Hong Kong

The PCAOB did identify some deficiencies in their inspection work, but it was able to view complete audit work papers with no redactions.

Julia Leung will become CEO of the SFC on 1 January following Ashley Alder's departure to become the UK FCA's new chair.

The ETFs are being launched by CSOP Asset Management, one linked to Bitcoin futures and the other to Ether futures traded on the CME.

Travellers to Hong Kong will be allowed to visit restaurants and bars on arrival. Travellers to the Mainland will no longer have to quarantine.

The two groups will cooperate on digital assets, Web3 and DLT. ZA International recently unveiled plans to tokenise its ZA Coin.

The SFC warns that virtual asset platforms may on-lend customer assets or them in investment or other activities, which could potentially lead to a "total loss".

Market makers and liquidity providers for the dual counter model will be onboarded starting in the first half of 2023.

Eligible programmes include courses offered provided by Friends of the Earth HK, GARP, HKIB, ICMA, HKGFA, and CFA Institute, among others.

The SFC has decided to "provide more time for the industry’s preparation" and has announced a 20 March 2023 launch date for the HKIDR.

Banks have until 1 July 2023 to ensure their Code of Conduct and internal control systems are consistent with the revised SPM module.