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
Fraud, Scams & Cybercrime
Korea: Losses at Saemaul Geumgo Spark Calls for Oversight Reform
24/10/2025
Eight years of embezzlement and fraud at South Korea's credit cooperatives highlight severe internal control failures and gaps in financial supervision.
Fraud, Scams & Cybercrime
South Korea to Target Prince Group in Widening Fraud Probe
23/10/2025
The FSC considers restricting Prince Group amid a cross-border fraud probe, as the government pursues asset recovery and police cooperation.
Sustainable Finance
Thai SEC Broadens ESG Fund Investment Scope to Include REITs
23/10/2025
Thai SEC expanded the eligible assets for Thai ESG funds to include sustainable REITs and infrastructure funds, effective 16 October.
Credit Risk
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.
Anti-Money Laundering
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.
Alternative Markets
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.
Market Abuse
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.
Fraud, Scams & Cybercrime
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.
Conduct, Culture & Accountability
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.
Structural Regulation
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.
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