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
Market Infrastructure
China Orders Banks, Insurers to Tighten Cyber, Data Security
15/01/2024
Banks and insurers were asked to address the risk of ransomware attacks, strengthen the secure usage of emails, and protect against phishing attacks.
AML / KYC
Crypto Firms Lead Surge in AML Fines: Report
15/01/2024
Fenergo’s annual report reveals a 57 per cent surge in penalties for non-compliance with financial regulations in 2023.
China Sets Up Coordination Mechanism for Real Estate Financing
13/01/2024
The new mechanism aims to address financing difficulties in the real estate sector through regular assessment and communication among stakeholders.
AML / KYC
Wolfsberg Group Updates Guidance on Swift RMA Due Diligence
12/01/2024
The Wolfsberg Group has revised its guidance on Swift RMA due diligence, taking into account ISO 20022 migration.
Crypto / Digital Assets
FINRA Report Describes Crypto-related Compliance Risks
12/01/2024
FINRA says member firms must notify it if they or their affiliates engage or plan to engage in crypto asset-related activities.
Capital / Liquidity
Korea’s FTC Probes Four Banks for Secured Loan Collusion
11/01/2024
The banks have been accused of maintaining similar terms and conditions to avoid price wars and maximise profits.
Crypto / Digital Assets
US SEC to Investigate False Tweet on Bitcoin ETF Approvals
09/01/2024
US SEC claims official X account was hacked, posting a false tweet about approving bitcoin ETFs, causing a brief surge and crash in bitcoin price.
Capital / Liquidity
Indonesia’s OJK Lowers Interest Rate Cap for Online Lenders
09/01/2024
The new regulations tighten th caps on interest rates and late fees while also lowering borrowing limits imposed on debtors.
Market Infrastructure
Indonesia to Introduce Market Maker Regulations in 2024
08/01/2024
IDX plans to boost stock market liquidity and transaction value by implementing market maker regulations in 2024.
ESG / Sustainability
Singapore Professional Bodies to Boost Sustainability Services
08/01/2024
ISCA and LawSoc Singapore have launched a three-year programme to help firms offer sustainability services.
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