AML / KYC

AML / KYC

Illicit Crypto Flows Reached Record $158b in 2025 - Report

By Manesh Samtani | 29/01/2026

Chinese-language escrow services processed over $100 bn, becoming a core settlement layer for cross-border illicit finance.

Sanctions

US Includes Asia-Based Firms in New Iran Shadow Fleet Sanctions

By Editors | 28/01/2026

OFAC designated entities in India, the UAE and Oman as well as nine vessels for their role in transporting Iranian oil.

AML / KYC

HKMA and PCPD to Launch Joint Bank Examinations to Combat Fraud

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 28/01/2026

The HKMA and PCPD will conduct joint risk-based examinations of banks' anti-fraud and data security controls amid rising deception cases.

Sanctions

Silver’s Surge Demands a New Approach to Managing Laundering Risks

By Nathan Lynch | 28/01/2026

With silver reaching all-time highs, financial crime experts warn that the metal’s growing “value density” and lower regulatory scrutiny are making it an attractive alternative for illicit transactions.

Fintech / Regtech

SFC Sets Feb 2026 Deadline for Migration to New STR Platform

By Manesh Samtani | 27/01/2026

The regulator has mandated a transition to the new STREAMS 2 platform, detailing submission methods and a blackout period.

AML / KYC

Taiwan Cabinet Approves WMD, Counter-Terror Law Amendments

By Mark Johnston | 27/01/2026

Taiwan’s Executive Yuan has approved amendments expanding counter-terrorism laws to include WMD proliferation and increase reporting obligations for financial institutions.

AML / KYC

India’s FIU Cracks Down on Privacy Coins Amid Money Laundering Concerns

By Nithya Subramanian | 27/01/2026

The move marks a tightening of India’s AML oversight of digital assets, as regulators push crypto platforms to curb high-risk products and align operations with the PMLA.

Enforcement

India’s Enforcement Directorate Arrest Two in BitConnect Fraud

By Nithya Subramanian | 27/01/2026

The two individuals were detained under the PMLA, and INR 21.7 billion in assets linked to the multi-layered BitConnect scheme were frozen.

Trending

Asia Needs More, Not Less, Regulation for Digital Finance, Policymakers Say

By Manesh Samtani | 26/01/2026

International policymakers at the Asian Financial Forum in Hong Kong debate the meaning of 'regulatory modernisation' for finance.