Asia-Pacific

ASIFMA's new paper says open dialogue and engagement is needed for investors to better understand the labour practices of investee companies.

MOUs with CFA Society and CA Sri Lanka were signed as a prelude to the establishment of an ESG index by the CSE.

Expansion aims to support private markets efforts to reduce GHG emissions and speed-up net zero transition.

Economists say the package will not be a panacea for Sri Lanka's problems, with the economy already shrinking due to policies recommended by the IMF.

Banks can clear USD, GBP, EUR, CAD and JPY through the RTGS system starting from 4 September. CNY clearing will be allowed "soon".

The move is aimed at strengthening corporate governance, following a string of frauds and loan scandals in the NBFI sector.

SEC chairman Viraj Dayaratna said the CSE will introduce new products, including paper gold, SPACs, Islamic products, structured warrants and green bonds.

Bank Indonesia also launched the "international QRIS", initially connecting to Thailand's payment system, and have a retail CBDC in the works.

The central bank warned that serious action will be taken against online businesses that are found to be illegally buying and selling foreign currencies.

Dozens of money changers are being investigated for money laundering. Several banks are accused of making "excessive" profits from dollar sales.