AML / KYC

Enforcement

BNM Penalises Two Banks, Two CSPs for AML/CFT Failures

By Nithya Subramanian | 30/01/2026

The penalties were issued for failure to promptly submit STRs and conduct required due diligence, BNM said in four separate notices.

Fintech / Regtech

AUSTRAC Pioneers AML/CTF Compliance "Starter Kits" for Gatekeeper Professions

By Nathan Lynch | 30/01/2026

The starter kits deliver practical, step-by-step AML/CTF compliance tools and help level the playing field for smaller gatekeeper businesses, AUSTRAC's Daniel Mossop says.

AML / KYC

Thailand Suspends Multiple Officials in Crypto Mining Corruption Probe

By Nithya Subramanian | 30/01/2026

An anti-corruption investigation has been launched after officials at Thailand's state utility were implicated in a foreign-funded illegal Bitcoin mining syndicate.

Fintech / Regtech

BOT Seeks IMF, World Bank Support to Combat Digital Fraud

By Nithya Subramanian | 29/01/2026

The 2026 IMF-World Bank Annual Meetings will discuss ways strengthen consumer protection and safeguard confidence in the financial system.

Sanctions

Nasdaq-Listed Firm Laundered Billions for Asian Scam Groups - Report

By Manesh Samtani | 29/01/2026

A CapitalWatch report alleges that US ad-tech firm AppLovin served as a "laundromat" for illicit funds from criminal networks in China and Cambodia.

AML / KYC

AUSTRAC Touts New Data-Sharing Model in Financial Crime Crackdown

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 29/01/2026

A public-private taskforce used a new data typology and pooled bank data to identify suspects, signalling evolving compliance expectations for financial institutions.

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.