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
French, German Banks Get More Time to Solve India CCP Issue
21/02/2023
French and German regulators will give banks 18 extra months to find new ways to settle India trades, following ESMA decision to de-recognise Indian CCPs.
Market Infrastructure
BOE Sets Out Vision for UK Payments with RTGS Roadmap
21/02/2023
The BOE will improve its RTGS through a new core settlement engine, migration to ISO 20022 messaging, and build-in CBDC functionality.
Big Picture
FSB Warns of Excessive Concentration Risk in in Commodity Markets
20/02/2023
The concentration of market power among a few firms and their reliance on debt increases the potential for market disruptions in commodity markets.
Enforcement
China Renaissance’s Founder Reported to be Missing
20/02/2023
Bao Fan, the founder of boutique investment bank China Renaissance Holdings, is the latest high-profile Chinese executive to go missing without explanation.
Market Infrastructure
UK CCPs Directed to Update Outsourcing Agreements by Feb 2024
19/02/2023
New supervisory statement requires UK CCPs to update legacy outsourcing agreements by by 9 February 2024.
ESG / Sustainability
Companies Making Slow Progress on Climate Transition Plans: CDP
17/02/2023
Japanese companies performed best, with 16 organisations disclosing to all key indicators that denote a “credible” climate transition plan.
Crypto / Digital Assets
North Korean Crypto Thefts Broke Records in 2022 – Report
14/02/2023
A UN report says North Korea stole more crypto in 2022 than in any previous year, using cyber techniques that have grown in sophistication.
Crypto / Digital Assets
Hermès Wins Trademark Infringement Case Involving NFTs
13/02/2023
A jury ruled that an artist violated Hermès’ copyright and brand image by selling NFTs depicting the company’s Birkin handbags covered in fur.
Crypto / Digital Assets
Dubai’s VARA Releases Comprehensive Virtual Asset Framework
10/02/2023
The regulations aim to provide clarity and certainty and reduce market risks. VASPs must now register to offer virtual asset services in Dubai.
Fintech / Regtech
SEBI to Require Brokers to Implement Trade Surveillance
09/02/2023
Brokers will have to implement systems and controls that can detect fraud and market abuse in the stock market.
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