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
Crypto / Digital Assets
Thailand to Issue Digital Investment Tokens in $150m Trial
15/05/2025
Thailand is launching its first digital investment tokens in a $150m trial aimed at modernising fundraising and expanding access to retail investors.
AML / KYC
Māori Face Persistent Barriers to Capital Access, RBNZ Says
15/05/2025
RBNZ bulletin highlights persistent financial barriers for Māori entrepreneurs, including land collateral constraints and trust deficits.
Enforcement
China Tightens Grip on Strategic Mineral Exports
15/05/2025
China has vowed to strengthen its control over the supply chains of strategic minerals, aiming to safeguard national security and prevent illegal outflows.
Securities / Derivatives
CSRC Unveils Measures to Enhance Accountability in Public Funds Sector
12/05/2025
The measures include an overhaul of fee structures to ensure salaries and incentives of fund managers better reflect performance outcomes.
Market Infrastructure
India Considers Allowing Colocation at Commodity Exchanges
08/05/2025
SEBI will consider allowing commodity exchanges to offer colocation to improve price discovery, liquidity and market efficiency.
Fintech / Regtech
Vietnam’s HoSE Launches New Trading System Developed by KRX
08/05/2025
Vietnam’s HoSE launches new trading system after years of setbacks and delays, aligning the market more closely with international standards.
Enforcement
Vietnam Property Tycoon has Sentence Reduced After Repaying Victims
28/04/2025
Property tycoon Truong My Lan has a life sentence for bond fraud reduced to 30 years, but is still facing execution on other charges.
Market Infrastructure
China NFRA Announces Regulatory Work Plan for 2025
28/04/2025
The work plan includes a regulatory overhaul in the trust sector, as well as the introduction of new rules on product suitability, information disclosure, cybersecurity, and custody.
Big Picture
Hong Kong Banks Could Face Surge in Bad Loans: Fitch Ratings
28/04/2025
Hong Kong’s banking sector faces a potential rise in non-performing loans due to a “lingering property sector malaise” and US tariffs.
Capital / Liquidity
Vietnam to Further Bolster Credit for Key Sectors as US Tariffs Bite
27/04/2025
The SBV is directed to maintain financial market stability and ensure credit is channelled towards sectors hit hardest by US tariffs.
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