Shanghai, with the latter pioneering a new direct market entry model.
Sustainable Finance
Korea Approves First Investment by New National Growth Fund
02/02/2026
The FSC authorises the first of seven 'mega projects', deploying state capital to catalyse private investment in renewable energy.
Anti-Money Laundering
EU, Vietnam Agree to Cooperate on Banking Supervision, AML, Sustainable Finance
02/02/2026
New Comprehensive Strategic Partnership includes commitments to align financial standards, combat sanctions circumvention and develop emissions trading systems.
Stablecoins
StanChart Warns Stablecoins Could Siphon $500b from Lenders
02/02/2026
Report predicts massive deposit flight by 2028 as pending US legislation paves the way for yield-bearing digital assets to compete with traditional banking models.
Structural Regulation
Korea Proposes Bank Contribution Exemptions to Boost ‘Stepping Stone’ Lending
30/01/2026
The FSC plans to exempt specific transition loans from agency contributions to encourage lending to conscientious borrowers.
Trading & Investment
KRX Facing Backlash in Push for Extended Trading Hours
30/01/2026
The KRX plan to boost competitiveness is met with fierce opposition from its securities union, which warns of risks from inadequate market surveillance.
Fraud, Scams & Cybercrime
South Korea to Launch One-Stop System for Illegal Lending Victims
29/01/2026
Proposed legal amendments will allow a single report to trigger simultaneous relief measures and expand the powers of the Credit Counseling & Recovery Service.
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