New Zealand FMA Launches Review into Financial Advice Access

15/07/2025

The FMA is examining barriers to advice, including subdued digital innovation, compliance costs, and adviser confidence under the new regime.

Securities / Derivatives

SFC Consults On Capital Rule Overhaul for OTC Derivatives Dealers

15/07/2025

The SFC is consulting on Basel III-aligned rules, creating new categories for dealers and introducing the first capital treatments for virtual asset derivatives.

AFCA Refines Responsible Lending Approach After Industry Feedback

14/07/2025

AFCA has updated its approach to responsible lending, clarifying loss calculations and serviceability assessment processes following consultations in 2023.

Enforcement

Australian Court Dismisses Appeal By Unlicensed Lenders

11/07/2025

Cigno Australia and BSF Solutions were found to have charged over AUD 70 million in fees on AUD 34 million in loans through an unlawful model in a case brought by ASIC.

Market Infrastructure

Australia Finalises RBA Overhaul with New Policy and Governance Rules

11/07/2025

New statements mandate the publication of interest rate votes and create a board to oversee culture, completing a major central bank reform.

Market Infrastructure

ASX Finalises Clearing Rule Changes for CHESS Replacement Release 1

11/07/2025

ASX will proceed with planned rule amendments for its clearing system overhaul after receiving limited substantive industry feedback.

ESG / Sustainability

HKMA Launches Physical Climate Risk Assessment Platform For Banks

11/07/2025

The HKMA has launched an enhanced version of its physical climate risk assessment tool, urging all financial institutions to adopt it.

Capital / Liquidity

Australia to Amend Tax Law for Foreign-Issued Bank Capital Instruments

11/07/2025

The change seeks to ensure subordinated notes with non-viability clauses, issued by foreign-regulated entities, can be treated as debt for tax purposes.

Market Infrastructure

Philippines FSCC Flags Financial Risks, Eyes Deposit Insurance Reform

11/07/2025

Regulators are monitoring global headwinds and geopolitical tensions, while considering a risk-based premium system for the bank deposit insurance scheme.