Market Infrastructure

Australia Proposes Measures to Improve Competition in Clearing and Settlement

24/03/2023

ASIC will gain rule-making and enforcement powers and the ACCC arbitration powers, enabling them to enhance competition in the provision of clearing and settlement services.

Fintech / Regtech

Hong Kong’s Fusion Bank Launches Business Banking Services

23/03/2023

Fusion Bank promises SMEs a “hassle-free” account opening experience and a six month exemption on fees for new accounts.

Capital / Liquidity

APRA Directs Banks to Declare Links to Crypto Firms

23/03/2023

APRA has asked banks to declare and report their business ties to crypto firms and start-ups, which worry increased supervision will make it harder to access financial services.

ESG / Sustainability

HKMA Chief Outlines Plans to Continue Developing Green Bond Market

21/03/2023

At ASIFMA’s event on Friday, Eddie Yue said some future green bonds will be set aside for MPF funds, and that Hong Kong’s green bond programme will expand to cover sustainable bonds.

Crypto / Digital Assets

Mastercard Working on Integration to Enable Stablecoin Spending

21/03/2023

The Mastercard-Stables project will allow users to spend stablecoin balances on everyday purchases without first converting it to fiat.

New Zealand Financial Advice Regime Takes Full Effect

20/03/2023

Transitional licences have expired. All advisers must now hold or operate under a full licence to provide regulated financial advice to retail clients.

ESG / Sustainability

Thailand Publishes First ESG Impact Assessment for Listed Firms

18/03/2023

The SET says the new impact assessment seeks to inspire other listed firms to integrate ESG practices into their business operations.

ESG / Sustainability

Bangladesh, UK Signs Pact to Tackle Climate Change

18/03/2023

Bangladesh and the UK stressed the need to work to increase access to climate finance by climatically vulnerable countries and secure greater funding for adaptation.

Market Infrastructure

ASX Forms New Unit to Focus on Technology & Data

18/03/2023

ASX says the introduction of a CIO role and the creation of a new technology unit will allow a greater focus of efforts on data and technology innovation.