Asia-Pacific

The first phase of the project, now complete, allows Thai users to make QR code payments to merchants in Malaysia, including for online e-commerce transactions.

Bank secrecy has prevented the SEC from validating information and establishing the owners of bank accounts linked to securities violations.

Hong Kong's SFC and Thailand's SEC say the MRF scheme has taken effect. Both have issued new guidance on obtaining authorisation under the scheme.

Banks that do not meet specified conditions are prohibited from marketing themselves as digital banks, the BSP said in a circular.

HoSE has commenced connection trials with securities firms and intends to start functional trials from 26 July.

All financing and lending companies have until 21 June to submit plans for implementing a comprehensive and risk-based AML/CFT programme.

A zero cost swap facility is being made available for private forms to convert foreign currency borrowings into domestic currency.

The three-year roadmap includes an initiative to develop an 'ESG Data Framework', which will enhance the information investors can be provided on the ESG efforts of listed companies.

Asset managers can start submitting applications for approval to establish a new mutual fund using a new online system from 1 June.

The fragmentation of trade reporting rules and the lack of a common data set across jurisdictions hinders transparency and global risk monitoring, writes DTCC's Priya Kundamal.