Mark Johnston

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    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

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    KYC & CDD

    SEBI Mandates Inclusive Digital KYC for Users With Disabilities

    26/05/2025

    SEBI has mandated that digital KYC processes be made accessible for persons with disabilities to ensure equal access to financial services.

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    Fraud, Scams & Cybercrime

    Thai Police Arrest Three Bank Employees for Aiding Scammers

    26/05/2025

    The bank employees reportedly helped Chinese scammers open bank accounts which enabled them to withdraw scam proceeds.

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    Conduct, Culture & Accountability

    Thai SEC Suspends KGI Securities and Execs Over IPO Due Diligence Lapses

    25/05/2025

    The SEC order suspends KGI’s approval to act as a financial advisor and suspends two individuals from acting as operations controllers for one year.

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    Structural Regulation

    Vietnam Establishes Steering Committee to Develop IFCs

    25/05/2025

    Ho Chi Minh City would focus on traditional financial services while Danang would specialise in areas like green finance, trade facilitation, and fintech.

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    Trading & Investment

    KRX Bolsters ‘Value-Up’ Support for KOSDAQ Firms

    23/05/2025

    KRX will publish a best-practice guide and expand its consulting initiative to help more KOSDAQ firms enhance shareholder value.

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    Trading & Investment

    China Introduces Private Equity Incentives in M&A Reform

    22/05/2025

    CSRC unveils a major overhaul of its rules on mergers and acquisitions, aiming to boost private equity participation and streamline capital flows.

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    Credit Risk

    Vietnam to Amend Law to Improve Bad Debt Management

    22/05/2025

    The amendments aim to remove obstacles in handling bad debts and bolster the banking system’s resilience.

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    Trading & Investment

    Vietnam Eases Account Opening Rules for Foreign Investors

    22/05/2025

    Vietnam simplifies account opening for foreign investors, removing barriers to boost stock market liquidity and accelerate its bid for emerging market status.

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    Structural Regulation

    Taiwan President Seeks Establishment of Sovereign Wealth Fund

    22/05/2025

    President Lai Ching-te said the fund would involve cooperation with private enterprises to strengthen Taiwan’s international connections.

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    Anti-Money Laundering

    China Issues Draft AML Rules for Accounting Firms for Consultation

    22/05/2025

    The draft regulation requires accounting firms to verify client identities, conduct due diligence before providing services, and report suspicious transactions.

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