AML / KYC

Crypto / Digital Assets

Hong Kong to Issue First Stablecoin Licences in Q1 2026

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 21/01/2026

The new regime will impose strict rules on reserves and risk management as the city builds out its digital asset ecosystem.

Enforcement

Indian Authorities Bust Investment Scam Linked to Cambodia

By Nithya Subramanian | 21/01/2026

Fraudsters used fake trading platforms and international contacts to cheat investors, then funneling the money through Indian bank accounts to handlers in Cambodia.

AML / KYC

Vietnam Reviews Draft Operating Rules for New International Financial Centre

By Nithya Subramanian | 21/01/2026

Authorities are reviewing feedback on the third draft of IFC regulations, including provisions for multiple trading floors, dispute resolution and a regulatory sandbox.

Crypto / Digital Assets

Binance Restores AUD Bank Transfers After Two-Year Regulatory Freeze

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 20/01/2026

The exchange has re-established direct banking channels in Australia after a suspension prompted by a payments partner and regulatory scrutiny from ASIC.

Crypto / Digital Assets

Hong Kong Named as High-Risk Crypto Hub in Russian Sabotage Report

By Manesh Samtani | 20/01/2026

RUSI urges policymakers to monitor over-the-counter crypto services in Hong Kong and other cities to disrupt sabotage financing.

Enforcement

Korea Refers Chinese Nationals to Prosecutors in $102m Crypto Laundering Case

By Mark Johnston | 20/01/2026

Customs officials allege the group disguised illicit funds as medical fees, highlighting Seoul’s enforcement-led approach to cross-border digital assets.

Trending

China Mandates Immediate Asset Freezes in New AML Regulations

By Manesh Samtani | 20/01/2026

New measures require FIs to freeze assets of designated entities without notice and enhance internal controls for list-based screening.

Fintech / Regtech

Japan's FSA Proposes Stricter Rules on AML Tech and Vendor Oversight

By Manesh Samtani | 20/01/2026

Draft guidelines elevate previous expectations to firm requirements for financial firms, targeting technology adoption, trade finance, and outsourcing.

AML / KYC

Malaysia Consumer Group Calls for Rules to Make Meta Liable for Scam Ads

By Editors | 20/01/2026

Regulators urged to establish a legal framework holding social media firms financially liable for investment scams promoted via paid advertisements.