AML / KYC

Enforcement

Malaysia Reports Highest Scam Losses in 2025: Home Ministry

By Nithya Subramanian | 23/01/2026

The Home Ministry said enforcement, inter-agency cooperation and legal amendments are being strengthened as financial fraud continues to surge.

Enforcement

Former HSBC Manager Admits to Account Opening for Bribes Scheme

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 23/01/2026

The case, brought by the ICAC, involves illicit payments for opening accounts, some of which were later flagged for money laundering risk by the bank.

AML / KYC

Global Leaders Ramp Up Efforts to Combat Organised Crime-Driven Scams

By Manesh Samtani | 23/01/2026

Experts from banking, tech and law enforcement call for a shift to prevention, warning that AI can be exploited by bad actors as a "force multiplier" for fraud.

AML / KYC

AUSTRAC Orders External AML Audit into Fintech Giant Airwallex

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 23/01/2026

AUSTRAC cited concerns over transaction monitoring and potential criminal exploitation, including for online child sexual abuse payments.

Fintech / Regtech

Australia Confirms Deferral of Major AML/CTF Reforms

By Nathan Lynch | 22/01/2026

Home Affairs is consulting on transitional rules to delay IVTS reporting, stagger independent evaluations, and ease compliance burdens for Tranche 1 and 2 entities.

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.