AML / KYC

Fintech / Regtech

BSP Directs Banks to Shift to Biometrics, Phases Out SMS OTPs

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 09/03/2026

New draft rules require banks to adopt server-side biometrics for high-risk transactions to combat fraud, linking compliance to liability.

AML / KYC

Hong Kong Insurance Authority Fines Three Brokers for AML Breaches

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 09/03/2026

The action follows an investigation that found deficiencies in customer due diligence and record-keeping, amid heightened regulatory scrutiny of the sector.

Crypto / Digital Assets

New Zealand Firm Launches Digital Tokens Backed by Physical Gold, Silver

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 09/03/2026

Auckland-based Techemynt is issuing gold and silver-backed tokens, applying national AML laws to direct purchasers of the assets.

AML / KYC

Thai Police Request Interpol Notice for Alleged KuCoin Money Launderer

By Mark Johnston | 08/03/2026

Thailand has requested an Interpol Red Notice for a fugitive businessman accused of laundering funds through cryptocurrency exchanges and regional scam networks.

AML / KYC

Hong Kong AFRC Fines Audit Firms in First-Ever AML Disciplinary Actions

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 06/03/2026

The AFRC sanctioned a PIE auditor and two smaller firms for failures in customer due diligence, risk assessments, and sanctions screening.

AML / KYC

AUSTRAC Issues Guidance on New Powers to Compel AML Examination

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 06/03/2026

AUSTRAC has detailed how it will use new powers to compel individuals to attend examinations and answer questions under oath.

AML / KYC

Australia’s Federal Court Finds Two Star Execs Breached Duties

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 06/03/2026

A landmark judgment clears seven non-executive directors but finds two senior executives failed in their duties regarding money laundering risks.

Fintech / Regtech

Hong Kong Regulators Expand GenAI Sandbox Across Entire Financial Sector

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 06/03/2026

The initiative now covers securities, insurance, pensions and payments, offering firms free computing power to test AI in a controlled environment.

Enforcement

Malaysia Expands National Scam Response Centre to 24 Hour Operations

By Nithya Subramanian | 06/03/2026

The move aims to freeze stolen funds faster as authorities reveal syndicates can drain accounts in under 10 minutes.